Can I get ab etching if I have a small hernia?

Whether you can undergo abdominal etching when you have a small hernia depends on several factors, and it is crucial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or a healthcare professional who can assess your specific situation. Here are some considerations:

Type and Size of Hernia:

Inguinal Hernia: Abdominal etching is typically focused on the upper and central abdominal regions. If you have a small inguinal (groin) hernia, it may not directly interfere with the areas typically treated during abdominal etching.
Umbilical Hernia: If the hernia is near the umbilicus (belly button), it could be of greater concern, as this is an area often addressed during abdominal etching.
Safety and Surgical Considerations:

Consultation with a Surgeon: A surgeon will assess the type and size of the hernia, its location, and whether it may impact the safety and success of abdominal etching.
Risk of Complications: Having a hernia could increase the risk of complications during surgery, and the surgeon will need to evaluate whether it is safe to proceed.
Medical Evaluation:

Medical History: A thorough medical history, including details about the hernia and any related symptoms, will be considered.
Physical Examination: A physical examination is typically performed to assess the hernia's characteristics and its impact on the abdominal area.
Treatment of the Hernia:

Prior Hernia Repair: In some cases, it may be recommended to address the hernia surgically before considering cosmetic procedures. This is especially true if the hernia is symptomatic or poses a risk of complications.
Simultaneous Procedures: In certain situations, a surgeon may be able to address the hernia and perform abdominal etching during the same surgical session. This depends on the specifics of the case and the surgeon's expertise.
Individualized Approach:

Tailored Recommendations: The suitability of undergoing abdominal etching with a small hernia is highly individualized. Surgeons will provide tailored recommendations based on your unique circumstances.
It is crucial to be transparent with your surgeon about any pre-existing medical conditions, including hernias, during the consultation process. Your surgeon will guide you on the most appropriate course of action, taking into account your health, safety, and aesthetic goals.

If you have a small hernia and are considering abdominal etching, schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or a qualified healthcare professional. They will evaluate your situation, discuss potential risks and benefits, and provide personalized recommendations based on your individual case.

Thank you for your question regarding the presence of a hernia and considering undergoing VASER HI-DEF abdominal etching. If a hernia is suspected, an abdominal ultrasound should be performed before or during surgery. In my practice, I have many patients who have an umbilical or abdominal hernia who request VASER HI-DEF abdominal etching. I still offer these patients the option of having VASER HI-DEF abdominal etching. The problem is that if liposuction is performed before the hernia is fixed, the liposuction cannula can perforate the hernia. Perforating a hernia can make you very sick and patients can die. Therefore, for my patients who are requesting VASER HI-DEF abdominal etching and have an umbilical hernia,  I repair the hernia at the beginning of the surgery. The hernia repair is done first and the hernia is repaired with permanent suture. After the hernia is repaired and during the same surgical setting, tumescent solution is inserted for VASER HI-DEF liposuction. Then, the VASER probe is inserted, the abdominal fat is melted and the abdominal wall is heated. Then, the micoaire liposuction cannula is inserted and the fat around the abdominal muscle fat is removed. After the VASER HI-DEF liposuction procedure,  the intra-abdominal wall muscles are revealed. Therefore, I would suggest you have your hernia repaired BEFORE your abdominal etching or during abdominal etching at the beginning of your procedure. Either way, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon who is comfortable in performing hernia repairs and VASER Hi-DEF abdominal etching at the same time. Thank you.
VASER HI-DEF abdominal sculpting or etching is a technically difficult procedure.  Your plastic surgeon must know his abdominal wall anatomy. When seeking initial or revision VASER HI-DEF abdominal etching, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing the VASER HI-DEF procedure.  Not all plastic surgeons own a VASER machine and most plastic surgeons do not perform the VASER HI-DEF procedure. Do your research.  Make sure your selected plastic surgeon has performed at least 100 VASER HI-DEF abdominal etching surgeries and have the before and after pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.   If you cannot find an experienced, VASER HI-DEF plastic surgeon in your neighborhood, consider traveling, if you must. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame).

Surgeries require a formal consult and medical clearance. See an expert to determine if you are a candidate. Best, Dr. Emer.