What is the Best Way to Get an Umbilical Hernia Fixed with Least Amount of Scaring?

Question

I have an umbilical hernia after having 3 kids. I have a fairly flat tummy and don't think I really need a tummy tuck. I just really need to get rid of this hernia. I am so self conscious about it. I have a large tattoo down my side also and don't want to mess it up. What procedure do you think would best benifit me? Thanks so much for your answers.

Kevin Brenner, MD, FACS · Answer

Most umbilical hernias (i.e. the straightforward, previously unoperated hernias) can be repaired primarily through a small incision along the inside rim of the upper portion of your belly button. The incisions are barely perceptible once fully healed. Check out the hernias repaired at the link below:

David Stoker, MD · Answer

When I repair umbilical hernias, I typically use a semicircular scar inside the rim of the belly button.  It allows be to repair the hernia with a scar that is difficult to detect.

Erez Sternberg, MD · Answer

Hey Jen,

	  This is a question I often get from my patients.  Not all plastics surgeons will fix a hernia, especially if it is not in combination with an abdominoplasty or tummy tuck procedure.  If your PS doesn't routinely do these you should seek the help of a general surgeon.  However, there are many PS, such as myself, that do. 

	   From your pictures, it is obvious that you do not need a tummy tuck.  Therefore, the best way to fix your hernia is by making a small incision at the inside base of you belly button and using this small incision as an access point to fix your small umbilical hernia.  The incision is nicely concealed on the inside of the button.  This will take care of the hernia without leaving an unsitely scar.  Good luck, Erez Sternberg, MD.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am a board certified plastic surgeon as well as board certified general surgeon so I perform lots of umbilical hernia repairs for patients. Sometimes by themselves, sometimes in combination with other procedures (breast or tummy). In my practice, I generally fix this type of hernia through an infra-umbilical (below the belly button) incision. Usually direct repair with sutures is possible. Sometimes, if the skin is very stretched, some skin contouring of the belly button may be necessary to improve the aesthetic outcome. Make sure you check credentials of your surgeon and make sure that they have performed this procedure before.

Rafael C. Cabrera, MD · Answer

a periiumbilical incision is the preferred exposure and it won't effect your tattoo. do not do a laparoscopic approach with 3 incisions and a plug instead of actual repair. this needs old school approach. good luck

What is the Best Way to Get an Umbilical Hernia Fixed with Least Amount of Scaring?

Answers (8)