Giant ventral hernia repair Cost, Info & FAQs

Giant ventral hernia repair is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes several hours to complete. A low horizontal (bikini-line) incision is made in the lower abdomen, allowing the surgeon to reach the hernia from underneath rather than through a vertical midline cut. The hernia sac is opened, adhesions are carefully separated, and the abdominal organs are returned to their natural position.

The abdominal wall defect is then closed under minimal tension, often made possible by pre-operative botulinum toxin injections that relax and lengthen the lateral muscles. A reinforcing mesh is placed to strengthen the repair and reduce the risk of recurrence. Drains may be used temporarily to prevent fluid accumulation.

Before the incision is closed, the surgeon checks the repair’s stability and ensures proper blood supply and abdominal pressure. Throughout the procedure, the goal is a durable reconstruction combined with an aesthetic outcome, placing the scar low where it remains discreet.

You are typically a good candidate if you have a large or giant ventral/incisional hernia that causes discomfort, functional limitations, skin irritation, or recurrent episodes of incarceration.

Eligibility is strengthened if you:

• are medically fit for general anaesthesia,
• are willing to follow pre-operative preparation (MRI, botulinum toxin injections, optimisation),
• can commit to post-operative restrictions and rehabilitation.

Patients with uncontrolled cardiopulmonary conditions, poorly regulated diabetes or active infections may need optimisation before surgery is considered safe.

• After a giant ventral hernia repair, a patient should expect to stay in the hospital for up to 5 days. You will be encouraged to start walking on the same or the next day after the surgery to support lung function, circulation, and reduce the risk of complications.
• You will be given pain medications to ensure a comfortable recovery. An abdominal binder will be placed immediately after surgery to support the repair and minimise swelling.
• In the first days, your medical team will monitor wound healing, drains (if used), and your overall mobility. You will be guided on how to move safely, get out of bed, and protect the surgical site.
• Exercise is important in recovery after any abdominal wall reconstruction. Walking remains the most effective and safest form of activity early on. A structured daily walking routine will be recommended.
• For about six weeks, you should avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous activities. After this period, most patients can gradually return to normal exercise, following the surgeon’s and physiotherapist’s advice.
• A tailored rehabilitation plan and wound-care instructions will also be provided before you leave the clinic.

• Inquire and ensure that all your questions are answered;
• Free and non-binding consultation with our abdominal wall reconstruction surgeon to discuss your case and eligibility;
• Your travel manager will propose available dates for your operation;
• After agreeing on a surgery date, you will receive a contract for all medical and non-medical services
• To finalise a surgery date, an advance payment of €500 will be required;
• Your travel manager will provide the most convenient flight and hotel options;
• Upon arrival, your travel manager will meet you at the airport and organise all the necessary tests and consultations;
• On your surgery day, your travel manager will take you to the clinic 2–3 hours before the operation;
• After the surgery, you will stay up to 5 days in our clinic, depending on your treatment plan;
• Before being discharged from the clinic, you will have a post-operative consultation with the surgeon, and all necessary medication, the abdominal binder, and instructions will be provided as well
• Once discharged from the clinic, your travel manager will stay in touch with you and assist with any issues;
• Most of our patients travel alone with ease! We guarantee that throughout your stay, you will feel cared for, supported, and guided.

Patients go abroad for giant ventral hernia repair for multiple reasons. Main ones are:

• There are no (or very short) waiting lines for reconstructive hernia surgeries;
• Consistent, individual attention from the surgeon;
• Modern techniques such as bikini-line access and BTA-assisted closure that are not widely available everywhere;
• Recommendations from previous patients, friends, or family;
• Top-quality service at transparent and affordable prices;
• Possibility of partial refund from local health boards (country-dependent).

Getting the surgery abroad involves similar risks as getting the surgery at home. For that reason, we recommend always checking the following:

• The surgeons and their credentials. Preferably, ask for an online consultation to meet your surgeon before going abroad
• What do the previous patients say about the clinic and their experience
• Whether you will be insured

Never base your decision on the price alone.

Most patients can fly home around 5 days after surgery.

This allows enough time for the initial healing phase, drain removal when needed, and a follow-up check with the surgeon.
For your flight back, airports/airlines can provide special assistance on request to make boarding easier.

Recovery after large ventral hernia repair requires patience and structured activity.
Most patients need around 3–6 weeks before returning to regular daily routines or work (depending on job type and the individual case).

Light walking starts early. Any strenuous activity or heavy lifting must be avoided for several weeks.

You should not drive for at least 1–2 weeks after the operation.
Driving should only be resumed when you can move comfortably, react quickly, and are no longer taking strong pain medication.

Your surgeon will confirm when it is safe.

Light walking starts soon after the procedure.
However, no heavy lifting, abdominal workouts or intense activity are allowed for about 6 weeks.

Your surgeon will advise you when gradual core strengthening can begin — usually once the early healing phase is complete.

The incision is placed low on the abdomen (bikini-line area).
Once healed, the scar typically stays hidden under underwear or swimwear.

We like to say that our clinic (based in Lithuania, EU) is not a factory. That is we work only with a limited number of patients per year. That helps us to provide our best and give much-needed personal attention to the patients.

The clinic itself is equipped with the newest medical technologies. Naturally, it checks all the EU care standards and employs maximum safety measures. After surgeries, the patients stay in cozy single-bed rooms. It makes your recovery calm and pleasant.

Our brand is rated 4.8/5 by hundreds of UK & EU patients.

Discomfort is expected in the first days, but pain is generally well-controlled with medication. Patients usually transition to oral painkillers quickly and continue improving week by week.

Complications after giant ventral hernia repair are uncommon, yet they may occur (as with any major surgery). Possible complications include:

• Blood clots;
• Seroma or fluid accumulation;
• Wound infection;
• Internal bleeding or bleeding from the surgical wound;
• Bowel injury (rare);
• Mesh infection (rare);
• Hernia recurrence;
• Skin separation;
• Slow wound healing.

You will be guided through all the possible complications during your consultation(s) with the surgeon.

In case you are feeling unwell or notice anything abnormal:

While you are still in Lithuania, you will be immediately checked by medical personnel. Should there be a need for a follow-up procedure, it would be carried out for you free of charge.

Complications in the later stages of recovery are even rarer and are usually not emergencies. If they occur, our surgeon will consult with you online and explain the steps to take.