About the Procedure
Umbilical hernia repair returns the protruding tissue to its proper place and closes or reinforces the weak area of the abdominal wall near the navel, sometimes with a mesh. At Norelle Health in New York City, the care team discusses whether an open or minimally invasive approach is suited to the size of the hernia and the patient's circumstances.
What the Procedure Involves
Umbilical hernia repair corrects a hernia at or near the navel by returning the protruding tissue to its proper place and closing or reinforcing the weak area of the abdominal wall. Depending on the size of the hernia, the surgical team may use sutures alone or add a mesh for reinforcement. The procedure can be performed through an open or minimally invasive approach.
Considering umbilical hernia repair? The next step is a quiet, unhurried conversation.
Who May Be a Candidate
Repair may be considered for umbilical hernias that are enlarging, symptomatic, or cosmetically bothersome, particularly in adults, since adult umbilical hernias usually do not close on their own. The decision takes into account the size of the hernia, your symptoms, and your overall health. Small, painless hernias may instead be monitored.
How It Is Performed
After anesthesia, the surgical team accesses the hernia, repositions the tissue, and repairs the defect with sutures or mesh as appropriate. In an open approach, this is done through a small incision near the navel, while a minimally invasive approach uses several smaller incisions and a camera. The technique is matched to the hernia and your circumstances.
Recovery and Outlook
Many people return to routine activities over the following days to weeks, with heavier activity delayed until the area has healed. The care team provides individualized aftercare guidance, including activity limits and wound care. As with any procedure, outcomes vary, and your team will review what to expect.
Specialists who perform umbilical hernia repair
Dr. Youssef Mourad
MD
General Surgeon
Dr. Youssef Mourad is a general surgeon who cares for a range of general surgical conditions, including hernias, gallbladder disease, appendicitis, and soft-tissue masses, with experience in minimally invasive approaches.
- Hernia repair (inguinal, umbilical, ventral, and incisional)
- Gallbladder surgery (laparoscopic cholecystectomy)
- Appendectomy
- Lipoma and cyst excision
Not sure who to see? Our patient coordination team can help match you with the right specialist.
(212) 444-8006Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Small, painless umbilical hernias in adults may be monitored, while repair is often considered for hernias that enlarge or cause symptoms.
Mesh may be used to reinforce larger repairs and reduce recurrence, while smaller hernias are sometimes repaired with sutures alone. Your surgeon can explain the plan for you.
Light activity often resumes within days, while heavier lifting and exercise are usually delayed for several weeks. Your care team will provide specific guidance.
Coverage varies by plan and medical necessity. We recommend confirming benefits with your insurer, and our team can help with the process.
Related Conditions
1 of 3 · Umbilical Hernia
Related Procedures
1 of 2 · Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair
Request a consultation about umbilical hernia repair
Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss whether this procedure is the right option for you.