An umbilical hernia occurs when a part of the intestine or abdominal tissue pushes through a weak spot near the belly button (umbilicus). While common in infants, umbilical hernias are also frequently seen in adults—especially women after pregnancy, people with obesity, chronic cough, or those who lift heavy weights. If not treated on time, the hernia may become larger, painful, or lead to complications such as strangulation.
Dr. Pinak Dasgupta, a leading Hernia specialist in Chennai and one of the best umbilical hernia surgeon in Chennai, India, specialises in advanced open, laparoscopic, robotic, and e-TEP abdominal wall hernia repair. With extensive expertise in complex and recurrent umbilical hernias, he ensures accurate diagnosis, safe surgery, and fast recovery. He practises at GEM Hospital, Chennai, one of India’s most advanced centres for hernia & minimal access surgery.
Patients from India and abroad trust him as a highly experienced best hernia surgeon in Chennai for world-class hernia care, transparent communication, and long-term results.
What is an Umbilical Hernia?
An umbilical hernia happens when abdominal contents bulge through the area around the navel.
It is commonly seen in:
- Women after pregnancy
- People with obesity
- Those with chronic coughing
- Patients with repeated strain on the abdominal muscles
- People with previous abdominal surgeries
If you notice a small bulge near the belly button that increases when you cough, stand, or lift, it is important to consult a hernia specialist in Chennai for early evaluation.
Common Symptoms:
The most common umbilical hernia symptoms include:
- A small or large bulge near the navel
- Pain or discomfort around the belly button
- A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen
- Pain while coughing, bending, or lifting objects
- Redness, swelling, or sudden tenderness over the bulge
If the hernia becomes hard, extremely painful, or cannot be pushed back inside, it may indicate strangulation, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgical care.
Why Early Treatment Is Important?
Umbilical hernias do not go away on their own.
Delaying treatment can cause:
- Increase in hernia size
- Risk of incarceration or strangulation
- Severe pain
- Difficulty in daily movements
- Higher risk during pregnancy (for women)
Timely umbilical hernia repair helps prevent complications, ensures faster recovery, and provides long-term relief.
Advanced Treatment Options Available
Dr. Pinak Dasgupta offers the latest and safest umbilical hernia repair techniques with excellent outcomes and minimal recurrence rates.
- Laparoscopic Umbilical Hernia Repair (Keyhole Surgery): Laparoscopic repair is one of the most preferred treatments today for small to medium-sized umbilical hernias. Through 2–3 tiny incisions, the surgeon gently places a mesh inside the abdomen to reinforce the weak area. This method reduces postoperative pain, lowers the chance of recurrence, and allows patients to return to routine activities quickly. It is especially suitable for working professionals, women after pregnancy, and those seeking minimal scars and fast healing.
- Robotic Umbilical Hernia Surgery: Robotic surgery represents the most advanced form of umbilical hernia operation, offering 3D HD vision, superior precision, and optimal mesh placement. It is especially beneficial for obese patients, recurrent hernias, and large defects.
- e-TEP Abdominal Wall Repair: e-TEP (Extended Totally Extra-Peritoneal Repair) is a modern minimally invasive technique performed outside the abdominal cavity. This approach gives excellent visibility, precise dissection, and a smooth space for mesh placement. e-TEP reduces long-term pain, speeds healing, and is highly effective for large or complex umbilical hernias. It is also a preferred technique for patients who want durable and long-term results.
- Open Mesh Repair: Open repair is recommended for very large, long-standing, or complicated umbilical hernias. A single incision is made near the belly button to repair the defect and place a mesh for reinforcement. Although recovery may take slightly longer, it is a safe and time-tested procedure, especially for elderly patients, obese individuals, and cases where minimally invasive surgery is not suitable.
Why Choose Dr. Pinak Dasgupta for Umbilical Hernia Treatment in Chennai?
Highly Experienced Hernia Specialist With 21+ Years of Expertise: Dr. Pinak Dasgupta has over two decades of experience in treating simple, large, complicated, and recurrent umbilical hernias. He has successfully performed 5000+ hernia surgeries, including 1000+ robotic hernia procedures, making him one of the most experienced hernia surgeons in Chennai.
- Expert in Laparoscopic, Robotic & e-TEP Hernia Repair: His training in complex abdominal wall reconstruction and minimally invasive surgery ensures minimal pain, low recurrence, and smooth postoperative recovery.
- Award-Winning Surgeon Recognised Nationally & Internationally: He has received multiple prestigious honours, including the Award for Excellence in Hernia Surgery, IAGES Shining Star Award, and several Best Video Awards at national and international conferences such as CRSA, ANZ AWR, and HSICON. His surgical videos have also been selected at global forums like KSELS (Korea), highlighting his technical excellence.
- Preferred Surgeon for Recurrent & Complex Cases: Many patients who had failed hernia repairs earlier come to him for successful correction, making him one of the best choices for difficult hernia cases.
- Trusted by International Patients: Patients from the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and South Asia choose him for high-quality hernia treatment, transparent counseling, and exceptional clinical outcomes.
- Ethical, Honest & Patient-Focused Approach: He provides a clear explanation of every treatment option, allowing patients to make well-informed decisions about their health.
Who Should Consider Surgery?
Surgery is recommended if:
- You have a visible bulge near the navel
- Pain affects daily activities
- The hernia is growing in size
- You experience sudden, severe pain
- It is a recurrent or complicated hernia
- You want long-term, permanent relief
Cost of Umbilical Hernia Surgery in Chennai:
The umbilical hernia operation cost depends on several factors such as the surgical technique used (laparoscopic, robotic, e-TEP, or open), size of the hernia, mesh type, hospital stay, and overall complexity of the case.
Robotic procedures are usually on the higher end due to advanced technology, while laparoscopic and e-TEP repairs are moderately priced. A personalized cost estimate is provided after a detailed clinical evaluation.
Book a Consultation:
If you are searching for Umbilical Hernia Treatment in Chennai or want a safe, advanced, and long-lasting hernia repair, Dr. Pinak Dasgupta offers world-class care with excellent outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):
Not always, but if ignored, it can become painful or strangulated, which is a medical emergency.
No. Only surgery can repair the defect permanently. Exercises cannot close the gap.
Most patients walk on the same day and return to work within 5–7 days. Full healing takes around 4–6 weeks.
Laparoscopic, robotic, and e-TEP repairs offer excellent results. The best option depends on the size and complexity of the hernia.
Recurrence is very low when the surgery is performed by an experienced hernia specialist using proper mesh techniques.
Yes, robotic and laparoscopic techniques make surgery safer and reduce complications, especially for obese patients.