After surgery, patients often face challenges during recovery. One common post-surgery complication is an incisional hernia. At Chennai Hernia Care, we help you understand and manage this condition effectively.
What Is an Incisional Hernia?
An incisional hernia occurs when tissue or organs push through a weakened area of a surgical wound. These hernias are directly related to previous surgical procedures, unlike other types. When a surgeon makes an incision in the abdominal wall, the area can become weakened as it heals. If the healing process is compromised or the area experiences excessive strain, internal organs or tissues may protrude through the opening.
Incisional hernias can vary significantly in size and severity. Some may be small and barely noticeable, while others can be large and cause significant discomfort or complications. They often appear as a bulge or lump at or near the site of the previous surgical scar.
Key facts about incisional hernias:
- Incisional hernias account for 15-20% of all hernia cases, highlighting their significance among surgical complications.
- Up to 20% of patients who undergo abdominal surgery may develop an incisional hernia.
- They can develop weeks, months, or even years after surgery.
- Incisional hernias range from small to large and may grow over time if untreated.
- They can significantly impact the quality of life, causing discomfort and limiting physical activities.
- Untreated incisional hernias can lead to serious complications, such as bowel obstruction or strangulation, requiring emergency medical attention.
Causes and Risk Factors of Incisional Hernia
Understanding what causes incisional hernias is crucial for prevention and management. Several factors can increase your risk:
- Patients with obesity are 2-3 times more likely to develop incisional hernias. Excess weight puts additional strain on the surgical site.
- Age: The risk of incisional hernia increases by 30% in patients over 60. This is partly due to decreased tissue elasticity and strength in older individuals.
- Infection: Post-surgical infections can significantly weaken the healing process, making the incision site more susceptible to herniation.
- Physical strain: Engaging in heavy lifting or strenuous activities too soon after surgery can stress the healing incision.
- Smoking: Tobacco use impairs wound healing and increases the risk of incisional hernias. It reduces blood flow and oxygen supply to tissues, hindering the healing process.
- Diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes can affect the healing process, increasing the risk of complications, including incisional hernias.
- Malnutrition: Poor nutrition can slow down recovery and impair wound healing, making hernia formation more likely.
- Multiple surgeries: Having multiple surgeries in the same area increases the risk of developing an incisional hernia.
- Chronic cough: Conditions that cause frequent coughing, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can increase abdominal pressure and strain on the surgical site.

Symptoms and Diagnosis
Identifying an incisional hernia early is crucial for successful treatment. Common symptoms include:
- A visible bulge near or at the site of a previous surgical scar
- Pain or discomfort, especially when coughing or straining
- A feeling of heaviness in the abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting (in severe cases)
At Chennai Hernia Care, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to accurately identify incisional hernias:
- Physical examination: About 70% of cases are diagnosed through careful physical examination and patient history.
- CT scans: Improve diagnosis accuracy by up to 95%, especially for smaller or internal hernias.
- Ultrasound: Non-invasive and effective for visualising the hernia and surrounding tissues.
- MRI: Provides detailed images of soft tissues, which are useful in complex cases.
Early diagnosis is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring the best possible outcomes for our patients.
Treatment Options at Chennai Hernia Care
Once diagnosed, we offer a range of treatment options tailored to each patient’s needs. Our approach is personalised, considering the size and location of the hernia, the patient’s overall health, and their preferences.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For small, asymptomatic hernias, we may recommend:
- Watchful waiting: Careful monitoring of the hernia’s progression
- Use of supportive garments or trusses: To provide temporary relief and prevent enlargement
- Lifestyle modifications: Including weight management and proper lifting techniques
Surgical Treatments
For larger or symptomatic hernias, surgery is usually the best option. At Chennai Hernia Care, we specialise in:
- Open Hernia Repair:
- Traditional methods suitable for complex cases
- It involves a larger incision to access and repair the hernia
- May be necessary for very large hernias or those with complications
- Typically requires a longer recovery period (4-6 weeks)
- Laparoscopic Repair:
- Minimally invasive technique with faster recovery
- Involves several small incisions rather than one large cut
- Benefits include less post-operative pain and quicker return to normal activities
- Typically suitable for small to medium-sized hernias
- Recovery time is usually 1-2 weeks
- Robotic-Assisted Surgery:
- Offers precision and reduced scarring
- Utilises advanced technology for enhanced surgical control
- Provides 3D visualisation for the surgeon
- Often results in less post-operative pain and faster recovery
- Particularly useful for complex cases or recurrent hernias
Our surgical procedures often involve the use of mesh to reinforce the weakened area, reducing tension on surrounding tissues and lowering recurrence rates. We use various types of mesh, depending on the patient’s needs and the specific characteristics of the hernia.
Treatment Type | Recovery Time | Advantages |
Open Repair | 4-6 weeks | Suitable for large hernias |
Laparoscopic | 1-2 weeks | Less pain, faster recovery |
Robotic-Assisted | 1-2 weeks | High precision, minimal scarring |
Our success rates for incisional hernia repair are among the highest in the region, with over 95% of patients reporting significant improvement post-surgery.
Preventive Measures Post-Surgery
To minimise the risk of developing an incisional hernia after surgery, we recommend the following guidelines:
- Follow post-op instructions strictly
- Avoid heavy lifting for at least 6-8 weeks after surgery
- Maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise
- Quit smoking to improve wound healing
- Control coughing using a pillow to support your abdomen
- Manage chronic conditions like diabetes effectively
- Gradually return to physical activities under medical guidance
Recovery and Rehabilitation
At Chennai Hernia Care, we offer comprehensive rehabilitation programs to ensure a smooth recovery:
- Personalised physical therapy plans to regain strength and mobility
- Dietary guidance to support healing and maintain a healthy weight
- Regular follow-ups to monitor progress and address any concerns
- Pain management strategies to ensure comfort during recovery
Most patients return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks, but full recovery can take up to 3 months. Our team supports you throughout this process, ensuring you have all the resources and care you need for a successful recovery.
Long-Term Management and Follow-Up
Long-term care is crucial to prevent recurrence and ensure ongoing health. Our team at Chennai Hernia Care emphasises:
- Regular check-ups to monitor the repair site
- Lifestyle counselling to maintain a healthy weight
- Guidance on safe exercise routines
- Ongoing support for managing chronic conditions that may affect hernia recurrence
Conclusion
Understanding and promptly addressing incisional hernias is crucial for optimal recovery after surgery. At Chennai Hernia Care, we’re dedicated to providing expert care and support throughout your journey. Our team of experienced professionals combines cutting-edge medical technology with personalised care to ensure the best possible outcomes.
We pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of hernia treatment, continually updating our techniques and knowledge to provide the most effective and least invasive treatments possible. Our commitment to excellence has made us a trusted name in hernia care across Chennai and beyond.
Don’t let the fear of complications hold you back from seeking the care you need. With Chennai Hernia Care, you’re in safe hands. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable life.
Remember, if you have concerns about post-surgery complications or incisional hernias, don’t hesitate to reach out to Chennai Hernia Care. Our expert team is here to provide you with the best care and support for your hernia concerns.
Contact Chennai Hernia Care for Expert Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Recovery time varies, but most patients return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks. We provide tailored rehabilitation plans for smooth recovery.
While recurrence is possible, our advanced surgical techniques significantly reduce this risk. Regular follow-ups and adherence to post-operative guidelines further minimize recurrence chances.
Yes, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and following a balanced diet can help prevent incisional hernias. We offer personalized advice to support these lifestyle changes.
Many insurance plans cover incisional hernia repair. Our team can assist you in navigating insurance coverage for your treatment.
Incisional hernias can develop anytime from a few weeks to several years after the initial surgery. Early detection is key to successful management.