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Treatment

Keyhole (Laparoscopic) Hernia Surgery in Singapore

Keyhole hernia repair fixes a hernia through a few small cuts instead of one larger incision, with a mesh placed from the inside to reinforce the weak spot.

KYM Surgery · Dr Kan Yuk Man, Senior Consultant Surgeon · Updated 22 October 2026
Overview

A minimally invasive option for hernia repair

Hernias are common problems that need the expertise of a qualified surgeon. Keyhole (laparoscopic) hernia repair is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional open surgery. It avoids a larger incision, which can cause more pain and discomfort and may take longer to heal.

The operation

How keyhole hernia surgery works

The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdominal wall and inserts a laparoscope (a thin telescope with a tiny camera) so that a hernia surgeon like Dr Kan Yuk Man can see inside the body.

The weak spot is then covered from the inside with a mesh, which is fixed in place. The mesh reinforces the muscle wall so the hernia is less likely to come back.

Hernia Bulge through a weak spot Belly side Muscle wall After keyhole repair Mesh covers the weak spot from the inside Belly side Muscle wall
How a mesh repairs a hernia (illustration)
Benefits

Why choose keyhole repair?

  • Smaller cuts and less scarring
  • Less pain after surgery
  • Quicker return to normal activities
  • Both sides in one operation: hernias on both sides can be repaired through the same small cuts
Open repair one cut in the groin crease area Keyhole repair usually 3 small cuts (positions vary)
Open vs keyhole hernia repair (illustration)
Suitability

Is keyhole hernia repair suitable for everyone?

Not always. The size, type and location of the hernia, your general health, and whether you can have a general anaesthetic all affect which approach is best.

Keyhole repair is often recommended for

Hernias on both sides, hernias that have come back after a previous open repair, and people who want a quicker return to activity.

Open repair may suit

People who cannot have a general anaesthetic, since open repair can be done under local or regional anaesthesia, and some large or complex hernias.

That is why it is important to speak with an experienced hernia surgeon like Dr Kan Yuk Man, who will discuss all available options and help you decide how to manage your hernia.

Fees

MOH fee benchmarks for hernia repair

The Ministry of Health fee benchmarks for the surgeon’s fee in private hospitals, including GST:

S$3,924 – S$6,540Groin (inguinal or femoral) hernia, one side (SF819A)
S$3,270 – S$5,341Umbilical or epigastric hernia (SF814A)
SeparateHospital and anaesthetist charges are billed separately; MediSave and Integrated Shield plans may apply.

Source: MOH fee benchmarks for surgical procedures. See our hernia treatment guide for more on costs.

Dr Kan Yuk Man

Considering keyhole hernia repair?

Make an appointment with Dr Kan Yuk Man for tailored advice on the best way to manage your hernia.

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor for advice specific to your situation.

Clinical guidance based on the international guidelines for groin hernia management (HerniaSurge Group, 2018).