SYMPTOMS, DIAGNOSTICS & TREATMENT OF
Hernias
SYMPTOMS, DIAGNOSTICS & TREATMENT OF
Hernias
PRIVATE Hernia Surgery & Repair
Hernias are extremely common and can cause discomfort, pain, or a visible lump that may worsen with lifting, coughing, exercise, or everyday activities.
While some hernias remain small, others can gradually enlarge and occasionally lead to serious problems, such as part of the bowel becoming trapped or losing its blood supply, which may require emergency surgery.
Mr Peter Asaad offers expert private assessment, hernia surgery and timely treatment, without long waiting lists.
Condition
What is a Hernia?
A hernia occurs when part of the body – commonly fat or bowel – pushes through a weakness in the muscle or tissue wall that normally keeps it in place. This often causes a lump or swelling, which may become more noticeable when standing, coughing, straining, or lifting.
What causes a Hernia?
Hernias are very common and can affect people of all ages. They may develop gradually over time due to natural weakness in the abdominal wall, heavy lifting, persistent coughing, previous surgery, pregnancy, or increased pressure within the abdomen.
Common Types of Hernias
- Inguinal hernias – most common, causing a lump or discomfort in the groin
- Femoral hernias – less common groin hernias, more often seen in women
- Umbilical hernias – occurring around the belly button
- Epigastric hernias – small hernias in the upper abdominal wall
- Incisional hernias – developing through a previous surgical scar
There are also other, less common types of hernia. Some hernias remain small and symptom-free, while others gradually enlarge and become uncomfortable or interfere with daily life.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Hernias
- A lump or swelling in the abdomen or groin
- Discomfort, aching, pressure or pain
- Symptoms that worsen with coughing, lifting, exercise, or straining
- A dragging sensation
- Burning or tenderness around the lump
- A lump that may disappear when lying flat
Warning Signs
Occasionally, a hernia can become trapped, leading to more serious symptoms that require urgent medical attention.
Seek urgent medical advice if you develop:
- Severe or worsening pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Redness or discoloration over the hernia
- A hard lump that cannot be pushed back in
- Abdominal bloating or inability to pass wind or stools
Diagnostics
Hernia Diagnosis & Assessment
Most Hernias can be diagnosed through a careful discussion of your symptoms during your first consultation with Mr Peter Asaad. Where appropriate, private imaging can be arranged quickly to help avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment planning.Â
- Review of symptoms
- Physical examination
- Signs of complications
- Fast and non-invasive
- Confirms Hernia size
- Assesses complications
- MRI Scan if required
- CT Scan if required
- Detects complications
Private Diagnosis Pathway
Mr Peter Asaad is a Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon with over 17 years’ experience in the NHS. A typical private diagnosis of a Hernia under his care involves:
- Initial assessment
- Targeted investigations
- Ultrasound arranged
- Rapid review of results
- Personalised treatment plan
If a hernia is confirmed and symptoms are having an impact on your daily life, surgery can be arranged without unnecessary delay.
Do you need hernia surgery?
Not all hernias require immediate surgery. Some small hernias that cause minimal symptoms can be monitored safely over time.Â
Urgent medical attention should be sought if you develop severe pain, vomiting, redness over the hernia, abdominal bloating, or a hernia that suddenly becomes hard and cannot be pushed back in.
Surgery is often recommended if:
- Causes pain or discomfort
- Interferes with work, exercise, or daily activities
- Continues to enlarge over time
- Becomes difficult to push back in
- Has a higher risk of complications
Can a hernia heal itself?
Unfortunately, hernias do not heal on their own. In many cases they gradually increase in size, and delaying treatment can sometimes make surgery more complex later on.
A small number of hernias can become trapped, meaning bowel or tissue becomes stuck within the hernia. In more serious cases, the blood supply to the trapped bowel can become affected, which may require emergency surgery.
Book your consultation
During your consultation, Mr Peter Asaad will discuss whether surgery is recommended in your individual case, the different treatment options available, and the most appropriate timing for surgery.
Treatment
Hernia Surgery
What does Hernia surgery involve?
Hernia surgery aims to repair the weakness in the abdominal wall and reduce the risk of the hernia enlarging or causing future complications.
The operation is usually performed as a day-case procedure under general anaesthetic, allowing most patients to return home the same day.
In many cases, the repair is strengthened using a surgical mesh, which helps reinforce the weakened area and reduce the risk of the hernia returning. The exact type of repair recommended will depend on the type, size, and location of the hernia, as well as your symptoms and overall health.
There are different approaches to hernia surgery, including open and laparoscopic (keyhole) techniques.
During your consultation, Mr Peter Asaad will discuss the most appropriate treatment options for your individual situation.
Side Effects & Risks of Hernia Surgery
As with any operation, hernia surgery carries risks and potential side effects. These can include:
- Bleeding or bruising
- Infection
- Fluid collection (seroma)
- Pain or numbness around the wound
- Recurrence of the hernia
- Risks associated with general anaesthetic
The above represents only a selection of potential risks and complications. A comprehensive discussion, tailored to your individual circumstances, will take place during your consultation.
How to prepare for Hernia Surgery
Before surgery, you will usually undergo a pre-operative assessment to ensure you are fit for the procedure and general anaesthetic.
You may be advised to:
- Stop smoking where possible
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Adjust certain medications before surgery, particularly blood thinners
- Avoid eating and drinking for a period before your operation
Mr Peter Asaad will explain the procedure, expected recovery, and any specific preparation required for your individual operation during your consultation.
Costs of Private Hernia Surgery
The cost of private hernia surgery can vary depending on the type of hernia, the complexity of the repair, the hospital chosen, and whether treatment is self-funded or covered by private medical insurance.
Using private medical insurance
If you have private medical insurance, treatment is often covered.
Mr Peter Assad is recognised by major UK insurers, including:
- BUPA
- WPA
- Aviva
- AXA
- Vitality
- Healix
- Cigna
You will usually require:
- A referral from your GPÂ
- Pre-authorisation from your insurerÂ
It is advisable to check directly with your insurer to confirm your level of cover.
Self-pay patients
For patients funding their own treatment, costs are typically provided as a package price by the hospital.
This usually includes:
- Hospital feesÂ
- Theatre and nursing costsÂ
- Anaesthetist feesÂ
- Surgeon fees
- Standard aftercareÂ
Pricing can vary between hospitals, so the most accurate way to obtain a quote is to contact the hospital directly, where a tailored estimate can be provided.
Payment options
Some hospitals offer flexible payment plans, allowing costs to be spread over time.
These options can change, so it is best to check directly with the hospital for the most up-to-date information.
About
Mr Peter Asaad
Mr Peter Asaad is a Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon with extensive experience in colorectal and general surgical procedures, including hernia surgery.
He provides expert assessment and treatment for a wide range of hernias, including groin, umbilical, epigastric, and incisional hernias, with a focus on clear communication, personalised care, and safe surgical practice.
Alongside his NHS consultant practice within Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Mr Asaad also provides private hernia surgery within the independent sector.
Patients benefit from direct consultant-led care, timely access to assessment and treatment, and an honest, straightforward approach to decision making and recovery planning.
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What Patients Say
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most common questions patients ask about hernias and hernia surgery. As new questions arise, this section will be updated to provide clear and relevant information.
What are the signs of a hernia?
Common signs of a hernia include a lump or swelling in the abdomen or groin, discomfort or pain, and symptoms that worsen with lifting, coughing, or straining. Some hernias may also cause a dragging or heavy sensation.
Can a hernia heal itself?
No – hernias do not heal on their own. In many cases they gradually enlarge over time and may become more symptomatic or difficult to repair later.
How long is recovery after hernia surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the type of hernia repaired and the nature of your work. Many patients return to light activities within days and office-based work within 1–2 weeks, although full recovery can take several weeks.
How soon can I walk after hernia surgery?
Walking is encouraged from the day of surgery. Gentle movement can help recovery and reduce the risk of complications such as blood clots.
What types of hernia are there?
Common types include inguinal (groin), femoral, umbilical, epigastric, and incisional hernias. There are also several less common types of hernia.
What is a sports hernia?
A sports hernia is not a true hernia but rather a strain or tear of muscles and soft tissues in the groin area, often caused by repetitive twisting or sporting activity.
What is a Richter’s hernia?
A Richter’s hernia is a less common type of hernia where only part of the bowel wall becomes trapped. It can become serious and may sometimes occur without causing a complete bowel obstruction.
How much does private hernia surgery cost?
The cost of surgery varies depending on the type of hernia, complexity of the repair, hospital fees, and whether treatment is self-funded or insured. Fixed-price self-pay packages are commonly available through private hospitals.