February 17, 2026
An umbilical hernia is a condition in which tissue from inside the abdomen pushes through a weak spot near the belly button. Many patients first notice a small swelling at the navel, often described as a “belly button bulge.”
In children, small umbilical hernias often close on their own by age five. However, in adults, an umbilical hernia almost never heals without treatment. It is usually an acquired condition caused by repeated strain on the abdominal wall.
In Bengaluru and across India, umbilical hernia in adults is increasingly seen due to rising obesity, multiple pregnancies, chronic cough, and liver disease. Early evaluation is important because while some hernias remain stable for years, others may suddenly become painful or trapped.
This guide explains:
The belly button marks the site where the umbilical cord was attached before birth. After birth, the opening in the abdominal wall closes and forms scar tissue.
An umbilical hernia occurs when:
The result is a visible swelling at or near the navel.
In adults, the defect tends to enlarge gradually over time. Unlike muscle strain, this is a structural opening in the fascia that does not close with exercise or medication.
Sometimes the defect occurs slightly beside the navel rather than directly through it. This is called a paraumbilical hernia.
Both types present similarly, but paraumbilical hernias may have a slightly higher risk of getting trapped because of firmer fascial edges.
The most common cause is increased intra-abdominal pressure combined with weakened fascia.
Excess abdominal fat increases baseline pressure inside the abdomen and weakens tissue strength.
Repeated stretching of the abdominal wall and hormonal changes weaken connective tissue.
Seen in smokers and patients with asthma or COPD.
Straining during bowel movements increases pressure.
Fluid accumulation in cirrhosis places constant outward pressure on the umbilical ring.
Scar tissue near the navel may weaken structural support.
In the Indian context, nutritional deficiencies and chronic respiratory conditions may further reduce collagen strength.
Some hernias remain painless for months or years.
An umbilical hernia can become incarcerated or strangulated.
The bulge becomes trapped and cannot be pushed back.
Blood supply to the trapped tissue is cut off.
Seek emergency care if you notice:
Emergency surgery is required in such cases.
Even though the annual risk of strangulation is low, outcomes are significantly better when surgery is done electively rather than during an emergency.
Most cases are diagnosed through physical examination.
The doctor may:
If required:
Accurate imaging helps in planning surgical repair, especially for larger defects.
In adults, surgery is the only definitive treatment.
While very small, asymptomatic hernias may be monitored, approximately 65% of adult patients eventually require surgery.
Elective surgery is safer than waiting for complications.
If you are in Bengaluru or South Bengaluru and notice a new bulge near the navel, early consultation can prevent emergency situations.
You may consult Dr. Ramesh Makam, an expert in minimally invasive hernia surgery, through:
https://drrameshmakam.com/
A single incision is made near the navel.
Used for very small defects less than 1 to 2 cm.
Higher recurrence compared to mesh.
A mesh is placed to reinforce the abdominal wall.
Lower recurrence rate than stitches alone.
This minimally invasive technique uses small keyhole incisions.
Benefits include:
A composite mesh is placed inside to reinforce the defect.
Laparoscopic repair is especially useful for:
In selected complex cases, robotic-assisted repair provides enhanced precision and improved suturing capability.
At Arka Anugraha Hospital and AV Hospital Bengaluru, advanced laparoscopic and robotic techniques are used when appropriate, supported by integrated diagnostics and anesthesiology teams.
Full sports and gym activity typically resume after 8 to 12 weeks based on surgeon advice.
Even after successful surgery, lifestyle measures matter.
Reduces abdominal pressure.
Improves collagen healing.
Prevents constipation.
Indian diet suggestions:
Bend knees, not waist.
Consult a surgeon if:
Early consultation improves outcomes and allows surgery to be planned under optimal conditions.
Dr. Ramesh Makam provides personalized evaluation and treatment planning for umbilical hernia patients in Bengaluru.
Appointments can be booked via:
https://drrameshmakam.com/
An umbilical hernia in adults is a progressive structural defect. While it may appear small initially, the risk of enlargement and complications makes early evaluation important.
Modern mesh-based and laparoscopic umbilical hernia surgery offers:
If you notice a belly button bulge or discomfort, do not ignore it. Timely consultation ensures safe, effective, and planned treatment.
No. Adult umbilical hernias do not close spontaneously.
For many patients, yes. It offers less pain and faster recovery.
Typically 20 to 60 minutes.
Mesh is recommended for hernias larger than 1 to 2 cm to reduce recurrence.
Severe pain, vomiting, hard discolored bulge, and fever require emergency care.
Walking is encouraged within a few hours after anesthesia wears off.
Usually postponed unless an emergency arises.
Most Indian health insurance plans cover umbilical hernia surgery, subject to policy terms.
BEST Institute was started with the intention of sharing my knowledge with
other fellow surgeons. During this journey, many conferences and workshops
have been conducted. Skills training is the highlight of this Institute.
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