Umbilical Hernia Repair in Austin, TX

What Is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia forms when a portion of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall at or near the navel. The result is a soft bulge that may be more noticeable when you're standing, coughing, or bearing down.

Umbilical hernias are quite common — they account for about 10 to 15% of all abdominal hernias in adults. They can develop at any point in adulthood but are especially prevalent in people with risk factors that increase intra-abdominal pressure over time.

Who Gets Umbilical Hernias?

Several factors can weaken the abdominal wall at the navel and lead to an umbilical hernia:

• Obesity — Extra weight puts persistent pressure on the abdominal wall
• Pregnancy — Particularly multiple pregnancies, which stretch the abdominal muscles repeatedly
• Abdominal fluid (ascites) — Fluid accumulation in the abdomen increases internal pressure
• Heavy or repetitive lifting — Especially without proper technique or core support
• Prior abdominal surgery — Scar tissue near the navel can create a point of weakness

Unlike umbilical hernias in infants — which often resolve on their own by age 2 to 3 — adult umbilical hernias do not close without surgery.

Symptoms to Watch For

Some umbilical hernias cause little more than a visible bulge. Others can be quite uncomfortable. Common symptoms include:

• A rounded bulge at or near the navel that may flatten when lying down
• Tenderness or mild pain around the hernia site, especially after activity
• A feeling of pressure or fullness in the abdomen
• Increased discomfort with coughing, laughing, or straining

When Should an Umbilical Hernia Be Repaired?

Repair is generally recommended when:

• The hernia is causing pain or discomfort
• The hernia is growing over time
• The hernia cannot be pushed back in (incarceration)
• You are planning a future pregnancy or abdominal surgery and want to address the hernia first

For very small, asymptomatic umbilical hernias, Dr. Ash may discuss a watchful waiting approach. She'll help you understand the risks and benefits so you can make the decision that's right for you.

How Umbilical Hernias Are Repaired

Umbilical hernia repair is typically a straightforward outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Ash will choose the best approach based on the size of your hernia and your overall health:

• Open repair — A small incision is made at or near the navel. The herniated tissue is gently returned to the abdominal cavity, and the opening is closed. For smaller hernias, the muscle edges may be sutured directly together (primary closure). For larger hernias, a lightweight mesh is used to reinforce the repair and reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Laparoscopic repair — Using three small incisions and a camera, Dr. Ash repairs the hernia from the inside with mesh support. Laparoscopic repair may offer a shorter recovery for some patients and is especially useful for recurrent or larger hernias.

Dr. Ash will walk through both options with you and explain which she recommends for your specific hernia. There is no single "right" approach — it depends on your anatomy, hernia characteristics, and personal circumstances.

Recovery After Umbilical Hernia Repair

Most patients go home the same day as surgery and are comfortable within a week. Here's a general timeline:

• Days 1–3: Rest at home; light walking is encouraged to support healing
• Week 1–2: Light daily activities are usually fine; most people can work a desk job
• Week 3–4: Gradually increasing activity as soreness resolves
• Week 4–6: Full return to exercise and lifting for most patients

Dr. Ash will see you for a follow-up appointment within the first two weeks to check your incision and make sure you're healing well. She's available to answer questions throughout your recovery.