Umbilical hernia surgery is usually a short, outpatient procedure, but the following days require careful attention to the abdomen: the scar is located right at the navel, where every cough, every effort to stand up, or every bowel movement puts pressure. Here's how the procedure is performed, what to do afterward, what to avoid, and what signs to look out for.
Quick answer
In adults, an umbilical hernia does not heal on its own: the NHS and CHUV state that surgery is the only treatment. The surgeon repositions the hernia contents and closes the opening with stitches, using a mesh (prosthesis) for larger hernias.
Upon return, the instructions focus mainly on pain, wound, bowel movements and exertion: avoid lifting, pulling or pushing loads, according to the limit set by the team.
| Open road | Laparoscopy | |
|---|---|---|
| incision | Around the navel | Several small incisions |
| Repair | Points, with or without a plate | Synthetic plate |
| For which hernias? | Small and medium-sized, most often | Larger, according to the CHUV |
I am not a doctor. This guide compiles information published by the NHS, the Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), the Montreal University Hospital (CHUM), and the French National Authority for Health (HAS) to help you prepare your questions. The written instructions provided by your team always take precedence.
Umbilical hernia: why and how to operate on it?
An umbilical hernia is a bulge at the navel, caused by an opening in the abdominal wall that hasn't closed properly. In young children, it's very common and usually disappears on its own, without surgery, according to the NHS. In adults, it doesn't usually resolve on its own: surgery is generally recommended, especially if it's bothersome or enlarges, before any complications arise.
The most feared complication is strangulation: the contents of the hernia become trapped and are no longer supplied with blood. This is an emergency that can cause intestinal obstruction with vomiting and abdominal distension.
Open surgery or laparoscopy
According to the CHUV (Lausanne University Hospital), the choice of surgery depends on the size and location of the hernia, the patient's body size, and their overall health. With open surgery, the surgeon makes an incision around the navel and closes it with stitches, with or without a mesh. With laparoscopy, a synthetic mesh is inserted through small incisions. The procedure is most often performed on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia, or local anesthesia for very small hernias.
The exit: what to check
- the technique used and the presence or absence of a plate;
- the method of wound closure: glue, strips, absorbable sutures or staples to be removed;
- the prescription for painkillers and what to do if they cause constipation;
- the weight limit not to be exceeded, and for how long;
- wearing an abdominal binder, only if the surgeon has requested it;
- the appointment for the check-up and the number to call.
For outpatient care, arrange for someone to accompany you home and stay with you the first night: see the role of the companion.
The first few days at home
Pain and sensations around the wound
The CHUM fact sheet describes skin that feels tight, more sensitive, or burning around the wound, and pain that decreases within a few days. It advises taking the prescribed pain medication regularly during the first few days, without waiting for the pain to become severe, as it is then more difficult to relieve. If the pain does not subside with treatment, call the team: see also Pain After Surgery.
The wound and the shower
The CHUM (University of Montreal Hospital Centre) indicates that a closed, dry wound can be left uncovered; minor bleeding should be covered with a clean compress, changed daily. Showering is possible once the wound is closed: let the water run over it without directing the stream, then pat dry, without applying soap or cream to the wound. Avoid baths and swimming pools until the wound is healed: see " Swimming After Surgery ."
Advertising
Coughing, sneezing, getting up: taking it easy on the stomach
Coughing and exertion increase pressure in the abdomen, just below the scar. To get out of bed, the CHUM (University of Montreal Hospital Centre) refers you to the instructions of the healthcare team: have them demonstrate the technique before leaving the hospital. Also ask if it is helpful to hold a small cushion against your abdomen when coughing or sneezing.
The CHUM (University of Montreal Hospital Centre) advises against lifting, pulling, or pushing heavy objects, such as strollers, furniture, or lawnmowers, and avoids sudden movements like shaking a rug. The exact limits and duration of these activities will be determined by your surgeon.
Transit after the operation
Digestion may take longer, and some pain relievers can cause constipation. The CHUM (University of Montreal Hospital Centre) recommends drinking fluids regularly throughout the day if your health permits, walking daily, and gradually increasing your fiber intake. Straining during bowel movements puts strain on the surgically repaired abdominal wall: speak to the healthcare team or pharmacist before taking a laxative. See Constipation After Surgery.
Walking, driving, work and sport
Walking, climbing stairs, and light housework can generally be resumed immediately, according to the CHUM (University of Montreal Hospital Centre). The French National Authority for Health (HAS) reminds us that getting up and moving early is part of an improved recovery after surgery.
To drive, the CHUM (University of Montreal Hospital Centre) sets two conditions: not taking opioid painkillers and being able to move your legs well. See Driving After Surgery . Returning to work and resuming sports must be authorized by the surgeon: the NHS specifies that sick leave is longer when the job involves lifting heavy loads. For your rights, see Sick Leave After Surgery.
Signs that should prompt a call
The CHUM requests that you call the team in case of:
- fever that lasts;
- redness, swelling, heat, or yellowish or greenish fluid draining from the wound: see surgical scar infection ;
- pain that increases or that medication does not relieve;
- inability to urinate;
- absence of bowel movements for several days with nausea and bloating;
- pain or swelling in one leg, which may suggest a phlebitis.
The NHS lists infection, blood clots, persistent pain, and recurrence as risks of the operation. A new lump on the navel is visible to the surgeon after the operation.
Emergency: Severe abdominal pain that does not subside, vomiting, inability to pass gas or stool, sudden shortness of breath, or chest pain: immediately call 15 (SAMU) in France, or 112 from any European country. Do not drive yourself.
F.A.Q
Should you wear an abdominal binder?
Only if prescribed by the surgeon. The CHUM (University of Montreal Hospital Centre) then asks that it be worn properly and specifies that it is the doctor who decides when to remove it. Do not buy one on your own initiative without consulting them.
My child has an umbilical hernia: should he/she have surgery?
Most often, no: in young children, it usually disappears on its own. The pediatrician or surgeon decides whether surgery is necessary, depending on the child's age and how the condition develops. Consult a doctor promptly if the lump becomes hard, painful, or no longer disappears.
What if I also have abdominal separation?
An umbilical hernia is sometimes associated with diastasis recti, particularly after pregnancy. The treatment is then different: see our guide to diastasis recti.
Institutional sources
- NHS, Umbilical hernia (reviewed November 24, 2025), accessed on October 26, 2026.
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Umbilical Hernia (2018), accessed on October 26, 2026.
- Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV), Umbilical Hernia Treatment (2018), accessed on October 26, 2026.
- University of Montreal Hospital Centre (CHUM), Taking care of yourself after surgery for an abdominal or groin hernia (2025), accessed on October 26, 2026.
- French National Authority for Health, Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Programs, Summary (June 2016), accessed on October 26, 2026.
Editorial note: This article was written on October 26, 2026, using institutional sources consulted on that date. It provides information without offering a diagnosis or replacing the advice of your healthcare team. Internal reference: hernie-umbilale-operation-20261027.
