Umbilical Hernia Repair
Introduction
An umbilical hernia is a bulge that develops around or beneath the belly button. This condition occurs when the abdominal wall layers do not join completely, and the internal tissue or intestinal sections break through, creating a lump or pouch in the abdomen. While not all hernias require surgical correction, it is recommended in cases where the condition deteriorates. For instance, if the hernia leads to strangulation, the blood supplied to the intestines and abdomen can become severely restricted or cut off entirely. Symptoms of strangulation include nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, and blue bruising around the herniated area.
At Barrett Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA, Dr. Barrett performs this procedure for patients who are unhappy with the size, shape or overall look of their belly button or require surgical correction for medical purposes. The surgery may also be performed to prevent any future health risks from developing. Whether you would like to remove the unsightly bulge or are experiencing pain as a result of this condition, Dr. Barrett is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is highly qualified to perform umbilical hernia repair surgery. Through this treatment, he can eliminate any discomfort caused by the hernia and restore a smoother, more natural-looking belly button.
What is Umbilical Hernia Repair?
Umbilical hernia repair, also known as belly button surgery, is designed to address the bulge around the belly button. It is a fairly straightforward procedure that serves to place the bulging intestine or other intra-abdominal tissue and lining back through the hole in the abdominal wall. Since this issue can be a prominent deformity, some patients undergo this surgery to reduce self-consciousness and avoid having to limit their clothing options. For those with more severe health concerns, umbilical repair surgery aims to correct any pain or discomfort caused by the condition or prevent any more serious issues from developing. Regardless of your concerns, Dr. Barrett can customize the procedure according to your condition and health needs to restore a more natural abdominal appearance.
BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
Case #7381
Abdominoplasty, liposuction of abdomen, flanks; bilateral breast augmentation with silicone implants; umbilical hernia repair
Bilateral Mentor Moderate Profile Plus Smooth Silicone Implants
Right Size: 400 cc
Left Size: 400 cc
Abdomen 150 cc
Right Flank 900 cc
Left Flank 900 cc
Case #7428
Abdominoplasty, umbilical hernia repair, liposuction of abdomen, flanks, and upper arms
Bilateral breast augmentation using silicone implants
Bilateral Mentor Moderate Profile Plus Smooth Silicone Implants
Right Size: 300cc
Left Size: 325cc
Abdomen 300 cc
Right Flank 800 cc
Left Flank 800 cc
Right Arm 200 cc
Left Arm 275 cc
Umbilical Hernia Repair
Candidates
Though many individuals are eligible for umbilicoplasty, most patients who undergo this surgery experience one or more of the following concerns:
- Dissatisfaction with the shape, size or appearance of their belly button
- Noticeable, unsightly bulging or irregularities around the belly button
- Deformities of the navel that may lead to health risks if left untreated
- An umbilical hernia larger than half an inch that causes pain
- An umbilical hernia that is strangulated (restricted blood supply), causing discomfort, nausea or vomiting.
In your consultation, Dr. Barrett can work with you to determine whether umbilical hernia repair is right for you. If it is safe to proceed with treatment, he will design a personalized surgical plan and walk you through each step of the procedure.
What’s Involved in Umbilical Hernia Repair Surgery?
There are two different methods used to perform umbilical hernia repair. The conventional procedure is known as open hernia repair, where an incision is made near the belly button to access the hernia over the bugle site. Alternatively, laparoscopic hernia repair is a less-invasive method where several small incisions are placed around the site. Through these openings, a long thin tube with a lighted camera attached (laparoscope) is inserted, allowing Dr. Barrett to see inside your abdominal cavity. Regardless of the technique used, the procedure aims to reinsert the bulging intestine back through the abdominal opening, effectively eliminating the lump. The hole is then carefully sewed closed, and a synthetic mesh material may be inserted to support and strengthen the treated area. Depending on the extent of correction required, umbilical hernia repair surgery usually takes 30 minutes to an hour to perform and is completed under general anesthesia.
Umbilical Hernia Repair
Results and Recovery
Immediately following the surgery, you may experience some swelling and soreness around the treated area. Depending on the complexity of the procedure, most patients can resume work or regular activity within one to three days. However, patients should avoid any strenuous physical activity for at least four to six weeks after the surgery to ensure a smooth recovery and minimal risk of complications occurring. To ensure optimal results, Dr. Barrett will provide you with more detailed aftercare instructions so that you are fully aware of how to care for the area at home. Once the area has healed and swelling subsided, results of umbilical hernia repair are expected to be permanent, though it may take a few months for the physical appearance to reveal fully.
Schedule Your Consultation
Though an umbilical hernia may not require surgical correction in some cases, patients often seek this procedure to restore a more natural-looking abdominal contour. If you feel self-conscious about the deformity or feel uncomfortable wearing certain clothes, an umbilical hernia repair will help to eliminate the bulge and free you of these concerns. Alternatively, if you are experiencing any discomfort or adverse symptoms that may indicate strangulation or other serious health problems, this surgery can help to correct these issues and restore your comfort and health.
At Barrett Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA, Dr. Barrett is highly experienced in performing intricate surgical procedures like umbilical hernia repair. With minimal downtime and discomfort, he can help you reclaim a smoother and more natural belly button appearance. If you are interested in undergoing this treatment or would like to know if you are a suitable candidate, call us at (310) 598-2648 to schedule your consultation today.