Ventral Hernia Specialist

David L. Chengelis, MD -  - Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon

Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, PC

David L. Chengelis, MD

Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon located in Troy, MI

Ventral hernias cause discomfort in your abdomen and chest and can lead to complications if your intestines push through the hernia. For people in or around Detroit, Dr. David Chengelis, a board-certified surgeon, offers minimally invasive ventral hernia repair surgeries at Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery P.C. in Royal Oak, Michigan. Even if you have only a small ventral hernia, it’s best to have it repaired early before it grows more severe. Call or schedule a consultation online today to learn more about your treatment options. All surgeries are performed at Beaumont Health, Royal Oak Hospital.

Ventral Hernia Q & A

What is a ventral hernia?

A ventral hernia develops when weakness in your abdominal wall allows part of an organ or other tissue to push through, creating a protrusion or bulge. Ventral hernias either develop at natural weak points or at an old surgical incision site in the abdominal wall. Ventral hernias are also referred to as incisional hernias.

Ventral hernias cause symptoms including abdominal discomfort that ranges from a mild ache to severe pain. You may also notice a bulge of skin or tissue on your abdomen. Nausea and vomiting are other common symptoms of ventral hernias.

What causes ventral hernias?

Ventral hernias are caused by weakness in your abdominal wall. That weakness could be a congenital defect, or other factors can contribute to the weak spot. Some of those factors include:

  • A personal or family history of hernias
  • Previous abdominal surgery
  • Injuries to your abdomen
  • Frequent heavy lifting or pushing
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy

How are ventral hernias repaired?

Dr. Chengelis performs minimally invasive hernia repair surgeries using both robotic and laparoscopic surgical techniques. He usually completes the surgery within two hours, and most patients are able to return to their homes within two days.

In most cases, Dr. Chengelis uses a surgical mesh to close and secure your hernia. This offers greater security than pulling the muscles of your abdominal wall together and closing the hernia with sutures.

What should I expect during recovery after hernia repair?

In most cases, you can go home after you recover from the anesthesia used during your surgery. Dr. Chengelis gives you customized instructions for aftercare and follow-up appointments. You’ll have drainage ports to prevent the build-up of serous fluid around your surgical site. Dr. Chengelis removes these at one of your follow-up appointments.

You should be able to get up and walk around with little discomfort soon after your surgery and be back to your regular activities within a week. Dr. Chengelis recommends avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for up to six weeks following your surgery.

If you have a ventral hernia, call or schedule an appointment online to meet with Dr. Chengelis and discuss your treatment options. When left untreated, ventral hernias can grow bigger and increase your risk of painful and dangerous complications.