Patient guide · Hernia surgery

Choosing a hernia surgeon: the questions worth asking

Creator: Mr Trif Papettas FRCS
Published: 2026-08-06

By Mr Trif Papettas FRCS, Consultant Colorectal & General Surgeon · Reviewed August 2026

Not all hernia surgery is the same, and choosing well matters. A few straightforward questions help you judge whether a surgeon is the right fit for your particular hernia.

Ask about their focus and volume

Hernia repair is a common operation, but experience varies. It is reasonable to ask how much hernia surgery a surgeon does and whether it is a particular focus of their practice — higher-volume, focused surgeons tend to have refined technique and lower complication rates.

Ask which techniques they offer

A surgeon who offers the full range — open, keyhole, robotic-assisted and mesh-free repair — can match the technique to you, rather than fitting you to the one method they happen to perform. This matters most for bilateral, recurrent and complex hernias.

Ask about outcomes and audit

Ask whether they can share their recurrence and complication rates, and whether their outcomes are independently verified — for example through PHIN. A willingness to be transparent about results is a good sign.

Ask about mesh, and mesh-free options

Ask what mesh they use, how they minimise the risk of chronic pain, and whether a mesh-free repair is an option for you. A good surgeon will discuss the trade-offs openly.

Ask about continuity and follow-up

Find out whether the consultant who assesses you will also perform your surgery and see you afterwards — continuity from one surgeon, rather than being passed between people, makes for clearer care.

The practical questions

Do I need a GP referral, and how quickly can I be seen?
What will it cost, and what's included in the quote?
Where will the surgery take place?

Get a clear answer

Consultant-led hernia assessment across Warwickshire — Leamington Spa, Warwick and Stratford. No GP referral required.

Book a consultation

Common questions

What makes a good hernia surgeon?

A focused, high-volume practice, a full range of techniques, transparent outcomes, and continuity of care from assessment through to follow-up.

Does it matter how many hernia operations a surgeon does?

Yes — higher-volume, focused surgeons tend to have refined technique and lower complication rates.

Should my surgeon offer keyhole and robotic repair?

Ideally they should offer the full range — open, keyhole, robotic and mesh-free — so the technique can be matched to your hernia rather than the reverse.

Should I ask about mesh-free repair?

Yes. A good surgeon will explain when a mesh-free repair is and isn't appropriate, and the trade-offs involved.

Mr Trif Papettas FRCS

Consultant Colorectal & General Surgeon at Nuffield Health Warwickshire Hospital, Leamington Spa. Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons, JAG dual-accredited in colonoscopy and gastroscopy, with a large personal case volume in open, keyhole and robotic-assisted hernia repair — including complex and recurrent cases.