About Epigastric Hernia
Key Highlights
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Effective resolution of the abdominal bulge and associated discomfort.Prevents serious complications like intestinal strangulation or obstruction.Often performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques for better outcomes.Use of surgical mesh provides a durable, long-term repair with low recurrence rates.Typically a short procedure with a relatively quick recovery timeline.
Who is this surgery for?
- Presence of a painful or tender lump in the upper midline abdomen.
- Hernia that is increasing in size over time.
- Risk of or actual incarceration (tissue becomes trapped) or strangulation (loss of blood flow).
- Cosmetic concern due to a visible, protruding bulge.
- Persistent discomfort, pain, or a burning sensation at the hernia site, especially when bending over, coughing, or lifting.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests and possibly an imaging scan.
- Discuss all current medications with your surgeon; you may need to stop blood thinners temporarily.
- Refrain from eating or drinking (fast) for 6-12 hours before the surgery as instructed.
- Arrange for transportation home and for help during the initial recovery period.
- Quit smoking well in advance of surgery to improve healing and reduce risks.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding, infection, or hematoma (blood collection) at the surgical site.
- Reaction to anesthesia or mesh material (rare).
- Recurrence of the hernia.
- Persistent pain or numbness in the area.
- Injury to nearby structures like intestines or blood vessels.
- Formation of scar tissue or seroma (fluid collection).
Recovery & hospital stay
- Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay.
- Manage pain with prescribed medications and use ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting (more than 5-10 kg), and vigorous exercise for 4-6 weeks.
- Keep the incision site clean and dry, watching for signs of infection.
- Follow a light, high-fiber diet initially to prevent constipation and straining.
- Gradually resume normal activities as comfort allows, with guidance from your surgeon.
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Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days
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Expected recovery time: 2-4 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering epigastric hernia in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for epigastric hernia in India include Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Manipal Hospital Dhakuria, Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform epigastric hernia. MediFyr helps you compare general surgeons and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for epigastric hernia compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Epigastric Hernia in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated general surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing epigastric hernia.
James Saxena, a 58-year-old retired school...
James Saxena, a 58-year-old retired school principal, had always been active and health-conscious. For the past two years, he noticed a small, soft bulge in the upper middle part of his abdomen, just below his sternum. It became more prominent when he coughed, lifted his grandchildren, or did his morning yoga. Initially, he dismissed it, but it started causing a persistent, dull ache and a feeling of pressure, especially after meals. His family doctor confirmed it was an epigastric hernia and referred him to a general surgeon. The surgeon explained that while small, the hernia was unlikely to resolve on its own and repair was recommended to prevent complications and alleviate his discomfort. James underwent a laparoscopic repair. The procedure was smooth, and he went home the same day. Recovery involved two weeks of avoiding heavy lifting, with some initial soreness managed by medication. Within a month, he was back to his gentle yoga and playing with his grandchildren pain-free. Emotionally, James felt anxious before the surgery, worried about 'going under the knife' at his age. Afterward, he felt immense relief and a renewed sense of vitality, grateful that a relatively simple procedure restored his active retirement.
General surgeons for Epigastric Hernia
Explore experienced general surgeons who regularly perform epigastric hernia and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 31 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 18 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 18 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 15 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 11 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 9 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
- 27 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 24 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- General surgeon
- 16 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 13 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 37 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 26 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 41 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala
- 11 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala
- 10 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Patiala, Patiala
- 18 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Mysore, Mysore
- 39 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore
- 37 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore
- 35 Years Experience
- General surgeon
Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram, Bangalore