Umbilical hernia

Small asymptomatic umbilical hernias can be safely watched. There remains a small risk of incarceration (hernia getting stuck) or strangulation ( compromise of blood supply to contents of hernia, usually fat occasionally intestines). Repair is usually recommended for large or symptomatic (pain, discomfort, previous incarceration/strangulation) or hernias associated with previous incisions. Often, small hernias are repaired if bothersome. If the hernia becomes incarcerated or strangulated it would likely require an emergency repair. There are certain conditions that may make repair more likely or less likely and these can be discussed with a hernia surgeon. Hope this helps.