Question:
I have noticed a baseball size knot on the right side of my incision, if I tighten

my stomach, after eating, or lying on my back it sticks out. It doesn't hurt, I can push it in and it will go away but it pops right back out.....I am 5 months post op and down 98 pounds..........    — MMClosing (posted on March 6, 2003)

March 5, 2003
I am definitely not a doctor but this sounds to me like a hernia. It is how it is usually described. Be glad it doesn't hurt!
   — zoedogcbr

March 5, 2003
Yes, I agree. This may very well be a hernia. I had these same syptoms. Four doctors later,an ultrasound and my suspicions were confirmed. Hernia indeed. I am scheduled for repair and a panniculectomy at same time. Please see your doctor and as always a second opinion is good idea.
   — perpetualuv

March 7, 2003
Congratulations! I believe you're the proud owner of a bouncing baby hernia! I waited and finally have mine scheduled to be fixed on 3/19. Mine didn't bother me for a long time but recently it has become really uncomfortable so I figured I'd get it taken care of. My surgeon suggested going for a tummy tuck at the same time but I've decided against having it at this time. My hernia is so HUGE (the size of a large grapefruit at least) that I'm really unsure how much excess skin I have on my belly -- the hernia has pretty much held it up all this time. After the hernia repair I may wish I had the TT but I'll cross that bridge when I get to it. Talk to your surgeon about it. Good Luck!
   — Pam S.

April 11, 2003
I too havea raised area to the right side of my incision, but my doctor said it was not a hernia but a weakened area of muscle and if I let it rest for another month it may heal itself. I am 3 months post op and thought I was going to be able to start abdominal exercizes but Doc said rest it for another month, wear binder for another month. I first noticed it in hospital after surgery when the nurse pulled the jp drain out of that location. She pulled with such force, it felt like there was suction inside. Finally she was able to yank it out and I think she might have ripped something. The nurse in the Dr.'s office said she has pulled them out many times in the office and they shouldn't hurt when coming out. Doc said it wasn't a hernia yet and he'd see me in a month.
   — JODY W.