Can a Hernia Come Back After Surgery?
Yes. Although modern hernia surgery is generally very successful, not hernia repair can guarantee a zero risk of recurrence. A recurrent hernia happens a hernia develops again in the same area after previous repair. Recurrence may occur months or even years after surgery.
Why Can a Hernia Come Back?
There are many factors that may contribute to hernia recurrence, including:
- The size and complexity of the original hernia.
- Previous hernia repairs.
- Weakness of the abdominal wall tissues.
- Infection or wound complications.
- Smoking.
- Obesity.
Why Does the First Hernia Repair Matter?
The first hernia repair is often the best opportunity to achieve a durable long-term result. When a hernia recurs, further surgery can be considerably more complex. Previous operations may result in scar tissue, altered anatomy and changes to the abdominal wall, making easement and treatment planning more challenging.
For this reason , careful diagnosis, appropriate surgical planning and meticulous surgical technique are important considerations from the outset.
Because recurrent hernia surgery can be considerably more challenging than primary repair, many patients place particular importance on specialist assessment and surgical experience when considering their initial hernia operation.
For this reason , careful diagnosis, appropriate surgical planning and meticulous surgical technique are important considerations from the outset.
Because recurrent hernia surgery can be considerably more challenging than primary repair, many patients place particular importance on specialist assessment and surgical experience when considering their initial hernia operation.
Recurrent Hernias
At Melbourne Hernia Centre, Mr Steven Karametos selectively assesses patients who have previously undergone hernia surgery elsewhere and now present with recurrent or complex hernias. These cases frequently require detailed review of previous operative history, imaging and current symptoms, as recurrent hernia surgery can be considerably more complex than first time repair. Not every recurrent hernia requires further surgery, and not every recurrent hernia is subtle for operative treatment, Careful assessment and patient selection are therefore essential.
