How to choose the best hernia surgeon for your surgery (2024)

What type of surgeon does hernia repair?

In most cases, general surgeons perform hernia repair surgery.

Occasionally, specialist surgeons such as gastroenterologists may be enlisted to help with more complex hernia cases.

General surgeons are trained to treat a wide range of health conditions, but some may specialise in the following types of hernia repair:

• abdominal hernia surgeons
• hiatus hernia surgeons
• inguinal hernia repair surgeons
• femoral hernia surgeons
• umbilical hernia surgeon
• sports hernia surgeons
• incisional hernia surgeons.

If you’re not sure which type of surgeon is best for your needs, feel free to talk to our customer service team on 0330 999 2570 or take a look at our Consultants page.

Tips for choosing the best hernia surgeon

With so many surgeons to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some tips for choosing the right hernia repair surgeon for you.

Experience

When it comes to hernia surgery, experience matters. Look for a surgeon who has performed a significant number of hernia surgeries, preferably with a focus on the type of hernia you have. A surgeon with experience is more likely to be familiar with the latest techniques and technologies. He or she can also help minimise the risk of any complications.

Qualifications and credentials

Make sure the surgeon you choose is properly licensed to perform hernia surgery. Check their qualifications and look to see if they have any memberships to relevant professional organisations.

Patient reviews and testimonials

Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insight. Look for reviews from patients who have had hernia surgery with the surgeon you are considering. Pay particular attention to any comments on the surgeon’s communication, compassion and overall satisfaction with the surgery outcomes.

“I can’t recommend Practice Plus Group enough. Everything they did was excellent.”

See Also

Bridged repair of large ventral hernia defects using an ovine reinforced biologic: A case seriesDo I need hernia surgery? 3 signs it’s time to see a doctorHernia Mesh Failure: Signs & Symptoms of Mesh FailureThe different types of hernias explained

Peter Sykes, Practice Plus Group hernia patient, Portsmouth

Approach to surgery

Different surgeons may have different approaches to hernia surgery. These range from open surgery to minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery (also known as keyhole surgery). Ask the surgeon you are considering about their preferred approach and why they believe it is the best choice for your specific case.

Please note that laparoscopic repair is not available at some Practice Plus Group hospitals.

Location and availability

Choose a surgeon who is located at a hospital convenient to you. You should also check whether he or she offers flexible scheduling options that can accommodate your needs. You may also want to consider a surgeon who is affiliated with a hospital or clinic that offers comprehensive support services, such as post-surgical care and rehabilitation.

Surgery cost and payment options

The cost of private surgery will play a key part in your decision. Look for a surgeon who offers hernia surgery at a hospital that matches your budget. If you are an insured patient, remember to check your policy coverage and whether the surgeon is approved by your insurance provider.

Private hernia surgery in the UK typically costs up to £4,500. At Practice Plus Group, hernia repair surgery costs £2,999.

Questions to ask your hernia surgeon

To ensure a potential surgeon is the right choice for your needs, here’s a list of questions you might want to ask:

• What is the best surgical approach for my case?
• How many hernia surgeries have you performed and what’s your success rate?
• What is your experience with the specific surgical technique you plan to use?
• What can I expect during the surgery and recovery period
• How long is the hernia surgery recovery time?
• What are the potential risks and complications and how are they managed?
• Will I need any further tests or imaging before the surgery?
• What type of anaesthesia will be used (local or general anaesthetic) and how will it be administered?
• Will I feel any pain after surgery and what type of pain management options will be available?
• What type of follow-up care will I need after the surgery and how often will I need to be seen?
• How can I best prepare for hernia surgery and what should I do to optimise my recovery?

Asking these questions can help you feel more confident and informed about your hernia surgery. They can also help to ensure that you and your surgeon are on the same page regarding your care.

All Practice Plus Group, hernia surgeons will be happy to address any concerns or questions you may have.

Hear from our expert:
“You should seek immediate medical attention if your hernia becomes strangulated. This can cause severe tissue damage and potential organ failure. Symptoms of a strangulated hernia are severe pain, fever, nausea, and abdominal swelling.”

Chris Briggs
Consultant general surgeon

What makes our consultants the best hernia surgeons in the UK?

At Practice Plus Group, our first-class consultants ensure you receive care of the highest . Our consultants are:

• highly qualified
• experienced in their specialisation
• well-reviewed by patients
• up-to-date with the latest technologies and healthcare guidance
• caring and compassionate
• dedicated to following NHS accountability procedures.

Our consultants and surgeons carry out around 5,000 treatments a month, with 99% of patients recommending us. By taking healthcare services closer to where you live and work, we’re reducing surgery waiting times and helping you feel better, sooner.

How to find the best hernia surgeons near you

You can use our consultant page to search by language, treatment and location to find experienced local hernia surgeons. Look for surgeons under ‘general surgery’ to see a list of skilled and qualified consultants in your area. Each profile will show you their qualifications, medical council number and approved insurers, along with a biography detailing their specialisations.

Hernia treatment is available at the following Practice Plus Group locations:

• Barlborough
• Emersons Green
• Ilford
• St Mary’s Portsmouth
• Plymouth
• Shepton Mallet
• Southampton
• Gillingham
• Devizes.

Please get in touch if you have any questions about choosing the right surgeon.