Would hiatal hernia repair with a general surgeon affect the cosmetic side of abdominoplasty?

Question

I had a tummy tuck 6 years ago and now I have a hiatal hernia. My general surgeon suggested robotic hernia repair with mesh. He wants to do a 10 x 10 of mesh to also fix other weak spots in my abdomen. Will the robotic repair affect the cosmetic side of my tummy tuck? Will I need another tummy tuck? Also my muscles were not tightened last time because the surgeon didn’t want to work with previous mesh from an incisional hernia repair that was repaired 23 years ago

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regaridng the potential effects of a hiatal hernia repair on your previous tummy tuck procedure. As a surgeon, I understand that you may be concerned about the impact of additional procedures on the cosmetic outcome of your initial surgery.

In general, a hiatal hernia repair with mesh should not have a significant impact on the cosmetic results of your tummy tuck procedure. The abdominal muscles will be affected during the hernia repair, but the use of mesh can provide support to the weakened area and improve the overall strength of your abdominal wall.

The specific technique used during the initial tummy tuck procedure may affect the extent to which the hiatal hernia repair may impact the cosmetic results. If your abdominal muscles were not tightened during the initial tummy tuck procedure, the repair of the hiatal hernia with mesh may provide an opportunity to address this and achieve a more sculpted appearance. However, it is important to note that a revision tummy tuck may be necessary if there are significant changes to the abdominal area.

Regarding your previous mesh incisional hernia repair, this can make it more challenging to perform a tummy tuck with muscle tightening. However, during the hernia repair procedure, your surgeon can assess whether the mesh is still providing adequate support and may consider removing or adjusting it if necessary.

I recommend discussing these concerns with your general surgeon and your plastic surgeon to create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your medical needs while also optimizing the cosmetic results of your previous tummy tuck procedure.

Thank you for trusting me with your question, and I wish you all the best with your medical and cosmetic journey.

Sincerely,

Dr. Katzen

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

When the robotic surgery is performed very small incisions are made.  Those small scars should be the only impact from your tummy tuck since you didn't have previous muscle repair.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @beachingablonde, thank you for your question. J plasma is capable of improving the structure of skin by causing the tissue to contract. Hiatal hernias are usually repaired with small incisions that do not affect the previous outcome of a tummy tuck. For more information and recommendations, it is prudent to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The hernia repair should not interfere with your tummy tuck. Weight gain and pregnancy will interfere.

David Janssen, MD, FACS · Answer

The TT will likely only be affected by the formation of the new scars that are created by the ports necessary for the robot to work. It should not affect your muscle repair but the new scars may negatively impact your result

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Would hiatal hernia repair with a general surgeon affect the cosmetic side of abdominoplasty?

Answers (6)

Answer: Hernia

Answer: Hernia

Answer: Will a HH repair affect your TT

Answer: Will a HH repair affect your TT

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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