Hernia Surgery

Expert Hernia Surgery at Ross Hall Hospital Glasgow

Specialist consultant-led assessment and treatment for groin, umbilical, incisional and complex abdominal wall hernias, including open and laparoscopic keyhole repair.

Led by Mr Donald McArthur MBChB FRCS, Consultant General and Upper GI Surgeon, with consultations and treatment available at Ross Hall Hospital, Glasgow.

Fixed price guide from £4,061
For Open Inguinal Hernia Repair under general anaesthesia. Final pricing is confirmed in writing after consultation and any necessary diagnostic tests.

Consultant-led hernia care at Ross Hall Hospital

Mr Donald McArthur FRCS leads the Complex Hernia and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Service at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow, where he was appointed as a Consultant General and Upper GI Surgeon in 2015.

Mr McArthur provides expert assessment and private hernia surgery at Ross Hall Hospital, Glasgow, including open and laparoscopic “keyhole” repairs for groin, umbilical, incisional and complex abdominal wall hernias. Glasgow Surgery Ltd is fee-assured with all major insurance providers and welcomes patients who have chosen to self-pay.

At a glance

Private hernia assessment and treatment
Open and laparoscopic keyhole hernia repair
Complex hernia and abdominal wall reconstruction expertise
No GP referral required
Insured and self-pay patients welcome

Understanding hernias

Abdominal Wall Hernias and Hernia Surgery

Hernias can occur in the groin (inguinal and femoral), around the belly button (umbilical) or in the upper portion of the abdomen (ventral/epigastric). They commonly occur following other surgical procedures (incisional) and often cause significant symptoms impacting on day to day activity and quality of life. In some circumstances they may require urgent attention and treatment.

What is a hernia?

A hernia occurs when part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall, creating a lump or bulge.

What are the symptoms of a hernia?

Some hernias may cause little or no discomfort initially, but symptoms can gradually become more noticeable, especially during activity.

Common Symptoms of a Hernia

Common symptoms include:

A visible lump or swelling, often in the groin or abdomen
Discomfort or pain, especially when lifting or straining
A dragging or aching sensation
Symptoms that worsen when standing or coughing

When should I seek urgent medical attention?

You should seek immediate medical care if you experience:

Sudden severe pain
A hernia that becomes hard, tender, or cannot be pushed back
Nausea or vomiting

These may be signs of a strangulated hernia and require urgent treatment.

Treatment and surgery options

Hernia Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the hernia. Surgery is the only definitive treatment for a hernia, although in some cases it can be planned electively rather than urgently.

Do hernias go away on their own?

No — hernias do not heal without treatment. Over time, they usually increase in size and may become more symptomatic.

Symptoms may be monitored during consultation
The type and size of the hernia will be assessed
Your surgeon will advise whether treatment should be planned electively or urgently

Early specialist assessment can help you understand your options and reduce the risk of complications.

Surgical Treatment — Hernia Repair

Treatment depends on the hernia type, symptoms and overall health. Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate option for you after assessment.

Treatment options typically include:

Open hernia repair
Laparoscopic keyhole hernia surgery
Use of surgical mesh to strengthen the abdominal wall

Types of Hernia

Common types include inguinal hernia, femoral hernia, umbilical hernia and incisional hernia. Each type varies in presentation and treatment approach.

Modern techniques are used to provide safe, effective treatment and reduce the risk of recurrence where appropriate.

Recovery After Hernia Surgery

Return home: many patients return home the same day or after a short stay
Normal activities: many patients resume normal activities within 2–4 weeks
Strenuous activity: return to strenuous activity after a longer recovery period, based on your surgeon’s advice

Safety, Recurrence and Choosing the Right Surgeon

Hernia repair is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures and is generally very safe. As with all surgery, risks will be discussed with you during consultation.

Recurrence is uncommon but can occur. Modern surgical techniques, including mesh repair, significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.

Choosing an experienced specialist in hernia surgery is important. Outcomes are generally better when procedures are performed by surgeons with a high volume of hernia cases and expertise in both open and laparoscopic techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I always need surgery for a hernia?

Surgery is the only definitive treatment for a hernia. In some cases, particularly if symptoms are mild, surgery can be planned electively rather than urgently.

Is hernia surgery safe?

Hernia repair is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures and is generally very safe. Any individual risks will be discussed during consultation.

Will the hernia come back?

Recurrence is uncommon but can occur. Modern surgical techniques, including mesh repair, significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.

How long is recovery after hernia surgery?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure, but many patients return home the same day or after a short stay and resume normal activities within 2–4 weeks.

Book a Consultation

If you have symptoms of a hernia or have been diagnosed and are considering treatment, a specialist consultation can help you understand your options and plan the most appropriate care.