Is there any doctors that do no-mesh hernia repair?

Question

I was told I have 2 small inguiunial hernias and I think I have an incisional hernia right under my appendectomy scar. They are all reducible and mostly with no visible bump. I can feel the a bulge but it comes and goes. There has been a great deal of discomfort lately and want to get it fixed locally in Houston TX but I really do not want to use any mesh. I have Blue cross/blue shield insurance and was wondering if there are any doctors out there that do any non-mesh techniques

Jeffrey A. Sweat, MD · Answer

It is unclear in your question if you wish to have the hernias repair in conjunction with a tummy tuck or you are simply looking for advice on the hernia repair.  Usually general surgeons deal with hernia repairs and unless they are extensive, plastics surgeons are only involved if there is a tummy tuck being done at the same time.  Regarding inguinal hernias, I think most surgeons would tell you that the risk of the hernia coming back is unacceptably high without the use of a mesh.  It would be important to discuss with your surgeon why you are opposed to using a mesh and what other products may be available instead.  Another approach besides an external hernia repair, especially since you have 3, may be a laparoscopic hernia repair, but again, this would not be done in conjunction with a tummy tuck.  I suggest you start with general surgery and work your way from there.  Best of luck!

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Mesh has been shown to decrease the recurrence rate of hernias significantly... if you are going to do it, do it right.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, and I am sorry to hear that your hernias are starting to give you problems.  There are ways to repair hernias without mesh, but it's important that you see a board certified general and plastic surgeon to help you decide on the best operation.  After an in-person examination, your surgeons will be able to tell you what would work best to repair your bulges, and prevent them from coming back.  Below you will find a link that will help you seach for a physician in your area.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

If you have bilateral inguinal hernia and incisional hernia, you should consult with general surgeon who perform hernia surgery regularly.  Depending on the size of hernia, you may not need a mesh.  However, if the incisional hernia is large (>5cm), repairing with mesh may be better.  Hernia can recur after repair if the repair is performed under tension.  Good luck.

Is there any doctors that do no-mesh hernia repair?

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