Hernia-anyone else have one?

Hey everyone, I have been diagnosed with a large ventral hernia in my upper abdomen. I've heard people say it could be a good thing if you can hold out till all your weight is off and can get a tummy tuck at the same time. Not sure I can hold out. It has gone from uncomfortable to at times being qhite painful; sometimes when I eat, sit up too long or bend. I have an appointment with my surgeon on the 16th, and I will do whatever he recommends. I don't want to end up with a strangulation. Anyone have this experience and any advice?

Darlene, Hernias can be quite common especially if you had the open RNY procedure. When I had my open, my surgeon had me wear a surgical binder for 2 months following surgery to help prevent the hernias while I was healing. So far, so good. I'm extremely careful now too when lifting etc. You might consider wearing a surgical binder under your clothes to help support the hernia and my understanding is that can help with the pain too. ... check with your doctor to see if he feels that would help. See what your surgeon feels is the safest for you. I've seen it go both ways ...doing surgery now, others have waited. Many insurance policies will not cover a tummy tuck, so if there is a hernia there is a medical reason to do a tummy tuck when the hernia is repaired. So they cover the hernia/tummy tuck for the patient. Hope you feel better soon. Mary

Hi Mary, Thanks for the reply. I see my surgeon on the 16th so I will find out what he recommends at that time. I bought a hi waist girdle, and that does help my tummy feel better. (haven't worn a girdle in years...couldn't find one to fit!!) How are things for you Mary? Are you still in hotels or in your own place yet?

We moved into our rental on Thursday and bit by bit it is beginning to look like a home for us. We love being just around the corner from the pool and jacuzzi and have used them each morning so far (good habits are beginning to be re-established ... LOL). Let us know what the doctor says. Mary

Darlene, I seen my Dr. just last mo. and I have a hernia. I was told to try and hold out and he would fix it after my weight loss was done. If it starts to bother me I'm to let him know and he'll fix it. I'm going to try and hold out till my weight loss is done as he recomned. The only time it really bothers me is when the neighbors small dog jumps on me in the right spot. It hurts a little. I just hope it doesn't get any worst. I find if I ware a tight pair of shorts I don't have to look at it.Good luck with your Dr. appointment. I hope he gives you good news Debby