Types of Hernia
Why Hernia Institute
Hernia Surgeon
Experience
Performed
Meet The Team



About National Hernia Institute
According to the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), nearly 100,000 Australians are hospitalised for symptomatic hernia each year, with the vast majority of them ending up with surgical repair.
This is an extremely common condition that will affect 27% of men and around 3% of women throughout their lifetime.
Knowing that hernia repair is the most commonly performed procedure by general surgeons, complications such as hernia recurrence and chronic pain are still frequently encountered, mainly depending on the degree of experience of the surgeon. Since the turn of the millennium and following the introduction of minimally invasive (laparoscopic or “keyhole”) devices, there has been an unprecedented explosion and development of new surgical techniques in all aspects of general surgery, including hernia repair, translating into significant improvement of patient outcomes.
This said, complications in keyhole hernia surgery may be potentially more frequent and dangerous than those of open surgery, especially in inexperienced hands. This is the reason why dedicated international groups of hernia surgeons are continuously working together and sharing their personal knowledge through numerous high-quality medical publications, and highly regarded meetings and conferences, whilst at the same time creating specialised Hernia Centres for the benefit of their patients. “Abdominal Wall Reconstruction & Complex Hernia Repairs” is now recognised as an independent surgical subspecialty in Europe and North America.
That is why Prof. Christophe Berney has established the National Hernia Institute (NHI), an academic centre to provide a unique comprehensive state-of-the-art surgical treatment specifically customised for those who may require hernia repair, using the latest surgical techniques.
Multidisciplinary team
Prof Berney leads a multidisciplinary team of professionals with vast experience in the treatment and management of hernias. The NHI multidisciplinary team includes:
- Specialist Hernia Surgeons
- Radiology (US, CT, MRI)
- Intervention Radiologists
- Chronic Groin Pain Specialists
- Onsite Physiotherapists and Hydrotherapy Pool
- Excellent Specialist Nurses & Administrative Support
Who is Prof Berney?
Prof Berney is a highly qualified minimally invasive laparoscopic (keyhole) specialist and renowned international hernia surgeon with over 20 years of experience in the field of abdominal wall reconstruction. With more than 7,500 surgical procedures performed using this technique that he has refined over the years he will offer you outstanding results, with expected very high long-term satisfaction index and improved quality-of-Life.
Wish to book an appointment or looking for some more information about our services,
get in touch and we will be happy to assist.
The surgery went well and after a one night stay in the hospital he was able to leave the next morning, with very minimal pain and no difficulty with walking. He has had 2 follow up visits and has healed very well.
I cannot stress how grateful we are for Dr Berney's expertise and reassurance as well as his clear explanation of what to expect during and after the surgery.
I was truly impressed with the quality and professionalism of my care and treatment from the moment I met Prof Berney thru to my admission into Waratah Private Hospital where I underwent laparoscopic surgery with an amazing competent, caring and professional team.
From admission to discharge I was constantly being care for with the utmost care and professionalism.
The operation has been a complete success with little to no pain and a great prognosis for a full recovery.
My follow care has been just as amazing and I can highly recommend Prof Berney and his wonderful team at both the NHI and the WPH.
Regaining function to return to athletic activities like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was crucial to me, and I needed someone exceptionally skilled to achieve that.
At our initial consultation, I was grappling with multiple workplace injuries and was at a particularly low point in my life. The prospect of surgery offered a pathway to recovery and relief from pain, and I was eager to proceed, fearing my condition might deteriorate further.
Professor Berney quickly recognised the distress my injuries were causing me and showed immense compassion and understanding. As an Army veteran, the impact on my mental health was profound, and his empathy provided significant comfort.
Despite his busy schedule and an upcoming professional lecture trip to France to educate future surgeons, Professor Berney prioritised my well-being. He ensured that I could undergo surgery promptly by accommodating me into his schedule when a last-minute cancellation arose shortly before his departure.
The laparoscopic surgery was minimally invasive, leaving me with two small surgical wounds that are now barely noticeable. I made a full recovery and regained complete function in a surprisingly short period, a testament to the advanced techniques used and Professor Berney’s exceptional surgical skills.
Although not all surgery costs were covered by WorkCover, I didn’t mind paying the excess. I wanted the best surgeon available, and the additional expense was a worthwhile investment in my health. This choice afforded me confidence in achieving the best possible outcome, minimal scarring, and a faster recovery time, all of which were very important to me.
The care, consideration, professionalism, and talent Professor Berney exhibited resulted in a fantastic outcome for which I am deeply grateful.
I highly recommend him to anyone seeking top-tier surgical care.
If you are considering surgery, you want to do your due diligence and make sure you are in the best hands. I researched the internet diligently and eventually found Prof. Chris Berney. I have worked in many Sydney hospitals, I can attest to the fact that there are 'standout' surgeons and 'so-so' surgeons. I have a finely tuned radar for both. Prof. Chris is a standout and I wish other surgeons in Sydney could match him on his processes and standards. And genuine patient care.
Today is 6 weeks since my operation and every review you read on this thread about the Prof and his team is authentic.
I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Prof Chris and his team to anyone in need of hernia repair. Prof Chris, his anaesthetist Dr Michael Tobin (very important), the assistant surgeon and imaging Doctor. And importantly, Lauren & Morgan at reception.
First rate, all of them!!
Thank you, Dr. Berney, and your entire staff.
Professor Berney was just the surgeon I was looking for, a leader in the latest techniques, and a real expertise in hernia surgery.
I was filled with confidence on the first consultation, with every aspect of the procedsure explained from a very reassuring and caring person.
Thank you for providing me with the absolute best outcome.
At 75 I am a new person as a result of his expert surgery. I had my last follow up visit with him today and am immensely grateful for his expertise and in general his thoughtfulness
Thank you Professor Berney
The admin team is equally outstanding. They handle inquiries with efficiency and friendliness, making communication smooth and stress-free. Their willingness to address any questions or concerns with such ease is a testament to their commitment to patient satisfaction.
We are truly fortunate to have such a dedicated and supportive team looking after those in need. Their combined efforts create a caring and reassuring environment that is greatly appreciated. Thank you for all that you do!
