A hernia occurs when an internal organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall, often creating a noticeable bulge. Hernias can develop in various parts of the body but are commonly found in the abdominal area. Common types of hernias include inguinal (inner groin), umbilical (near the belly button), and ventral (abdominal wall). These hernias can be caused by a variety of factors, such as strenuous activity, obesity, or persistent coughing.
While some small hernias may not cause any symptoms and can be monitored by a doctor, others can become larger and more painful over time. Hernia symptoms may include pain or discomfort in the affected area, swelling or bulging under the skin, and a feeling of pressure or heaviness, especially when coughing, bending, or lifting heavy objects.
In more severe cases where the hernia is causing significant discomfort or impacting daily activities, surgery may be recommended. Depending on the individual case, surgeons may employ traditional open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. Both methods aim to provide relief from hernia symptoms and restore the patient's quality of life.
At Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center, we pride ourselves on being a leading provider of surgical care in the Johns Creek area. Our experienced team specializes in hernia repair surgery procedures, employing the latest techniques and advanced medical equipment to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. If you're experiencing hernia symptoms and considering your treatment options, our team of dedicated professionals is here to help you find relief.
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A ventral hernia happens when tissue protrudes through an opening in the muscles of the abdomen. This type of hernia can develop in any location within the abdominal wall but is most often found at the site of a previous surgical incision. It leads to a noticeable bulge and, in some cases, tenderness or pain in the affected area. Unlike some other hernias, which may go unnoticed for a while, ventral hernias are more likely to be symptomatic and noticed due to the visible bulge they create.
The procedure to repair a ventral hernia involves repositioning the protruding tissue and reinforcing the weakened area of the abdominal wall. Surgeons employ different techniques based on the size and location of the hernia and the overall health of the patient. One approach is open hernia repair surgery, where a large incision is made over the hernia. The protruding tissue is pushed back into place, and the muscle wall is stitched together with the aid of a surgical mesh to provide additional support.
Another technique is laparoscopic hernia repair, which is minimally invasive. This method involves making several small incisions through which a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera on the end) and surgical instruments are inserted. The surgeon repairs the hernia from inside the abdomen with the help of the visual guidance provided by the camera. This approach generally results in smaller scars, less postoperative pain, and a quicker recovery time.
At Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center, our team is highly skilled in both open and laparoscopic ventral hernia repair techniques. If you suspect you have a ventral hernia, our dedicated professionals can evaluate your condition and discuss the most effective treatment options for your needs.
An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal muscles, specifically in the inguinal canal. This is the most common type of hernia and tends to occur more frequently in men than in women.
Symptoms of an inguinal hernia include a noticeable bulge on either side of the pubic bone, a burning or aching sensation at the bulge, pain or discomfort in the groin, and weakness or pressure in the groin area. The discomfort often increases with activities such as bending, coughing, or lifting heavy objects.
When it comes to treating an inguinal hernia, surgery is often recommended, especially if the hernia is causing significant pain or growing in size. During the repair, the surgeon will use either open or laparoscopic techniques to access the hernia via an incision in the groin. The protruding tissue is then pushed back into place, and the muscle wall is reinforced with stitches or surgical mesh.
At Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center, our team of expert surgeons specialize in both open and laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. We understand how disruptive an inguinal hernia can be to your daily life and are committed to providing personalized treatment plans that cater to your unique needs.
An umbilical hernia occurs when a part of the intestine or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles near the belly button (umbilicus). This condition is particularly common in infants under 6 months old, but it can also affect adults. In infants, the hernia often appears as a noticeable bulge near the belly button when the baby cries, coughs, or strains.
Repairing an umbilical hernia generally involves pushing the protruding tissue back into place and strengthening the abdominal wall with sutures and surgical mesh. However, sometimes umbilical hernias return even after they are repaired. For this reason, surgery is often recommended for adults with umbilical hernias, especially if the hernia is causing discomfort or growing in size.
At Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center, our team has extensive experience in treating umbilical hernias in both infants and adults. If you or your child are dealing with an umbilical hernia, schedule a consultation with our team today to explore your options for repair.
Risk factors include chronic coughing, obesity, heavy lifting, pregnancy, and a history of previous surgeries or hernias. Genetic predisposition to weak connective tissues can also play a role. Consulting with a hernia specialist doctor to discuss your risk factors and develop a plan to minimize them can be helpful.
In some cases, hernias may not require immediate surgery, and symptoms can be managed with lifestyle changes or supportive measures. However, most hernias will eventually require surgical intervention to prevent complications or alleviate symptoms.
Recovery times can vary depending on the type of hernia repaired, whether it was an open or laparoscopic surgery, and your overall health. Typically, patients can expect some discomfort and limited physical activity for a few weeks. Following your surgeon's postoperative care instructions is essential for a smooth recovery.
The first step is to schedule a consultation with the team at Atlanta General & Bariatric Surgery Center, which is straightforward and convenient. Simply give us a call at (678) 691-6257 or fill out our online contact form, and our staff will assist you in setting up an appointment. We look forward to helping you on your journey towards a healthier life!