Umbilical Hernia in Adults: Symptoms and Repair in Singapore
An umbilical hernia is a bulge at or near the belly button, where fat or bowel pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. In babies most close on their own; in adults they do not, and they tend to grow slowly. Repair, usually with a mesh, is advised for most adults whose hernia causes symptoms.
Umbilical, paraumbilical and epigastric hernias
The two long muscles at the front of the abdomen meet in the midline, a band of tough tissue running from the breastbone to the pubic bone. Weak spots along this line can let fat or bowel push through.
- Umbilical hernia: through the belly button itself.
- Paraumbilical hernia: just above or below the belly button. Many adult “umbilical” hernias are this type.
- Epigastric hernia: in the midline between the belly button and the breastbone, often a small lump of fat.
A bulge through the scar of a previous operation is an incisional hernia.
Why umbilical hernias develop in adults
Pregnancy
Pregnancy stretches the abdominal wall, and umbilical hernias often appear during or after it.
Pressure inside the abdomen
Being overweight, a long-term cough, straining, or fluid in the abdomen from liver disease all increase pressure on the midline.
Strain and age
Heavy lifting can make a weak spot noticeable, and the tissues weaken naturally with age.
Umbilical hernia symptoms
- A soft bulge at or near the belly button
- A bulge that gets bigger when you cough, strain or stand, and may go back when you lie down
- Aching or discomfort around the navel
- Stretched or thin skin over a larger hernia
Get urgent help if the bulge
- Becomes painful, hard or tender
- Will not go back in
- Turns red, purple or dark
- Comes with vomiting or a swollen belly
Go to the emergency department or call 995.
Umbilical hernias in babies
Umbilical hernias are common in babies and usually close on their own by the age of about four or five. Repair may be advised if the hernia is still there after that age, is large, or causes problems. Speak to your paediatrician first. Read more about hernias in children.
Umbilical hernia repair
Open repair
The usual approach for small and medium hernias. A small cut is made at the edge of the belly button, the hernia is pushed back and the weak spot is closed, usually reinforced with a mesh.
Keyhole repair
May be suggested for larger hernias, several hernias, a hernia that has come back, or people with a higher body weight. The mesh is placed from the inside through small cuts.
Watchful waiting
A small hernia that causes no symptoms can sometimes be watched, after discussing the small risk of it becoming trapped with your surgeon.
Repair is usually done as day surgery or with a short stay. Most people return to everyday activities within about one to two weeks. Dr Kan Yuk Man will recommend the approach that suits your hernia and your health. Read about keyhole hernia surgery.
Umbilical hernia surgery cost in Singapore
The Ministry of Health fee benchmarks for umbilical or epigastric hernia repair in private hospitals, including GST:
Hospital charges are separate. MediSave and Integrated Shield Plans can be used where applicable. See our hernia treatment guide for more on costs.
Source: MOH fee benchmarks for surgical procedures.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about umbilical hernias in adults.
Does an umbilical hernia in adults go away?
No. Unlike in babies, umbilical hernias in adults do not close on their own, and they tend to get slowly bigger over time.
Is an umbilical hernia dangerous?
Most are not, but a small number become trapped. See a doctor promptly if the bulge becomes painful, hard or discoloured, or will not go back in.
Is diastasis recti a hernia?
No. In diastasis recti the two long abdominal muscles move apart and the midline stretches, often after pregnancy, so the belly bulges along the middle when you sit up. There is no hole, so it is usually managed with exercise and physiotherapy. A true hernia can occur alongside it.
Will I need a mesh?
For all but very small hernias, a mesh is usually used because it lowers the chance of the hernia coming back. Very small hernias can sometimes be closed with stitches alone.
Will I have a visible scar?
Open repair uses a small cut at the edge of the belly button, which often heals inconspicuously. Keyhole repair uses a few small cuts on the side of the abdomen.
Can I use MediSave for umbilical hernia surgery?
Yes, eligible procedures can be partially covered by MediSave and Integrated Shield Plans, subject to policy terms.
Bulge at your belly button?
Dr Kan Yuk Man can check whether it is a hernia and explain your repair options.
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 European and Americas Hernia Societies guideline on umbilical and epigastric hernias (2020).