An inguinal hernia is one of the most common types of hernias, especially seen in men. It occurs when a part of the intestine or abdominal tissue bulges through a weak spot in the inguinal hernia groin area. If not treated on time, it can increase in size, cause pain, and sometimes lead to complications like strangulation or obstruction. Dr. Pinak Dasgupta, one of the best inguinal hernia surgeon in Chennai, India, and a leading Hernia specialist in Chennai, is known for his exceptional skill in open, laparoscopic, and robotic inguinal hernia repair.
With extensive experience in complex and recurrent hernia management, he ensures every patient receives the highest level of personalised and evidence-based care. He is currently practising at GEM Hospital, Chennai, one of India’s most advanced centres for hernia and minimal access surgery. Patients from across India and abroad trust him for accurate diagnosis, modern treatment, and fast recovery.
What is an Inguinal Hernia?
An inguinal hernia happens when abdominal tissue pushes through the inguinal canal in the groin.
It is more common in:
- Men
- People who lift heavy weights
- Patients with chronic cough or constipation
- Those with a family history of hernia
If you notice a bulge in the groin area, especially while standing, coughing, or lifting, it is important to get it checked early by an experienced Robotic Hernia Surgeon in Chennai for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.
Inguinal Hernia Types
- Indirect inguinal hernia – common in younger patients and congenital weakness
- Direct inguinal hernia – seen in older adults due to muscle weakness
- Bilateral inguinal hernia – affects both groins
- Recurrent inguinal hernia – returns after previous surgery
Although more common in men, inguinal hernia in females can also occur and should not be ignored.
Common Symptoms:
Patients may experience the following inguinal hernia symptoms:
- A visible bulge in the groin
- Pain or discomfort while walking, coughing, or lifting
- Burning or heaviness in the groin
- Swelling around the testicles in men
- Pain that worsens by the end of the day
If the hernia becomes painful, hard, or cannot be pushed back, it may be an emergency and needs immediate medical care.
Why Early Treatment Is Important?
Inguinal hernias do not heal on their own.
Delaying treatment may cause:
- Increase in hernia size
- Severe pain
- Strangulation of the intestine (a medical emergency)
- Difficulty in performing daily activities
Early diagnosis and proper surgical treatment ensure a quicker recovery and long-term relief.
Advanced Treatment Options Available:
Dr. Pinak offers the latest techniques for inguinal hernia surgery in Chennai, ensuring minimal pain, fast recovery, and excellent outcomes. Recognised by patients as the best hernia surgeon in Chennai, he treats both routine and complex cases with precision and care.
Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair (Keyhole Surgery):
Laparoscopic repair is one of the most preferred treatments for inguinal hernia today. This minimally invasive surgery is done through 2–3 tiny cuts, which reduces pain and speeds up recovery. A mesh is placed from inside to strengthen the weak area and prevent recurrence. Patients can walk within a few hours and return to work within a week. It is ideal for people who want faster healing, minimal scars, and long-term comfort. Laparoscopic repair is especially useful for bilateral (both sides) hernias, inguinal hernia in females, or when the patient wants a smooth and safe surgery.
Robotic Inguinal Hernia Surgery:
Robotic surgery is the most advanced treatment for inguinal hernia, especially for recurrent, complex, or large hernias. The Da Vinci robotic system gives the surgeon a 3D HD view and extra precision that is not possible with normal laparoscopy. The robotic arms allow better suturing, gentle tissue handling, and perfect mesh placement. This leads to less pain, fewer complications, and very low recurrence rates. For patients who want world-class results and the safest hernia repair, robotic surgery is an excellent option.
e-TEP Repair (Extended Totally Extra-Peritoneal Repair):
The e-TEP technique is a modern and highly advanced method for inguinal hernia repair. It is performed by creating a working space outside the abdominal cavity, which reduces the chances of complications. This approach gives excellent visibility to the surgeon, reduces postoperative pain, and allows faster return to normal life. e-TEP is preferred for bilateral hernias, large groin hernias, and patients who want minimal discomfort. It is one of the most successful approaches with extremely low recurrence rates.
Open Mesh Repair (Lichtenstein Technique):
Open mesh repair is a time-tested surgical method used when minimally invasive surgery is not suitable for the patient. It is performed through a single incision in the groin, where the hernia is repaired and a mesh is placed to strengthen the area. This procedure is safe and effective, especially for very large hernias or elderly patients. The recovery is slightly longer compared to laparoscopy, but the long-term results are reliable. Open mesh repair remains a dependable option for select patients.
Why Choose Dr. Pinak Dasgupta for Inguinal Hernia Treatment in Chennai?
- 21+ Years of Surgical Expertise: Dr. Pinak has deep experience in treating simple, complex, and recurrent inguinal hernias. His long clinical experience ensures safe surgery and predictable outcomes.
- Award-Winning Hernia & Robotic Surgeon: Dr. Pinak Dasgupta is a nationally and internationally recognised surgeon, honoured with multiple awards for excellence in hernia and minimally invasive surgery. He has received the Award for Excellence in Hernia Surgery, the prestigious IAGES Shining Star Award, and several Best Video Awards at major surgical conferences such as CRSA, ANZ AWR, and HSICON. His surgical videos have also been selected at global platforms including KSELS (Korea), reflecting his technical precision and innovation in hernia repair.
- High-Volume Hernia Surgeon with Proven Results: Having successfully performed 5000+ hernia surgeries, including 1000+ robotic hernia repairs, Dr. Pinak is considered a high-volume hernia specialist in Chennai. High surgical volume is strongly linked with better outcomes, fewer complications, and greater patient safety.
- Specialist in Robotic & Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery: He is one of the few surgeons in India trained in robotic inguinal hernia repair, e-TEP, and advanced minimally invasive techniques—giving patients faster healing and less pain.
- Expert in Recurrent & Bilateral Hernia Repair: Many patients who had failed hernia surgery earlier come to him for correction. His precision and advanced skills reduce recurrence risk significantly
- International Patients Trust Him: Patients from the Middle East, Africa, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Europe choose him for world-class hernia care, transparent communication, and smooth recovery.
- Comprehensive Care and Honest Guidance: Every patient receives a detailed evaluation, clear explanation of treatment options, and personalised care before and after surgery.
Who Should Consider Surgery?
You may need surgery if:
- You have a visible groin swelling
- Pain affects your daily activities
- The hernia is increasing in size
- You experience sudden, severe pain
- It is a recurrent hernia
Cost of Inguinal Hernia Surgery in Chennai:
The cost of inguinal hernia surgery depends on the type of procedure (laparoscopic, robotic, e-TEP, or open), whether it is single-side or both sides, mesh type, and hospital stay. Robotic surgery usually costs more due to advanced technology, while laparoscopic and e-TEP procedures fall in the mid-range. International patients also receive assistance with travel, stay, and treatment planning. A detailed estimate is provided after consultation based on the patient’s condition.
Book a Consultation:
If you are searching for Inguinal Hernia Treatment in Chennai or want the safest, most advanced groin hernia repair, Dr. Pinak Dasgupta offers world-class care with the best long-term results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):
Not always, but if ignored, it can lead to severe pain or strangulation, which is a medical emergency.
No. Once a hernia develops, only surgery can fix it. Medicines may reduce pain but cannot repair the hernia.
Most patients can walk within hours and return to work in 5–7 days. Full recovery usually takes 4–6 weeks.
Laparoscopic, robotic, or e-TEP repair gives the best results. The best option depends on the patient’s condition.
The chances are very low when the surgery is done by an expert using the correct mesh technique.
Yes, with modern techniques, hernia surgery is safe for elderly patients, provided they undergo proper evaluation.