Can my incisional hernia be corrected when having a tummy tuck?

Question

Hi so I had mini Laparotomy ( 4cm pubic incision) and a laparoscopic. I have a incisional hernia on pubic incision which looks similar to a c section, it not visible on the outside but can be felt when touched, can this be corrected when having a tummy tuck or would I need it to be corrected before I have a tummy tuck thank you

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.
Many plastic surgeons will repair a hernia along with a tummy tuck. You would need to check with yours/ If not  a general surgeon can repair it for you prior to your tummy tuck. Good luck!

Karthik Ram, MRCS, DNB · Answer

Hello yummymummy10,
Many surgeons do combine the hernia repair with tummy tuck. So its possible together. Please consult a board certified plastic surgeon for detailed examination of your hernia. 
Hope this helps. Thanks for your query here.

Christopher Pannucci, MD, MS · Answer

Hi yummymummy10,
A hernia is a gap in the muscle fascia (the strong layer of the abdomen), allowing your intra-abdominal contents to come through and lie under the skin/subcutaneous tissue. This is different than a bulge, where the abdominal fascia is weak but still intact.
An initial exam can determine which you have, and can determine whether a CT scan is needed prior to surgery. If your exam is unclear, the CT scan can help to determine which problem you have.
If you have a true incisional hernia (eg your intestines or intra-abdominal contents are in the subcutaneous space), it's best to know in advance--where your surgery is performed (eg an ambulatory surgery center vs. a hospital setting) might change based on this knowledge. In addition, in the setting of an incisional hernia, your plastic surgeon may refer you to a general surgeon to discuss the best timing and next steps.
Hope this helps.
Best,Christopher Pannucci MD MSBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, Washington

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

At the time of your tummy tuck, it is possible to correct the incisional hernia.  You do not need 2 separate operations.  I routinely use mesh with tummy tucks if you are not planning future pregnancies.  The mesh creates a more hourglass figure by compressing the abdominal wall resulting in early satiety and helps maintain a reduced weight.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear yummymummy10,
I understand your concern. It is best however that you consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to determine whether you can have several aesthetic surgeries in one session, as this would depend on various factors including but not limited to your general health condition, the type of anesthesia that will be used, and the type of surgeries that will be performed among others.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Can my incisional hernia be corrected when having a tummy tuck?

Answers (9)

Answer: Tummy tuck with mesh

Answer: Tummy tuck with mesh

Answer: Combination of procedures

Answer: Combination of procedures

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Can my incisional hernia be corrected when having a tummy tuck?

Answers (9)

Answer: Tummy tuck with mesh

Answer: Tummy tuck with mesh

Answer: Combination of procedures

Answer: Combination of procedures

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.