How much does hernia repair cost?
Most hernia repairs are elective and outpatient, which means you usually have time to compare prices. As of mid-2026, an inguinal (groin) hernia repair has a negotiated facility price with a median around $3,800, with most hospitals between $770 and $7,900. The cash median is around $4,200. See inguinal hernia prices →
An umbilical (belly-button) hernia repair is broadly similar, with a negotiated median around $4,100 and an often-lower cash price. See umbilical hernia prices →
What drives the price
- Open vs. laparoscopic. Both are common; laparoscopic (keyhole) repair may cost more in facility fees but can mean a faster recovery.
- Mesh. Most repairs use surgical mesh, which is usually included in the facility charge.
- Setting. A planned repair at an ambulatory surgery center is often cheaper than a hospital.
- Separate bills. The surgeon and anesthesiologist are frequently billed on top of the facility fee — ask for an all-in quote.
Planned vs. emergency
A hernia that becomes strangulated is an emergency and must be repaired urgently, which costs far more than a scheduled repair. For a stable, non-urgent hernia, your doctor may even suggest watchful waiting — and if surgery is planned, you have room to shop.
The three prices you'll see
- Cash / self-pay price — what you pay directly without insurance.
- Negotiated price — your plan's rate; your share depends on your deductible and coinsurance.
- Gross / chargemaster price — the list price, far above what anyone pays.
How to shop for a hernia repair
- Compare two or three facilities before scheduling an elective repair.
- Ask about an ambulatory surgery center.
- Get a bundled quote covering facility, surgeon, and anesthesia.
- Check your out-of-pocket maximum if insured. How deductibles work →
A note on accuracy
Figures come from hospitals' published price files (45 CFR §180), not estimates. Your cost depends on the facility, the technique, and your plan. How we source this →
Frequently asked questions
How much does inguinal hernia surgery cost?
The negotiated facility price has a median around $3,800, with most hospitals between roughly $770 and $7,900. The self-pay median is around $4,200. The surgeon and anesthesia are often billed separately, so ask for an all-in quote.
Is hernia repair cheaper at a surgery center?
Often. Most elective hernia repairs are outpatient, and an ambulatory surgery center is frequently cheaper than a hospital for the same operation. Ask your surgeon whether that's an option.
Does the price include the surgeon and anesthesia?
Usually not. The published figure is typically the facility fee; the surgeon and anesthesiologist are commonly billed separately. Ask for a bundled or all-inclusive quote before scheduling.
What's the difference between open and laparoscopic hernia repair cost?
Both are common. Laparoscopic (keyhole) repair can carry higher facility fees but may mean a faster recovery. The right choice depends on the hernia and your surgeon — compare both the price and the recovery.
Related
- Inguinal hernia repair prices
- Umbilical hernia repair prices
- Why hospital prices vary so much
- Browse all procedures
Prices in this guide are as of June 2026 and link to the live page for current figures. Published data is for comparison, not a quote — always confirm with the hospital. Spotted something off? Submit a correction.