Hernia Surgery-This type of operation is normally very safe. But like all surgeries, having your hernia removed comes with a number of possible complications. They include: Infection of the wound Open hernia repair is a major surgery that's performed with the aid of general anesthesia or local anesthesia and sedation. It's done through one or two standard-sized incisions (three to six inches in length) that allow the surgeon to fully visualize and access the problematic area.