Can you fix an umbilical hernia without surgery?

Sadly no: An umbilical hernia is when fat or even intestines are able to push through a pre-existing hole (hernia) in the naval. Once the hole has streched open enough to see and feel the hernia there is no way for the hole to close back up without surgery. That being said the surgery is usually very simple and straightforward with a fast recover and worth doing!

No, however...: ...Not all umbilical hernias require repair. When diagnosed in infancy, these rarely cause symptoms and can often close on their own. If they persist beyond 3-4, elective repair is recommended before school. In adults, repair is recommended if the hernia causes symptoms or is of a sufficient size to allow intestine into the hernia.

In Adults, No: Unfortunately in adults surgery is the only way to repair an umbilical hernia. The hernia is basically a "hole" in the abdominal wall which allows the abdominal lining or part of the abdominal organs to protrude through the area around the belly button. The main reason surgery is required to fix these is that in some cases, intestine or other tissue can become trapped in the hernia and lose its blood supply (become strangulated). This is an emergency needing surgery.

No: But surgery can be fairly minor.

Depends on age: Umbilical hernias tend to close on their own by 12 to 18 months of age. Repair is rarely recommended until 3 years of age. Umbilical hernias in adults are acquired rather than congenital, and require surgical repair.

Not usually: Umbilical hernias in baby's are usually not fixed as they often resolve by themselves this does not happen in older children and adults and requires surgery.

No: Sorry but that is the answer. Fortunately, umblilical hernia surgery is usually a simple, outpatient procedure and it prevents the hernia from enlarging and becoming a much more serious problem.

No: In an adult an umbilical hernia will not correct without surgery.

No: If the umbilical hernia has not closed by age two or if it becomes symptomatic prior to age two it should be fixed. This is done easily on outpatient basis.

Probably not: You cannot improve it without surgery but you can prevent it from getting worse by eliminating or diminishing intra abdominal pressure. This could be due to obesity, strenuous physical activity, chronic constipation, inappropriate use of abdominal muscles that can be corrected using core strengthening regimens, bad posture or body mechanics, any activity causing you to bear down, etc.