Question:
I am 7 months out with 2 hernias Had gastric bypass lap

What complications can I have with this. Do I have to be off work? The hernias one around the pouch and the other above the belly button. Can these keep happening? The one above the pouch is like a golf size shape.    — dbobb32 (posted on November 20, 2007)

November 19, 2007
A hernia at the pouch may be serious, and it should be repaired. This may affect your ability to absorb nutrients. What has your doctor said? My support group leader had the rous-en-y surgery some 8 years ago. From being overweight for so long, she had abdominal hernias that have been repaired some 3 times in that time frame. Hernias can happen and they need to be surgically fixed. You may or may not have to take time off of work.
   — Dave Chambers

November 19, 2007
I agree with what Dave said. Your surgeon can give you info regarding the details, but I had a hernia repair a couple of years ago and was out of work for 3 weeks.
   — Jasmine130

November 20, 2007
I AM 5 1/2 YRS OUT AND I HAVE A HERNIA BY MY BELLY BUTTON.IM GOING TO SEE MY SURGEON ON DEC 4TH.IT NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED FOR I AM IN HORRIBLE PAIN.
   — deb44m

November 21, 2007
Hi Diane! Most hernias can be repaired as a outpatient surgery, however, it depends on the location and the severity as to whether this is an option for you. Your surgeon will be able to answer fully these questions. It is recommended in any major surgery that time off is taken to achieve adequate healing and to assure that another hernia does not occur. It is vital that you maintain communication with your surgeon in any case, as he is the best judge and can answer this more fully. External hernias are treated these days with the insertion of a surgical mesh to re-inforce the site of the injury and to strengthen it against future occurances. I had this done several years ago and have had fantastic results. Compliance is the key here, so be sure to do everything the doctor says in regards to lifting, exercise and when to return to work, and you will do well.
   — Sandra L.

November 21, 2007
I don't want to discourage you, but I too have had this surgery and yep I too had hernias. Plural! I have had 5 total and now I have permenant lift/push/pull restrictions of 25 pounds. I'm now almost 5 years post op and it's just a drag because of the complications but I am thankfull of the life changing experience from surgery.
   — EmtEeyore

November 21, 2007
I saw that you are from Chicago. Can I ask what doctor you had. I am 9 month out and also was just told that I have a hernia by my band.
   — new0130

November 21, 2007
Hello I am 5 1/2 yrs out I also developed a hernia it was between my ribs and bellybutton and it hurt very bad I had it repaired and about 1 yr later it pulled out had to have it repaired for the 2nd time I thought I was never going to recover from either operation of hernia repair I was in very bad pain for long time I am much more carefull now and do not lift much at all b/c I never want to have that operation again to me my WLS was a breeze compaired to the hernia repair but I knew it had to be done my was about the size of a nerf football I wish you the best of luck and be sure not to never lift over the 25pounds and if that seams like to much do not do it Beth
   — Beth67Mathis