A hernia may begin as a small bulge or mild discomfort, but symptoms can change over time. If you notice a lump in your abdomen, groin, or around a previous surgical incision, it is important to have it evaluated by a qualified surgeon.
Benrus Surgical Associates provides general and minimally invasive surgical care for patients in St. Peters, O’Fallon, St. Charles, Wentzville, and surrounding communities.
Our surgeons evaluate each patient individually and explain whether observation, lifestyle changes, or surgical repair may be appropriate.
What Is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weakened area of muscle or connective tissue. The tissue may include fat, intestine, or another structure from inside the abdomen.
Hernias commonly develop in the abdominal wall or groin, but they can occur in other areas as well.
Common types include:
- Inguinal hernia
- Femoral hernia
- Umbilical hernia
- Incisional hernia
- Ventral hernia
- Epigastric hernia
- Hiatal hernia
The type, size, location, and symptoms of the hernia all help determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
What Are the Symptoms of a Hernia?
Some hernias cause no symptoms at first. Others may produce a visible bulge, pressure, aching, or pain.
Possible symptoms include:
- A lump in the groin or abdomen
- Discomfort when lifting, coughing, or bending
- A pulling or burning sensation
- Pressure in the affected area
- Pain that worsens with activity
- A bulge that becomes more noticeable when standing
- A bulge that decreases when lying down
- Tenderness around a previous surgical incision
A hernia may be easier to notice after physical activity or when coughing. However, not every lump is a hernia, which is why professional evaluation is important.
When Should I See a Hernia Surgeon?
Schedule a consultation if you notice a new or growing bulge, persistent discomfort, or pain associated with lifting, coughing, or movement.
A surgeon may also be helpful if:
- The hernia interferes with work or exercise
- You are avoiding normal activities
- The bulge is becoming larger
- Symptoms are becoming more frequent
- The hernia is difficult to push back in
- You have had a previous hernia repair
- You are unsure whether the lump is a hernia
Early evaluation can help clarify the diagnosis and give you more information about your options.
When Is a Hernia an Emergency?
Seek immediate medical attention if a hernia is associated with severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.
Warning signs may include:
- Sudden or severe abdominal or groin pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever
- Significant abdominal swelling
- A hernia bulge that becomes firm or very tender
- A bulge that changes color
- Inability to pass stool or gas
- A bulge that cannot be gently reduced
These symptoms may indicate a complication requiring urgent evaluation. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
How Is a Hernia Diagnosed?
A surgeon typically begins with a medical history and physical examination. The evaluation may include checking the affected area while you stand, cough, or strain.
Imaging may be recommended when:
- The diagnosis is unclear
- The hernia is difficult to feel
- Symptoms do not match the physical examination
- The surgeon needs more information for treatment planning
- A recurrent or complex hernia is suspected
Depending on the situation, imaging may include ultrasound, CT, or another study selected by the treating physician.
Does Every Hernia Require Surgery?
Not every hernia requires immediate surgery. Treatment depends on the type of hernia, symptoms, overall health, daily activities, and the surgeon’s assessment.
Some patients may be monitored when symptoms are minimal. Others may benefit from elective repair because the hernia is painful, enlarging, limiting activity, or creating concern about future complications.
A consultation does not automatically mean surgery. It gives you the opportunity to understand the diagnosis and make an informed decision with your care team.
What Is Hernia Repair Surgery?
Hernia repair closes or reinforces the weakened area of the abdominal wall. The specific approach depends on the hernia and the patient.
Repair may involve:
- Returning displaced tissue to its proper position
- Closing the weakened area
- Reinforcing the abdominal wall
- Using mesh or another repair material when appropriate
- Treating the hernia through an open or minimally invasive approach
Your surgeon will discuss the recommended technique, expected recovery, potential risks, and alternatives before the procedure.
Open, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Hernia Repair
Open hernia repair
Open repair uses an incision over or near the hernia. This approach may be appropriate for certain hernias, including some larger, recurrent, or complex cases.
Laparoscopic hernia repair
Laparoscopic repair uses several small incisions and a camera to access the repair area. It may be an option for selected patients and hernia types.
Robotic-assisted hernia repair
Robotic-assisted surgery uses specialized instruments controlled by the surgeon. It may provide an additional minimally invasive option for selected cases.
Robotic or laparoscopic surgery is not appropriate for every patient. The best method depends on the hernia, prior operations, anatomy, medical history, and surgeon’s judgment.
What Are the Potential Benefits of Minimally Invasive Hernia Repair?
When appropriate, minimally invasive surgery may involve smaller incisions and may support recovery for selected patients. However, the benefits and risks vary from person to person.
The decision should be based on the patient’s specific condition—not on the technology alone.
During a consultation, ask:
- Which approach do you recommend?
- Why is it appropriate for my hernia?
- What are the alternatives?
- What type of anesthesia is used?
- How long is recovery expected to take?
- When can I return to work or exercise?
- What complications should I watch for?
What Should I Expect During a Hernia Consultation?
A consultation commonly includes:
- Reviewing your symptoms and medical history
- Performing a physical examination
- Discussing imaging, if needed
- Explaining whether the finding appears consistent with a hernia
- Reviewing treatment options
- Discussing the potential benefits and risks of surgery
- Answering questions about recovery
- Explaining next steps
Bring a list of medications, allergies, previous surgeries, medical conditions, and questions you want to discuss.
How Should I Prepare for Hernia Surgery?
Your surgical team will give you instructions based on your procedure and medical history. Preparation may include:
- Reviewing medications and supplements
- Following instructions about eating and drinking
- Arranging transportation
- Planning for help at home
- Wearing comfortable clothing
- Following preoperative testing instructions
- Discussing work and activity limitations
Do not stop taking prescription medications unless your healthcare team tells you to do so.
What Is Recovery Like After Hernia Repair?
Recovery varies depending on the type of repair, the size and location of the hernia, your overall health, and the physical demands of your work.
Your care team may provide instructions about:
- Incision care
- Pain management
- Walking and light activity
- Lifting restrictions
- Returning to work
- Driving
- Follow-up appointments
- Warning signs that require a call
Follow your surgeon’s specific instructions. Do not compare your recovery too closely with another person’s experience.
Can a Hernia Come Back After Repair?
A hernia can recur after repair, although the risk varies depending on factors such as the hernia type, surgical approach, tissue quality, smoking, obesity, wound complications, and other medical conditions.
Following postoperative instructions and attending follow-up appointments can help your care team monitor healing.
Contact your surgeon if you notice a new bulge, increasing pain, drainage, fever, or other concerning changes after surgery.
Why Choose Benrus Surgical Associates for Hernia Care?
Benrus Surgical Associates provides general surgery and minimally invasive surgical care in the St. Peters and O’Fallon area.
The practice offers evaluation and treatment for a range of surgical conditions, including:
- Hernia repair
- Gallbladder disease
- Appendix conditions
- GERD and hiatal hernia
- Colorectal conditions
- Breast disease
- Skin lesions and skin cancer
- Hemorrhoids
- Anal fissures and fistulas
- Other general surgery concerns
Benrus Surgical is located at:
Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital
70 Jungermann Circle, Suite 405
St. Peters, Missouri 63376
Progress West Hospital
20 Progress Point Parkway, Suite 106
O’Fallon, Missouri 63368
To schedule an appointment, call 636-916-7100.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of doctor treats a hernia?
A general surgeon evaluates and treats many types of hernias. Some complex cases may require additional specialization or referral.
Can a hernia heal on its own?
A hernia generally does not repair itself without treatment. Some patients may be monitored when symptoms are limited, while others may be advised to consider elective repair.
Can I exercise with a hernia?
Activity recommendations depend on the type of hernia, symptoms, and your physician’s advice. Stop an activity if it causes pain and discuss safe exercise with your healthcare provider.
Is robotic hernia surgery right for everyone?
No. Robotic-assisted surgery may be appropriate for selected patients, but the best approach depends on the individual hernia and medical history.
How long does hernia surgery take?
The length of surgery varies based on the type and complexity of the hernia and the planned repair. Your surgeon can provide a more specific estimate after evaluation.
When can I return to work after hernia repair?
Return-to-work timing depends on the procedure and the physical demands of your job. Your surgeon will provide individualized activity instructions.
Does Benrus Surgical treat patients from Wentzville and St. Charles?
Benrus Surgical serves patients from St. Peters, O’Fallon, St. Charles, Wentzville, and surrounding communities. Contact the office to confirm appointment and hospital details.
Schedule a Hernia Consultation in St. Peters
A new or painful abdominal or groin bulge deserves a professional evaluation. Benrus Surgical Associates can help you understand what may be causing your symptoms and whether surgical treatment is appropriate.
Call 636-916-7100 to schedule a consultation.
This article is for general educational purposes only and does not replace medical evaluation or personalized advice from a qualified healthcare professional.