Hernia Repairs: What to Know About Mesh, Recovery, and Minimally Invasive Options
By Dr. Amber Elliott | Granite Mountain Surgery
If you’ve been told you have a hernia, you’re not alone. Hernias are incredibly common—and thankfully, highly treatable. But if you’ve started researching your options, you may be feeling overwhelmed by terms like “mesh,” “laparoscopic,” or “robotic-assisted repair.”
As a board-certified general surgeon, I often see patients who have lived with a hernia for years, unsure if or when surgery is the right step. My goal is to help you understand your options, what recovery looks like, and why a thoughtful, personalized approach matters.
Let’s walk through what you really need to know.
What Is a Hernia, Exactly?
A hernia occurs when tissue (usually part of the intestine or abdominal fat) pushes through an opening in the surrounding muscle or fascia, which makes up the strength layer of the abdominal wall. It often shows up as a bulge—sometimes painful, sometimes not. It may become more noticeable with certain activities such as coughing, lifting, or straining.
There are different types of hernias, including:
Inguinal hernias (in the groin)
Umbilical hernias (around the belly button)
Ventral or incisional hernias (in the abdominal wall, often where a prior surgery was done)
While some hernias remain stable for a while, they don’t heal on their own—and over time, they often become larger or more painful.
Do All Hernias Need Surgery?
Not always. If your hernia is small and not causing discomfort, we may monitor it over time. But if it’s painful, growing, or interfering with your daily life—or if it becomes trapped (called “incarcerated”)—surgery is typically the best long-term solution.
What About Mesh? Is It Safe?
This is one of the most common questions I hear—and it’s understandable. There’s a lot of confusion about mesh, especially online or from TV commercials!
Here’s the truth: Mesh is a safe and effective tool when used properly. It’s a woven material—usually soft and flexible—that reinforces the area where the hernia occurred. Your own tissue incorporates into the mesh to strengthen your repair. It significantly reduces the chance of the hernia coming back.
Like any medical device, mesh isn’t right for every hernia. That’s why I take time with each patient to discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Minimally Invasive Options: Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery
Whenever possible, I use minimally invasive techniques for hernia repair. That means:
Smaller incisions
Less post-op pain
Faster recovery
Lower infection risk
Depending on the type and location of your hernia, I may recommend laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery. Both allow me to repair the hernia with precision while minimizing disruption to surrounding tissue.
What’s Recovery Like After Hernia Surgery?
Most hernia repairs are outpatient, meaning you go home the same day.
Here’s what to expect:
Soreness or tightness at the surgical site
Walking the same day to reduce risk of blood clots
No heavy lifting (usually for 4-6 weeks)
Return to light activity within a few days
Follow-up visit to check healing and discuss long-term care
You’ll receive detailed post-op instructions—and you’re always welcome to call the office with questions during recovery!
When Should You See a Surgeon?
If you’ve noticed a bulge in your abdomen or groin, or if you’re experiencing discomfort that worsens with movement or strain, it’s worth getting it evaluated.
A consultation doesn’t mean you’re committing to surgery, it’s just a chance to have a thoughtful, informed conversation about what’s going on in your body—and what your options are.
Final Thoughts
Hernia surgery isn’t just about fixing a bulge—it’s about helping you get back to your life with comfort, confidence, and clarity. At Granite Mountain Surgery, we take the time to listen, explain, and partner with you in your care.
Have questions about hernia repair or ready to schedule a consultation?
📞 Call our office at 208-386-0390 or visit granitemountainsurgery.com to learn more.
