Overview
A hernia develops when part of the bowel or fatty tissue pushes through a weakened area of the abdominal wall, often appearing as a visible lump that may ache or pull with movement. Hernias do not resolve without treatment and can enlarge over time, which is why surgical repair is typically advised once one is diagnosed. Inguinal hernias are the most common type, affecting an estimated 27% of men and 3% of women at some point in their lives, though femoral, umbilical and incisional hernias also present regularly in clinic.
Mr Alan Woodward, a Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon serving patients across South Wales and Bristol, has treated hernias of every type and complexity across more than four decades in general surgery. His approach favours the technique best suited to each patient’s hernia, anatomy and lifestyle, rather than defaulting to a single method for every case.
How it’s performed
Depending on the type and size of the hernia, repair may be carried out as open surgery or by keyhole (laparoscopic) technique, both reinforcing the weakened area, usually with a soft mesh, for a strong and lasting repair.
- Consultation and examination to confirm the diagnosis
- A tailored recommendation of open or keyhole repair
- Day-case surgery under general or local anaesthetic
- A clear, written recovery plan before you go home
Recovery & Aftercare
Most patients go home the same day and return to light activity within a week or two, with heavier activity resumed gradually as healing progresses. You will be given clear, written aftercare advice and direct access to the team, along with a follow-up review to check your progress.
Is Hernia Repair Right for Me?
The best way to find out is a consultation. Mr Woodward will examine you, explain your options clearly and recommend the right approach for your hernia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hernia repair surgery?
Hernia repair is a surgical procedure that pushes displaced tissue back into place and reinforces the weakened muscle wall, usually with a mesh. It can be performed as open or keyhole surgery and is typically carried out as a day case under general or local anaesthetic.
Is hernia repair surgery painful?
Some discomfort and bruising is normal for the first few days, managed with standard pain relief. Most patients find keyhole repair causes less post-operative discomfort than open surgery, though this varies between individuals and hernia types.
How long does recovery from hernia repair take?
Light activities can usually resume within one to two weeks, while heavier lifting or exercise is typically reintroduced gradually over several weeks. Mr Woodward provides a personalised recovery plan, as timescales can vary depending on the repair method used.
Can a hernia come back after repair?
Recurrence rates are low when hernia repair is performed with appropriate mesh reinforcement and technique, though no surgery can guarantee a hernia will never return. Mr Woodward’s experience with complex and recurrent hernias means these cases can also be assessed and managed carefully.
Do I need a referral to see Mr Woodward for hernia repair?
A GP referral is often used for insured or NHS pathways, but self-referral for private consultations is also usually possible. Contacting the clinic directly is the quickest way to confirm the best route for an individual case.
Will I need mesh for my hernia repair?
Mesh is commonly used in hernia repair to reinforce the abdominal wall and reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Whether mesh is appropriate depends on the hernia type and patient factors, which Mr Woodward will discuss fully during consultation.
Quick facts
Procedure type
Day case
Anaesthetic(s)
General or local
Hospital stay
Usually same day
Recovery
1–2 weeks
Insurers
All major insurers
Book this treatment
Speak to Ceri Hatcher to arrange your consultation — most patients seen within 48 hours.