I had three hernias about 18 years ago, two inguinal and a third one two inches below and to the right of my navel. There were no bumps so they were small. They were confirmed by ultrasound and cough tests. I turned down mesh surgery suggested by surgeon and the pain went away completely within four months just by changing my sleeping position. I had been putting strain on my lower abdomen during my sleep which I solved by sleeping in a fetal position.
Now I have a right inguinal hernia with a bump that looks like a golf ball sticking out. I can keep in for the most part by wearing a belt with a pad I made myself and I think this way I can postpone surgery hopefully for a long time.
I also have had sore lower abdominals on and off when I put strain on them for many years. I got my current hernia five months ago. Dr Kang would be my choice for surgery. The person who did the ultrasound said I have weak abdominal muscles and until this is solved I am afraid I can get more hernias.
I am going to buy a light therapy belt at amazon for under $100 with near infrared waves of 850 nm which can penetrate about two or more inches. They claim light therapy makes the mitochondria produce more energy and it also stimulates collagen production. They also claim it aids in muscle recovery and relieves pain. I will try this and see what happens before I contemplate surgery.