Both are safe Both have almost similar recurrence rates Advantage with laparoscopic is less post operative pain. You can start normal work from post op day 1-2. For open you might require a week Laparoscopic is good for small inguinal hernias. Open can operate even complete ones reaching the base of the scrotum. So this is one factor to consider the surgery...ie size of the hernia The placement of mesh in laparoscopic hernia makes it less susceptible to infection although there are very little chances for even open hernioplasty to get infected as it is a clean surgery (1-2%) Prolene light weight mesh is used as a standard mesh in both the cases The surgery won't affect your future. Some people have mesh related discomfort which can be controlled with medicines The surgery is a relatively easy one. No need to worry about it. Any surgeon can do this procedure. Esp the open one. Surgery is not an emergency as such. However if the hernia progresses further as the time passes then the herniated content becomes difficult to reduce and then the case becomes a bit complicated one. So better to get operated Hope this answer clears all your doubts