Why Hernias Come Back: Understanding Recurrence and Prevention

Most hernia repairs are successful, but for some patients, the hernia may return. Known as hernia recurrence, this complication can be frustrating and sometimes more challenging to treat than the first repair. Understanding why hernias come back, what symptoms to look for, and what treatment options are available can help you take the right next steps.

Why Do Hernias Come Back?

A hernia may return for several reasons:

• Medical history: Patients with previous hernias, obesity, chronic coughing, or constipation have higher risk.
• Surgical technique: If the initial repair didn’t fully reinforce the weakened tissue, recurrence is more likely.
• Mesh use: In some cases, an inappropriate type of mesh or poor integration can cause failure.
• Surgeon experience: Hernia repair is a specialized skill. Surgeons who perform them regularly typically have lower recurrence rates.

Signs of a Recurrent Hernia

A recurrent hernia often looks and feels similar to the first one. Warning signs include:

• Return of a bulge or lump near the original repair site
• Pain or discomfort when lifting, coughing, or straining
• Redness, swelling, or warmth at the site
• Digestive changes (constipation, bloating, or blood in stool)
• Sudden, severe pain and swelling — a potential sign of strangulation, a medical emergency

If you notice sudden pain, nausea, or an inability to pass stool or gas, seek immediate medical attention.

Diagnosing a Recurrent Hernia

Diagnosis usually starts with a physical exam, where your doctor checks for a bulge or tenderness. Imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans may be used to confirm the recurrence and plan treatment.

Treatment Options for Recurrent Hernias

Most recurrent hernias require surgery. Options include:

• Open hernia repair: A larger incision is made to repair tissue and reinforce with sutures or mesh.
• Laparoscopic repair: A minimally invasive option using small incisions, a camera, and surgical tools. Benefits include less pain and faster recovery.
• Robotic-assisted repair: An advanced technique offering greater precision and flexibility, often used for complex or recurrent hernias.

Recovery depends on the type of surgery performed, but most patients return to light activity within a few weeks.

Preventing Hernia Recurrence

While not all recurrences can be prevented, you can lower your risk by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce abdominal strain
• Treating chronic cough, constipation, or urinary straining
• Avoiding heavy lifting or learning safe lifting techniques
• Following your surgeon’s recovery guidelines after hernia surgery
• Choosing an experienced hernia specialist for your procedure

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

If you suspect your hernia has returned, don’t delay seeking care. At Hernia Innovations, part of BASS Medical Group, our board-certified surgeons specialize in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted hernia repairs — even for complex recurrences.

Call us today at (925) 940-1025 or request an appointment online at our Walnut Creek, Brentwood, Concord, or Antioch locations. Early intervention can make all the difference.

FAQs

Why do hernias come back after surgery?‍

Recurrence often happens due to tissue weakness, surgical technique, or increased abdominal pressure from factors like obesity or chronic cough.

How do I know if my hernia has come back?‍

Watch for a bulge at the old site, pain with movement, or digestive changes. Severe pain or swelling may indicate an emergency.

What is the best treatment for a recurrent hernia?‍

Most recurrent hernias require surgical repair. Minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic-assisted approaches are often recommended.