Umbilical Hernia
An umbilical hernia occurs when tissue or part of the bowel pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the navel. In infants, these often close on their own. In adults, they tend to get larger over time. Aster Hospitals offers minimally invasive surgical options to get patients back to daily life with minimal downtime.
The most noticeable sign is a bulge or swelling at the belly button. In adults, there are two variants: a true umbilical hernia, which pushes directly through the umbilical ring, and a paraumbilical hernia, which appears just above or below it. Paraumbilical hernias in adults usually need surgical mesh to prevent the hernia from coming back.
Both types develop when abdominal pressure builds against a weak point in the abdominal wall. Chronic coughing, multiple pregnancies, obesity, and previous abdominal surgeries can all weaken that area. Eventually, fatty tissue or a loop of intestine pushes through the gap, and that's the bulge you see.
When the hernia causes pain, keeps growing, or risks strangulation, a complication where blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off, patients should contact the best general surgery hospital in Dubai for the fastest recovery. This is a medical emergency. Elective umbilical hernia surgery is far safer than waiting for that to happen.
Our specialists start with a physical examination to assess the size and reducibility of the bulge. Depending on findings, an ultrasound or CT scan may be used to map the defect and check for multiple hernias before planning the umbilical hernia procedure.
A general surgeon in Dubai at Aster Hospitals will recommend the right approach based on your health:
Open Hernia Repair: A small incision near the navel allows the surgeon to push the tissue back and reinforce the area with a synthetic mesh.
Laparoscopic Hernia Repair: Tiny incisions and a camera make this the preferred umbilical hernia surgery for patients who want smaller scars and a faster return to work.
A pre-operative check confirms you're fit for general anaesthesia. The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia. Whether open or laparoscopic, the surgeon secures the abdominal wall and places a medical-grade mesh to reinforce the repair. Dissolvable stitches or surgical glue are used to close the incision cleanly.
Most patients go home the same day. During umbilical hernia recovery, avoid heavy lifting for at least four to six weeks; light walking within 24 hours is fine and actually helps circulation. Before you leave, the nursing team will go over wound care to keep infection risk low.
Contact an umbilical hernia doctor in Dubai immediately if the bulge becomes hard, discoloured, or suddenly more painful. Nausea, vomiting, or an inability to push the hernia back are signs that the tissue may be trapped and need urgent attention.
Aster is among the best hospitals for umbilical hernia surgery in Dubai, with surgical teams experienced in both open and laparoscopic repair. Our facilities have a multi-location presence in Dubai, including Mankhool, Al Qusais, Jebel Ali, and Muhaisnah. Our specialists focus on low recurrence and patient safety throughout the process, from diagnosis to full recovery.
Our team of general surgeons, specialists and umbilical hernia doctors in Dubai handle both umbilical hernia surgery and paraumbilical hernia surgery, with follow-up care built into every treatment plan.
Pressure from pregnancy, obesity, or heavy lifting pushes tissue through a weak point near the navel. This creates a visible bulge that may become more prominent when coughing or straining.
In adults, all hernias require surgical treatment, as they don't heal on their own and carry the risk of serious complications. Timely repair is crucial to prevent strangulation, which cuts off the blood supply to the intestine.
After a successful umbilical hernia surgery, patients can resume light activities within a few days. They can perform heavy lifting after four to six weeks. Following your surgeon’s specific post-operative instructions ensures the best healing and reduces the risk of recurrence.
For most patients, laparoscopic surgery offers faster healing, less scarring, and less post-operative discomfort. It also allows the surgeon to place mesh securely with smaller incisions compared to open surgery.
Last updated: 20-05-2026
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