Understanding the Different Types of Hernias

A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in your surrounding muscle or connective tissue. While hernias can happen anywhere in your body, they’re most common in your abdomen. 

Here at Eastside Bariatric & General Surgery in Snellville, Georgia, Dr. Aliu O. Sanni is a hernia repair specialist. He has the expertise to recognize the type of hernia you have and offer the appropriate treatment approach. 

The different types of hernias include:

Inguinal hernia

This is the most common type of hernia, especially in men. It occurs when part of your intestine or fat pushes through the inguinal canal in your groin area. 

Inguinal hernias can be direct (caused by a weak spot in the abdominal wall) or indirect (a congenital issue that appears later in life). Symptoms often include a visible bulge, pain when lifting, and discomfort when bending or coughing.

You may need surgery, depending on the severity.

Femoral hernia

Femoral hernias are more common in women and appear just below the inguinal ligament in your upper thigh area. They’re less common but carry a higher risk of complications, such as strangulation, where the blood supply to the herniated tissue cuts off. 

Femoral hernias typically require surgical repair.

Umbilical hernia

Umbilical hernias occur near the belly button and are common in infants, though they can also develop in adults due to obesity, pregnancy, or heavy lifting. 

In children, these hernias often close on their own by age 1 or 2. In adults, Dr. Sanni will most likely recommend surgery to prevent complications.

Incisional hernia

This type of hernia develops at the site of a previous surgical incision, where your abdominal wall may have weakened during healing. Incisional hernias can grow larger over time and may become painful or obstructive. 

Surgical repair is typically needed.

Hiatal hernia

A hiatal hernia happens when part of your stomach pushes up through your diaphragm into your chest cavity. This type of hernia is internal and doesn’t cause a visible bulge. 

It may lead to symptoms like heartburn, acid reflux, or difficulty swallowing. Dr. Sanni may recommend lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery depending on the severity.

Epigastric and Spigelian hernias

Epigastric hernias occur between your belly button and chest, while Spigelian hernias develop along the side of your abdominal wall. Both are less common but may cause pain or a visible bulge.

​Both hernias typically require surgical treatment, as they don’t resolve on their own and can lead to complications if left untreated.

How hernia surgery works

At Eastside Bariatric & General Surgery, Dr. Sanni’s hernia surgical treatments involve using the da Vinci® surgical system, which offers many benefits. It combines advanced robotic technology with Dr. Sanni’s expertise. 

The minimally invasive approach allows for smaller incisions, which typically means less pain, reduced blood loss, and a faster recovery compared with traditional open surgery. The system also gives Dr. Sanni enhanced precision, control, and a high-definition 3D view of the surgical area, making it especially effective for complex or recurrent hernias.

Schedule an evaluation

If you suspect you may have a hernia, don’t ignore the symptoms. Early diagnosis and proper care can prevent serious complications.

Book an appointment with Dr. Sanni if you have symptoms of a hernia. He can recommend and offer the best treatment option for your specific condition.

Click here to schedule a visit at Eastside Bariatric & General Surgery in Snellville, Georgia, or call our friendly office staff today at 770-559-0778 for more information.