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Dr QM Leong

Why Hernia Surgery Costs Vary Across Singapore

Abdominal discomfort highlighting symptoms often assessed before hernia surgery cost evaluation in Singapore.

Abdominal discomfort highlighting symptoms often assessed before hernia surgery cost evaluation in Singapore.

Summary: 

  • Hernia surgery costs in Singapore vary depending on procedure type, complexity, surgeon experience, and hospital stay.

  • Open surgery is usually less expensive, while laparoscopic surgery involves higher costs due to specialised equipment and longer operating time.

  • Additional factors, such as anaesthesia, medical devices, post-surgery medications, and follow-ups, also influence the total bill.

Hernia surgery costs in Singapore can vary widely, which often leaves patients unsure of what they are actually paying for. Two people undergoing hernia repair may receive very different bills even when their diagnoses sound similar.
These cost differences are not arbitrary. They depend on the type of surgery performed, the complexity of the hernia, the surgeon’s expertise and the hospital resources involved.
In this article, we break down these and other factors to help you make an informed decision about your care.

A hernia occurs when a weak spot in your abdominal wall allows tissues or organs to push through, creating a bulge. While some hernias may not cause noticeable symptoms, many lead to discomfort, pain, or complications if left untreated.

In Singapore, during hernia surgery, your colorectal surgeon will repair the weakness and prevent future complications like tissue obstruction or strangulation.

Why Endoscopy Costs In Singapore Vary

During an endoscopy, your specialist may discover inflammation, ulcers, or growths that require biopsies or treatment during the procedure.

Because these findings can’t always be predicted, final costs may vary slightly from the initial estimate. This flexibility allows your doctor to address problems immediately rather than delaying care.

Learn more about Cost of Endoscopy in Singapore

Differences Between Open and Laparoscopic Procedures

Hernia repairs are generally performed using either open surgery or laparoscopic surgery:

  • Open hernia repair: Involves a single incision near the hernia site. The surgeon directly repairs the weakened tissue and often uses a mesh for reinforcement. Recovery usually involves a slightly longer initial discomfort period compared with laparoscopic methods.
  • Laparoscopic repair: Uses multiple small incisions and a camera-guided approach. The surgeon operates with the help of specialised instruments while viewing your internal anatomy on a screen. Patients typically recover faster, with smaller scars and less post-operative pain.

Why Procedure Choice Affects Hernia Surgery Cost in Singapore

Your choice between open and laparoscopic surgery has a direct impact on cost.

Open surgery is typically less expensive, often ranging from SGD 5,000 to 8,000, because it requires fewer instruments, shorter operating theatre time, and less specialised equipment.

Laparoscopic surgery generally costs more, around SGD 8,000 to 12,000 due to longer operating time, specialised devices, and higher surgical skill requirements.

Concerned about a hernia? Don’t wait for your symptoms to get worse. Contact us today at Advanced Colorectal and General Surgery to seek treatment.

Factors That Influence Hernia Surgery Costs in Singapore

Several factors beyond the procedure itself affect what you pay.

Operating Theatre Time and Complexity
In Singapore, operating theatre costs are calculated based on the time required for your hernia surgery and the resources used. A simple, small hernia may take under an hour to repair, while large, recurrent, or complex hernias may require significantly longer.

Additional staff, such as anaesthetists, nurses, and surgical assistants, also factor into this cost. The more complex your case, the more you can expect to pay.

Anaesthesia, Medical Devices, and Supplies
Anaesthesia choice directly affects your bill. Local anaesthesia is usually cheaper, while general anaesthesia requires specialist monitoring and equipment, which adds to the cost.

Surgical devices and supplies also contribute. Mesh, staplers, sutures, and other consumables may vary in price depending on quality and brand.

Surgeon Skill and Case Difficulty
A surgeon’s experience matters. Highly trained surgeons, particularly those specialising in complex hernia repairs, may charge more. While this may increase upfront costs for hernia surgery, it can improve surgical outcomes, reduce complications, and sometimes shorten recovery time.

The difficulty of your case, such as a large or recurrent hernia, also plays a role in determining surgeon fees.

Learn more about Hernia Surgery Cost In Singapore

Hospital Stay and Recovery Considerations

Duration of Hospital Stay and Its Impact on Cost
Some hernia repairs are performed as day surgery, meaning you can go home the same day. Others may require one or more nights in the hospital for monitoring and pain management.

The costs of private rooms, hospital facilities, and nursing care during your stay all add to your total bill.

Post-Surgery Medications and Follow-Up Visits
After surgery, you’ll also need to prepare for the cost of medications for pain relief and inflammation. Follow-up visits, which are not included in the initial bill, are important for monitoring a patient’s recovery, removing stitches or staples, and checking for complications.

Seek Specialist Guidance for Hernia Surgery in Singapore

Every hernia case is unique. Consulting a qualified surgeon helps you understand which procedure suits your condition, what potential complications to watch for, and what costs to expect.

At Advanced Colorectal and General Surgery, Dr QM Leong will listen to your concerns and discuss ways to manage expenses. While cost is an important consideration, choosing the right treatment plan for your condition is just as critical for long-term outcomes and recovery.

Book a consultation today.