Expert Surgical Care for Failed or Recurrent Hernia Repairs | Robotic & Advanced Re-do Surgery
What Is a Recurrent Hernia?
A recurrent hernia occurs when a hernia that was previously repaired comes back at the same site. This can happen months or even years after the initial surgery and often presents with similar or more severe symptoms.
Recurrence can be physically and emotionally frustrating. These cases are usually more complex than primary hernias and require evaluation by a specialist experienced in re-do hernia repairs.
Why Do Hernias Recur?
Recurrent hernias can occur due to various reasons:
- Infection or mesh rejection
- Weak tissue quality or poor wound healing
- Early return to heavy physical activity
- Inadequate or improper technique during the initial repair
- Missed or untreated contributing factors (obesity, chronic cough, constipation, smoking)
Recognizing a Recurrent Hernia
Symptoms can mirror those of a primary hernia but may be more resistant to conservative management:
- Return of a bulge at or near the original surgical site
- Increased discomfort or pain, especially on movement
- Feeling of pressure or weakness in the abdomen
- Changes in bowel movement or abdominal bloating
- Anxiety or loss of trust in prior treatments
Why Recurrent Hernias Require Specialist Care
Re-do hernia surgery is not routine. It demands:
- Detailed preoperative assessment including imaging (CT scan or MRI)
- Understanding of previous surgical approaches and materials used
- Skills in managing scar tissue, altered anatomy, or mesh-related complications
- Decision-making around mesh removal vs. replacement, and selection of the right technique
These surgeries are best handled by a fellowship-trained hernia specialist with experience in complex abdominal wall reconstruction and access to advanced surgical technologies.
Surgical Options for Recurrent Hernia Repair
Robotic Re-do Hernia Repair
Robotic surgery offers precise dissection and enhanced control, especially useful in scarred or previously operated areas. Advantages include:
- Better visualization of surrounding structures
- Secure mesh placement and fixation
- Lower risk of nerve or bowel injury
- Faster recovery and reduced pain
Advanced Laparoscopic Repair
In selected patients, a laparoscopic re-approach may be possible depending on the size, location, and prior technique. A new mesh is placed to reinforce the weakened area.
Open Complex Repair / Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
For large, complicated or multiple failed repairs, open surgery with or without component separation techniques may be needed to restore the abdominal wall’s strength and function
Meet Your Surgeon: Dr. Nidhi Khandelwal
Re-do Hernia Specialist
Dr. Nidhi Khandelwal is a highly trained robotic, laparoscopic & Open Hernia surgeon in Mumbai, with expertise in recurrent and complex hernia repairs.
Tailored, Evidence-Based Approach
Each recurrent hernia is unique. We offer personalized treatment planning based on your history, anatomy, and risk profile.
Access to the Latest Techniques
Our team operates in advanced surgical centers equipped with robotic platforms, high-definition imaging, and mesh options suited for even the most challenging cases.
What to Expect Before, During & After Surgery
- Comprehensive assessment of your previous surgery and symptoms
- Pre-op scans and planning to determine the safest surgical route
- Surgery under general anesthesia (duration depends on complexity)
- Hospital stay typically longer than primary surgery
- Recovery tailored to minimize recurrence risk again — gradual return to activity, monitored follow-up, and lifestyle counseling
Medical Videos & Expert Talks
Explore expert medical advice, procedure overviews and patient education through our curated videos.
Don’t Settle for a Temporary Fix
If you’ve experienced a recurrence of a hernia, know that better solutions are available. Modern surgical advancements, especially in robotic and minimally invasive techniques, make it possible to achieve long-lasting results—even after previous failures.
Take control of your health again
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Nidhi Khandelwal, Mumbai’s trusted expert in recurrent and complex hernia surgery.
Testimonials
See what people are saying about their journey with us.
This is Venkatesh from Mumbai. Had a recurrence of Hernia in just 2 years after undergoing a Laproscopy surgery at a high end Hospital in Powai. Went back to the same Doctor for Consultation but the was not satisfied with the Surgeon's evasive replies and his attitude which I don't find it uncommon amongst many Doctors of today. Obviously had made up my mind not to go back to him. Then started my journey of visiting quite a few Surgeons, supposedly famous , from Andheri to Vileparle as i wanted to do a Proper Research to identify the Right Surgeon even if it was a strenous job to travel from one end of Mumbai to the other end. Met a few and spoke to some of them over phone, but none of them could exude the Confidence which I was looking for. Finally i had come come across the name of Dr Nidhi Khandelwal and had a Consultation with her at her Clinic at Hughes Road. In a few minutes I had decided that she would be the Surgeon i would undergo my Surgery - which was slated to be at Jaslok Hospital where she is Consultant Surgeon. She came out as an extremely pleasant and nice person, very well informed and very honest and down to earth. She is a Perfect Doctor whom a patient is looking for - to instill Confidence. She has a very good team of young Doctors whoook upto her . I would strongly recommend people who are looking for Hernia / Gastrointestinal treatments to have their Corrections done under her. I finally underwent the surgery under her - quite seamless one and in less than a week's time am almost back to Normal. I Wish her All the Very Best in her Life !
Venkatesh Tirumalai 
