There is minimal or no scarring. Over time scar tissue forms around the reinforcing mesh, creating a supporting wall that will help to prevent future hernias. There are several advantages of laparoscopic hernia repair. Since it is minimally invasive and does not cut into sensitive muscle tissues in the groin, it causes less discomfort. It is common for patients who have had laparoscopic hernia repair to be jogging or playing golf or tennis within few days after the surgery.
Patients can typically return to work within a week.
And because the technique strengthens the abdominal wall, clinical studies have demonstrated a very low rate of recurrence. The other main option for hernia repair is open surgery. In open surgery, the surgeon makes a three to four inch incision in the abdominal wall, pushes the hernial sac inside and either stitches together the muscles surrounding the hernia or uses mesh to reinforce the abdominal wall. However, the large incision, numerous stitches and the pulling of the muscles causes more discomfort, requiring the patient to take pain medication for several days after the procedure. Even light physical activity, such as walking or climbing stairs can be a major challenge during this period.