Umbilical Hernia Repair in Birmingham, AL

An umbilical hernia occurs when part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button. While common in infants, adults can get an umbilical hernia too. 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 treatments for umbilical hernia repair.

 

What causes an Umbilical Hernia?

In adults, umbilical hernias are usually acquired rather than congenital. They are caused by increased pressure within the abdominal cavity that eventually forces a hole through a natural weak point behind the navel. Common causes include:

  • Persistent strain: Chronic coughing, heavy lifting, or straining due to constipation.

  • Obesity: Excess weight puts constant pressure on the abdominal wall.

  • Multiple pregnancies: The stretching of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy weakens the area around the umbilicus.

  • Ascites: Fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity, often related to liver issues.

  • Previous abdominal surgery: Weakness from prior abdominal incisions near the navel.

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

 

What are the Symptoms of an Umbilical Hernia?

Common symptoms include:

  • Bulge: The most obvious sign is a visible bulge or swelling at the belly button. A bulge can be felt in almost all patients except obese patients.
  • A popping sensation: A feeling of something pushing through when you cough, sneeze, or lift.
  • Sharp, sudden or worsening pain: Discomfort that worsens during physical activity or when straining.

If the bulge becomes hard, purple/dark, 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 blood supply to the intestines is 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 Umbilical Hernia Repair

Using a few tiny incisions away from the belly button, Dr. Harris uses a camera and specialized instruments to pull the herniated tissue back into the abdomen, close the hernia defect with suture, and reinforce the area with a medical-grade mesh.

  • Benefits: Minimal scarring, reduced risk of wound infection, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

Open Umbilical Hernia Repair

For smaller hernias or in cases where previous abdominal surgeries make a laparoscopic approach difficult, an open repair may be performed. A small incision is made near the navel to repair the defect.

  • Benefits: Highly effective for small defects.

Umbilical Hernia Repair Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the recovery time?

Almost all patients return home the same day. You can typically return to light desk work within 3–5 days and resume full physical activity, including heavy lifting, in about 4–6 weeks.

Will my belly button look different after surgery?

It depends on the size of the hernia. Dr. Harris takes great care to try to maintain the natural appearance of the umbilicus. In many cases, the repair actually restores the shape of a belly button that had become distorted by the hernia bulge. For some extremely large hernias, this is
not possible.

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Hear from Patients

  • "Dr. Harris and his staff were wonderful. I had a painful bulge in my belly button for a year and was back to the gym in a month. The procedure was much easier than I expected."

Schedule Your 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 multiple locations across Birmingham, including St. Vincent’s and Grandview.

Contact us today at (205) 995-9700 to book your appointment.

Medically Reviewed by Adam Harris, MD | Updated on April 27, 2026

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

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