Free video consultation | Wednesday 11 June
The next session will be on
Wednesday 11 June 2025
With Dr. Andreas Koch
If you’ve had mesh placed during an inguinal hernia operation and are now dealing with chronic pain, tightness, or discomfort, you’re not alone. For some, mesh can cause more problems than it solves.
At BioHernia, we specialise in removing problematic mesh and performing a natural, pure tissue repair. Our goal is to relieve pain, restore strength, and help you move forward without limitation.
Choose our specialised approach to inguinal hernia mesh removal, focused on relieving pain and restoring strength through a natural, tissue-based repair.
High success rate
Two weeks waiting list
6-8 weeks to full recovery
Back to your routine in about eight weeks—faster recovery, less downtime.
Understanding mesh-related complications
In some cases, synthetic mesh used in hernia repairs can lead to ongoing pain, inflammation, or nerve irritation. This can happen when the mesh shrinks, shifts, or causes a reaction in surrounding tissue. At BioHernia, we specialise in safely removing problematic mesh and helping patients recover naturally.
Studies show that between 11% and 37% of patients report ongoing symptoms after mesh-based repairs.
Symptoms
- Persistent pain or burning sensation in the groin or abdomen
- Pain that worsens when moving, lifting, or coughing
- A hard lump or area of swelling
- Stiffness or pulling in the mesh area
- Nerve pain radiating to the thigh or lower abdomen
- Ongoing discomfort months or years after hernia surgery
What are your options for treatment?
Before we can explain your treatment options, it’s important to know how your original hernia repair was done.
Click on the option below that best matches your situation:
In this type of surgery, the mesh is placed just under the skin, making it easier to access. Mesh removal in these cases can usually be done as a day surgery procedure—with no overnight stay.
The operation explained
Our operation technique removes the damaged or painful mesh and repairs the hernia using your own natural tissue. We carefully reinforce the area withsutures, allowing for a stronger, more natural recovery.
Start of the operation
After administering the anesthetics, we make a small horizontal incision of approximately 5 cm through the original scar or directly over the mesh area.
Removing the mesh
We gently separate the mesh from the surrounding tissue and nerves, taking great care to minimise trauma and avoid further irritation. During the procedure, we also remove any tackers, sutures, or other materials that were used to secure the mesh in place, ensuring a thorough and complete removal.
Fixing your hernia
After the mesh is removed the weakness in your abdominal wall is closed with sutures, using the Shouldice technique.
Closing the wound
Finally, the operation wound is closed using sutures and surgical glue. After full recovery, a minor scar of 3 to 5cm is left, in the same place as the original scar.
What results can you expect after mesh removal?
Hernia mesh removal can be life-changing, especially for those living with chronic pain, stiffness, or nerve-related symptoms after mesh-based surgery. While results can vary from person to person, the vast majority of our patients report a clear improvement in their daily comfort and mobility.
In most cases, we’re able to safely and completely remove the mesh, along with any tackers or fixation materials. After recovery, patients report the following outcomes:
25% are completely pain-free
60% experience significantly less pain
10% notice little or no change
5% report more pain
4% a slight increase
1% a more severe increase
Step-by-step visuals
Follow the links below for a detailed, illustrated step-by-step guide on how we remove meshes after open inguinal hernia surgery.
What sets our techniques apart from conventional hernia surgery?
Your groin is a sensitive area crucial for movement, flexibility and sexual function. Hernias disrupt this balance, causing discomfort and affecting quality of life. Our mesh-free approach restores strength and function naturally, avoiding synthetic mesh implants for a safer recovery.
Repairing the root cause
Imagine a hernia as a hole in the tissues of your groin—a weak spot that allows tissue like fat or intestine to bulge through. Mesh-based operations place a synthetic patch over or under this hole, but they don’t fix the underlying weakness.
Our mesh-free technique addresses the source by closing the defect, restoring strength, and providing a durable solution without relying on synthetic materials.
A better fit for a dynamic area
The groin is a highly mobile part of your body, involved in everything from walking and bending to sexual activity. Unlike synthetic mesh, which remains rigid and can irritate surrounding nerves and tissues, a mesh-free repair uses your body’s natural flexibility to adapt and heal. This ensures that the repair integrates smoothly with your daily movements and doesn’t interfere with the sensitive structures in the area.
Avoiding unnecessary risks
Mesh repairs come with potential complications, especially in a sensitive area like the groin. Chronic pain, infections, or discomfort from having a foreign object in your body are all risks associated with synthetic mesh. By relying on your own tissue, our mesh-free technique eliminates these risks and promotes natural healing, so you can recover without added worry.
The benefits of our mesh-free repairs
Inguinal hernia surgery without plastic mesh, reduces the risk of complications such as infection and chronic pain, promotes natural healing, and preserves the body’s integrity.
Avoid mesh-related complications
Like most of our patients, you may prefer a mesh-free hernia repair to avoid complications and support your long-term well-being by relying on your body’s own tissue for a more natural recovery.
Fits an active lifestyle
We prioritise preserving your abdomen’s natural flexibility and function by using your body’s own tissue for the repair, avoiding the risks and complications associated with plastic implants.
Experienced team
Our team of skilled surgeons, anesthetists, and nurses, trusted by top athletes, provide world-class mesh-free hernia surgery with the highest standard of care.
Personalised treatment
We take pride in offering personalised treatment plans that prioritise addressing your specific needs and tailoring your recovery every step of the way—from the initial consultation to post-operative care.
Fits an active lifestyle
We prioritise preserving your abdomen’s natural flexibility and function by using your body’s own tissues, avoiding unnecessary stress or complications by foreign body implants.
Avoid mesh-related complications
Experienced team
Our specialised team of surgeons, anesthetists, and nurses, who also treat top athletes, provide you with world-class, mesh-free hernia care.
Personalised treatment
Honest reviews from those who chose us
Steven Price
”I had a hernia operation through BioHernia with Dr Koch in Germany just four weeks ago. As I type I’ve had no problems, and no pain for several weeks…”
Gerard Thomas
”Top job Dr Weise! Had my doubts but highly recommended….”
”My experience with BioHernia and Dr. Andreas Koch (Surgeon) was brilliant. I am pleased with the results of the operation…”
John C.
”I am a very happy customer of BioHernia. They arranged a mesh-less hernia repair for me with Dr Wiese in Frankfurt….”
Michael Yiasemides
”I am very happy with all aspects of my inguinal hernia repair, performed by Dr Koch…..”
Ed O'Connor
”Great service from Dr. Koch and his team. The process was so easy from start to finish thanks to Biohernia. I have applied for reimbursement of the costs from the Health Service Executive in Ireland…”
Rumen
”Short said AMAZING 👏
Been diagnosed with inguinal hernia in the Netherlands. After checking….”
Neil Doyle
”First and foremost, Dr. Koch’s surgical skills were nothing short of exceptional. His expertise in inguinal hernia repair instilled confidence…”
Brian Shelton
”Best Decision: My mesh free operation to correct an inguinal hernia was performed on a Wednesday morning a short 6 weeks after my initial call to Biohernia….”
Daniel Sab
”The last words from Dr Wiese I remember before to fall asleep in the operatory room were “You are in safe hands…”
Rik Kav
”I decided to get my hernia repaired by a specialist, rather than a general surgeon, and also in Ireland there are no surgeons who don’t use mesh…..”
edddwick
”I flew from Ireland for my surgery, having done my research and following the advice of an acquaintance who had done the same…”
Kev B
”I am a 49 year old male from the UK and I had a right ingunial hernia. I was given the opportunity via Biohernia to have a non-mesh repair done by Dr Andreas Koch in Cottbus Germany. The operation was a great success…..”
Julien Vailles
”Overall, I had a VIP experience with a great result in July 2021, my hernia is gone and I have no pain. I live in Ireland, I had an inguinal hernia for over 2 years …”
How BioHernia works
Assessment and video consultation with our surgeon
Travelling to our clinic
Undergoing the procedure
Recovery at home
Covered by your health system — in or outside the EU
If you’re seeking hernia surgery at our clinics in Germany, you may be eligible for reimbursement of your treatment costs — no matter where you’re from.
🇪🇺 For EU residents: Under the EU Cross-Border Healthcare Directive, you can claim a partial reimbursement from your national health insurance provider after receiving treatment abroad.
🌎 From outside the EU? If you have private health insurance, your treatment may still be reimbursed depending on your policy. We’ll provide detailed documentation to support your claim.
1.
Get a medical referral (if required by your insurer)
2.
Pay for your treatment at our clinic
3.
Submit your claim to your insurer or national health authority
We set the bar for mesh-free hernia surgery — and keep raising it
As pioneers in mesh-free hernia surgery, we are dedicated to leading the way in innovative, patient-focused treatments. Over 25 years ago, our surgeons were among the first to challenge the widespread use of plastic meshes in hernia surgery. Their commitment to providing safer, more natural solutions has driven our mission ever since.
With decades of experience and countless successful operations, our surgeons, along with our entire team, have continuously refined and perfected our procedures, ensuring that you receive the highest standard of care.
25+
years headstart in specialising and improving mesh-free hernia repair techniques
500+
operations done yearly by each of our surgeons, anesthesists and nurses
What our experience means for you:
Reduced recurrence rates
Introduction of lighter forms of anesthesia
Less recovery time
Preservering important muscles and nerves
Reduced incision size
Reduced operation risks
Reduced suture materials
Less operating time
Development of post-operative recovery plans for top mobility
Treatment in our clinics
Discover why thousands of people from around the world choose our clinics for treatment. Here, you’ll receive compassionate care, unmatched expertise, and exceptional skill, ensuring the best possible experience.
1 – Pre-operation
The day before your operation, you’ll visit the clinic for final pre-surgery checks. During this visit, you’ll meet your surgeon and anesthesiologist, who will walk you through the procedure and answer any remaining questions you may have.
Will the surgeon examine my hernia?
Yes, your surgeon will perform a full examination the day before your operation, taking time to answer any questions you may have. Additionally, the anesthesiologist will conduct tests to ensure you’re fully prepared for the procedure the next day.
What should I do to prepare for the operation?
Follow any instructions provided by your surgeon, such as fasting before the procedure or temporarily stopping certain medications. Stay hydrated the day before (unless instructed otherwise) and ensure you get a good night’s sleep. Arriving well-rested, relaxed, and on time will help ensure a smooth process. If you have any questions about preparation, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
2 – The operation
Our mesh removal operations are typically scheduled in the morning and take about 90 minutes to complete. After the procedure, you’ll wake up gradually in the recovery room, where our team will monitor you closely. Once you’re feeling steady and comfortable, you’ll be able to leave the clinic on your own feet.
OPERATION DETAILS
Waiting list | Two weeks |
Duration of operation | 90 minutes |
When to stop eating before operation | Exact time will be instructed day before operation |
Type of anaesthetics | General anesthesia only |
Type of incision | Open incision (5 cm) |
Success rate |
|
Length of scar after operation | Three to five centimeters |
Time to walking | Directly after operation |
Time to driving car/cycling | Driving is allowed after one week for right sided hernias. For left-side hernias with an automatic transmission car, driving is allowed the next day |
Time to full recovery | Six to eight weeks |
Time to cycling | Light cycling after one week |
Showering | One day after operation |
Wound care | Apply new wound dressing daily, for six days | No sutures to be removed |
Flying | Four to five days after the operation |
3 – After care
In the four days after your operation, you’ll have follow-up visits with your surgeon to support your recovery. These appointments allow your surgeon to monitor your healing, address any concerns, and provide personalised advice to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Looking for more information?
For a more in-depth look at each step of the process, from consultation to recovery, check out our comprehensive Patient guide. It’s designed to answer all your questions and help you feel fully prepared for your operation.
The science behind better hernia surgery
We believe in providing the best care by using techniques backed by solid research and proven results. Our mesh-free operation methods are supported by clinical studies, many of which are conducted by our own experienced surgeons.
The road to full recovery
After your hernia repair repair, the journey to full recovery begins. We’re committed to helping you navigate this road to healing, ensuring you can embrace your active lifestyle once again. In the first week you might experience a bit of discomfort at the operation site. It’s not unusual to notice some swelling or a touch of bruising. Best to take it easy this week, though a short stroll can help with blood flow and ease stiffness.
Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10kg to give your body the time it needs to heal properly.
Focus on fibre-rich foods to prevent constipation and include plenty of protein to support tissue repair.
Stay active with light movement like walking, as it promotes blood flow and supports recovery.
The following weeks
As you move into the second week and beyond, your recovery will gradually progress. Swelling and bruising should subside, and your energy levels will start to return. While it’s important to continue avoiding heavy lifting or intense activity, you can begin to reintroduce more of your usual routine during this period.
Weeks 2 and 3
You can slowly increase your activity level, incorporating light household tasks, short walks, or gentle cycling on a stationary bike at home or in the gym. These are all great ways to improve blood flow and rebuild strength without placing strain on the surgical site. Be sure to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard during this stage.
Weeks 6 to 8
By this stage, your recovery is well underway, and you’ll feel significantly stronger. You can confidently return to your regular activities, including more dynamic exercises like running or competitive sports. For those who enjoy weightlifting or more strenuous workouts, this is the time to start reintroducing these activities. While the repair is strong enough to handle heavier lifting, it’s still important to ease into it, gradually increasing intensity to allow your body to fully adapt. Most patients find they’re back to feeling like themselves by the end of week 8, ready to embrace an active lifestyle without limitations.
Resuming normal life
1. When can I return to work?
Most patients can return to office work or light-duty tasks within 1–2 weeks. However, for physically demanding jobs, it’s best to wait until 6-8 weeks after the procedure.
2. When can I start exercising again?
You can resume light activities, such as walking, within the first week after surgery. For more strenuous exercises like weightlifting, running, or intense workouts, it’s best to wait 6-8 weeks and ease back into them gradually, paying close attention to how your body feels.
3. Will I have any permanent restrictions?
No, after the recovery period, you’ll be able to return to your previous activity and fitness levels without any limitations. Whether it’s working out, heavy lifting, or enjoying your favorite hobbies, you can confidently resume life as it was before the hernia—strong, active, and unrestricted.
Hear from people that chose BioHernia
Frequently asked questions
Can mesh be safely removed?
Yes, in most cases it can. If your mesh was placed using an open technique (like the Lichtenstein method), it’s typically accessible and can be removed safely under local anaesthesia. In more complex cases, such as laparoscopic mesh, removal is still possible, but will require a short hospital stay.
Will removing the mesh stop my pain?
While every case is different, most patients experience significant improvement. After mesh removal at BioHernia, 85% of patients report either complete relief or significantly reduced pain.
What happens during the procedure?
The mesh and any fixation materials—such as tackers or sutures—are carefully removed. In all cases, the hernia is then repaired using the Shouldice technique, a natural, mesh-free method that uses your own tissue.
If the mesh has caused damage to the groin tissues, we may reinforce the repair with a special absorbable mesh called Phasix. This is made from a sugar-like substance that gradually dissolves into water and is fully absorbed by your body within 18 months.
Are operations done under general or local anesthetic?
Mesh removal operations are only performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. Our anesthesiologist will discuss the process with you in detail during your pre-operative consultation to ensure you’re fully informed and prepared.
Do the surgeons always perform the operations themselves?
Yes, at our clinic, our highly experienced surgeons personally perform all operations to ensure the highest standards of care. They are directly involved in every step of the procedure, from the initial consultation to the surgery itself, and the post-operative follow-up.
When can I travel back home?
You can usually travel back home four to five days after the operation. This allows enough time for initial recovery and for your surgeon to ensure there are no immediate complications. Your surgeon will give you specific guidance based on how you’re feeling post-surgery.