North Bristol Private Hospital - Open Hernia Repair Surgery

Expert Consultant-Led Hernia Surgery at North Bristol Private Hospital

On this page we look at:

  • The hernia’s that we can repair
  • Your journey as a private patient
  • What you can expect

At North Bristol Private Hospital, we focus on making your experience as comfortable and reassuring as possible. Our expert surgical team will guide you every step of the way, from preparation to recovery, helping you get back to your daily life safely and confidently.

Dedicated Private Open Hernia Repair Service at North Bristol Private Hospital

At North Bristol Private Hospital, we offer a dedicated private open hernia repair service, giving patients fast access to high-quality surgical care in a modern, comfortable environment.

Our consultant surgeons bring years of NHS and private experience, ensuring each patient receives personalised care from consultation through to recovery.

Choosing private hernia repair means reduced waiting times, a clear treatment pathway, and care tailored to your individual needs — helping you return to normal life safely and confidently.

  • 3 expert Consultants with extensive NHS and private backgrounds
  • 45+ years combined experience in treating hernias

What is a Hernia?

A hernia occurs when tissue or part of an organ pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. This can cause a visible lump, discomfort, or pain, especially when lifting, exercising, or standing for long periods.

Surgical repair is often recommended to relieve symptoms and prevent complications such as strangulation or obstruction. Open hernia repair is a proven surgical method suitable for many types of hernias and provides reliable results.

Types of Hernias We Treat

At North Bristol Private Hospital, our surgeons specialise in repairing:

  • Inguinal (groin) hernias
  • Umbilical (belly button) hernias

Each patient receives a personalised assessment to determine whether open hernia repair is the most suitable approach.

Why Choose Private Open Hernia Repair at North Bristol Private Hospital

Our focus is on safe, evidence-based surgery with attention to patient comfort, recovery, and long-term results.

  • Consultant-led care: Surgery performed by highly experienced specialists.
  • Personalised treatment: Your surgical plan is tailored to your anatomy, symptoms, and lifestyle.
  • Transparent pathway: Clear communication from consultation to post-operative care.
  • Modern private facilities: Comfortable, well-equipped hospital environment with dedicated nursing support.
  • CQC regulated: Inspected and rated ‘Good’.
  • Support: Pre- and post-operative support when you need it.

Meet Your Specialist Surgeons

North Bristol Private Hospital is delighted to work with Mr Turner, Mr Nath and Mr Khan, three full-time NHS Consultants at Southmead Hospital, who also provide a private surgical hernia service from our CQC-regulated Hospital.

North Bristol Private Hospital - Open Hernia Repair Surgery Team

Your Care Journey

  1. Initial Consultation – Comprehensive review of your symptoms and imaging if required.
  2. Individualised Surgical Plan – Discussion of open repair, anaesthetic options, and recovery expectations.
  3. Consultant-Led Surgery – Performed in a modern, comfortable private hospital setting.
  4. Post-Operative Recovery & Aftercare – Clear guidance and follow-up to support safe recovery. Most patients can return home the same day. An overnight in-patient stay is available if medically required.

Eligibility & Referral for Private Hernia Repair

Many patients with hernias assume they must be referred by their GP to access treatment. At North Bristol Private Hospital, this is not the case — you can book a private consultation directly with our experienced consultant surgeons.

Why some hernias are not treated on the NHS

While hernia repair is a proven, safe, and cost-effective treatment, NHS surgery is subject to strict eligibility criteria. These focus primarily on patients at greatest risk of serious complications, such as strangulation, rather than on pain or discomfort alone. As a result, many patients with symptomatic hernias may not qualify for NHS treatment.

Hernias do progress over time

Research shows that most groin hernias gradually enlarge, and even hernias causing minimal or no symptoms often become troublesome within several years. Early assessment and treatment can prevent discomfort, improve quality of life, and reduce the risk of emergency surgery later.

Our approach at North Bristol Private Hospital

Our consultants provide a personalised assessment, explaining the options available, the benefits and risks of surgery, and the most suitable approach for your condition. We offer private, consultant-led hernia repair with clear guidance throughout your care journey.

Book a consultation today to discuss your hernia and take control of your treatment with fast access to expert surgical care at North Bristol Private Hospital.

North Bristol Private Hospital - Eligibility & Referral

Book Your Private Hernia Consultation in Bristol

Take the first step toward safe, effective hernia repair with our experienced consultant surgeons at North Bristol Private Hospital.

Call us today to book your consultation or use our online enquiry form to arrange your appointment.

Experience personalised, consultant-led hernia surgery in Bristol — restoring comfort, confidence, and quality of life.

Our promise to you

At North Bristol Private Hospital, our surgeons use their skills, expertise and current best evidence to provide you with individualised surgical care to give you the best outcome for your hernia condition.

Learn more about the types of Hernia’s we treat

Inguinal Hernia Repair at North Bristol Private Hospital

An inguinal hernia is the most common type of abdominal hernia. While they are more frequent in men, inguinal hernias can affect both men and women. They occur when tissue — often part of the intestine — pushes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall into the inguinal canal, a passageway in the groin.

Symptoms of an inguinal hernia can vary. Some patients notice a visible bulge in the groin, discomfort, or pain, particularly when lifting, bending, or coughing. Others may experience very few symptoms. Importantly, the severity of symptoms is not always related to the size of the hernia.

Inguinal hernia repair is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures worldwide. At North Bristol Private Hospital, we offer expert consultant-led repair either as:

  • Open repair – an incision in the groin to repair the hernia

Inguinal hernias can occur on one or both sides of the groin. Bilateral hernias can often be repaired in the same procedure. Most inguinal hernia repairs are performed as day-case procedures, meaning patients usually go home the same day. Surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia, but in selected cases, spinal or local anaesthesia may be suitable.

At North Bristol Private Hospital, our consultants will take the time to discuss the most appropriate surgical technique and anaesthetic option for your individual situation. We also offer transparent, fixed-price packages covering all aspects of your inguinal hernia repair, so you can plan your treatment with confidence.

Book a consultation today to discuss your inguinal hernia and explore the best options for safe, effective, consultant-led repair at North Bristol Private Hospital.

North Bristol Private Hospital - Learn more about the types of Hernia’s we treat

Umbilical Hernia Repair at North Bristol Private Hospital

An umbilical hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine or fatty tissue, pushes through a weak spot near the belly button (umbilicus). These hernias are common in adults and children and may develop due to increased pressure in the abdomen, often caused by obesity, pregnancy, chronic coughing, or previous abdominal surgery.

Symptoms of an umbilical hernia typically include a visible bulge at the belly button, mild discomfort, or pain. In some cases, the hernia may be painless and discovered incidentally. Like other hernias, the severity of symptoms does not always correspond to the size of the hernia.

Umbilical hernia repair is a safe and effective procedure performed by our experienced consultant surgeons at North Bristol Private Hospital. Surgery can be carried out as:

  • Open repair – through a small incision at the belly button to close the hernia defect and reinforce the abdominal wall, often using mesh

Most umbilical hernia repairs are performed as day-case procedures, allowing patients to return home the same day. General anaesthesia is commonly used, though in some cases spinal or local anaesthesia may be suitable.

At North Bristol Private Hospital, our consultants will discuss your individual situation, recommending the most appropriate surgical technique and anaesthetic option. We also offer transparent, fixed-price packages, covering all aspects of your umbilical hernia repair, so you can proceed with confidence.

Book a consultation today to discuss your umbilical hernia and explore safe, expert, consultant-led repair at North Bristol Private Hospital.

North Bristol Private Hospital - Umbilical Hernia Repair

Not sure if you have a Hernia?

If you think you have a hernia, please get in touch to arrange a consultation where a Consultant can assess you in person.

No two patients and no two hernias are the same, and therefore we will discuss all aspects of your care with you and make a treatment plan that is best for you. All of your treatment (clinic appointments and surgery) will be with the same consultant hernia surgeon at North Bristol Private Hospital. North Bristol Private Hospital is only able to accept self-paying patients at the this time. If you have private health insurance, you may be able to reclaim some or all of this money back via your insurance company, but this would be important to check with your insurance company first.

North Bristol Private Hospital - Not sure if you have a Hernia?

Costs for Private Hernia Repair at North Bristol Private Hospital

At North Bristol Private Hospital, we aim to provide transparent, fixed pricing so you can make an informed decision about your hernia treatment.

Consultation Fee

  • Initial consultation with one of our expert hernia surgeons: £125.00

Fixed-Price Hernia Treatment

If a hernia is diagnosed and you choose to proceed with surgery, we offer a fixed-cost treatment package that includes:

  • All pre-operative tests
  • The surgical procedure itself
  • Post-operative follow-up appointments

Treatment Fees:

  • Inguinal hernia repair: From £3,500.00
  • Umbilical / Paraumbilical hernia repair: From £3,500.00
  • Pre-Operative Assessment: £300.00
  • Post-operative Dressings: £95.00

Most patients with simple hernias do not require scans prior to surgery. If a scan is necessary, there will be an additional cost, which will be discussed in advance.

Booking & Enquiries

To book a consultation or discuss any queries, please contact North Bristol Private Hospital direct. We aim to respond to all enquiries by the next working day.

Frequently asked questions

If your hernia is causing pain, discomfort, or is growing, surgery is usually recommended to prevent future complications.

Open repair involves a small incision over the hernia site. The herniated tissue is repositioned, and the abdominal wall is reinforced, often with mesh, to prevent recurrence.

Recovery depends on the hernia type and your individual health, but most patients return to light activities within a few weeks.

No you do not need a GP referral to be seen by our surgeons. You can contact us directly to arrange an appointment.

If your GP has not referred you for a groin hernia, you can still be seen for assessment and treatment at North Bristol Private Hospital.

Although hernia repair is a safe and cost-effective treatment, NHS referral for surgery is subject to strict eligibility criteria. These criteria focus on patients at greatest risk of serious hernia complications, such as strangulation, rather than on the presence of pain or discomfort alone. As a result, many patients with symptomatic hernias do not qualify for NHS surgery.

Research shows that groin hernias tend to enlarge over time, and even hernias causing minimal or no symptoms can eventually lead to discomfort or other issues within several years. Some surgeons advocate repair for all groin hernias, while others take a more selective approach.

At North Bristol Private Hospital, our consultants take a practical, personalised approach. During your consultation, we will discuss your hernia, the potential benefits and risks of surgery, and the most appropriate treatment options for your individual situation — even if you have not been referred by your GP.

Book a consultation today to explore your options for safe, consultant-led groin hernia repair at North Bristol Private Hospital.

At your first consultation, your consultant will review your hernia symptoms and discuss any other health conditions you may have. They will also need to examine your hernia to determine the most appropriate treatment.

To help make your consultation as thorough and efficient as possible, please bring:

  • A list of all medications you are currently taking
  • Details of any previous surgeries or operations
  • Reports or printouts of any scans or imaging related to your hernia

Bringing this information ensures your consultant has a complete picture of your health, allowing them to provide the best personalised advice and treatment plan.

If a hernia is diagnosed during your consultation and you and your consultant decide to proceed with surgery, the next step is a pre-operative assessment. This assessment is designed to ensure that your procedure can be performed as safely as possible.

During this appointment, you will usually have:

  • Blood tests to check your overall health
  • A heart tracing (ECG) to assess your heart function

If you have other significant health conditions, additional tests may be required. Patients taking blood-thinning medications will be given clear instructions on when to stop them before surgery to reduce the risk of complications.

This pre-operative assessment allows your consultant and anaesthetic team to plan your surgery safely and provide peace of mind ahead of your procedure.

On the day of your hernia surgery at North Bristol Private Hospital, we will provide you with a specific arrival time and instructions on when to stop eating and drinking before your operation.

When you arrive, a member of our friendly ward nursing team will admit you into a private room where you can safely store your personal belongings. You will then meet the anaesthetic consultant, who will discuss your anaesthesia and options for post-operative pain relief. We recommend bringing a book, magazine, or newspaper, as there may be a short wait before your surgery begins. Your room has comfortable seating and a TV for you to enjoy with internet access.

After your operation, you will be taken back to your room for a period of observation. You can start eating and drinking once you feel ready. Most hernia procedures at North Bristol Private Hospital are day-case surgeries, meaning you can usually go home the same day.

Please note:

  • You will not be able to drive immediately after surgery.
  • It is important to have a responsible adult at home to support you for the first night following your operation.

Our team is committed to ensuring your day is as comfortable and safe as possible, with clear guidance throughout your surgical journey.

Yes. All patients who undergo hernia surgery at North Bristol Private Hospital are scheduled for a follow-up appointment 4–6 weeks after their operation. This allows us the opportunity to check your recovery, assess your wound, and address any concerns.

If any issues arise before your scheduled appointment, we will be happy to see you sooner to ensure your recovery remains safe and comfortable.

For most simple hernia operations, we recommend taking at least one week off work to allow your body to recover. If your job involves heavy physical activity and you cannot perform restricted duties, you may need a longer period away from work.

Your consultant will discuss recovery time during your pre-operative consultation and again after surgery before you are discharged. If needed, we can provide a sick note for your employer.

For patients undergoing more complex hernia repairs, a longer recovery period is usually required. If you are able to work from home, you can often return once you feel comfortable sitting at a desk and are able to concentrate on your usual tasks.

At North Bristol Private Hospital, our consultants specialise in hernia repair of the abdomen and abdominal wall, including inguinal and umbilical hernias. These are the types of hernias that can typically be repaired safely using open surgical techniques at our hospital.

Some hernias, however, cannot be repaired using an open approach at our facility. Examples may include:

  • Complex or large incisional hernias requiring advanced reconstructive techniques
  • Hiatus (hiatal) hernias in the diaphragm
  • Lumbar or spinal hernias

If your hernia falls into one of these categories, your consultant can arrange for your procedure to be performed at an alternative hospital where the appropriate surgical facilities and expertise are available. You will still be cared for by the same consultant, ensuring continuity of care and expert guidance throughout your treatment.

Our priority is to ensure that every patient receives the safest and most effective treatment, even if that means arranging your surgery at a different centre better suited to your condition.

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How much does Open Hernia Repair Surgery Cost?

The total cost of the surgery will be confirmed after the first consultation. The initial consultation fee will be invoiced separately. The prices apply only at the time of publication and are subject to changes without notification.

Initial Consultation

Surgery costs from

From £3,500.00

At a glance

Meet the team

Our medical team is highly qualified and experienced in all types of surgery, including open hernia repair surgery.

We offer a rewarding working environment for our surgeons and nursing team and have built a team of top class medical professionals.

We also choose staff for their personal qualities to ensure that everyone you meet gives you the best experience possible.

Our medical team is highly qualified and experienced in all types of surgery, including open hernia repair surgery.

We offer a rewarding working environment for our surgeons and nursing team and have built a team of top class medical professionals.

We also choose staff for their personal qualities to ensure that everyone you meet gives you the best experience possible.

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Meet the team

Patient Testimonials

4.9 Over 67 Reviews
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Sheena 2 year ago
Amazing experience at North Bristol Private Hospital.

Had surgery 2 weeks ago with Elena and I am already pleased with the results so far.
Elena and her team are totally professional, caring and nothing is too much trouble.
They really put me at my ease throughout the whole process. The hospital is immaculate and as soon as you walk in you are met with a smile, and a genuine friendly caring attitude.
After much research I am so glad I chose this hospital and the talented Elena for my surgery. Elena and her team are extremely dedicated to giving you the best experience and results.
Many thanks to Elena and her team
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Andrew Shalgosky 2 year ago
I recently underwent surgery at NBPH with Elena and cannot recommend her and her wonderful team highly enough. From the first consultation to the continuing aftercare their service is unbelievable! I was very nervous about my surgery and the team out me at ease during each step. Every need was catered for and they were very accomdating not just for myself but also my young family who accompanied me on admission, visiting during overnight stays and upon discharge. I am ever in need of surgery again there is nowhere else I would even consider. NBPH are incredible!
An amazing group of people with amazing skill and talent.
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Donna Orafidiya 2 year ago
After wanting a breast uplift for many years, I opted to have this done with Elena at The North Bristol Private Hospital. Every Google search and surgeon search just kept bringing me back to her. I am 2 weeks in from having a breast asymmetry correction with uplift and a bilateral arm lift and Elena and the team are absolutely amazing and the hospital is spotless. They made me feel at ease right from the start and didn’t judge me or try to push me in anyway at all. I’ve seen reviews of some surgeons being mean to their clients and making them feel worthless this is not the case here they are all lovely. I am delighted so far with the results and I know they are only going to get better as I am still swollen. She truly is absolutely amazing and Lynn is amazing too she is hilarious. I would highly recommend Elena and if I can afford to will be back for more work.
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Sarah Harper 2 year ago
Absolutely Delighted!

I'm 2 months post breast augmentation, and I'm absolutely delighted not only with the results, but the whole process from start to finish.

The team at North Bristol Private Hospital are kind, caring, and totally devoted to your care and needs. I would highly recommend this hospital if you're considering surgery.
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Alice Davey 2 year ago
i cannot thank Elena and the team at NBPH for changing my life!!!!! i had a breast reduction on the 15th July and i’ve never felt happier. everything from the initial consultation to the after care has been top tier and i couldn't fault it! even walking into the building for my first consult i was put at ease due to the cleanliness of the hospital and any nerves i had on the day were put at ease due to the care of the teams from the admin staff to Elena herself and any post op questions are answered fast as well! i would recommend ANYONE who is considering surgery to have it with the NBPH team truly the best in the south west :)
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Ellen Parkins 2 year ago
I had breast lift surgery with Elena at North Bristol Private Hospital just over 3 weeks ago and I cannot put into words how overjoyed I am with the results! The continuing support I am receiving from her and her team has exceeded my expectations. Everyone has been amazing! I would highly recommend Elena and North Bristol Private Hospital. Thank you Elena and team!
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Esther Lawton 2 year ago
I contacted EP’s clinic at a time of great vulnerability having been through the Fastrack system at NBT Breast Care. I was in considerable discomfort and feeling uncomfortable and unwell.
From the first phone call with Lynn explaining all my treatment to date I was met with kindness, compassion and efficiency. I had an appointment within a week. I felt so comfortable with my decision. I felt that I had hope in my treatment.
From the first consultation to my current stage 3 weeks post treatment I have nothing but positive feedback about Elena. Her calm patient and focused approach with her own gentle manner is just outstanding.
Elena has created a clinical environment where each and every person who is part of her team treats you with respect and understanding. Holistically she treats everyone as an individual and she and her team can not do enough to make you feel comfortable and confident about your health journey pre and post surgery.
The nursing and anaesthetic teams level of care is superb in theatre and Rose who looked after me overnight was excellent.
I would not hesitate in recommending Elena and her wonderful team at NBH . The attention to detail in quality care is outstanding. Thank you so very much.
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Peggy Williams 2 year ago
My experience with Elena and her team has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment you arrive for your consultation, all the way through your post op appointments, you are treated with kindness, care, and respect. It's amazing that she has been able to gather some of the most caring, and expert medical professionals all in one place. Beyond being happy with the results of my procedure I still marvel at the expertise of the people that took care of me. Shout out to Lynn, Kelly and Zillah, for being so incredibly communicative from the start. Justin, Filip and the anesthesiologist that took care of me during surgery, and Nurse Rekha who cared for me so expertly after my surgery. I am so grateful to everyone!
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Melanie Bishop 2 year ago
My experience at the North Bristol Private Hospital was simply outstanding!
All of the staff were incredibly caring and supportive during the duration of my care and they went out of their way to ensure I felt comfortable and reassured.
In particular, the post-surgery care provided by Rekha and Ann was amazing and I cannot thank them enough!
I would definitely recommend this hospital.
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Erin D 2 year ago
I have had an absolutely amazing experience with Elena and her whole team at North Bristol Private Hospital. It has been nearly 3 weeks since I had a full tummy tuck with liposuction of the flanks.

From my initial consultation through to my 2nd post op check I have received the best care and attention from Lynn on reception, Sam the patient coordinator, theatre staff and aftercare nurses in particular Rose who was so kind and gentle with me on my overnight stay.

Elena is an outstanding surgeon her skills are second to none. She leads with excellent professionalism from the consultation process where she explains everything with you an ensures you are fully aware of each step of the process and that you are happy. Then right through the aftercare process to ensure you achieve the best results possible by following her clear instructions.

I am so happy with my results so far Elena has done such an amazing job my incisions are healing well and are so neat and fine. Can't wait to heal fully and see the final results.

I can't thank Elena and her whole team enough they are the best!
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Eleanor Boland 2 year ago
I had my surgery in May 2024 after years of deliberation. Elena and the team were incredible, informative, welcoming and friendly from consultation through to the post op checks. Rose, Rekha and Sam have all been incredible, making me feel comfortable and cared for at all times. No question was too much and all my post op queries have been answered so quickly. Meeting the theatre team pre op made a huge positive difference and calmed any nerves I had.
The hospital itself is clean and quiet, I had such a positive experience from start to finish. Highly recommend.
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El Bee 2 year ago
I have just had surgery at North Bristol Private hospital. From my very first consultation, to admission, and my overnight stay I have been extremely well cared for. All of the staff have been the most professional, caring and friendliest people you could ever wish to be cared for.
The result as of my surgery are exceptional even less than 24 hours after my procedure.
I would highly recommend NBPH to anyone considering a cosmetic surgery procedure.
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Funding your procedure

Our aim is to provide the best surgical treatments available.

We understand the price of surgical treatments can be a crucial deciding factor for many patients however there is no one price fits all, and we provide prices commensurate with the level of surgical excellence being provided.

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