The umbilical hernias are not as dangerous. However, there are risks involved in the umbilical hernias that are left untreated. They may get trapped in a condition called incarcerated. This phenomenon can cut off the blood flow to the parts of your hernia, thereby leading to life-threatening conditions, like gangrene or peritonitis. In this case, your hernia will be called as a strangulated hernia. If left untreated, an umbilical hernia is most likely to grow bigger and more uncomfortable. Therefore, in a majority of hernia cases, a repair surgery will be recommended by the doctors.