What to expect 1 year post op full abdominal reconstruction with component separation? (Photos)

Question

I had a masive ventral hernia repair with abdominal reconstruction in Feb 2017. My bmi is 31 and I have a deepseated fear of my viceral fat pushing the repair open again. The proceedure was done at Emory with a gastrointestinal surgeon taking care of hernia and a plastic surgeon doing the abdominal reconstruction with component separation and a mesh overlay. How strong is this repair? Would aches after exercise be due to nornal muscle soreness? I'm trying to reduce my bmi and strengthen my core.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and congratulations on your pursue of weight loss and core training.  It is fact that the higher one's BMI the much greater risk of hernia recurrence and I commend your efforts to reduce yours.  A separation of parts repair with mesh is very strong, if your tissues were healthy, so I would continue your exercise efforts if recommended by both your surgeons.  Hope this helps.

Grady B. Core, MD · Answer

At one year out with no evidence of recurrence your chances of a recurrence are extremely low . While i prefer mesh underlay with the Stoppa technique, the  overlay , once integrated into the muscle fascia ( 12 weeks) , will be just as strong. However, the subcutaneous position of the mesh overlay means you will be at slightly higher risk of an infection popping up down the road compared to an underlay. Nonetheless, no problems at one year means you have an overwhelming chance of never having another problem unless you gain your weight back. Looks like your surgeons did a great job.

Pravin Reddy, MD · Answer

Thank you for the interesting question and for sharing photographs.Seperation of components is a highly effective repair and in my experience — virtually no recurrences.  I do note that you did not undergo pannicukectomy with your surgery which is a procedure I find to be beneficial when combined with abdominal wall reconstruction.  Continued weight loss will give the best chance for long-term results.  Discomfort ( usually resulting from sensory nerve recovery) is best managed with Lyrica.  Unlike other “bridging” hernia repairs, continued improvement in core strength will not adversely affect the hernia repair.  I hope this information is helpful.

What to expect 1 year post op full abdominal reconstruction with component separation? (Photos)

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