Umbilical Hernia

Gilmore’s Groin & Hernia Clinic

The belly button (umbilicus) is a weak area in the abdominal muscles, where there is a bit of fibrous tissue rather than actual muscle. Abdominal contents can protruude through the muscle surrounding the umbilicus causing it to pop outwards. This is usually fatty tissue (the omentum) but it can be bowel. 

Umbilical Hernia are most common among women before and after their pregnancy.

Surgery

The aim of the operation is to close the hole to prevent the hernia. 

During the operation the hernia is identified and pushed back (reduced) into the tummy. The hole is usually quite small and can be repaired with a small number of strong, permanent stitches. 

In first time umbilical or epigastric hernias a mesh is very rarely needed.

Post-surgery experience

  • you will have a bruise.
  • The scar is always numb, and you may get some odd tingling or shooting pains during healing. These are normal and nothing to worry about.
  • The wound may also get swollen, and as the scar tissue forms it can become quite hard and nodular. This always settles down, but it can take a few months.
  • The scar itself will fade and go pale over period of several months.
Gilmore’s Groin & Hernia Clinic