A ventral hernia is any hernia that occurs in the front of the abdominal wall outside the groin area. This includes umbilical, epigastric, spigelian and — most commonly — incisional hernias arising at the site of a previous surgical scar. Dr. Vanesha Varik offers laparoscopic, robotic-assisted and open ventral hernia repair tailored to the size, location and complexity of each hernia.
What is a ventral hernia?
A ventral hernia is a defect in the muscle layers of the front abdominal wall, through which abdominal contents (usually fat or small bowel) bulge under the skin. Patients typically notice a soft swelling that becomes more prominent on coughing, standing or straining.
Common causes
- •Previous abdominal surgery (incisional hernia at the scar)
- •Obesity and rapid weight changes
- •Multiple pregnancies
- •Chronic cough or constipation
- •Heavy lifting without core support
- •Connective tissue disorders
Surgical options in Dubai
Small ventral hernias (<2 cm): primary suture or small-mesh repair. Medium (2–5 cm): laparoscopic IPOM (Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh) or eTEP (extended Totally Extraperitoneal) repair. Large or complex (>5 cm): open or robotic repair, sometimes with component separation to restore midline.
Recovery timeline
Day-care or one-night stay for most repairs. Desk work within 7–10 days, light gym at 3 weeks, full core exercise at 6 weeks. Avoid heavy lifting for 6 weeks to allow mesh integration.
Insurance & cost
Medically indicated ventral hernia repair is covered by all major UAE insurers with pre-authorisation. A written estimate is provided at consultation.