Question:
Has anyone gotten a hernia after WLS?

What are the symptoms?    — Jennifer H. (posted on October 11, 2001)

October 11, 2001
yes, hernias after surgery are common if people do not adhere to safety instructions. It is extremely important that you do not lift over 10 pounds, or vacuum, or pick up children, or move furniture, etc. for 6 to 8 full weeks following surgery. Incisional hernias are painful, usually you'll feel a 'bulge' in the area near the incision. You'll feel like you need to put your hand on it and push it down. Ask your doctor to check you for a hernia.
   — Cindy H.

October 11, 2001
Actually, hernias are common even if you do adhere to your doctor's instructions. I've noticed a lot of WLS patients develop incisional hernias after surgery; I did do. There are some good answers about this in the library section. I have no pain, just a bulge, and am not worried about it. I'll have it removed with the tummy tuck. Ask your doctor to check it for you. It may nor may not be a hernia.
   — [Anonymous]

October 11, 2001
I didn't know that I had a hernia until I asked about it at my 12 month check-up. It was just a funny looking area next to my incision above my belly button. It just looked wierd...like there was a chunk of fat there that didn't go away. I kept waiting for it to flatten out. I have never had any pain or discomfort. The doctor checked it by having me lay on my back and then raise my head to look at my tummy. When I do that, sure enough, it pops out. I have a hernia repair scheduled in two weeks. bummer.
   — Anne G.

October 11, 2001
Please note that with LAP there is almost no chance of hernias, opens get hernias about 35% of the time even when following doctor orders. I was cleared for heavy lifting one month after LAP WLS.
   — bob-haller

October 11, 2001
I thought I pulled a muscle in my side. I had soreness and a burning sensation. No visable lumps or bumps! Sure enough it was a hernia!
   — Rose A.

October 11, 2001
Even if you follow instructions, you can develop a hernia, even several months post-op. Mine was caused partially from the weight of excess skin pulling against the lower part of my incision. It felt like a knot below my belly-button, and it hurt from time to time. Good news, though, it helped with abdominoplasty approval! Good luck!
   — [Deactivated Member]