Umbilical & paraumbilical hernia
Umbilical and Paraumbilical Hernia Repair
Specialist assessment and repair of adult umbilical and paraumbilical hernias in Manchester.
Overview
Understanding umbilical & paraumbilical hernias
An umbilical hernia is a protrusion at the belly button. A paraumbilical hernia occurs just around the belly button. In adults, these hernias can cause discomfort, a visible lump and, in some cases, trapping of fat or bowel.
When to seek urgent help
A painful irreducible lump, skin redness or purple discolouration, vomiting or abdominal swelling can suggest incarceration or strangulation and should be assessed urgently.
What is an umbilical hernia?
An umbilical hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weakness at the navel. A paraumbilical hernia occurs beside or around the navel. In adults, the repair principles are usually similar.
Who commonly presents with it?
Adult umbilical and paraumbilical hernias are more common in people who are overweight and in women after pregnancy. Other risk factors include heavy lifting, coughing, straining and ascites.
Umbilical hernia symptoms
Symptoms can include a lump at or near the belly button, aching, discomfort with lifting or coughing, and a swelling that may reduce when lying down. Some hernias are painless but enlarge over time.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually made by examination. Ultrasound or CT can be used if the diagnosis is uncertain, the hernia is large or other abdominal wall problems are suspected.
Umbilical hernia repair
Surgery usually involves a small incision above or below the umbilicus. Small hernias may be repaired with stitches alone, while larger hernias may need mesh reinforcement.
Keyhole umbilical hernia repair
A laparoscopic keyhole approach may be recommended for larger or recurrent hernias, or selected patients where smaller incisions away from the umbilicus may help recovery.
Recovery
Most patients go home the same day. Gentle mobilisation is encouraged and heavy lifting is restricted for a period according to the size and type of repair.
Risks
Risks can include wound infection, bruising, seroma, recurrence, ongoing discomfort and risks related to mesh where used.
Frequently asked questions
Umbilical & paraumbilical hernia FAQs
Are umbilical and paraumbilical hernias treated differently?
They occur at or around the navel and are often repaired using similar surgical principles. Your surgeon will confirm the exact type and best approach.
Can an adult umbilical hernia go away by itself?
Adult umbilical and paraumbilical hernias do not usually close spontaneously, although small painless hernias may sometimes be monitored.
When is mesh used for an umbilical hernia?
Mesh may be recommended when the defect is larger or when reinforcement is needed to reduce the risk of recurrence.
What signs suggest an umbilical hernia is urgent?
A painful irreducible lump, skin redness or purple discolouration, vomiting, fever or abdominal swelling should be assessed urgently.
Is mesh always needed for umbilical hernia repair?
No. Small hernias may be repaired with stitches, while larger defects may need mesh to strengthen the repair.
Specialist care in Manchester
Book a consultation with Mr Christian Macutkiewicz
Arrange a private consultation at Spire Manchester Hospital to discuss your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
Hernia Clinic Manchester 