Why That Bulge Near Your Scar Could Be an Incisional Hernia

A bulge near a surgical scar could signal an incisional hernia. This condition happens when the abdominal wall fails to heal properly after surgery. Up to 10% of patients with abdominal incisions may develop one over time.

The risk rises after emergency operations or large cuts, especially if wound edges don’t align well. Without treatment, these hernias can worsen and cause serious complications. Incisional hernias form when weakened muscle or tissue allows organs to push through the surgical site. The most obvious sign is a visible lump near the scar, often more noticeable when coughing or lifting.

Symptoms can also include nausea, fever, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements. Doctors classify them as reducible—able to be pushed back in—or irreducible, where the tissue remains trapped. The latter type carries higher risks, such as bowel obstruction or strangulation, where blood flow is cut off.

Treatment always involves surgery. Surgeons may use open repair or laparoscopic techniques, frequently reinforcing the area with a mesh patch. Recovery depends on the hernia’s size, whether it can be reduced, and the patient’s overall health.

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing one. Wound infections, obesity, smoking, and some medications weaken healing. Existing health conditions and poor wound alignment during initial surgery also play a role.

If left untreated, hernias can grow larger and may even rupture. Early intervention improves outcomes, with many patients fully recovering after repair. Surgical repair remains the only solution for incisional hernias. Most patients regain normal function, though success varies by case. Proper wound care and managing risk factors can help prevent them from forming in the first place.