Question:
How do you know if you should be surgically treated for a hernia?

I was told by my surgeon that I have a small hernia the top-right of my surgery scar. He didn't seem overly concerned about it, and didn't mention repairing it at all. If I stretch too far it will send a shooting pain through my stomach, but other then that, I don't even notice it. Should I enquire about having it repaired?    — Adrienne S. (posted on July 27, 2001)

July 27, 2001
My surgeon said..."yes. you should get it repaired." Especially if it causes pain. Evidently there is a danger that your bowel could get caught in the hernia, and twist, causing an obstruction that would then require surgery. With my insurance, my wls surgeon doesn't have the contract with the HMO to do the hernia repair, and I think that maybe that is the reason they seemed very casual about the repair. My pcp, on the other hand, was concerned about it and referred me immediately to the surgeon who does the repairs. This is all such nonsense...all these appointments and waiting a month between each to be referred to the next one. Six months from now I may finally get my repair. Oh yes, and the tummy tuck? My HMO won't do that at all. Good luck with yours.
   — Anne G.