⚠ Draft — pending clinical sign-off by our CMO
Hernia repair: cost, NHS wait & what to expect
Typical self-pay price
£2,500–£5,000
Typical NHS wait
Around 4–9 months for routine repair
Overview
Hernia repair is an operation to push a bulge (often part of the bowel) back into place and strengthen the weak spot in the abdominal wall, frequently using a mesh.
Why it's done
- A bulge that's uncomfortable or growing
- Pain on lifting or straining
- Preventing complications
What happens
Done by open or keyhole surgery, often as a day case under general or local anaesthetic.
Recovery
- Light activity within days; avoid heavy lifting for several weeks
- Driving usually after 1–2 weeks
- Full recovery in 4–6 weeks for many people
Risks & things to consider
- Infection
- Bruising
- Recurrence
- Ongoing discomfort in a minority
Alternatives
- Watchful waiting for small, painless hernias
- Support garments (limited benefit)
Questions to ask your provider
- Open or keyhole — which suits me?
- What does the package include?
- What are your recurrence rates?