Contact number: 020 7806 4060
What is an Umbilical Hernia?
An umbilical hernia happens when tissue pushes through a natural weak spot in the abdominal wall around the belly button. In children, it’s often harmless and may resolve on its own, but in adults, it usually needs surgery.
Common symptoms include:
- A soft bulge or swelling near the navel
- Discomfort or painful sensations, especially when coughing or lifting
- In some cases, vomiting, nausea, or pain caused by trapped bowel
If left untreated, the hernia can become trapped or strangulated, cutting off blood supply to the bowel, which requires emergency surgery.
Umbilical Hernia Repair at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital
Our consultants offer safe and effective umbilical hernia repair tailored to your needs. The procedure can usually be done as a day case under general anaesthetic.
Here’s what to expect:
- Consultant-Led Care: A one-to-one assessment with your surgeon to plan the best treatment
- Surgical Procedure: A small cut is made near the belly button to push the hernia back into place and repair the abdominal wall
- Mesh Reinforcement: In most cases, a mesh is used to strengthen the area and reduce the chance of recurrence
- Wound Care & Recovery: Your wound is closed with stitches and you’re supported throughout your recovery
- Same-Day Discharge: Most patients are able to go home on the same day
Our team will provide you with personalised instructions on how to manage your recovery, including advice on pain relief, wound care, and when to resume normal activities.
Consultants who perform Umbilical Hernia Repair
How Much Does Umbilical Hernia Repair Surgery Cost?
£2,200
Private Private Umbilical Hernia Repair costs £2,200 at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
Hospital Price Guaranteed. The price shown includes all costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge. Doesn’t include surgeon or anaesthetist fee.
Our hospital fee is guaranteed at the price quoted and valid for one month from the date issued, subject to pre-assessment.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions About Umbilical Hernia Repair Surgery
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), North West London. We are easily accessible from Hampstead (NW3), Kilburn (NW6), and surrounding areas.
By Tube:
St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is a 5-minute walk from the hospital.
By Bus:
- Wellington Road: Routes 13, 46, 82, and 113
- Circus Road: Routes 46 and 187
- Abbey Road: Routes 139 and 189
By Car:
We’re easy to reach from NW3 and NW6 via Finchley Road or Kilburn High Road.
Not always. In children, small hernias often close on their own. But in adults, umbilical hernia repair is usually recommended to prevent complications, especially if the hernia is painful, increasing in size, or causing other symptoms.
All surgery carries some risk, including:
- Infection or swelling at the wound
- Recurrence of the hernia
- Rarely, damage to the bowel or nearby tissues
Your consultant will explain these risks and answer any questions before your operation.
While many adult umbilical hernias are small and painless, there are warning signs that need medical attention. Red flags include sudden or worsening pain, vomiting, a hard or tender bulge near the belly button, or changes in skin colour over the area. These may point to serious complications such as a trapped portion of the intestines, which can affect the blood supply and lead to infection or tissue damage. In these cases, urgent assessment may be needed, and in some situations, emergency surgery may be recommended.
Leaving an umbilical hernia untreated might not cause issues in many cases, but in others, the hernia can become larger or more painful over time. The main risk is that abdominal contents – like bowel – can get trapped in the weak spot in the abdominal wall, causing what’s known as a strangulated hernia. This is a medical emergency and typically requires immediate hernia repair. Addressing a hernia earlier can help avoid complications and often means a more straightforward procedure and recovery.
Pain from an umbilical hernia is usually felt around the navel or belly button. It might be a dull ache or discomfort that gets worse with heavy lifting, coughing, or standing for long periods. In some cases, especially with larger hernias, the pain can become sharper and more persistent. If you’re experiencing consistent discomfort or changes in your symptoms, it’s best to speak with a consultant about possible umbilical hernia repair.
Preparation starts with a consultation where we review your medical history, discuss any medications you’re taking, and explain the surgical process. You’ll also receive specific instructions on eating, drinking, and adjusting medications before the procedure to ensure everything goes smoothly.
When you arrive, our friendly staff will guide you through final preparations. The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia, so you’ll be asleep and comfortable throughout.
The surgeon carefully repairs the hernia, often reinforcing the abdominal wall with a mesh to prevent recurrence. The technique used is tailored to your hernia’s specifics to ensure the best outcome.
Recovery varies, but most people can return to normal activities within a few weeks. You’ll receive detailed advice on caring for your surgical site, managing discomfort, and avoiding strenuous activities to support healing.
Most people return to normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the size of the hernia and your overall health. You’ll be advised to avoid heavy lifting for several weeks and monitor the area for signs of infection or discomfort.
Our team will support your recovery every step of the way, from the recovery room to your follow-up review.
Medically reviewed by Mr Panagiotis Drymousis - MD, PhD on 29/04/2024