Hernia surgery, performed by Dr. Chad Carlton at LoneStar Bariatrics, is a procedure to fix the bulging of an organ through an opening. It aims to relieve your pain and discomfort, helping you get back to your daily activities quickly and safely.
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What Is a Hernia?
A hernia is when an organ or tissue bulges through an opening, typically involving the stomach or intestine. Hernia surgery in Plano repairs this bulge to relieve pain and prevent further complications. Dr. Carlton performs this surgery using a minimally invasive technique. During the procedure, small incisions are made, and a laparoscope (a tiny camera) guides the surgery. Surgical instruments are used to place a mesh that strengthens the affected area, ensuring the hernia doesn’t recur. The laparoscopic technique ensures faster recovery and minimal discomfort.
Signs Indicating You May Need Hernia Surgery:
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the affected area
- A noticeable bulge or lump that can be pushed back in or disappears when lying down
- Swelling or a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen or groin
- Pain during activities such as lifting, coughing, or bending
- Nausea or vomiting in severe cases
- Difficulty swallowing (for hiatal hernias)
- Recurrent heartburn or acid reflux
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits
- Symptoms worsening over time, affecting daily activities and quality of life
Types of Hernia Surgery Offered at Lonestar Bariatrics
Hiatal Hernia Repair
A hiatal hernia occurs when the stomach or other organs push through the diaphragm into the chest cavity, causing reflux, heartburn, and shortness of breath. Dr. Carlton uses a specialized mesh called OviTex to reinforce the diaphragm during the repair. This hernia surgery in Plano involves repositioning the herniated organs back into the abdominal cavity and placing the OviTex mesh to close the opening and strengthen the diaphragm. This approach helps alleviate symptoms and prevents the hernia from recurring.
Inguinal Hernia Repair
Inguinal hernias are the most common type of hernia, occurring when the small bowel or abdominal lining (peritoneum) protrudes through the inguinal canal in the groin. This can cause pain, especially during activities like lifting or bending. Dr. Carlton repairs inguinal hernias by pushing the protruding tissue back into place and placing a mesh over the weakened area to reinforce it. Male hernias are usually repaired electively, while female hernias are often repaired urgently due to the higher risk of complications.
Umbilical Hernia Repair
Umbilical hernias occur near the belly button and can enlarge over time. The repair involves pushing the bulging tissue back into the abdominal cavity and placing a mesh over the opening to strengthen the area. This prevents the hernia from recurring and restores the normal appearance and function of the abdomen. If the hernia is too large or chronic, an open operation may be required, involving a larger incision and more extensive recovery.
Incisional Hernia Repair
Incisional hernias develop at the site of a previous surgery where the abdominal wall has weakened, causing tissue to protrude through the surgical scar. Dr. Carlton repairs these hernias by placing a mesh over the affected area to provide additional support and prevent recurrence. This hernia surgery in Plano involves repositioning the protruding tissue and securing the mesh to the surrounding healthy tissue. If the hernia is large or chronic, an open operation may be necessary, involving a more extensive recovery.
Am I a Candidate for Hernia Surgery?
You may be a candidate for hernia surgery if you experience persistent pain, discomfort, or a noticeable bulge in your abdomen or groin. If these symptoms worsen over time or interfere with your daily activities, surgery might be necessary. Other signs include heartburn, reflux, difficulty swallowing, or changes in bowel or bladder habits. Dr. Carlton will evaluate your condition, medical history, and overall health to determine the best treatment plan for you.
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Hernia Surgery FAQs
How Is a Hernia Diagnosed?
A hernia is typically diagnosed through a physical examination where the doctor checks for a bulge in the affected area. In some cases, imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the hernia.
How Long Does Hernia Surgery Take?
The duration of hernia surgery in Plano varies depending on the type and complexity of the hernia. Generally, minimally invasive hernia surgeries take about 30 minutes to 2 hours. Dr. Carlton will provide a more specific time estimate based on your individual case.
What Can I Expect During the Recovery Period?
Recovery time after hernia surgery typically ranges from one to two weeks. During this period, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions, which may include engaging in gentle walks to increase circulation, eating a healthy diet, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol. Most patients experience less pain and discomfort with minimally invasive techniques compared to older surgical methods.
Are There Any Risks or Complications Associated With Hernia Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, hernia surgery carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. Specific complications related to hernia surgery in Plano can include recurrence of the hernia, chronic pain, and issues related to the surgical mesh. Dr. Carlton will discuss these risks with you and take all possible steps to minimize them.
How Can I Prevent a Hernia From Recurring?
To help prevent a hernia from recurring after surgery, follow your surgeon’s recommendations, which may include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, strengthening your abdominal muscles through safe exercises, and following a balanced diet to prevent constipation and straining during bowel movements. Dr. Carlton and our team will provide guidelines and recommendations to help minimize the risk of hernia recurrence.
Why Choose Dr. Carlton?
Dr. Chad Carlton is a board-certified bariatric and general surgeon and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons with over 15 years of experience. He specializes in the latest and safest minimally invasive surgeries, including hernia surgery, and supports his patients through every step of the process. His compassionate approach and dedication to excellence make him a trusted choice for hernia surgery in Plano. If you have a hernia, schedule your consultation with Dr. Carlton today to discuss your hernia treatment options.
Contact LoneStar
Bariatrics Today
CONTACT US(972) 232-7171
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