I Had Abdominoplasty to Repair Diastasis Recti and Hernia, Why is My Naval Still Herniated? (photo)

I had abdominoplasty to repair severe diastasis recti and umbilical hernia after a twin pregnancy. My doctor and I both noticed that I had a minor umbilical hernia again about 4 weeks after the surgery. He felt that it would improve. Now, nearly a year after the surgery, it has gotten a little worse. He noted it at my last check-up a few weeks ago and I declined to have any further repair. I am now reconsidering. It is mildly painful. I worry the tear is spreading to my abdominal muscles.

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7 Doctor Answers | Asked by 5697anon in SF Bay Area, CA

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Umbilical hernia prominent after tummy tuck

An umbilical hernia is very common. With the tightening of the abdominal wall musculature including the rectus muscle repair, this hernia and the associated symptomatology can be precipitated or exacerbated. Given your symptoms and the potential issues that can occur such as bowel strangulation, repair of this hernia may be reasonable. It should not disrupt or undo the tummy tuck repair.

Umbilical Hernia and Abdominoplasty

It is not uncommon for patients to have an umbilical hernia that is noted prior to abdominoplasty. Repair is performed simultaneously but separately from the repair of diastasis recti to alow complete hernia reduction and repair. Caution needs to be considered as significant undermining of the umbilical stalk at the time of abdominoplasty can risk the blood supply to the umbilicus with the possibility of the umbilical skin having partial or complete death (necrosis). The... more

Bulge 1 year post abdominoplasty

I agree with the other surgeons. You need a re-exploration and repair. It could be accomplished with a scope from the inside to assist in the repair.

Rick Rosen, MD

3 reviews

Norwalk Plastic Surgeon

Recurrent umbilical hernia

I agree with the others that you have a recurrent umbilical hernia and would benefit from re-repair.

Umbilical Hernia?

Thank you for the question and picture. You have an umbilical hernia that should be repaired ( hopefully with consideration given to reconstruction of the anatomy as well as the aesthetic appearance of the bellybutton). Best wishes.

Looks like the umbilical hernia has recurred

Hello, An umbilical hernia can be repaired in several ways including with or without the use of mesh. It can also be done under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. I would not worry about the umbilical hernia hurting your abdominal wall tightening. All the best, Dr Repta

Umbilical hernia after abdominoplasty

You may very effectively had the diastasis repaired properly, but it would appear that you still have a ventral or umbilical hernia. This will still need to be reevaluated and repaired properly for you to be pleased with the results. Good luck to you. Frank Rieger M.D. Tampa Plastic Surgeon