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At Healthy Türkiye, we help international patients access advanced hernia treatments performed by experienced surgeons at accredited hospitals across Turkey.
umbilical hernia

Umbilical Hernia – Symptoms and Treatment

An umbilical hernia is a common medical condition that can affect both infants and adults. While it is usually harmless in babies and may resolve naturally, in adults it often requires medical attention or surgery. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for umbilical hernia is important for timely diagnosis and proper care.

What Is an Umbilical Hernia?

An umbilical hernia occurs when part of the intestine, fat, or fluid pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button (navel). This creates a small bulge that becomes more visible when coughing, laughing, or straining.

Umbilical hernias are most common in newborns but can also develop in adults due to increased abdominal pressure.

Causes of Umbilical Hernia

The causes of umbilical hernia differ slightly between children and adults:

In infants:

  • Incomplete closure of the abdominal wall after birth

  • Premature birth or low birth weight 

  • Genetic predisposition

In adults:

  • Obesity or sudden weight gain

  • Pregnancy (especially multiple pregnancies)

  • Chronic cough or constipation

  • Heavy lifting or intense physical activity

  • Previous abdominal surgeries

These factors can strain the abdominal wall and cause the tissues around the navel to weaken, allowing internal organs to protrude.

Symptoms of Umbilical Hernia

The most noticeable symptom of an umbilical hernia is a soft bulge near the navel. It may become more prominent when standing, coughing, or lifting heavy objects and may disappear when lying down.

Other symptoms include:

  • A visible swelling or lump around the belly button

  • Mild discomfort or pressure in the abdomen

  • Pain when bending, coughing, or straining

  • In severe cases, nausea, vomiting, or bloating

If the bulge becomes hard, painful, or changes color, this could indicate a strangulated hernia, a medical emergency where blood flow to the trapped tissue is cut off. Immediate medical care is required in such cases.

Diagnosis of Umbilical Hernia

Diagnosis is usually straightforward. A doctor can identify an umbilical hernia through a physical examination. In some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be requested to assess the size of the hernia and determine if other abdominal tissues are involved.

At Healthy Türkiye, our specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate the condition accurately and design the safest, most effective treatment plan for each patient.

Treatment Options for Umbilical Hernia

The approach to treatment depends on the size of the hernia, the patient’s age, and whether it causes discomfort or complications.

1. Observation (in infants):

In babies, small hernias often close on their own by age 3–4. Regular monitoring by a pediatrician is usually sufficient unless the hernia becomes painful or larger.

2. Surgical Repair (in adults or large hernias):

In adults, umbilical hernia surgery is typically recommended because spontaneous healing is rare. The procedure involves returning the protruding tissue to its proper place and reinforcing the abdominal wall.

There are two main surgical techniques:

  • Open hernia repair: A small incision is made near the navel to access and repair the hernia.

  • Laparoscopic hernia repair: A minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera to guide the surgery.

In both methods, surgeons may use a mesh implantto strengthen the weakened area and prevent recurrence.

Recovery After Umbilical Hernia Surgery

Recovery time varies depending on the procedure and individual health. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and resume full activity after 2–3 weeks.

Post-surgery care includes:

  • Avoiding heavy lifting for several weeks

  • Maintaining a healthy diet to prevent constipation

  • Keeping the incision clean and dry

  • Following up with your surgeon for wound care and evaluation

At Healthy Türkiye, our aftercare services ensure each patient receives continuous support and guidance throughout recovery.

Why Choose Healthy Türkiye for Hernia Treatment?

Healthy Türkiye collaborates with board-certified general and laparoscopic surgeons across Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir who specialize in umbilical hernia repair. Our partner hospitals are internationally accredited and equipped with the latest surgical technology.

We provide:

  • Comprehensive medical evaluation and personalized treatment plans

  • Affordable surgery packages including hospital stay, transfers, and accommodation

  • Multilingual coordination and 24/7 patient support

Our goal is to make hernia treatment in Turkey safe, efficient, and stress-free for every patient.

Conclusion

An umbilical hernia is often harmless but can become serious if left untreated, particularly in adults. Recognizing the symptoms of umbilical hernia early and seeking timely medical advice are essential for preventing complications.

With advanced medical facilities, expert surgeons, and dedicated international patient care, Healthy Türkiye is your trusted partner for safe and successful umbilical hernia treatment in Turkey.



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