Incisional Hernia Repair in Birmingham, AL

An incisional hernia occurs when part of the intestine pushes through a weak spot or tear in the abdominal wall muscles at or near the site of a previous surgical incision. While the original surgical wound heals, the surrounding scar tissue remains naturally weaker than the surrounding muscle. In adults, these hernias do not resolve on their own and typically increase in size over time, potentially leading to pain or serious complications.

Dr. Adam Harris is a Mayo Clinic trained, board-certified General Surgeon who provides patients in Birmingham and surrounding areas with expert minimally invasive surgical treatment for incisional hernia repair.

What causes an Incisional Hernia?

Incisional hernias are caused by by the breakdown of previous surgical closures in the abdominal wall. Pressure within the abdominal cavity forces a gap or hole through the weakened scar tissue left behind by an old operation.

Common risk factors and causes can include:

Persistent strain: Chronic coughing, heavy lifting, or straining due to constipation can put pressure on old surgical sites.
Obesity: Excess abdominal weight places constant, tension on the healing or healed incision line.
Wound infection: A previous infection at the original surgical site severely weakens the tissue's ability to heal properly, making a hernia far more likely.
Multiple abdominal surgeries: Going through multiple operations using the same incision area progressively compromises the strength of the abdominal wall.
Steroid use or poor nutrition: Certain medications and nutritional deficiencies can disrupt normal tissue healing after an initial surgery.

Already scheduled? Read our Patient’s Guide to Hernia Recovery >

What are the Symptoms of an Incisional Hernia?

Common symptoms include:

Bulge: The most obvious sign is a visible bulge, lump, or swelling directly along or immediately adjacent to an old surgical scar.
A popping or tearing sensation: A feeling of tissue pushing through the abdominal wall when you cough, sneeze, bend over, or lift objects.
Sharp, sudden or worsening pain: Deep discomfort, pressure, or an aching sensation that intensifies during physical activity or when straining.

If the bulge becomes hard, purple in color, or extremely painful, or if you experience nausea and vomiting, you should go to the emergency room. This may indicate an incarcerated or strangulated hernia - where the intestinal contents cannot flow through and the blood supply to the intestines can be cut off.

What are the Surgical Treatment Options?

Dr. Harris specializes in modern techniques that prioritize durability and a quick return to normal life.

Laparoscopic Incisional Hernia Repair

Using a few tiny incisions away from the old scar line, Dr. Harris uses specialized instruments to safely pull the herniated tissue or intestine back into the abdomen. The structural defect in the abdominal muscle is closed with strong sutures, and the area is reinforced with a medical-grade
mesh to reduce the risk of future recurrence.

Benefits: Minimal new scarring, reduced risk of post-operative wound infection, less pain, and a faster recovery compared to open surgery.

Open Incisional Hernia Repair

For exceptionally large hernias, complex abdominal wall reconstructions, or cases with extensive scar tissue and adhesions from prior operations, an open repair is sometimes a better option. Dr. Harris carefully reopens the original incision site to securely reconstruct the abdominal layers and place reinforcing mesh.

Benefits: Highly effective for large or complex defects that cannot be safely managed with a minimally invasively approach.

Incisional Hernia Repair Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the recovery time?

Recovery depends on the complexity of the hernia and the surgical approach used. While most laparoscopic patients return home the same day or after a brief overnight stay, you can typically expect to return to light desk work within 5–7 days. Full physical activity, including heavy lifting, may be restricted for about 4-6 weeks (depending on the size of the hernia and other factors) to allow the mesh and muscle tissue to bond securely.

Will my old surgical scar look different after surgery?

Dr. Harris takes great care to optimize the cosmetic outcome of the repair. If performing an open repair, he will work directly through the old scar and often leaves the area looking flatter and more natural than it did with the hernia bulge. If utilizing a laparoscopic or robotic approach, the new incisions are tiny and placed away from your old scar.

Hear from Patients

"Dr Harris was very informative, professional and polite. He performed my hernia surgery and everything went smoothly. I'm forever in his debt thanks so much God bless."

Schedule a Consultation at Our Birmingham Office

Don't wait for your hernia to become a medical emergency. Dr. Adam Harris provides compassionate, expert surgical care at St. Vincent’s and Grandview.

Medically Reviewed by Adam Harris, MD | Updated on May 26, 2026

This content is strictly for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice.