Hernia Repair Surgery in Austin, TX

Understanding Hernias

A hernia occurs when an organ or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. According to the American College of Surgeons, hernias can develop in several areas of the body but most commonly appear in the abdomen and groin.

Hernias often start small and may not cause noticeable symptoms at first. Over time, however, they typically grow larger and can cause pain, discomfort, or more serious complications if left untreated. That's why it's important to have a hernia evaluated — even if it doesn't bother you right now.

Types of Hernias We Treat

Dr. Ash treats all common hernia types, including:

• Inguinal hernia — The most common type, occurring in the groin area. More frequently seen in men, but can affect anyone.
• Umbilical hernia — Develops near the belly button, often in adults with risk factors such as obesity, heavy lifting, or pregnancy.
• Incisional hernia — Occurs at the site of a previous surgical incision, sometimes months or years after the original procedure.
• Ventral hernia — A broad category of hernias that develop along the front abdominal wall.

When Does a Hernia Need Surgery?

Not every hernia requires immediate surgery, but most will eventually need repair. Dr. Ash may recommend surgery if:

• The hernia is growing larger over time
• You experience pain, pressure, or aching at the hernia site
• The hernia interferes with daily activities or work
• There are signs of complications, such as the hernia becoming stuck or strangulated

Our Approach to Hernia Repair

Dr. Ash believes the best hernia repair is one tailored to you. She offers multiple surgical approaches and will recommend the technique best suited to your hernia type, size, location, and overall health:

• Open repair — A single incision is made near the hernia to push the tissue back into place and reinforce the area, typically with surgical mesh.
• Laparoscopic repair — Several small incisions allow Dr. Ash to repair the hernia with a camera and specialized instruments, resulting in less tissue disruption.
• Robotic-assisted repair — The latest advancement in hernia surgery, offering enhanced precision and control, particularly for complex or recurrent hernias.

What to Expect

Your care begins with a thorough consultation. Dr. Ash will examine your hernia, review your medical history, and discuss which approach is right for you. She takes the time to explain each option so you can make an informed decision.

Depending on the type of repair, hernia surgery may be performed as an outpatient procedure or with a short hospital stay. Dr. Ash will walk you through pre-operative preparation, what happens during surgery, and what your recovery will look like.

Recovery After Hernia Surgery

Recovery time depends on the type of repair:

• Laparoscopic or robotic repair: Most patients return to light activities within 1 to 2 weeks
• Open repair: Recovery typically takes 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the hernia's size and location

Dr. Ash provides personalized recovery guidelines and schedules follow-up appointments to monitor your healing. Her goal is to get you back to your daily life as comfortably and safely as possible.