Ventral and Incisional Hernia Surgery in Delhi: A Patient Guide
Updated: 18 hours ago
Medically reviewed by Dr Saurabh Bansal, GI, laparoscopic and bariatric surgeon, Delhi Medical Council Reg. No. 37887. Last updated: 18 October 2026. This guide was prepared with AI assistance and reviewed by the doctor; it is general information and not a substitute for a consultation.
Quick answer
A ventral hernia is a bulge through the front of the abdominal wall. It includes umbilical and paraumbilical hernias near the navel and incisional hernias at the site of an old operation scar. These hernias do not close on their own and often enlarge. Repair is usually advised when there are symptoms or the hernia is growing, and urgently if it becomes painful, hard and irreducible.
Symptoms
A bulge near the navel or along an old scar that increases on standing or straining
Discomfort or pulling pain, especially when lifting
Skin changes over a large hernia
Seek emergency care for sudden severe pain, a tense swelling that will not go back, vomiting or a swollen abdomen.
When is surgery needed?
Repair is generally recommended for symptomatic or enlarging hernias. Timing may be planned around weight reduction, diabetes control and stopping smoking, because these improve healing and lower recurrence. Very small hernias without symptoms may sometimes be observed.
How is it repaired?
Laparoscopic repair (for example IPOM or eTEP): done through small cuts, closing the defect where possible and placing a mesh.
Open repair: through a cut over the hernia, with mesh in most adults; useful for some large hernias or when the skin needs correction.
For large or complex incisional hernias, a CT scan may be advised to plan the operation.
Recovery
Hospital stay ranges from a day to a few days depending on hernia size. An abdominal binder may be advised. Light activity resumes within days; heavy lifting usually waits for several weeks. Possible risks include seroma, infection, pain and recurrence, which are explained before surgery.
What affects the cost?
Cost depends on hernia size and complexity, the technique, the mesh and fixation used, the hospital and room category, length of stay and insurance cover. A personalised estimate is given after consultation; please call the clinic to check your insurance cover; insurance facilities available.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between ventral and incisional hernia?
Ventral is the umbrella term for hernias in the front abdominal wall. An incisional hernia is a ventral hernia that develops at an old surgical scar.
Can an umbilical hernia in adults heal on its own?
In adults it usually does not close by itself and tends to enlarge, so repair is often advised if it causes symptoms.
Should I lose weight before hernia surgery?
If the hernia is not urgent, reducing weight and controlling diabetes before surgery can improve healing and lower the chance of recurrence. Your surgeon will advise on timing.
Will the hernia come back?
Recurrence can happen after any hernia repair. Mesh repair, good wound healing, weight control and avoiding early heavy lifting help lower the risk.
Where to consult in South Delhi
THE CLINICS MISC, Hauz Khas: H2, Hauz Khas, opposite Neeli Masjid, New Delhi 110016. Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 6 pm.
THE CLINICS, Green Park: G32 Ground Floor, Market Road, Block G, Green Park Extension, New Delhi 110016. Monday to Saturday, 6 pm to 8 pm.
Appointments (call or WhatsApp): +91 8368375734. Book a consultation.
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