How Different is Hernia Repair from a Tummy Tuck?

Thank you for the question.

In my opinion, the best time to repair the umbilical hernia is at the same time that you're having a tummy tuck done. At that time, the hernia is easily  exposed and repaired,  negating the need for further surgery. Care must be taken during the performance umbilical hernia repair to avoid compromise of blood flow to the overlying skin.

It would be in your best interest to have these procedures done concomitantly.

Please make sure you are working with a well experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.

I hope this helps.

Dear StarDiva,
Be smart and visit with a plastic surgeon as well as a general surgeon. The hernia repair can be done at the same time as the tummy tuck, and if you combine them, you will have a nice external scar. If only a general surgeon is working on you, there is a possibility that you may end up with a scar that could not be fully removed by a later tummy tuck. At least speak with both before proceeding.
Best wishes,
Dr.B

Hernia repair addresses an opening that has occurred in the fascia or the covering of the rectus (six pack) muscles. It will simply close up the hole. It does not remove any excess skin or tighten the muscles.
You can get a combined hernia repair and abdominoplasty and have it all done in one surgery. Ofcourse, the hernia repair will be covered by your health insurance but the tummy tuck would be a cosmetic cost. You can find a plastic surgeon that may feel comfortable taking care of both or you may need to find a general surgeon to deal with the hernia and a plastic surgeon to perform the tummy tuck.
Just make sure your plastic surgeon is board certified by the american board of plastic surgery. There are some general surgeons out there that will tell you that they can do both........I highly advised against that.
GOOD LUCK.