“When should you have hernia surgery?”

Yes, at 45 you are the perfect age to have it done!

Hello:
When you have pain or discomfort.
Dr Kelly

In general, once a hernia is discovered, surgery should be done to repair it. Of course, there are a few exceptions to this. Hernias in adults continue to enlarger if not repaired, even if you do not lift anything heavier than a paper clip! Laughing, sneezing, coughing and bowel movements ALL cause increases in intra-abdominal pressure which over time make the hernia bigger. If left unattended, a hernia may cause severe complications including bowel obstruction, strangulation, septic shock, and even death. The larger the hernia the bigger/more complex the surgery. Of course the more difficult the surgery the higher the risk to the patient. In short, if you are healthy enough to have surgery, you should proceed with hernia surgery.

A hernia should be repaired when it's symptomatic and to avoid incarceration and strangulation.

I typically recommend hernia repairs when they grow larger in size or when then cause symptoms.

Hernias typically are fixed when they are causing symptoms typically pain. Generally hernias that are not causing symptoms generally can be watched. Generally a hernia can be fixed electively if you and your surgeon decide it's in your best interest.
Thanks.