Question:
Can an abdominal hernia repair be done at the same time as WLS?

I have a very large abdominal incisional hernia which has been repaired several times, the last time with a gortex mesh which had to be removed because of an infection. Dr. says I need to lose about 50 lbs before I can try surgery again. (I weigh 275) I am interested in WLS and wondered if these two things can be done at the same time.    — Patricia L. (posted on November 3, 2000)

November 4, 2000
Yes, a good surgeon can do this. My surgeon, Dr. Howell, in Fargo, ND is the chief surgeon for his hospital and a 30+ year expert in WLS. He will tie your tubes, remove appendix or gallbladder, repair hernias, etc. With my gastric bypass he also removed my appendix, performed a vagotomy, and repaired an ill-repaired incisional hernia. The hernia repair is now better than ever! I am so glad he did that for me! Best wishes.
   — Cindy H.

November 4, 2000
That would be up to your bariatric surgeon, but most likely, it could be done at the same time, especially with open RNY. Good luck!!!
   — SnowWhiteDove459