Umbilical hernia surgery is a procedure to repair an umbilical hernia, which is a condition in which a part of the intestine or other abdominal tissue protrudes through a weakness in the muscles around the belly button (umbilicus). Umbilical hernias are relatively common, especially in newborns and young children, and they can occur in adults as well.
The surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and may require a hospital stay. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the abdominal wall near the hernia and push the protruding tissue back into the abdomen. The surgeon will then close the opening in the muscle wall with sutures or other types of closure.
After the surgery, it is important to follow the instructions of your healthcare provider for care and recovery. This may include taking medications as prescribed, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activity for a period of time, and keeping the incision site clean and dry. Most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks after the procedure.
It is important to note that umbilical hernias can sometimes recur after surgery. If this occurs, additional surgery may be necessary to repair the hernia. If you have an umbilical hernia and are considering surgery, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with a qualified healthcare provider.