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Puppy has a firm lump after hernia surgery. Is the hernia returning?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 2 months and 15 days old | 3 lbs

Post hernia surgery over 2 weeks, large firm lump developed on site of repair. It has grown slowly...am concerned that my puppy hernia has returned. Also there is a small scab, that I clean regularly. My vet said to keep an eye on it and if it gets any bigger to bring her in. Any advice??? I thought the worst was over....she is 10 weeks and 3lbs.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on March 1st, 2019

Coco may be having a suture reaction. A hernia repair has a three layer closure and the body must break down each layer of those sutures. Sometimes you can see swelling afterwards. Restricting Coco’s activity will help so that it does not pull so much on the tissue which causes additional inflammation. If you are noticing that it is still swelling and getting bigger, I recommend have Coco checked out again to make sure the hernia has not reoccurred. It never hurts to have the area palpated by the veterinarian. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 11th, 2017

    The swelling at Skout's incision site may be a break down of the hernia repair (meaning that the hernia is recurring) or could be whats called a suture reaction. A hernia is a hole in the abdominal wall, so fat and what not can be pushed back inside the body and the swelling will decrease in size. Press on the swollen area, does it decrease in size? If it feels like you are pushing the swelling back into the body, then its likely a hernia. You will often times feel the hole in the body wall. Suture reactions tend to feel pretty firm although they can contain fluid. If you cannot reduce the size at all, it is likely a suture reaction. You may be able to feel the internal sutures as well. If the area seems painful, then I would recommend to go to the emergency clinic tonight. If it is not painful, I would recommend to have him checked out at the vet tomorrow so they can press on it and be sure whats happening. Try to keep his activity level as low as you can until you get to the vet. I hope this helps! Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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