Hernia surgery is often the most effective way to relieve symptoms and prevent complications, but like many health conditions, there is a chance your hernia can return.
Although hernias can come back after surgery, it’s not inevitable and there are things you can do to reduce your risk of hernia recurrence. Let’s take a look at why hernias return, what factors contribute to their recurrence, and how to reduce your risk of a recurrent hernia.
Why do hernias come back?
A hernia is a bulge in your body caused by an organ or tissue poking through a muscle wall. A recurrent hernia returns to the same place as a previous one, and can happen months or even years after a hernia repair.
To repair a hernia, the protruding tissue or organ is carefully pushed back into position, and the weakened muscle wall is repaired. This can be done with a medical-grade mesh that provides additional support to the muscle wall and aims to prevent the hernia from coming back.
Modern surgical techniques, such as laparoscopic (keyhole surgery that uses small incisions) and robot-assisted repairs, have improved recoveries and results as well as reduced recurrence rates. However, hernias can still return for several reasons, including:
- Weak tissue at the repair site: even with mesh reinforcement, the tissue around the repair may not be strong enough to withstand the extra pressure from things like heavy lifting or chronic coughing
- Slower healing: some people may not recover as well or as quickly after surgery. The potential reasons include poor blood supply to the tissue, smoking or underlying health conditions, which may lead to an increased risk of hernia recurrence
- Postoperative complications: infection or a build-up of fluid after surgery can weaken the repair
- Excessive strain: heavy lifting, chronic coughing or constipation soon after surgery can overly stress the repair site
- Obesity: excess body weight increases abdominal pressure, making recurrence more likely
Risk factors for hernia recurrence
Some people are naturally more prone to hernia recurrence because of specific health or other lifestyle-related factors.
These include:
- Having a large or complex hernia (one that may have other complications like a fistula – an abnormal connection between the hernia and the muscle wall)
- Previous failed hernia repairs
- Poor general health
- Smoking (this can reduce blood flow and oxygen to tissues, which impairs healing)
Chronic (long-term) conditions that increase intra-abdominal pressure (the pressure within your abdomen), such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a persistent cough or constipation – are also contributing factors. Diabetes and other conditions that slow wound healing may further increase your risk of hernia recurrence.
Understanding and managing these risk factors can significantly affect the chances of your hernia returning.
How can you prevent a hernia from coming back?
If you’re recovering from hernia surgery or have had a hernia before, it’s natural to want to do everything you can to avoid a repeat problem.
Here are some core preventive strategies.
Follow your post-surgery instructions
The recovery period is essential after a hernia repair. In the weeks after surgery, follow your surgeon’s advice closely. Avoid lifting heavy items, engaging in strenuous activity or doing anything that increases pressure on your abdomen.
Maintain a healthy weight
Obesity is a significant risk factor for recurrent hernia. Losing and maintaining weight reduces pressure on the abdominal wall and supports healing.
Stop smoking
Smoking interferes with tissue healing and significantly increases the risk of initial hernias and recurrences. Stopping smoking before and after surgery can help to improve your post-op recovery and reduce the risk of another hernia.
Eat a high-fibre diet
Straining during bowel movements is a common cause of hernia recurrence. Eating a fibre-rich diet helps keep your bowels moving regularly and prevents constipation. Drink plenty of water to ensure you stay hydrated, to support digestion and to facilitate easier bowel movements.
Avoid heavy lifting
Even months after surgery, lifting heavy objects incorrectly or often can place too much pressure on the surgical site. Use proper lifting techniques, like bending at the knees and keeping your back straight, or ask for help if something feels too heavy.
Manage chronic cough or medical conditions
With the support of your doctor, you should be able to manage a health condition that may be increasing your abdominal pressure to help keep the risk of your hernia coming back low. They can provide you with personalised advice and tailored treatment plans to ensure your needs are met and your health is protected.
Engage in core strengthening (with approval)
Once fully healed, low-impact core exercises like knee rolling (where you lie comfortably on your back and gently lower both knees to one side of your body before bringing them back to centre) may help strengthen your abdominal muscles, supporting repair and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Always consult your surgeon before beginning any exercise after surgery.
When should you be concerned about a recurrent hernia?
Knowing the signs of a recurrent hernia is key to getting prompt treatment.
Symptoms to watch out for include:
- A bulge or lump at or near your previous surgical site
- Discomfort or pain when lifting, bending, coughing or straining
- Pressure, heaviness or aching in the area
Other concerning signs include nausea or vomiting (if the hernia is causing obstruction) or redness, swelling or warmth, which could indicate infection or inflammation.
Seek urgent medical advice if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they come on suddenly or worsen quickly.
How is a recurrent hernia treated?
Surgical repair is usually the recommended option for recurrent hernias.
At Mr Achal Khanna’s clinic, we offer advanced treatment options, including:
- Laparoscopic hernia repair: a keyhole procedure with faster recovery and minimal scarring
- Robot-assisted hernia repair: using the Versius robotic system, this modern method allows for precise, minimally invasive surgery and is particularly useful for complex or recurrent hernias
Each repair is tailored to you, considering the type of hernia, surgical history and your overall health.
Expert hernia care with Mr Achal Khanna
Mr Achal Khanna can help if you have had hernia surgery in the past and are worried about recurrence, or you’re preparing for your first repair and want to minimise your risks. With extensive robotic and laparoscopic hernia surgery expertise, Mr Khanna uses advanced techniques to improve outcomes and support long-term recovery.
We understand the concerns that come with recurrent hernias, especially for those who have already been through surgery. So, we take a personalised approach to care, providing clear guidance on how to prevent a hernia from returning and precautions after hernia surgery.
Book a consultation with Mr Achal Khanna today to discuss your symptoms or concerns and learn how we can help you take control of your health and recovery.