Can a Hernia Heal On Its Own?
Understanding What to Expect When Undergoing a Hernia Repair
Hearing the word “surgery” can make anyone a little uneasy, and that’s especially true when it comes to hernia repair. Many patients wonder: “Is hernia surgery considered a major procedure?”
The honest answer is that while hernia surgery is a real surgical procedure, modern techniques—especially minimally invasive approaches—often make it far less invasive and easier to recover from than most people expect.
Why Hernia Surgery Is So Common
A hernia occurs when tissue or an organ pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. It won’t heal on its own, and for many patients, surgery becomes the best solution to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
Hernia repair is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in the United States, with a very high success rate and low complication risk when performed by an experienced surgeon such as the surgeons at Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors in Long Island, New York.
Minimally Invasive vs. Traditional Surgery
Not all hernia surgeries are the same. In the past, open surgery with larger incisions was more common. Today, however, minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic techniques are often used.
At Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors, Dr. Hesham Atwa specializes in minimally invasive hernia repair, which typically involves:
- Smaller incisions (often less than 1 inch)
- Less pain after surgery
- Faster recovery
- Lower risk of complications
- Reduced scarring
For most patients, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day.
Recovery and Downtime
Recovery time can vary depending on the type of hernia, size of the repair, and your individual health factors. Most patients:
- Resume light activity within a few days
- Return to work within 1–2 weeks (longer for more strenuous jobs)
- Experience noticeable improvement in comfort fairly quickly
Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions on activity restrictions, pain management, and follow-up care to ensure the smoothest recovery possible.
When Hernia Surgery May Be More Complex
While many hernia repairs are considered routine, some cases can be more complex, such as when the hernia is large, recurrent, or associated with other medical conditions. In these situations, surgery may require a slightly longer recovery or hospital stay.
However, even in these cases, modern surgical techniques have made the process far safer and more comfortable than in years past.
Bottom Line
While hernia surgery is technically a surgical procedure, it is not typically considered “major surgery” for most patients today—especially when performed using minimally invasive techniques. The majority of patients are home the same day, recover quickly, and enjoy long-term relief.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a hernia or are exploring your options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Hesham Atwa at Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors. His expertise in minimally invasive hernia repair and robotic surgery can help you get back to your daily life with confidence.