Is the Bulge Near My Surgery Scar a Hernia?

A bulge near an old abdominal surgery scar could be an incisional hernia—a type of ventral hernia. It develops when fat or intestine pushes through a weak area in the abdominal wall at a previous incision. A surgical evaluation can help identify the cause and determine whether you may need hernia repair.

If you have noticed a new lump near your incision, you may wonder: Is this normal? Why is it more noticeable when I cough? Will I need another surgery?

At ATX Robotic Surgery (ATXRS), we can help you understand what comes next.

What is the difference between a ventral hernia and an incisional hernia?

A ventral hernia occurs through an opening or weakness in the abdominal wall. An incisional hernia is a ventral hernia that forms at the site of a previous surgical incision. Not all ventral hernias develop after surgery.

Can an incisional hernia develop years after surgery?

Yes. An incisional hernia can appear months or years after abdominal surgery. It can develop after an open operation or at an incision used for laparoscopic or robotic surgery.

What does an incisional hernia feel like?

You may notice:

• A lump or bulge near your surgery scar.

• Aching, pressure, or discomfort around the bulge.

• Discomfort with lifting, coughing, or straining.

• A bulge that becomes more noticeable when you stand or strain.

Some hernias cause little or no pain. A painless bulge still deserves an evaluation.

How does a surgeon check for an incisional hernia?

Your surgeon will review your previous operations and symptoms and examine your abdomen. Imaging, such as a CT scan, may help clarify the diagnosis or plan treatment.

A bulge alone does not confirm a hernia; an evaluation helps identify its cause.

Does every incisional hernia need surgery?

Not every hernia requires immediate repair. For selected patients with a hernia that causes little or no discomfort and whose contents can return into the abdomen, a surgeon may recommend monitoring, called watchful waiting.

Surgery may be recommended if the hernia causes pain, grows, interferes with daily activities, or raises concern for complications. The decision also depends on your overall health and the risks and benefits of repair.

Can an incisional hernia heal on its own?

No. An adult incisional hernia does not close on its own. Surgery repairs the opening. Monitoring may be appropriate in some cases, but it does not repair the hernia.

What are the options for ventral or incisional hernia repair?

Options include open, laparoscopic, and robotic hernia repair. Mesh may be used to reinforce the repair.

The approach depends on the hernia and your medical history. During your consultation, your surgeon can explain the options appropriate for you.

When is a hernia an emergency?

Seek emergency care for sudden or severe abdominal pain, vomiting, a newly stuck or very tender bulge, or skin discoloration over the bulge. These can signal trapped tissue or a loss of blood supply.

Do not wait for a routine consultation if these symptoms occur.

Schedule a hernia consultation at ATXRS

You do not have to decide on surgery before seeing a surgeon. A consultation is an opportunity to learn what is causing the bulge and discuss your options.

Schedule a consultation with ATXRS general surgeons Dr. Jonathan Huynh or Dr. Ditto to evaluate a possible ventral or incisional hernia and determine whether you may need surgery.