Many severely obese patients turn to bariatric surgery when their diet and exercise efforts have failed to help them lose as much weight as they would hope. While procedures like gastric sleeve, gastric bypass and gastric band are effective ways to help suppress appetite and limit food intake, patients must still adopt a healthier lifestyle to see long-term benefits.
Are Hernias Common After Bariatric Surgery?
One potential downside that bariatric patients should look out for after their procedure is a hernia. The risk for hernia after bariatric surgery can be anywhere between 5-25%, depending on the type of surgery and other health factors. Dr. Gregory Dumanian is a board-certified surgeon and plastic surgeon who specializes in hernia repair. He explains why bariatric patients should be aware of hernia risks.
Hernia as a Potential Complication
Musculature (or fascia) holds organs and tissue in its proper place in the body. When an organ or tissue starts to poke through a weak spot in the fascia, this is known as a hernia. Hernias can be painful and pose serious health consequences if ignored. The risk for hernia is higher in bariatric patients because surgical incisions can weaken the fascia. Stitches placed in the fascia at the time of closure can tear through the fascia, resulting in an “incisional hernia.” However, patients who undergo laparoscopic surgery have a reduced risk for hernia, but they still can develop hernias where the laparoscopes are placed through the abdominal wall. These are called “trocar site” hernias. Some patients may not develop or have a hernia diagnosed for many years after their bariatric surgery.Other types of hernias most often seen in bariatric patients include hiatal hernias, inguinal (groin) hernias and umbilical hernias. Dr. Dumanian does not treat inguinal herrnias.
Is Bariatric Surgery Still Worth it?
Although bariatric surgery does elevate the risk for hernia, so does obesity. Excess weight puts undue pressure on the body, leading to problems such as hypertension, diabetes, and early arthritis. Therefore, it does not make sense to decide against bariatric surgery if the motivation is to avoid developing hernias, as there so many benefits of weight loss and hernias can be surgically corrected.
Know the Hernia Signs
Most bariatric surgery patients will not go on to develop a hernia. Still, the risk for hernia is significant enough that patients should pay attention for signs and seek medical attention if symptoms do arise. Signs of a hernia include:
- Localized abdominal pain at the site of a prior incision
- A noticeable bulge
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Seek Treatment for Hernia
If you have developed a hernia after having bariatric surgery, treatment is typically necessary. Dr. Dumanian can perform surgery to repair the abdominal wall and end the discomfort you are experiencing. Excess skin can often be removed at the time of hernia repair, but these skin removals tend to be a cosmetic component that are added to the reconstructive (insurance) abdominal wall closure. To discuss hernia treatment with one of Chicago’s top experts, please call (312) 695-6022.