A ventral hernia occurs when abdominal tissue or a part of the intestine pushes through a weak area in the abdominal wall. It can appear anywhere along the midline of the abdomen—above the navel, around the navel, or below it. Ventral hernias may develop due to weakness present at birth, repeated strain on the abdomen, pregnancy, obesity, or previous abdominal surgeries. If left untreated, the hernia can enlarge over time, cause significant discomfort, and lead to serious complications such as bowel obstruction or strangulation.
Dr. Pinak Dasgupta, recognised as one of the best ventral hernia surgeon in Chennai, India, specialises in advanced open, ventral hernia laparoscopic repair, e-TEP, robotic, and abdominal wall reconstruction procedures. A highly experienced hernia specialist in Chennai, he has successfully treated large, recurrent, and complex ventral hernias with excellent long-term outcomes. Practising at GEM Hospital, Chennai, Dr. Pinak Dasgupta is also regarded as a leading robotic hernia surgeon in Chennai, India, trusted by patients from across India, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
What is a Ventral Hernia?
A ventral hernia is a defect in the abdominal wall through which fat or intestine bulges outward.
It is commonly seen in:
- People with obesity
- Women after multiple pregnancies
- Patients with weak abdominal muscles
- Those with chronic cough or constipation
- People who do heavy lifting
- Patients with previous abdominal surgeries (incisional hernia)
If you notice a bulge anywhere along your abdominal midline, it is important to consult a best hernia surgeon in Chennai for early evaluation.
Ventral Hernia Symptoms
Common ventral hernia symptoms may include:
- A visible bulge in the mid-abdomen
- Pain or discomfort that increases with activity
- Heaviness or pressure in the abdomen
- Muscle weakness around the hernia
- Skin redness or swelling
- Sudden sharp pain if the hernia is obstructed or strangulated
Immediate medical care is required if the hernia becomes painful, firm, or cannot be pushed back.
Why Early Treatment Is Important?
Ventral hernias do not resolve without surgery.
Delaying treatment may cause:
- Increasing hernia size
- Weakening of abdominal muscles
- Bowel obstruction
- Severe pain
- Strangulation of intestine (life-threatening emergency)
- Difficulty performing routine activities
Early intervention by an experienced ventral hernia specialist in Chennai ensures a safer surgery, faster recovery, and durable abdominal wall repair
Advanced Treatment Options Available:
Dr. Pinak offers the most modern, safe, and durable techniques for ventral hernia repair with low recurrence rates and excellent healing.
- Laparoscopic Ventral Hernia Repair (Keyhole Surgery): Laparoscopic repair is a minimally invasive technique performed through 2–3 small cuts in the abdomen. A mesh is placed inside to strengthen the abdominal wall. This approach offers reduced pain, minimal blood loss, and quicker recovery. It is ideal for small to medium ventral hernias and for patients who want faster healing, fewer complications, and minimal scars. Laparoscopic repair also reduces the chance of wound infections.
- Robotic Ventral Hernia Surgery: Robotic ventral hernia repair uses the Da Vinci robotic system, providing a 3D HD view and exceptional precision. This technique is especially beneficial for large, recurrent, and complex hernias, obese patients, and those requiring abdominal wall reconstruction. As a leading robotic hernia surgeon in Chennai, India, Dr. Pinak Dasgupta achieves excellent mesh placement, minimal postoperative pain, and superior long-term results.
- e-TEP / e-TEP RS Repair (Extended Totally Extra-Peritoneal Repair): The e-TEP technique is specially designed for ventral and midline hernias. It allows the surgeon to repair the defect without entering the abdominal cavity, reducing complications. The technique provides a large working space, reducing postoperative pain and allowing the mesh to be placed in an ideal anatomical plane. e-TEP is one of the most successful approaches today for medium to large ventral hernias and offers very low recurrence rates.
- TAR (Transversus Abdominis Release) & Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: For large, complex, or multi-recurrent ventral hernias, advanced reconstruction techniques like TAR, posterior component separation, and myofascial advancement are used. This method restores core strength, stabilises the abdominal wall, and gives long-term relief. These techniques are especially helpful for patients with giant hernias or defects that were earlier considered inoperable.
- Open Repair with Mesh: Open repair is used for very large or complicated ventral hernias. A single incision is made over the hernia, and the defect is repaired with a mesh to strengthen the abdominal wall. Though the recovery is slightly longer compared to laparoscopic methods, open repair offers strong and durable results, especially for select patients with severe abdominal weakness.
Why Choose Dr. Pinak Dasgupta for Ventral Hernia Treatment in Chennai?
- 21+ Years of Specialised Hernia Experience: With over two decades of focused experience and 5,000+ hernia surgeries performed, including simple, complex, and recurrent ventral hernias, Dr. Pinak Dasgupta delivers consistently safe and successful outcomes.
- Expert in e-TEP, TAR, Robotic & Minimally Invasive Ventral Hernia Repair: As a DaVinci Certified Robotic Console Surgeon, he specializes in advanced techniques such as e-TEP and TAR, ensuring minimal pain, faster recovery, reduced hospital stay, and long-term abdominal wall stability.
- Highly Awarded Robotic Hernia Surgeon: Dr. Dasgupta has received multiple prestigious honours, including the Award for Excellence in Hernia Surgery (2021), IAGES Shining Star Award (2022), Best Robotic Surgeon from South India, and Best Robotic Surgeon in Chennai, reflecting his leadership in advanced hernia care.
- Internationally Recognised Surgical Excellence: His award-winning surgical work has been showcased at leading global forums such as CRSA, ANZ AWR, HSICON, and KSELS (Korea), highlighting his expertise in complex ventral hernia and abdominal wall reconstruction.
- Preferred Surgeon for Recurrent & Complicated Ventral Hernias: Patients from across India consult him for second opinions and corrective surgeries after failed hernia repairs, especially in high-risk and recurrent cases.
- Trusted by International Patients: He provides world-class hernia care with ethical decision-making, transparent counselling, and comprehensive recovery support, making him a preferred choice for international patients.
Who Should Consider Surgery?
Surgery is recommended if:
- You see a visible abdominal bulge
- Pain or pressure affects your daily routine
- The hernia is growing in size
- You experience sudden, sharp pain
You have a recurrent or complicated hernia
Cost of Ventral Hernia Surgery in Chennai:
The cost depends on the surgical approach (laparoscopic, robotic, e-TEP, TAR, or open), the size of the hernia, mesh quality, and hospital stay. Robotic and TAR surgeries may cost more due to advanced technology, while laparoscopic and e-TEP repairs fall in the mid-range. International patients receive complete assistance for consultation, travel, and treatment planning. A detailed estimate is provided after medical evaluation.
Book a Consultation:
If you are seeking ventral hernia treatment in Chennai or looking for a safe, long-lasting repair by the best hernia surgeon in Chennai, consult Dr. Pinak Dasgupta for expert care using the latest minimally invasive and robotic techniques.
Book your appointment today for precise diagnosis, advanced treatment, and faster recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):
Yes, if ignored, it can lead to bowel blockage or strangulation, which requires emergency treatment.
No. Only surgery can repair the abdominal wall defect permanently.
Most patients walk the same day and return to routine work within 1–2 weeks, depending on the surgery type.
Laparoscopic, robotic, e-TEP, or TAR procedures offer the best outcomes. The best option depends on hernia size and complexity.
Recurrence is very low when repaired by an experienced hernia specialist using proper mesh techniques.
Yes. Robotic and laparoscopic methods make it safer and reduce wound complications.