Hernias are a relatively common condition, occurring when an area of weakened muscle tears, typically in your abdomen. This tear creates an opening for part of an internal organ or tissue to bulge through. They’re usually simple to diagnose. Your physician will most likely be able to feel or sometimes even see the bulge in your abdomen or groin. Though a common and treatable condition, some people live with a hernia for years without seeking treatment. However, especially if your hernia is causing discomfort, it’s important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options before your condition worsens.
Samuel Bae, MD, a general surgeon at AdventHealth Altamonte Springs, explains how a common hernia can turn into something more serious and what you can do to treat it.
What Is a Complex Hernia?
While a hernia can’t heal itself, it can usually be repaired effectively with surgery. Occasionally, however, the first surgery may not fully fix the tear and additional surgery may be necessary to repair it.
“When multiple surgical attempts to repair a hernia fail, your hernia can become classified as ‘complex,’” explains Dr. Bae. “Each successive surgery further decreases the chance of a successful hernia repair, as the surrounding tissue becomes weakened and stretched.”
With a complex hernia, you may notice a more pronounced bulging and experience a greater level of pain. If you’re concerned about a potential complex hernia, it’s important to seek care to prevent further complications.
Complex Hernia Risks and Treatment
Because of the weakened surrounding tissue, complex hernias are more difficult to treat and have higher complications, including an increased risk of strangulation or obstruction.
“Complex hernias most often occur in your abdominal area near previous surgical scars, around your belly button or in your groin area,” shares Dr. Bae. “When the tissue surrounding your hernia is especially damaged, a tissue replacement or reconstruction surgery is most often necessary.”
Surgery to repair a complex hernia involves pushing the hernia tissue back into place and sometimes adding a mesh reinforcement to help prevent future tears.
Typically, most basic hernias can be performed in an outpatient environment, but a short inpatient stay may be required for some complex hernias.
“Our surgical team will work with you to create the best plan of action to treat your unique needs and minimize your discomfort,” says Dr. Bae. “We’re pleased to offer minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgeries to ensure you experience a smoother – and quicker – recovery than with traditional surgery.”
Recovering After a Hernia vs. a Complex Hernia
The recovery process after surgery for basic hernias and complex hernias is fairly similar and straightforward.
Your general surgeon will provide you with post-procedure guidelines to help you return to whole health, and your instructions may vary, depending on your procedure. These guidelines may include information on keeping your incision clean, pain medications you can take, how soon you can return to work and breathing exercises to help strengthen your abdomen.
Expert Hernia Repair to Help You Feel Whole
Navigating a complex hernia can feel overwhelming. But you can breathe easy, knowing Dr. Bae and our expert general surgery team will be with you from diagnosis through recovery to answer your questions and offer comprehensive whole-person surgical care you can trust. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Bae today to learn more about hernia treatment.
