Hernia Surgery in Western Australia

Yes — a current referral from your GP is required so that Medicare rebates can be claimed against your consultation. A GP referral lasts 12 months; a referral from another specialist lasts 3 months. Bring it with you, or ask your GP to email it to reception@lapsurgery.com.au ahead of your appointment.

Most patients are offered a consultation within one week of referral — either in South Perth, at a regional visit, or by telehealth. If your situation is urgent (severe pain, vomiting, or a bulge that has suddenly become hard and painful), please phone Dr Watson’s rooms on (08) 6311 7578 so we can prioritise your appointment.

Medicare provides rebates against surgeon, anaesthetist, and hospital fees for medically-indicated hernia repair. The rebate covers part of the cost but not the full fee. Out-of-pocket cost depends on whether you have private health insurance, are self-funded, are covered by WorkCover, or hold a DVA card. Our rooms can provide a written estimate before you commit to surgery.

Private health insurance with hospital cover (typically bronze tier or above) usually covers hernia surgery at the private hospitals Dr Watson operates at. If you are self-funded, an itemised estimate is provided at consultation. Public hospital pathways are also available but generally involve longer waits. WorkCover and DVA patients are covered through those schemes.

Dr Watson operates at Hollywood Private Hospital, St John of God Murdoch, St John of God Subiaco, The Mount Hospital, and Bethesda Hospital. The choice of hospital depends on which one your health fund covers, where surgery is most easily scheduled, and the type of procedure planned. Dr Watson will discuss the options at consultation.

Laparoscopic ("keyhole") repair is suitable for many — but not all — hernias. It typically involves smaller cuts and a shorter recovery for desk-based work. Open repair is sometimes the better option, particularly for very large hernias, recurrent hernias, or in patients with significant prior abdominal surgery. Dr Watson will discuss the pros and cons of each option for your specific case.

Recovery varies between patients and depends on the type of hernia, the surgical approach, and the physical demands of your work. Most patients in desk-based roles return to work within one to two weeks. Light manual work typically takes three to four weeks. Heavy manual work, FIFO, and mining roles usually require around six weeks before unrestricted lifting. These are general guidelines, not guarantees.

All surgery carries risks. For hernia repair these may include bleeding, infection, fluid collection, nerve injury, chronic pain, mesh-related issues, and recurrence. Anaesthesia carries its own risks. Dr Watson will discuss the risks specific to your situation when obtaining informed consent. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks — you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.