Specialist in General Surgery
Condition
Inguinal Hernia
An inguinal hernia is a bulge in the groin caused by weakened abdominal muscles. Fat or intestines can protrude, causing discomfort during movement or strain.
In men, hernias may appear along the passage where the testes descend before birth.
In women, hernias can develop near the canal that supports the uterus ligaments.
Some hernias have no symptoms, making early diagnosis important to prevent worsening.
Schedule an Appointment
Concerned about your symptoms or condition? Book a consultation to get clarity and tailored care.
Hernias form due to weak spots in the abdominal wall and pressure on the area.
Here are some risk factors that can increase your chances of inguinal hernia. These include:
The most common symptoms of inguinal hernias are the bulges they cause along the pubic or groin area. They tend to appear to increase in size when you stand up or cough. An inguinal hernia may be painful or sensitive to the touch.
Other symptoms may include:
The doctor will carry out a physical examination to diagnose an inguinal hernia. If your diagnosis is not immediately apparent, you might be asked to undergo a diagnostic imaging test such as:
Abdominal ultrasound
CT scan
MRI
Some hernias can cause serious complications. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
Nausea or vomiting
Sudden pain in the groin
Fever or swelling
Surgery is the only definitive treatment, though early care can reduce symptoms and prevent worsening.
Not all hernias need immediate surgery. Some may be monitored if small and asymptomatic. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand when surgery might be necessary and when monitoring could be an option:
When Observation is an Option:
In specific situations, doctors may recommend a wait-and-watch strategy rather than immediate surgery:
This approach often involves regular follow-ups to assess the hernia’s size, symptoms, and any potential complications.
When Surgery Becomes Necessary:
While observation can be an option, certain signs indicate that immediate medical attention or surgery is needed. Ask yourself:
These symptoms can signal complications, such as strangulation of the intestines, which can be life-threatening. Delaying treatment in such cases could lead to severe outcomes.
Diet can help reduce hernia-related discomfort such as bloating or acid reflux. Consider:
High-fat foods: Limit fried or greasy meals
Low-fiber intake: Add fiber gradually to avoid straining
Acidic foods: Citrus, coffee, soda, vinegar, and alcohol
High-sugar foods: Sweets, pastries, soft drinks
Overeating or late meals: Eat smaller portions and avoid lying down after eating
Inguinal hernias may present as indirect or direct, bilateral, incarcerated, or strangulated. We will explain what each of these terms mean below.
Indirect Inguinal Hernia
An indirect inguinal hernia is the most common type of hernia found in patients. It tends to occur in premature births, before the inguinal canal becomes closed off. However, this type of hernia may occur at any stage of life. An indirect inguinal hernia is most common in males.
Direct Inguinal Hernia
A direct inguinal hernia is most common in ageing adults. It is thought that weakening muscles during adulthood contribute to a direct inguinal hernia.
Bilateral Inguinal Hernia
Inguinal hernias can occur on one side or on both sides of the groin. A bilateral hernia refers to the presence of hernias on both sides of the body, typically occurring simultaneously.
Incarcerated Inguinal Hernia
An incarcerated inguinal hernia happens when the tissue becomes stuck in the groin and is not reducible. This means it cannot be pushed back into place.
Strangulated Inguinal Hernia
A strangulated inguinal hernia occurs when the hernia has its blood flow cut off, it is a more serious medical condition which typically needs emergency medical care.
An inguinal hernia does not typically resolve without surgery. However, there are non-surgical approaches such as wearing a corset, binder, or truss to exert gentle pressure on the hernia to help keep it in place. These methods may ease the pain or discomfort and may be used if you are not fit for the surgery or awaiting surgery.
Surgery is the definitive treatment to prevent complications and restore comfort.
Options include:
Open inguinal herniorrhaphy: One larger incision in the groin
Laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy: Several small incisions with a camera
Surgery steps:
Herniated tissue is returned to the abdomen
Abdominal wall is repaired and reinforced with mesh
Incisions are closed with sutures, staples, or glue
After surgery:
Mild pain or discomfort is normal; medication will be prescribed
Follow wound care instructions carefully
Avoid strenuous activity or lifting heavy objects for several weeks
Recovery is shorter for laparoscopic surgery compared to open surgery
Robotic surgery may be recommended for inguinal hernia repair in cases where a minimally invasive approach with lower complication risk is preferred. Its benefits include:
Less pain: Reduced tissue trauma compared to traditional open surgery.
Shorter hospital stay: Patients typically recover faster and can go home sooner.
Faster recovery: Minimally invasive techniques allow a quicker return to normal activities.
Fewer postoperative complications: Lower risk of infection, bleeding, and other surgical issues.
Robotic technology also makes it possible to treat hernias that were previously too complex or risky for conventional methods.
Our team ensures patients are fully informed about all treatment options, helping them decide whether robotic surgery is suitable for their individual circumstances.
After surgery to repair your inguinal hernia, an abdominal compression garment (hernia belt) may be recommended, especially if you have swelling or incisional scars. These garments provide support and aid recovery:
Support surgical area: Stabilises the abdomen and reduces strain on sensitive areas.
Promote healing: Gentle compression reduces swelling and improves recovery.
Control sudden movements: Helps manage discomfort from coughing or bending.
Minimise scarring: Keeps tissue and organs in place to prevent excessive stretching.
Comfortable fit: Soft, flexible, and designed to support without cutting off circulation.
Wearing a hernia belt as advised by your surgeon can significantly improve post-operative recovery.
Dr. Ganesh Ramalingam is a general surgeon with over two decades of experience in treating hernias through both open and minimally invasive techniques. His practice focuses on patient-centred care, with each treatment plan tailored to the individual’s lifestyle, health goals, and comfort.
At G&L Surgical Clinic, patients benefit from:
Personalised assessments and clear explanations of all treatment options
Advanced laparoscopic techniques for faster recovery and less discomfort
A dedicated team supporting you through insurance, pre-op preparation, and post-op care
Whether you are experiencing discomfort from a hernia or have been diagnosed elsewhere, Dr. Ganesh offers safe, effective treatment in a calm and supportive environment.
The surgeon’s fee for an inguinal hernia repair in Singapore costs between $3,600 – $6,000 (SF819A/3B), excluding hospital and consumable fees. Final costs depend on hospital choice, complexity of surgery, and insurance coverage. For more details, see our hernia repair costing page.
What Are My Pain Relief Options For An Inguinal Hernia?
While painkillers can help relieve the discomfort from a hernia, it does not effectively treat the condition. Hernias are typically treated with surgery to effectively repair the defect and prevent further complications such as pain, tissue damage, and even bowel obstruction.
Are There Exercises That Can Strengthen The Core Muscles And Prevent The Inguinal Hernia From Getting Worse?
In general, strengthening the muscles of the core, which includes the muscles of the abdomen, back, and pelvis, can help to support the spine and improve overall stability and balance. This can potentially help to reduce the risk of hernias or prevent hernias from worsening. However, certain types of exercises, such as heavy weightlifting or activities that put a strain on the abdominal wall, may not be suitable for people with hernias.
What Foods Should I Avoid If I Have An Inguinal Hernia?
It’s best to avoid foods that could cause constipation like dairy products, processed food and caffeine drinks.
Does Sitting Affect Inguinal Hernia?
There are certain activities that could aggravate a hernia like prolonged sitting, sneezing, coughing, bending forward and laughing.
Can You Detect A Hernia With An Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is a reliable imaging modality for detecting hernias. It can effectively visualise various types of hernias, including inguinal hernias. By using high-frequency sound waves, ultrasound creates real-time images that allow healthcare professionals to identify and assess the hernia accurately.
Can CT Scan Diagnose Inguinal Hernia?
Yes, a CT scan can diagnose an inguinal hernia by providing detailed cross-sectional images that allow healthcare professionals to visualise the hernia and assess its characteristics, such as location, size, and potential complications.
What Are My Treatment Options For An Inguinal Hernia?
If your inguinal hernia is small and does not cause any pain or discomfort, our doctor may recommend that you simply observe it. However, if your hernia is large or painful, surgery is likely the best option. Hernia surgery is a relatively standard and straightforward procedure, and the vast majority of patients experience a full recovery with no complications following the repair.
In this minimally invasive procedure, patients might experience less discomfort and scarring after hernia surgery and can engage in normal activities more quickly. Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery by Dr Ganesh Ramalingam at G & L Surgical Clinic in Singapore is preferred by patients looking for a reduced recovery period. Laparoscopic hernia repair surgery has proven to be highly effective with more than 90 per cent of hernias not returning after the procedure.
Dr Ganesh at G & L Surgical Clinic strives to prioritise his patients’ recovery and comfort. Having had adequate experience in performing advanced laparoscopic hernia surgeries for numerous patients for many years in Singapore.
Furthermore, the staff at G & L Surgical Clinic have been thoroughly and adequately trained to make your experience a comfortable and hassle-free one. Whether you intend to undergo our hernia treatments procedures or other medical services in Singapore, you can rest assured that you will be properly and sufficiently cared for by trained professionals.
Organise a consultation with our surgeons for further assistance on hernia treatments in Singapore.
English