The short answer
Both open and laparoscopic (keyhole) repair fix a groin hernia well, and both usually use a mesh. Keyhole repair is often preferred when hernias are on both sides or have come back after an earlier repair, and can mean a slightly quicker return to activity, but it needs a general anaesthetic. Open repair can be done under local or spinal anaesthetic, which suits some older or less fit patients.
Book hernia repair, from ₦850,000Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
How each is done
Open repair: one cut of a few centimetres in the groin. The surgeon pushes the bulge back and stitches a thin mesh over the weak spot from the outside. It can be done with you asleep, or awake with a local or spinal anaesthetic.
Laparoscopic (keyhole) repair: usually three small cuts near the belly button and lower tummy. Gas lifts the tummy wall, a camera shows the inside, and the mesh is placed from behind the muscle. It is done under general anaesthetic.
How they compare
- Hernia on both sides: keyhole can repair both through the same small cuts
- Hernia that came back after an open repair: keyhole avoids the scarred tissue, so it is often preferred
- First, one-sided hernia: either works well, and the choice depends on you and the surgeon
- Not fit for a general anaesthetic: open under local or spinal anaesthetic is usually the safer choice
- Very large hernia going into the scrotum, or earlier lower tummy surgery: often open
- Early discomfort and return to activity: keyhole is often a little quicker, though both groups usually return to light activity in one to two weeks
The surgeon matters more than the method
Results depend heavily on how often the surgeon does that particular operation. A surgeon who does many open repairs may get better results with open repair than with a keyhole technique they use less often, and the reverse is also true. Ask how often they do the method they recommend. On Mezo, surgeons are verified with the MDCN before they can take bookings.
Mesh: what people worry about
Most adult groin hernia repairs use a mesh, whichever method is used, because it lowers the chance of the hernia coming back. Ongoing groin pain after repair can happen with either method, and it is uncommon. If you have concerns about mesh, raise them before surgery: the surgeon can explain why they recommend it and whether a stitch-only repair is reasonable for you.
Cost and planning
Keyhole repair needs a general anaesthetic and laparoscopic equipment, so it can cost more than open repair under local anaesthetic. The written quote after your assessment will state which method is planned and what is included, so you are not comparing guesses.
What it costs on Mezo
Mesh included. Billed as one line.
Common questions
Is keyhole hernia surgery less painful?
Many people have a little less discomfort in the first days after keyhole repair, but both are usually manageable with regular painkillers, and most people are walking the same day.
Can I be awake for hernia surgery?
Yes, for open repair. It can be done with a local or spinal anaesthetic, with sedation if you want it. Keyhole repair needs a general anaesthetic.
Which one has fewer recurrences?
In experienced hands both have low recurrence rates. The surgeon's experience with the chosen method matters more than the method itself.
How much is hernia repair on Mezo?
Inguinal hernia repair is from ₦850,000. The written all-in quote after assessment states the method and what is included.
The procedures
Related health guides
More patient guides
Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Laparoscopic surgery for inguinal hernia repair. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
- Inguinal hernia repair. NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 22 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.