Dr. Harris at California Hernia Specialists discusses what complications can occur after hernia surgery, as well as the incidence of those events and how they can be minimized.
Thank you doctor. I have just been diagnosed with a hernia today. I have had a bulge in my inner thigh for the last 8 months It gets worse after I run (walk long distance) and its painful, bigger and sometimes red during my menstrual days. The fact that its worse during my period was thre reason it took 8 months to diagnose. Now they want me to have surgery, but I am so afraid - this video was helpful. Love from South Africa 🇿🇦
Dr Francis J Petitto in Slidell, LA did mine. The pain in my groin is worse now than before my surgery. I’ve tried to get in to see him for the last three weeks and he’s booked. They told me to go to the ER. I can’t say it’s like I never had surgery, because it’s worse now. Do you have any recommendations?
@@scotieroc heyy.how are you now.I had my inguinal hernia surgery 6 days ago and i have swelling in my scrotum.There is some hard thing and lump in my scrotum.Is this normal.did you also feel this...
Had a left inguinal hernia laprascopic surgery just yesterday (they actually found/repaired a second one also)repaired with mesh. Painful first and second day now, but slightly better. Will talk to surgeon next week. Thanks for the info here!
I'm just glad I got this done. I've been dealing with inguinal hernia for 6 years or so. Last year it dropped into my sack, and that promptly made me contact my doctor. I got it fixed and I'm feeling fantastic and normal roughly 8 months later!
vBDKv, That's great news. You are correct in that most patients find the results from their surgery far outweigh their fears and the risks. We're glad you found the process successful, CAHS
@@sandy-fitness Not for me, no. But there is always a chance of developing chronic pain in the area when inserting a foreign object into your body, that will be there for the rest of your life.
15 days after double inguinal open repair using mesh. Left side was recurrent and old mesh removed to place a smooth mesh by a different surgeon. Now I notice a firm knot right where old hernia always presented, but it does not seem reducible like my old hernia, nor does it seem to enlarge when I cough. Reading through all your comments has relieved me greatly that this is probably normal and I just wanted to thank you for your work here. I can’t get ahold of my surgeon until after the weekend so your video saved me a lot of worrying over the next three days. I appreciate you and all the people who contributed with similar situations.
Shelter Mutts, You are correct in that most patients will feel a firm lump or swelling around where the hernia used to be after their surgery. This is very common and resolves over the coming weeks and months. Best, CAHS
5 weeks after surgery now and just had my final appointment with my surgeon. The lumps are much better now and she agreed completely with what you have said. Wish she would have warned me in advance. Your original post, and very nice response to my post, gave me a lot of comfort that things were normal for the last month. I am so grateful for your kindness and time. My surgeon is retiring soon and if I need anything else of this nature I will sure use your services next time. Take care and bless you for your help.
Thanks for asking. Dr. Harris was exactly right in his reply. It took about three months for my lump and pain to go away. After about two years I hurt it again trying to move a treadmill (stupid yes?) and I thought I had pulled it lose again. It took another three months to heal and is now good again. I am so happy that it seems I won’t have to have this done a third time. But if it ever occurs again I’ll try and fly to have Dr. Harris fix it since my surgeon retired. My first error was having someone who just does this part time handle it. I should have insisted on a specialist. Experience really matters in this procedure.
5 years later and I still have pain. Some days it’s not bad and others it makes it difficult to do things. It can easily start hurting during/ after sex as well. Worst thing that ever happened to me
@@monamody5373 no lasting pain from a hernia surgery is not normal. The surgeon will prob say it is but truth is, they coulda did a better job. Plain and simple my procedure went amazing. I guess everyone is different but then every surgery should be different. Surgeons need to take their time and perfect their work
Brilliant breakdown. Thank you very much Dr. May our Almighty Creator bless all well intended truth seeking people who genuinely like to help others......
hi, I appreciated your explanation. I just had an open hernia inguinal repair, right. The only complication (if it is even one so early on) is incisional site pain at day 6. Motrin seems to help, but I am anxious for the heavy pain feeling I am having under my incision site. My stomach muscles dont seem to be the issue, just a heavy pain feeling on the side.
Michael, at 6 days after a hernia surgery it is very common to still have incisional muscle pains. Often these pains get better day by day and usually by 2 weeks and certainly 3 weeks, most of our patients are feeling back to almost 100% normal. It's not uncommon even in these patients for them to have infrequent, occasional pains that last for seconds during their normal activities. It sounds like you're healing according to expectations. Best, CAHS
Maybe just lower the bg music volume? 🤷🏾♀️ Because I appreciate the bg music because watching this video was terrifying (as I just had a hernia repair surgery with mesh!) so it was a nice distraction
I appreciate so much that you have taken the time to provide this helpful information to patients! I have a question - I had open umbilical hernia repair 2 weeks ago - it was a very small hernia so it was suture only (no mesh). I also have diastasis recti (but only the hernia was sutured - the diastasis was left untouched) - he made only a small incision right at the base of my belly button. My question is: could repairing the hernia and leaving the diastasis untouched make that worse? My stomach is quite swollen/bloated at 2 weeks post op. Is it normal for my stomach to look bigger now than it did before? Thanks so much! ☺️
Tabbymy, Most surgeons don't repair someones rectus diastasis at the time of their umbilical hernia repair. The diastasis shouldn't be affected by the repair of the umbilical hernia. Best, CAHS
Glad to see such an informative video. Sir, I have a question and it would be really helpful if you suggest. My kid is 18 month old and he has a hernia problem. I am confused between open surgery and Laproscopy surgery. Kindly suggest which one would be safe and good for future.
IK Tech, Both laparoscopic and open surgery provide long term durable and safe results. The choice of which type of surgery to perform is usually what the surgeon is more comfortable performing. Best,CAHS
Please sir I need your help, Sir I had my left inguinal hernia surgery four years ago and after two years I continued my gym and it was fine when I train upper body but as I get to the abdomen even after 5 years I feel some sort stitch extension pain or pin pricking hard in my operated lower abdomen side(left)... My right side says go for the exercise but left fears me over hernia recurrence... After one hour of the exersion it becomes just fine and perfect with very little issues which go after around 1.5 hours and I get back to normal... I feel pain and agitation after chin ups please help... Hope my question helps others as well...
Samrat, Unfortunately it would be too difficult to offer an opinion on your situation without examining you and having more details. We would suggest seeing your surgeon again if possible so that he or she could provide you with some answers. All the best, CAHS
Dr Harris..I’m a female and went to see a nurse practitioner with some complaints like abdominal pressure,lower back pain and weakness in right leg. I didn’t have any pain in my groin at all not even while exercising and no bulge that I could see but he placed his fingers underneath my pubic bone for like 5 minutes on the right side and said he felt a defect in there so diagnosed me with small ingunial hernia. He also said get surgery before worsening health which made me super stressed. I went back home that day and saw that right side of groin where he examined got swollen and it was very painful.It was very hard to touch and pain got worse everyday radiating to my hip and pain killers did not work to get relief. I went to get pelvic MRI and then also an ultrasound both spune and standing position and everything looked normal and no hernia was detected. I went thru a lot of suffering and pain for 3 months till the swelling and pain went away. Last week I went to see this nurse practitioner again and told him what happened and he started to yell at me and verbally abuse me insisted there is a defect there then he diagnosed me with mood disorder..
Rose, we're sorry to hear that you had an infection after your hernia repair. You're correct in that infections can prolong recovery, and can lead to ongoing issues for years after your surgery. Your complaint of pain in the incision and the testicles is not uncommon after infection. Although these types of complications can occur, fortunately they are very rare. Most centers see a 0.1% rate of a mesh infection, and about a 1% rate of a mild skin infection after surgery. We have more information on our page californiaherniaspecialists.com/complications-hernia-surgery/. Thank you for sharing.
I recently had a surgery for hernia in Thailand and I am afraid it has not gone well. There is a bulge after the surgery on the incision area where the mesh was installed. I wish I had the money to travel all the way to your clinic as I think you would have done a good job. Unfortunately I have to go revisit the hospital in Thailand to solve this.
Hello sir This Is Riya from India. My mother had open hernia mesh surgery in 2018 and she is completely fine. Sometimes i feel anxious what if it returns and so much rumours about mesh surgeries.Also my mother cannot lose weught post surgery CAN WEIGHT GAIN CAUSE RETURN OF HERNIA ???? she has gained 3 kg post surgery from 2018-2023 I found your channel and you are a ray of hope and I got to clarify so my doubts. Thnkyou so much sur from my heart. I m a medical aspirant too and You just dont know how you relieved my anxiety. Thnkyou again. And i hope my mother remains fine and it never returns.😊
Hi Dr. Harris! I had my open ventral hernia repair with mesh on October 25, 2018. So far I had no problems and lost weight since by not eating too much. My question is can I now safely go jogging, weight lifting or even join sports such as Kendo without having a recurrent hernia? Thank you Dr. Harris.
Mark Abrasaldo, We provide a number of recommendations on hernia recovery in other videos or on our website at californiaherniaspecialists.com/hernia-recovery/. We hope that these help, although following your surgeons guidelines is always recommended. Best, CAHS
Thank you for your very informative video sir, i got my inguinal her repaired through laparoscopic surgery a year ago. But there are times that I can still feel heaviness in my groin but there’s no bulge or swelling on the area. Do I need to see a doctor or this part of the healing process?
Thank you for sharing your situation. Most patients after weeks/months should be completely healed from hernia surgery without any ongoing issues. Best, CAHS
I have about 6 weeks after surgery and still have swelling. And in one spot when I push firmly it feels like something hard behind it (like the intestine is still protruding into hernia). However it doesn't expand when I cough anymore. Still I'm afraid the surgery failed.
Having a hard lump after surgery is extremely common. In most cases this is just some residual fluid, swelling and some scar tissue from the surgery. I almost all cases (99%) this hardness goes away after about 1-3 months. We would encourage you to be patient and we're sure you'll see improvement in the coming months. Best, CAHS
Did the hard lump resolve with time? I had inguinal hernia repair surgery 3 weeks ago and have a firm lump above testicle where hernia used to be and feels like a hernia. However, it is smaller in size than original hernia and does not expand when I cough or strain abdomen. Thank you for sharing and thank you Doctor for sharing your knowledge.
@@lowereastsideastrologist7769 did this hard lump come out only when you got more active and kind of hid when not? I had surgery last week and now feel a lump just few days after surgery.
@@marvinchavez2497 The doctor told me my lump was normal , post-surgical "scarring". It softened up and went away a few weeks later. Still, you may want to double check to confirm with your doctor
Rocky, Hernia surgery does not impact the level of the testicle or it's upward changes in position. If this is something that is concerning, a Urologist might be someone who could help. Best, CAHS
Thank you for the video! Going in for my 3rd inguinal hernia surgery on the right side October 6th. I'm only 23. super concerned about complications especially losing the right testicle. Remember being in a lot of pain the last surgery too so it is something I need to pay attention to. This new doctor though seems to have a good plan with robotic surgery so hopefully everything goes well.
how are you now ..I had inguinal hernia surgery 5 days ago and I have swelling in my scrotum. I have some hard thing in my scrotum and lumps, bulges too
Had a "huge" hernia repaired and yes, I did lose a testicle. Still in the healing process since it's been a bit less than three weeks. Still some swelling and the area is sensitive but I feel that will improve in the next few weeks. Doc wanted to do local anesthesia (because I have heart issues) but anesthesiologist strongly disagreed. The "thirty minute" repair took about an hour and a half.
Hello. I have a problem that I don't see described often. I had bilateral laparoscopic mesh for a direct right side inguinal hernia. The surgeon explored the other side and found some fat so he used two 6x6 inch pieces of mesh to cover as much as possible. I had a very difficult recovery with much spongy swelling across the whole lower abdomen, hwile trying to continue my active life of running and playing soccer, after my surgeon said it was okay. My surgeon could not figure out why I was having problems (he said). So I quit running and playing soccer and started working out instead. This seemed to compress and reduce the swelling and tighten my abdomen up, generally, which was good. But now, 2 and a half years later, I find that I still can't run or bike or do typical aerobic exercises without losing the ability to get an erection. The penis just starts shrinking and will not engorge properly, I think due to swelling and/or fluids from damaged tissue in the area of the vessels involved. If I stop the running and biking and become more sedentary, the function comes back after a week or two. So, I am forced to choose between having a functioning penis or engaging in healthy activities. There is pain involved after various physical activities also, one to two days later, like tissue is being torn and/or stretched. I spend most of my free time now thinking about having the mesh removed. I don't seem to be getting better no matter what I try and I am basically debilitated and getting less healthy. It's affecting my health in a bad way. Is this enough to get a surgeon to remove the mesh? Physically I appear healthy but mentally and emotionally I'm in bad shape. I feel like 50% of the person I was even when I had the hernia. I was better off with the hernia than now. Thank you for any advice you can offer.
Maybe I was too long-winded. You've responded to a post after mine so you must have seen mine. Can you advise on having mesh removed? It's very difficult to find anyone who even wants to entertain the idea. This is not about your methods, my mesh was put in by another doctor. I need some help, please respond. Thank you.
Hello, hernia mesh problems. Have you removed the mesh? It's been 4yrs since your post and I'm interested in your recovery. Can you respond in how you feel now if the mesh has been removed? Thanks, god bless you.
This was a very informative video, thank you doctor. I currently have an inguinal hernia on the left side after dealing with unusual groin and testicle pain for a week. The doctor says I need to have surgery but I'm extremely worried about losing a testicle. My hernia is quite small, it can't be seen from the outside but was found in an ultrasound and was felt by the doctor when I tense up. What are the chances of me losing a testicle during the surgery? Is there any medical speciality that I should consult aside from general surgery? I'd love to have surgery with you in California but I'm currently in South America.
Hi Doctor, I just have my surgery 1 week ago for the right inguinal hernia. After the surgery the right testicle has swollen approximately twice the size of the left, is this normal? Many thanks and look forward to your feedback
heyy.how are you now.I had my inguinal hernia surgery 6 days ago and i have swelling in my scrotum.There is some hard thing and lump in my scrotum.Is this normal.did you also feel this...
@@yuvrajsingh770 hey man, I had swelling right after surgery as well. The recuperation period is typically 2 weeks to a month till the swell went back to normal. I believe it's from the surgeries incision process that causes the swelling. Just keep in contact with your GP for any issues.
I had a robotic-assisted inguinal repair with mesh 3 months ago. I felt much better up until a month ago when I started having scrotal pain on the same side that does not go away and is worse when sitting. I have been examined by my primary care physician and a urologist, who had an ultrasound done and found no abnormalities. I am waiting for an appointment with my surgeon now, but nervous that there will be nothing they can do. Do you have any suggestions for questions I might ask? Also, is physical therapy an option for this type of pain?
For inguinal hernia repair you have two choices: living with chronic disabling pain, mostly in testicles and groin, and or immunological disorders as a result from mesh usage (around 23% or more) or lead with a little bit more recurrence rates of anatomical repair (no mesh). Meshes are proven to be highly associated with chronic pain and complications than no mesh counter part repairs. Meshes are not inert foreign bodies and must be seriously considered per patient, specially those with previous pelvic pain syndromes, immunological disorders or allergies and foreign body unknown reactions. Once a mesh is implanted, is extremely challenging get rid of the material, an usually involves selective neurectomies with inherent compications. And only a few surgeons could perform such procedures. So think before you let them put a piece of plastic inside your groin.
Paco Encinas, Thank you for you comments and information. You are certainly not alone in your feelings. However, the majority of medical data supports the safe use of synthetic mesh. We hope that you are able to get relief from your symptoms, CAHS
@@jiujitsu94 Not for me. I underwent mesh removal due mesh rejection (including meshoma) and ilioinguinal / genitofemoral injuries (now chronic pain), as well as allergic reactions.
@@jiujitsu94 probably. But in the FIP pain management unit I use to treat my pain regularly, the FIP pain practice Drs (all anesthesiologists) told me that chronic post hernioplasty pain is the topmost issue in such Units.
Hey doctor! Is it normal to make the mesh smaller, depending on the size of the patient? I have a relatively small waist and want my surgeon to cut off some of the mesh, because he does tapp and i dont want him to cut away so much of perfectly good tissue to make room for the mesh. Also my hernia is below 1 cm. What type of mesh would you recommend? I am a fit, young male and want to continue to do combat sports without problems.
A TAPP and TEPP approach do not require 'cutting away' any tissue within the body. A pocket is simply made for the mesh to be placed into. There are several sizes of mesh to best suit each patients body size.
I had two mesh pads sewn into my abdomen after extreme Diastasis Recti from 2 C-sections. The surgery was in 2008. I have suffered chronic pain ever since, along with weight loss, night sweats, dizziness, joint pain, muscle weakness, parasthesia, bladder and bowel problems, and low grade fever with chills that come and go. I have had many different blood tests done to no avail. I have recently learned about foreign body reaction (FBR) and am tracking down all records to see if they exactly correlate. I am trying not to lose faith completely in doctors, because I have been told this is all in my head. I was a healthy dancer before all this. I would really truly appreciate your thoughts. ~Erica (a former shell of who I used to be)
E Plum - Very sorry to hear you are experiencing these issues. I hope you have found someone willing to step up and help you. These mesh peddling hernia surgeons always dodge questions such as yours and only speak on mild complications. The truth is, the majority of hernia surgeons have no clue how to deal with severe complications. They only put the mesh in. After that you are someone elses problem.. usually kicked off to pain management. Many docs won't even acknowledge the real damage mesh can do. Mesh is not inert like these docs want you to believe. Mesh is known to constrict, harden, ball up, migrate, and cause all types of problems. Where are the videos about that??
E Plum - Just so you are aware.. I too am dealing with this nightmare. I had open inguinal hernia surgery for a small hernia in Oct 2015.. had nothing but problems.. got jerked around by doctors.. kept pressing and had the mesh & plug removed in Sept 2016. Still having problems and unable to work as I type this.. and still being jerked around. I can not do any type of physical activity, can not wear anything but sweatpants, and constantly feel pressure and pain, leg burns, groin spasms, muscle weakness and a laundry list of other problems. It's ridiculous. As you said, these problems leave you as a shell of the person you were prior to the surgery.
Hello, I had an inguinal hernia mesh repair done exactly 1 year ago. There was some residual soreness and swelling that was presumed normal. A noticeable lump exists in the exact same spot that the doctor originally said was "fluid". After getting an ultrasound to confirm, he now says I have a recurrent hernia. How does this happen and how successful is a second surgery? Is a second surgery more complicated and riskier due to having a mesh already implanted ? thx
Nitecrawler, We're sorry to hear that you have a recurrent hernia. Initial hernias have a 1-2% chance of recurrence, which goes up to about 10% after an initial failure. There is more scar tissue which can make the second surgery slightly more difficult. However, with laparoscopic/robotic/open options, usually that is minimized.
hii doc: I had my umbilical hernia operation January this yr date 8,and now is six month and am still have pain all over my abdomen in the morning when I woke up,what is the problem?...can mesh have effect in my future life
If a person has a history of adhesions of the bowel area would they only be safe having an open procedure? I'm afraid of bowel being punctured. Speaking of hiatal hernia repair.
Jandksplend, We don't operate on hiatal hernias in our practice but I assume that most surgeons can address bowel adhesions while operating on hiatal hernias without much trouble. Best, CAHS
Thank you Doctor that was very clear some complications to look out for. Thank god the surgery went well with no complication. But after a few years of the surgery there seems to be no function of errection. What can be done to rectify that. Thank you
I had a hiatal hernia repair with mash March 6, 2020. I woke up from this procedure out of anesthesia, thrashing and screaming holding the left side of my abdominal area from this moment on my bowel movements were accompanied with severe vomiting. I had burning pain on the left side of my abdominal area that still to this day has not went away completely, my primary care physician and referred me to the surgeons involved was never disclosed. I never knew was used/ I was only told they were going to remove my gallbladder and repair a hernia. Every time I had a bowel movement from this time on I puke violently my blood pressure drops. I have an extreme, twisting gut, wrenching pain on the left side, the same exact small area I woke up, holding in screaming after the mesh was implanted, unfortunately I didn’t have good doctors. I didn’t have ethical doctors that were honest with me right off the bat. I followed up every single month with my primary care physician explaining to her it feels like a foreign object is inside of my body burning me she never once told me that there was a foreign object inside of my body, I followed up with my surgeon over 50 times and I was rushed by an ambulance into the same hospital system. This was procedure was done over 150 times most recently in April 28. I had a bowel movement where a large surgical type material came out of my bowel movement 11 days prior. I was vomiting, extreme cramping with bowel movements cramping that I’ve never experienced before because now it went all the way across my abdominal area, my vagina swelled only on the left side the same side I woke up holding and screaming after the mesh and plant was placed in side my body. Now my lymph nodes are over and almost 2 cm on level 123 and four of my neck. My breasts are completely calcified. My teeth are cracking out of my mouth. I’ve had to have one extracted. I have one remaining with a long crack spongestic dermatitis. I have every symptom of some sort of mesh rejection after the foreign object came out of my body in a bowel movement. I have no longer thrown up with any bowel movements, which I’m really grateful for. I know the longer need nausea medication that I’ve needed every six hours since March 6, 2020 however, when I have a bowel movement, the left side of my body goes completely numb and I did suffer a mini stroke on August 27, while trying to pass a movement because the vomiting that accompanied with bowel movement, pressure pain and burning feeling wasn’t pushing the bowel movement out like it typically did and I puked for three hours until I stroked out. I’ve tried to see help with the surgeon locally, but no one wants to get involved in my case because they don’t want to be the responsible doctor. That’s going to place the other four doctors license in jeopardy and this is at my expense. I’m an educated woman. I understand what’s happening to me Mesh was used. I went into the hospital and I pulled my surgical notes so I realize mesh was used. This was never disclosed even though I woke up from this procedure out of anesthesia, thrashing and screaming, even though I followed up every month with the primary care physician who signed off on the surgery, even though I went in front of the surgeon over 50 times face-to-face explaining it feels like a foreign object is inside my body burning me even though I was rushed by an ambulance to the same hospital system over 150 times I’ve received no help. I realize now that my life is definitely in danger and I have nowhere to go here locally because no doctor wants to help me as a matter fact I’m treated very poorly until I’m intimidated enough to walk out of the hospital on my own, even with all of my notes, all of my documentation which I have videos of every single time this has happened now it’s happened over 1000 times I’m surprised I’m even still here. I appreciate you posting your video. I wish I had access to a doctor like you.
Just got mine done, & feel much worse than I thought. Aside from what you would expect from a surgery.., I’m feeling something (probably the mesh) clipping against my lower right rib when I take a breath. Can you please tell me if this is normal. Also I feel like when I roll over, all my guts , slosh over . Like if you were to be carrying a water balloon. It doesn’t move at the same rate that you do. It’s gotta catch up.
Hi Doc. Great vid. Question: I'm looking at Inguinal Hernia surgery. My options are the standard open, laparoscopic, or Da Vinci. Most Dr.'s in my network want to do the Da Vinci option. But, I get a very "salesy" feel about the Robotic option. And, I just don't understand how the goggle vision will be able to replace the ancillary mobility of the head & neck in conjunction with the eyes (in terms of angles, layers, broadness of vision, & spotting additional/potential abnormalities). Also, are surgical Techs still hands on involved with Robotic surgery? I have a lot of questions. It's very odd to ask one's surgeon these questions without getting a sense of "awkwardness." So, I appreciate any feedback & advice you'd be willing to offer.
Dolf Dervish, Your questions on robotic surgery are very common to patient who are trying to make their decision on the best surgical approach. Because of this we created several pages on our website discussing robotic hernia repair. We hope they help: californiaherniaspecialists.com/about-robotic-hernia-surgery/ Best, CAHS
I got umbilical mesh removed after 2 years. Nightmare the pain I lived with. It also prevented me from breathing. Expanding my tummy. Removed a week ago. Feel 100% again. It was infected but not externally visible. 7 surgeons told me I was not able to remove it and some said I'm making it up.
I am scheduled for an umbilical hernia repair surgery next week. I am not experiencing any pain or discomfort, however I have developed an "outtie" over the last several years. I am 51 and in good physical shape- work out regularly with no physical discomfort. The only issue is this area is sensitive to the touch and when I also happen to brush it up against something like a countertop. This is an elective surgery, but yet I worry that repairing it could put me in chronic pain , even though the risk is small. How does the risk factor of someone doing this on an elective basis with no pain compare to those who NEED to have this done? I don't want to forever regret my decision, especially when the surgery wasn't necessarily required.
David, Umbilical hernia repairs are extremely common and it is very very rare for patients to have chronic pain after this surgery. Inguinal hernias tend to have a higher incidence of chronic pain due to the nerves that are found in that area. Good luck in your upcoming surgery, we're sure you will recovery 100%, CAHS
Update? Here's my story for anyone interested.I had a hernia so many years I couldn't tell you exactly when I first noticed. I'm 52 now. I'd say it's been there 10 plus years. They say if you've had prior surgery in that area, it's more likely..... I had my tubes tied, after having 4 babies , am overweight, and did lots of heavy lifting tand labor that was too strenuous for me all along. It kept getting steadily worse. Even though the hole was only about quarter size, it was sticking out further and wasn't going to heal on its own. The surgeon told me it was urgent, not an emergency. So a month later I got it repaired. I insisted on no mesh. this was about 18 hours ago. Felt like I was run over by a truck when I bend down or try to get off the couch. I find that standing and walking aren't terribly painful. Took my tramadol I think it's called. and trying to fall asleep. Pain level just about 0 when lying still. I think I'll be glad I finally got this hole sewn up. in the past few months, when it got hard, I'd slowly push it down and would here a squishy sound and it would collapse and it was starting to scare me a little.
Mark Mullins, The time it takes between a referral and seeing a specialist varies greatly depending on insurance. In our area, most patients with private insurance (PPO) don't need a referral and can make their own appointment. Good luck, CAHS
Hello we are very worried. My partner had open right inguinal surgery (1 mesh inserted) and everything was fine. 4 months after he had open left inguinal surgery (unfortunately 2 meshes had to be inserted, which is ironic because the other hernia was more troublesome). Since the second surgery (almost 4 months and half ago now) my partner can't pass the stool naturally and even using Dulphalac, Iberobalance or Laxibiotic, table spoon of olive oil, linseed liquid, warm water, plenty of water, fiber it doesn't really help much. Also although drinking a lot of water he doesn't seem to pee much and in fact it's difficult for him to go for pee. He also has a pain in the leg (not strong) towards his knee on the same side as the 2 mesh surgery. So far these test have been done: blood tests for some cancers, kidneys function, test from his stool and an Ex Ray of abdomen, where after 6 days not passing stool and taking a lot of Dulphalac and passing a lot of stool there was still stool going right up towards his stomach. The physical test whether there is a blockage in colon was also done. Also maybe 9 months ago prostate blood test was done with good result (that was before hernia repair). Currently we are waiting some additional check ups. Our dedicated spanish gps think that it might be pointing towards the inguinal surgery as a culprit. Although other tests must be done. Dear doctor any idea or help? Or is there anybody there who had the same problem after inguinal hernia mesh repair? Thank you very much.
Lucie Sitarova, The situation that you are describing sounds very complex after a seemingly straightforward hernia repair. Most inguinal hernia repairs are not anywhere near the colon, bladder and other structures in the pelvis. They are focused just on the abdominal wall at the level of the groin. I have never seen a patient have any of the symptoms you describe after a hernia repair so I would lean towards these issues being unrelated to the hernia surgery. Good luck in your upcoming appointments, CAHS
California Hernia Specialists: Specialty Care for Hernia Repair Thank you very much for your reply I really appreciate it!!! Thanks and all the best to you too.
Lucie Sitařová. If a double mesh was used, it sounds like a Rutkow Robbins procedure, in wich a plug and a patch is used, like in my case. The plug or patch usually create bowel adhesions leading to intestinal oclusion. The European Union Hernia comité recently post a paper in wich discourages the employ of plug, due among others high erosion, strong fibrosis, adhesions and more chronic pain outcomes.
@@paco3447 Thank you for your reply!!! Yes thought about the adhesions too. After about 5 months of agony when the bowels were not moving one bit, we found that 1 tablet of omeprazol and the next day bowel working perfectly. Adam is entering his cluster headache now as it's end of October, so relieve was short lived.
Thanks Doc, had hernia surgery 1/25/24 and was looking for info why my testicle area has swollen. I feel lucky after you mentioned football and soccer size swelling. Mine is only a small baseball size. Sounds like part of the process. Have a follow up appointment on 2/8 so I won't worry yet. Thanks Again
Mine was football size!! I thought I was mutilated!! I'm in week three of recovery, starting to feel short sharp pain and I keep thinking I've torn it again
I had an open bilateral inguinal hernioplasty about 3 days ago, I had a fever, swelling and pain on right side of surgical site but fever, pain and swelling only last for 12-15 hrs and now I am feeling fine, I am just worried was that normal or was my mesh repair failed ?
Doctor, is Organ Perforation and bowel obstruction common after Hernia repair surgery using Mesh? Should we worry about other complications like Adhesions?
Gautam, It is extremely rare to have a bowel injury during a hernia repair. The only time this becomes more common is when patients have intestines stuck in their hernia which is not usual. Many hernia surgeons use the TEPP repair technique which avoids adhesions in the abdomen. Best, CAHS
I have a question received a Hiatal Hernia repair, but during my surgery my side pleural was nicked and my lungs started to fill up with fluid. Can you explain and tell me what happened during surgery. I was diagnosis with Thoracic duct injury? Thank you!
Hello Dr. Harris. I had an incisional hernia repair 10 months ago. The defect was closed and a two layer gortex mesh was used as well. My incisional hernia was due to a bowel ressection I had to have for a Meckel's infection two years ago. I am a 36 yo female and have had two pregnancies as well. I still notice that when I cough, bear down to play my trumpet (I am a trumpet player/band director), sneeze, etc. I can still feel a bulge in the same area. I have occasional burning pain (mostly because I'm paranoid and keep pressing the area trying to figure out of my surgery failed). I have an appointment with my surgeon soon, but she thinks it is pretty unlikely the surgery has failed and more likely that I just have a bulge of the mesh itself due to weight loss since my surgery. She most likely will want to have me get another abdominal CT scan to see what is going on. I have had a lot of CT scans of my abdomen in the last few years and really don't' want more radiation. My questions are (1) Is there another method we can use other than a CT scan to see if it's a cosmetic bulge or an actual surgery fail; (2) Is it fairly common for umbilical incisional hernia repairs to have minor bulging during coughing etc. even after repair and (3) Is it better to leave the bulge be than try to place a second mesh and risk more issues. I don't plan to have more children (I had originally wanted three before this whole mess and now I'm not willing to risk any more health issues), but I do have a career that requires a fair amount of internal pressure, so I wanted to get another opinion. I live in Maryland and am actually considering coming to CA if I indeed need a second repair, I'm just fearing how painful the flight back would be after only a few days of recovery. Thank you for any input you may have.
Amy, you have some good questions that you will need to ask your particular surgeon. Unfortunately CT scans are the best to evaluate for ventral hernias and the decisions to operate or observe are not easily made without examining a patient. I hope that your surgeon provides you with good information to help make your decisions easier. Best, CAHS
Still in pain since 2018 October mesh hernia surgery,also another pain in the right lower belly and lymph nodes in my kneck..... nothing seen in my stomach in a CT scan!
I had just my incarcerated umbilical hernia repaired here in vegas last night as a emergency ,I had it for 6 years and I just couldn't push it in and in so much pain, they did a open repair and I pray I heal ok...I'm in so much pain now..
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists thanks so much,my only surgery in 50 years on earth,just lot of pain and constipation...I pray to heal,I have a follow up this friday 10 days after surgery with my surgeon dr Peter caravello here in Vegas, hope the staples come out...
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists hi its 3 weeks today since my surgery, I'm just fatigued and trying to heal, I have a hardness above my incision like just one hard spot,the surgeon's assistant said it might be scar tissue or a seroma or hematoma, I just want to get better, I have to be back to work in two weeks, they said hot compress on it....any input appreciated...
Sir since 2 yrs I have grade B Hiatus hernia, acid reflux, bloating, burping , shortness of breath. What kind of mesh I ask my Dr to use. And how much time I take rest after surgery .
i have a fluid collection in my Paraumbilical hernia that is probably softball size, but my entire transverse colon, Omentum fat, and vessels, and part of my small intestines were incarcerated there for a couple of years. My doc said the fluid will probably go away in about 6 weeks and I will have pain for about a year. I got off the pain pills in 2 and a half weeks because they constipate you. The pain is freaking torture. My fluid collection is hard as a rock. He made 9 entry points. it fixed a few umbilical and Paraumbilical hernias. Also, the same doctor fixed my boyfriend's football sized Inguinal and the one on the other side, too, plus, he fixed my neighbor's Hiatal hernia. Also, none of us have post-op parasthesias of any sort.
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists You're welcome. I'm not seeing signs of it shrinking. I feel like it's going to encapsulate instead if it hasn't done so already. Unless I coughed the surgery and undid it. I'm going to go back late February and if it hasn't resolved I'm going to get ct scan to make sure. Then I'm going to have to insist something be done because it is still painful after over a month. Getting a little scared.
Having open bilateral surgery in two weeks. My surgeon did not offer laparoscopic said open the technique he would use. Hope to God I’m not making a terrible mistake going with open mesh.
I have hernia surgery 8days ago, and I have a sweeling but the swelling is down, then a long strong sfufff there, in my scrotum, very strong I don't this im scared
Had an inguinal hernia operation a week ago. There feels to be something like a lump the size of a human eye in the area where the intestines used to reside prior to the op. It felt a little more softer the second day after the operation, but after a week, it feels a bit hard with a bit of pain. The doctor told me that it was just a swelling that would go away with time. What could it be?? A blood clot or what?? I'm scared 😢
Sibong'ani, Having swelling and the feeling that the hernia is still there is 100% normal and happens in most patients. In the coming weeks/months that swelling will resolve completely. Best, CAHS
I heard alot of good things about you Dr. Harris and thankful that i've finally found a video of you about hernia. Its so informative and a stress reliever i would say on how you manage to evaluate all the circumstances on hernia surgery. By the way i had a inguinal surgery last monday and i was on a recovery period now. Thank you Dr. Harris for the video. Ram here from the Philippines. Salamat (Thank you).
ram dex, We are glad you've had your surgery and are on your road to recovery. I'm sure each day will get better and easier. Let us know if you have any questions during these weeks. Good luck, CAHS
California Hernia Specialists: Specialty Care for Hernia Repair Dr. Harris thank you for the reply i really appreciated it. For now i dont feel any pain just some feeling of something down there is flowing or i felt some kinda liquid streaming down. I dont know what was that? Is it normal?
@@kennethbryledeguzman8401 Nornal un na namamaga ung balls mo sa mga una hanggang tatlong linggo kz nagaadjust ung internal muscle m s loob. Parang lumuwag kz s loob un kz naalis ung laman n sobra dun. Relax lang bro. Wag ka lang ppwersa. Kahit anong mangyari wag ka mgbbuhat atleast hanggang 1 month kz para mas mas mablis pagrecover m. Goodluck bro.
Hi doctor , i had my hinguinal hernia 36 days ago. I still have little pain on my right testicle , my hernia Was on this side. Is it normal? Thank You sorry for mi english i write you from italy
Mario, Testicle soreness and pains after hernia surgery is 100% expected and can often be the last thing to fully resolve. In some patients this can take months to completely improve. Best, CAHS
Dr. Harris. I am having right inguinal hernia for about three months. I am contemplating open surgery without mesh and with a mesh. There are many feedbacks from people who repaired with mesh surferring permanent chronic pain. In your opinion, what are the things the surgeon should not do and should do in order to avoid letting his patient get permanent chronic pain when repair with mesh? If yourself needed an inguinal hernia repair (occurs about three months) what option would you go for? Please kindly advise us I believe many people around the world will benefit from your opinion.
Eliving, We have some information on our site and in videos which discuss the use of mesh for hernia repairs californiaherniaspecialists.com/about-hernia-mesh/. We hope this information helps, CAHS
Doctor, my indirect inguinal hernia surgery was performed around my left groin area. It's been 11 days now and I feel a slight pain in a 'vein' or 'track' that leads from the groin area to the left testicle. My left testicle also feels a little heavy with slight pain when touched. Will this go away when the wound heals?
What would cause urinary urgency to happen around 8 months after a tepp inguinal hernia repair, was repaired with paritex polyester mesh. Never had this issue before surgery. Thank you for your response
Urinary urgency is not something that we hear of after laparoscopic or robotic hernia repairs so it's not clear what would be causing your symptoms. Best, CAHS
Blessed day Sir, I had my laparoscopic surgery on my right inguinal hernia last 2 weeks. Right now I noticed that there's still a bulge/lump on the previous location of my hernia, the same exact spot. There's no pain but mild discomfort. 1. If it was a tear or anything then shouldn't there be more pain or discomfort? 2. Could this be a post operation healing taking place? Given I felt back to almost 100% after a week without any pain reliever or meds, this could be my body telling me that it needs to heal more? 2. Or is this an issue of the hernia pooping back up due to several factors like the surgeon's techniques or patient's condition? 3. My next appointment with the surgeon is only 2 weeks aways from now and an earlier date is unlikely. I don't want to rush or anything due to zero pain and minimal discomfort. Seeking insights if this is normal, or should I get immediate attention... Thank you very much in advance... God bless us all.
Sombrero, Having swelling and a bulge in the area of a prior hernia is completely normal at the 2 week mark. Over time the swelling will resolve and that area will be flat. Best, CAHS
how are you now ..I had inguinal hernia surgery 5 days ago and I have swelling in my scrotum. I have some hard thing in my scrotum and lumps, bulges too did you feel the same
Hi doctor 👨⚕️,i had a open hernia repair before one month and fluid get store in my scrotum , i scared and i told to doctor about this. My doctor say it is a seroma and he give. Me some antibiotics and say to shake it with hot water. I do it for 1 month now it only 30% left now my doctor say to only shake with hot water. And stop antibiotics. I am scared that will it be self healed or it will problem ? And when i touch it it feels like a little finger. What i do ? I am so scared 🥺🥺
Having a seroma after hernia surgery is very common and usually resolves on it's own over the course of months. Sometimes they can take up to 6 months to resolve but usually nothing needs to be done about them. Keep us posted on your recovery.
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists i think account yo symptoms it is a non-communicating hydroxyl. Is it possible ? And what is the cure of it , thank you dr....
Dr Harris I had my 1st laproscopic right side inguinal.hernia surgery in 2011. I than had a recurrence in 2019 and had open surgery. For the past 3 years I have had intermittent soreness and stabbing nerve pain. So frustrated because I have never fully recovered. Not sure if what I experience is chronic pain or another recurrence. If I require a 3rd surgery I certainly will not be using the same surgeon. Would very much consider CHS even if I must pay out of pocket. I am on Medicare and after one failed surgery and now possibly another I will only consider a hernia specialist. I have read a lot of great things about your facility.
Alaplex, Chronic pain after any surgery, including hernia surgery, can happen. We're sorry to hear that you never fully recovered. There are treatments for this type of situation, including nerve injections and sometimes nerve removal. These are often best done at larger University type hospital settings. Good luck, CAHS
I really like this video. Got inguinal hernia surgery and got plagued by seroma and a rock hard lump from the incision down to the scrotal area about the size of a potato. How frequently does this happen? Can this be prevented? This hard lump have been sitting there for a month. My surgeon goes with the "give it some time".
francis lalancette, What you are describing certainly sounds like a seroma. We often see these in patients who have slightly larger hernias that extend down to the scrotum and testicle. Fortunately, as your surgeon has suggested, most of these resolve on their own over time. Usually we see improvements within 1-3 months after the surgery. If by the 6 month mark there is still residual significant swelling, we discuss treatment with patients. But we strongly prefer to let your body reabsorb the fluid on it's own. Good luck, CAHS
heyy.how are you now.I had my inguinal hernia surgery 6 days ago and i have swelling in my scrotum.There is some hard thing and lump in my scrotum.Is this normal.did you also feel this...
Has anybody who has had the robotic surgery for an inguinal hernia ever experienced severe muscle cramping in the scrotum, taint, and bottom of buttocks where it meets the thigh? I had to go to the ER because I physically could not move and the pain was constant. It felt almost like a golf ball of pain moving from the scrotal area to the buttocks and all around but never in all those locations at once. I literally could literally move the pain to different locations with pressure from my hand. Labs said all blood and electrolyte levels were normal. My hernia was left sided but I also experienced pressure in the anterior right side of my neck and numbness in my right jaw. If anybody knows a cause for that please let me know
One complication that you did not mention but the FDA does, is blockage of the large or small intestine after mesh surgery. How often would you say this occurs with open or laparoscopic surgery?
Steven, That isn't something that we've seen in any of our patients and isn't something that we've heard of as a possible complication despite the FDA's comments. Best, CAHS
I am a welder, and sometimes lift heavy mterials, i had just hernia mesh repair 7 weeks ago. How long should i rest before going back to work. Is it too risky to do lifting? Thanks.
I had a robotic repair of a hernia on the right side, and in the process a cyst on the spermatic cord was excised. Now I'm dealing with a hematoma in the area, so it hasn't been as easy as anticipated. Hopefully the hematoma with be effectively drained in another couple of weeks. Hopefully.
doc do you think is it ok if i will no remove the stichess in my hernia surgery i cut only the head of stitchess almost 1 month after my surgery last july 20 2017
Thank you Doctor for your information, I'd like to ask you something about my case, i had a mesh repair for my inguinal hernia a month ago , i still have a hard inflammation around the surgery scar, also i have a lump in the groin area connecting with my left testicle, i mean it prevents my testicle from resting in the scrotum, it's almost like the seroma has formed around my testicle, please help
Shourya, Having hard scar tissue and firmness around the incision is completely normal after any surgery, including hernia surgery. Over the coming weeks/months that firmness almost always resolves. Best, CAHS
Hi, thank you for your video. I had hernia surgery(laparoscopic) for two epigastric hernias(above my naval and middle of my abs), and an umbilical hernia. I had the surgery done with mesh. I am about 12 days post-op right now, and feel great, but concerned because the two epigastric hernias that I could feel before the surgery I can still feel it seems.. I was curious in your opinion if you think this is hernia recurrence already, or fluid build up in the old hernia sac, or a healing ridge? They are firm to the touch, but they don't hurt. My stomach is still somewhat filed with fluid/water from the surgery, but has gone down quite a bit over last 12 days, and once it did I could start to feel those bumps. Any information would be super helpful- I am seeing my doctor for post-op visit next week- but have been trying to do research on my own about this. Thank you.
Rybo, Having the feeling that the hernias are still present after a hernia repair is 100% normal. There is always some swelling and inflammation in the area which will feel like the hernia. However, over time (weeks/months) all this swelling resolves and the feeling that the hernias are there will resolve. Best, CAHS
CB, Hardness and firmness around the hernia surgery site immediately after surgery is almost always just normal swelling and scar tissue. This will resolve and soften over the coming weeks to months until it is completely resolved. Best, CAHS
Hi Doctor, my 71 year old mother have Small Umbilical Hernia, little pain, she have Diabetes, Is it Necessary to do hernia Surgery immediately or can we do it later?, if necessary, which type of Surgery is Best, less Pain and Complications, Open Surgery or Laparoscopic?
We advise our patients to undergo surgery when the hernia is symptomatic or getting larger. The type of surgery is best discussed in person when the patient can be examined.
I had umbilical hernia surgery and i am now seeing a round lump in the same area where the original hernia once was and it’s the same size as the previous hernia. It’s been six weeks since the surgery. The surgeon says this is normal. But is it? Or is that another hernia? My belly button also went back to normal. When he originally did the surgery it was different but now it’s went back to how it was prior to the surgery
Jessica McCall, We often see some swelling after surgery which can take weeks to months to completely resolve. Some patients can develop a small seroma after surgery which can also take months to resolve completely. It's unlikely to be a recurrent hernia this quickly so we advise our patients to give it 2-3 months before we offer any further work up. Best, CAHS
hello i had surgery for inguinal hernia with mesh applied 2 weeks ago , question : is it normal when i sneeze the area feels - hear like a pop movement and noise ??? ty
Thank you doctor. I have just been diagnosed with a hernia today. I have had a bulge in my inner thigh for the last 8 months It gets worse after I run (walk long distance) and its painful, bigger and sometimes red during my menstrual days. The fact that its worse during my period was thre reason it took 8 months to diagnose. Now they want me to have surgery, but I am so afraid - this video was helpful. Love from South Africa 🇿🇦
Thank you for your kind comments. Good luck in your upcoming surgery, CAHS
Thank you, I’m going in soon for a repair and feel like I’m ahead of the curve due to videos like this.
Thank you!
Ted, We're glad the videos have helped. Good luck, CAHS
got my surgery the other day, and im good 😄 i cannot wait to do things i cant do the last 2 years, im in a better place to be honest.
Mark Romulo update ?
We hope that you're doing well since your comments years ago. All the best, CAHS
Dr Francis J Petitto in Slidell, LA did mine. The pain in my groin is worse now than before my surgery. I’ve tried to get in to see him for the last three weeks and he’s booked. They told me to go to the ER. I can’t say it’s like I never had surgery, because it’s worse now. Do you have any recommendations?
Hello it's also been my 2 years of surgery but I have a slight pain in that area did u also have? Pls tell
@@scotieroc heyy.how are you now.I had my inguinal hernia surgery 6 days ago and i have swelling in my scrotum.There is some hard thing and lump in my scrotum.Is this normal.did you also feel this...
Had a left inguinal hernia laprascopic surgery just yesterday (they actually found/repaired a second one also)repaired with mesh. Painful first and second day now, but slightly better. Will talk to surgeon next week. Thanks for the info here!
I'm just glad I got this done. I've been dealing with inguinal hernia for 6 years or so. Last year it dropped into my sack, and that promptly made me contact my doctor. I got it fixed and I'm feeling fantastic and normal roughly 8 months later!
vBDKv, That's great news. You are correct in that most patients find the results from their surgery far outweigh their fears and the risks. We're glad you found the process successful, CAHS
Does thtt affect ur fertility befre or after surgery?
@@dgjgjj1013 Not at all.
Does the mesh creating any problem
@@sandy-fitness Not for me, no. But there is always a chance of developing chronic pain in the area when inserting a foreign object into your body, that will be there for the rest of your life.
Thank you doctor. Very informative. Appreciate your dedication!!
Thank you for your comments.
15 days after double inguinal open repair using mesh. Left side was recurrent and old mesh removed to place a smooth mesh by a different surgeon. Now I notice a firm knot right where old hernia always presented, but it does not seem reducible like my old hernia, nor does it seem to enlarge when I cough. Reading through all your comments has relieved me greatly that this is probably normal and I just wanted to thank you for your work here. I can’t get ahold of my surgeon until after the weekend so your video saved me a lot of worrying over the next three days. I appreciate you and all the people who contributed with similar situations.
Shelter Mutts, You are correct in that most patients will feel a firm lump or swelling around where the hernia used to be after their surgery. This is very common and resolves over the coming weeks and months. Best, CAHS
5 weeks after surgery now and just had my final appointment with my surgeon. The lumps are much better now and she agreed completely with what you have said. Wish she would have warned me in advance. Your original post, and very nice response to my post, gave me a lot of comfort that things were normal for the last month. I am so grateful for your kindness and time. My surgeon is retiring soon and if I need anything else of this nature I will sure use your services next time. Take care and bless you for your help.
@@sheltermutts4185 how are you now?
Thanks for asking. Dr. Harris was exactly right in his reply. It took about three months for my lump and pain to go away. After about two years I hurt it again trying to move a treadmill (stupid yes?) and I thought I had pulled it lose again. It took another three months to heal and is now good again. I am so happy that it seems I won’t have to have this done a third time. But if it ever occurs again I’ll try and fly to have Dr. Harris fix it since my surgeon retired. My first error was having someone who just does this part time handle it. I should have insisted on a specialist. Experience really matters in this procedure.
@@sheltermutts4185 de
Excellent video, thank you for taking the time to reply to comments.
Our pleasure!
Thanks for this video. Very informative.The background music a little bit loud and distracting, other than that it is great movie. Thanks again.
Mohammed Alzamil, We're glad the information was helpful. Best, CAHS
Great presentation! Thanks for sharing this.
Glad it was helpful!
5 years later and I still have pain. Some days it’s not bad and others it makes it difficult to do things. It can easily start hurting during/ after sex as well. Worst thing that ever happened to me
Alex, Thank you for sharing. We're sorry to hear that you've had a bad experience, CAHS
Damn man. I had no pain at all after surgery. I guess not all surgeons are equal!
Yes I have a slight pain it's been 2 years of my surgery I am 15 could be the pain also because of puberty?
@@monamody5373 no lasting pain from a hernia surgery is not normal. The surgeon will prob say it is but truth is, they coulda did a better job. Plain and simple my procedure went amazing. I guess everyone is different but then every surgery should be different. Surgeons need to take their time and perfect their work
How are u now
Brilliant breakdown. Thank you very much Dr. May our Almighty Creator bless all well intended truth seeking people who genuinely like to help others......
Two years ago , chronic pain in my sides
Rob, We're sorry to hear that you're having pains years after your surgery, CAHS
I had a hernia surgery back in Aug 20.24 now I have Hematoma hurts bad getting it taken care of it monday thank you sharing your video
Thank you for your comments. Good luck in your recovery.
hi, I appreciated your explanation. I just had an open hernia inguinal repair, right. The only complication (if it is even one so early on) is incisional site pain at day 6. Motrin seems to help, but I am anxious for the heavy pain feeling I am having under my incision site. My stomach muscles dont seem to be the issue, just a heavy pain feeling on the side.
Michael, at 6 days after a hernia surgery it is very common to still have incisional muscle pains. Often these pains get better day by day and usually by 2 weeks and certainly 3 weeks, most of our patients are feeling back to almost 100% normal. It's not uncommon even in these patients for them to have infrequent, occasional pains that last for seconds during their normal activities. It sounds like you're healing according to expectations. Best, CAHS
Thanks for the wonderful information Dr. You've given me some hope to be prepared for my surgery
Ruth, We're glad the information was helpful. Best, CAHS
The background music was very distracting. Made it difficult for this old man to get the most of your message. But thank you anyway.
Noted
I would remove background music, it was hard to hear the message. Thanks
Maybe just lower the bg music volume? 🤷🏾♀️ Because I appreciate the bg music because watching this video was terrifying (as I just had a hernia repair surgery with mesh!) so it was a nice distraction
Great information, had a hernia operation my self 2 mabey 3 weeks ago everything going great. No massive pain, feel good.
Great to hear!
I appreciate so much that you have taken the time to provide this helpful information to patients! I have a question - I had open umbilical hernia repair 2 weeks ago - it was a very small hernia so it was suture only (no mesh). I also have diastasis recti (but only the hernia was sutured - the diastasis was left untouched) - he made only a small incision right at the base of my belly button. My question is: could repairing the hernia and leaving the diastasis untouched make that worse? My stomach is quite swollen/bloated at 2 weeks post op. Is it normal for my stomach to look bigger now than it did before? Thanks so much! ☺️
Tabbymy, Most surgeons don't repair someones rectus diastasis at the time of their umbilical hernia repair. The diastasis shouldn't be affected by the repair of the umbilical hernia. Best, CAHS
You have local or general anestetic?
@@vojkanilic3759 I think is general
How r u now? Plz reply
Glad to see such an informative video. Sir, I have a question and it would be really helpful if you suggest. My kid is 18 month old and he has a hernia problem. I am confused between open surgery and Laproscopy surgery. Kindly suggest which one would be safe and good for future.
IK Tech, Both laparoscopic and open surgery provide long term durable and safe results. The choice of which type of surgery to perform is usually what the surgeon is more comfortable performing. Best,CAHS
Please sir I need your help,
Sir I had my left inguinal hernia surgery four years ago and after two years I continued my gym and it was fine when I train upper body but as I get to the abdomen even after 5 years I feel some sort stitch extension pain or pin pricking hard in my operated lower abdomen side(left)...
My right side says go for the exercise but left fears me over hernia recurrence...
After one hour of the exersion it becomes just fine and perfect with very little issues which go after around 1.5 hours and I get back to normal...
I feel pain and agitation after chin ups please help...
Hope my question helps others as well...
Samrat, Unfortunately it would be too difficult to offer an opinion on your situation without examining you and having more details. We would suggest seeing your surgeon again if possible so that he or she could provide you with some answers. All the best, CAHS
I also have the same problem....😢
I also do home workouts and my lower back pains...
Dr Harris..I’m a female and went to see a nurse practitioner with some complaints like abdominal pressure,lower back pain and weakness in right leg.
I didn’t have any pain in my groin at all not even while exercising and no bulge that I could see but he placed his fingers underneath my pubic bone for like 5 minutes on the right side and said he felt a defect in there so diagnosed me with small ingunial hernia. He also said get surgery before worsening health which made me super stressed.
I went back home that day and saw that right side of groin where he examined got swollen and it was very painful.It was very hard to touch and pain got worse everyday radiating to my hip and pain killers did not work to get relief.
I went to get pelvic MRI and then also an ultrasound both spune and standing position and everything looked normal and no hernia was detected.
I went thru a lot of suffering and pain for 3 months till the swelling and pain went away.
Last week I went to see this nurse practitioner again and told him what happened and he started to yell at me and verbally abuse me insisted there is a defect there then he diagnosed me with mood disorder..
Thank you for your comments.
I'm coming all the way to California, if I have to sell everything I own for you to fix my hernia so u can have my self esteem back.... thank you
Rose, we're sorry to hear that you had an infection after your hernia repair. You're correct in that infections can prolong recovery, and can lead to ongoing issues for years after your surgery. Your complaint of pain in the incision and the testicles is not uncommon after infection. Although these types of complications can occur, fortunately they are very rare. Most centers see a 0.1% rate of a mesh infection, and about a 1% rate of a mild skin infection after surgery. We have more information on our page californiaherniaspecialists.com/complications-hernia-surgery/.
Thank you for sharing.
You are really a sweet kind hearted doctor
5Mellonde perez
I recently had a surgery for hernia in Thailand and I am afraid it has not gone well.
There is a bulge after the surgery on the incision area where the mesh was installed.
I wish I had the money to travel all the way to your clinic as I think you would have done a good job.
Unfortunately I have to go revisit the hospital in Thailand to solve this.
Hello sir
This Is Riya from India.
My mother had open hernia mesh surgery in 2018 and she is completely fine.
Sometimes i feel anxious what if it returns and so much rumours about mesh surgeries.Also my mother cannot lose weught post surgery
CAN WEIGHT GAIN CAUSE RETURN OF HERNIA ????
she has gained 3 kg post surgery from 2018-2023
I found your channel and you are a ray of hope and I got to clarify so my doubts.
Thnkyou so much sur from my heart.
I m a medical aspirant too and You just dont know how you relieved my anxiety.
Thnkyou again.
And i hope my mother remains fine and it never returns.😊
Obesity is certainly a risk factor for hernia development.
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists thnku sir for your reply
What if she reduces weight
She is reducing weight so i hope chance decrease ?
btw: I commend your practice for engaging with patients on YT... I think it's great!
Sleeve and hernia
We hope that you're doing well since your comments 2 years ago. All the best, CAHS
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists can u do my surgery plz I'm scared
Dr Harris,...You are a Fine Gentleman and Thank You for your view on hernia surgery.
Thank you very much. And your very welcome
We hope that you're doing well since your comments last year. All the best, CAHS
Hi Dr. Harris! I had my open ventral hernia repair with mesh on October 25, 2018. So far I had no problems and lost weight since by not eating too much. My question is can I now safely go jogging, weight lifting or even join sports such as Kendo without having a recurrent hernia? Thank you Dr. Harris.
Mark Abrasaldo, We provide a number of recommendations on hernia recovery in other videos or on our website at californiaherniaspecialists.com/hernia-recovery/. We hope that these help, although following your surgeons guidelines is always recommended. Best, CAHS
That is great the doctor replied back to you. Seems like a first class operation. Not sure if I want to do no mesh surgery
Thank you for your very informative video sir, i got my inguinal her repaired through laparoscopic surgery a year ago. But there are times that I can still feel heaviness in my groin but there’s no bulge or swelling on the area. Do I need to see a doctor or this part of the healing process?
Thank you for sharing your situation. Most patients after weeks/months should be completely healed from hernia surgery without any ongoing issues. Best, CAHS
I have about 6 weeks after surgery and still have swelling. And in one spot when I push firmly it feels like something hard behind it (like the intestine is still protruding into hernia). However it doesn't expand when I cough anymore. Still I'm afraid the surgery failed.
Having a hard lump after surgery is extremely common. In most cases this is just some residual fluid, swelling and some scar tissue from the surgery. I almost all cases (99%) this hardness goes away after about 1-3 months. We would encourage you to be patient and we're sure you'll see improvement in the coming months. Best, CAHS
Did the hard lump resolve with time? I had inguinal hernia repair surgery 3 weeks ago and have a firm lump above testicle where hernia used to be and feels like a hernia. However, it is smaller in size than original hernia and does not expand when I cough or strain abdomen. Thank you for sharing and thank you Doctor for sharing your knowledge.
@@ronaldsalguero4578 yes, it went away. It took a month or two.
@@lowereastsideastrologist7769 did this hard lump come out only when you got more active and kind of hid when not? I had surgery last week and now feel a lump just few days after surgery.
@@marvinchavez2497 The doctor told me my lump was normal , post-surgical "scarring". It softened up and went away a few weeks later. Still, you may want to double check to confirm with your doctor
Your reply will much appreciated
Rocky, Hernia surgery does not impact the level of the testicle or it's upward changes in position. If this is something that is concerning, a Urologist might be someone who could help. Best, CAHS
Thank you for the video! Going in for my 3rd inguinal hernia surgery on the right side October 6th. I'm only 23. super concerned about complications especially losing the right testicle. Remember being in a lot of pain the last surgery too so it is something I need to pay attention to. This new doctor though seems to have a good plan with robotic surgery so hopefully everything goes well.
Mike, Good luck with your upcoming surgery, CAHS
Hope it works out well! Good luck
How are you now?
How did it go?? (Written in year 2022)
how are you now ..I had inguinal hernia surgery 5 days ago and I have swelling in my scrotum. I have some hard thing in my scrotum and lumps, bulges too
Had a "huge" hernia repaired and yes, I did lose a testicle.
Still in the healing process since it's been a bit less than three weeks. Still some swelling and the area is sensitive but I feel that will improve in the next few weeks.
Doc wanted to do local anesthesia (because I have heart issues) but anesthesiologist strongly disagreed. The "thirty minute" repair took about an hour and a half.
Thank you for sharing your comments.
Why was your testicle rem0ved? im curious
Hello. I have a problem that I don't see described often. I had bilateral laparoscopic mesh for a direct right side inguinal hernia. The surgeon explored the other side and found some fat so he used two 6x6 inch pieces of mesh to cover as much as possible. I had a very difficult recovery with much spongy swelling across the whole lower abdomen, hwile trying to continue my active life of running and playing soccer, after my surgeon said it was okay. My surgeon could not figure out why I was having problems (he said). So I quit running and playing soccer and started working out instead. This seemed to compress and reduce the swelling and tighten my abdomen up, generally, which was good.
But now, 2 and a half years later, I find that I still can't run or bike or do typical aerobic exercises without losing the ability to get an erection. The penis just starts shrinking and will not engorge properly, I think due to swelling and/or fluids from damaged tissue in the area of the vessels involved. If I stop the running and biking and become more sedentary, the function comes back after a week or two. So, I am forced to choose between having a functioning penis or engaging in healthy activities. There is pain involved after various physical activities also, one to two days later, like tissue is being torn and/or stretched.
I spend most of my free time now thinking about having the mesh removed. I don't seem to be getting better no matter what I try and I am basically debilitated and getting less healthy. It's affecting my health in a bad way. Is this enough to get a surgeon to remove the mesh? Physically I appear healthy but mentally and emotionally I'm in bad shape. I feel like 50% of the person I was even when I had the hernia. I was better off with the hernia than now.
Thank you for any advice you can offer.
Maybe I was too long-winded. You've responded to a post after mine so you must have seen mine. Can you advise on having mesh removed? It's very difficult to find anyone who even wants to entertain the idea. This is not about your methods, my mesh was put in by another doctor. I need some help, please respond.
Thank you.
Hernia Mesh Problems How’s it going now?
@@chriskousky760 im wondering too, since i had right side lapa mesh done 5 weeks ago, and cardio is my main concern with the mesh :/
We hope that you're doing well since your comments 2 years ago. All the best, CAHS
Hello, hernia mesh problems. Have you removed the mesh? It's been 4yrs since your post and I'm interested in your recovery. Can you respond in how you feel now if the mesh has been removed? Thanks, god bless you.
This was a very informative video, thank you doctor. I currently have an inguinal hernia on the left side after dealing with unusual groin and testicle pain for a week. The doctor says I need to have surgery but I'm extremely worried about losing a testicle. My hernia is quite small, it can't be seen from the outside but was found in an ultrasound and was felt by the doctor when I tense up.
What are the chances of me losing a testicle during the surgery? Is there any medical speciality that I should consult aside from general surgery?
I'd love to have surgery with you in California but I'm currently in South America.
Federico, The chances of losing a testicle during a hernia surgery is very close to 0%. Good luck in your surgery, CAHS
Hi Doctor, I just have my surgery 1 week ago for the right inguinal hernia. After the surgery the right testicle has swollen approximately twice the size of the left, is this normal? Many thanks and look forward to your feedback
Michael Z, We have a large number of replies about this in prior comments on this video as well as some of our other videos. We hope those help, CAHS
heyy.how are you now.I had my inguinal hernia surgery 6 days ago and i have swelling in my scrotum.There is some hard thing and lump in my scrotum.Is this normal.did you also feel this...
@@yuvrajsingh770 hey man, I had swelling right after surgery as well. The recuperation period is typically 2 weeks to a month till the swell went back to normal. I believe it's from the surgeries incision process that causes the swelling. Just keep in contact with your GP for any issues.
@@yuvrajsingh770 how are you my friend
@@marioummarino8920 i am now totally fine and also lumps have gone.
I had a robotic-assisted inguinal repair with mesh 3 months ago. I felt much better up until a month ago when I started having scrotal pain on the same side that does not go away and is worse when sitting. I have been examined by my primary care physician and a urologist, who had an ultrasound done and found no abnormalities. I am waiting for an appointment with my surgeon now, but nervous that there will be nothing they can do. Do you have any suggestions for questions I might ask? Also, is physical therapy an option for this type of pain?
Testicle pains after a hernia repair can sometimes last for an extended period of time before resolving. Keep us posted on your progress.
For inguinal hernia repair you have two choices: living with chronic disabling pain, mostly in testicles and groin, and or immunological disorders as a result from mesh usage (around 23% or more) or lead with a little bit more recurrence rates of anatomical repair (no mesh).
Meshes are proven to be highly associated with chronic pain and complications than no mesh counter part repairs.
Meshes are not inert foreign bodies and must be seriously considered per patient, specially those with previous pelvic pain syndromes, immunological disorders or allergies and foreign body unknown reactions.
Once a mesh is implanted, is extremely challenging get rid of the material, an usually involves selective neurectomies with inherent compications. And only a few surgeons could perform such procedures.
So think before you let them put a piece of plastic inside your groin.
Paco Encinas, Thank you for you comments and information. You are certainly not alone in your feelings. However, the majority of medical data supports the safe use of synthetic mesh. We hope that you are able to get relief from your symptoms, CAHS
lol. mesh is safe these days. Quit misleading people.
@@jiujitsu94 Not for me. I underwent mesh removal due mesh rejection (including meshoma) and ilioinguinal / genitofemoral injuries (now chronic pain), as well as allergic reactions.
@@paco3447 You probably had a bad surgeon
@@jiujitsu94 probably. But in the FIP pain management unit I use to treat my pain regularly, the FIP pain practice Drs (all anesthesiologists) told me that chronic post hernioplasty pain is the topmost issue in such Units.
Hey doctor! Is it normal to make the mesh smaller, depending on the size of the patient? I have a relatively small waist and want my surgeon to cut off some of the mesh, because he does tapp and i dont want him to cut away so much of perfectly good tissue to make room for the mesh. Also my hernia is below 1 cm. What type of mesh would you recommend? I am a fit, young male and want to continue to do combat sports without problems.
A TAPP and TEPP approach do not require 'cutting away' any tissue within the body. A pocket is simply made for the mesh to be placed into. There are several sizes of mesh to best suit each patients body size.
I had two mesh pads sewn into my abdomen after extreme Diastasis Recti from 2 C-sections. The surgery was in 2008. I have suffered chronic pain ever since, along with weight loss, night sweats, dizziness, joint pain, muscle weakness, parasthesia, bladder and bowel problems, and low grade fever with chills that come and go. I have had many different blood tests done to no avail. I have recently learned about foreign body reaction (FBR) and am tracking down all records to see if they exactly correlate. I am trying not to lose faith completely in doctors, because I have been told this is all in my head. I was a healthy dancer before all this. I would really truly appreciate your thoughts. ~Erica (a former shell of who I used to be)
E Plum - Very sorry to hear you are experiencing these issues. I hope you have found someone willing to step up and help you. These mesh peddling hernia surgeons always dodge questions such as yours and only speak on mild complications. The truth is, the majority of hernia surgeons have no clue how to deal with severe complications. They only put the mesh in. After that you are someone elses problem.. usually kicked off to pain management. Many docs won't even acknowledge the real damage mesh can do. Mesh is not inert like these docs want you to believe. Mesh is known to constrict, harden, ball up, migrate, and cause all types of problems. Where are the videos about that??
E Plum - Just so you are aware.. I too am dealing with this nightmare. I had open inguinal hernia surgery for a small hernia in Oct 2015.. had nothing but problems.. got jerked around by doctors.. kept pressing and had the mesh & plug removed in Sept 2016. Still having problems and unable to work as I type this.. and still being jerked around. I can not do any type of physical activity, can not wear anything but sweatpants, and constantly feel pressure and pain, leg burns, groin spasms, muscle weakness and a laundry list of other problems. It's ridiculous. As you said, these problems leave you as a shell of the person you were prior to the surgery.
How are you feeling now? I hope you guys get better. Just wanna know are you all better now? It has been a year now since your last comment.
We hope that you're doing well since your comments 2 years ago. All the best, CAHS
Hello, I had an inguinal hernia mesh repair done exactly 1 year ago. There was some residual soreness and swelling that was presumed normal. A noticeable lump exists in the exact same spot that the doctor originally said was "fluid". After getting an ultrasound to confirm, he now says I have a recurrent hernia. How does this happen and how successful is a second surgery? Is a second surgery more complicated and riskier due to having a mesh already implanted ? thx
Nitecrawler, We're sorry to hear that you have a recurrent hernia. Initial hernias have a 1-2% chance of recurrence, which goes up to about 10% after an initial failure. There is more scar tissue which can make the second surgery slightly more difficult. However, with laparoscopic/robotic/open options, usually that is minimized.
hii doc:
I had my umbilical hernia operation January this yr date 8,and now is six month and am still have pain all over my abdomen in the morning when I woke up,what is the problem?...can mesh have effect in my future life
pliz answer me am worried
Do you still have the abdominal pain? I'm 5 months in and have the same issue.
Any update on your situation ?
Have you guys seen your surgeon and discussed this?
We hope that you're doing well since your comments 2 years ago. All the best, CAHS
If a person has a history of adhesions of the bowel area would they only be safe having an open procedure? I'm afraid of bowel being punctured. Speaking of hiatal hernia repair.
Jandksplend, We don't operate on hiatal hernias in our practice but I assume that most surgeons can address bowel adhesions while operating on hiatal hernias without much trouble. Best, CAHS
Great Information .. I'm on day 4 and still in a lot of pain .. but I don't have any bruising .. I have an amazing Surgeon 💪👌
Glad you're having a smooth recovery, CAHS
Yes I also had pain doing everything for a week but it will be fine don't worry I was only 13
Thank you Doctor that was very clear some complications to look out for. Thank god the surgery went well with no complication. But after a few years of the surgery there seems to be no function of errection. What can be done to rectify that. Thank you
Hernia surgery has no impact on sexual function.
Its been 6 month of left open inguinal hernia surgery and don't know why sometimes i feel shock pain in my starting of my left leg.....
Wehandleit, that would be an uncommon issue after a hernia repair. We hope you are able to get some relief soon, CAHS
I had a hiatal hernia repair with mash March 6, 2020. I woke up from this procedure out of anesthesia, thrashing and screaming holding the left side of my abdominal area from this moment on my bowel movements were accompanied with severe vomiting. I had burning pain on the left side of my abdominal area that still to this day has not went away completely, my primary care physician and referred me to the surgeons involved was never disclosed. I never knew was used/ I was only told they were going to remove my gallbladder and repair a hernia. Every time I had a bowel movement from this time on I puke violently my blood pressure drops. I have an extreme, twisting gut, wrenching pain on the left side, the same exact small area I woke up, holding in screaming after the mesh was implanted, unfortunately I didn’t have good doctors. I didn’t have ethical doctors that were honest with me right off the bat. I followed up every single month with my primary care physician explaining to her it feels like a foreign object is inside of my body burning me she never once told me that there was a foreign object inside of my body, I followed up with my surgeon over 50 times and I was rushed by an ambulance into the same hospital system. This was procedure was done over 150 times most recently in April 28. I had a bowel movement where a large surgical type material came out of my bowel movement 11 days prior. I was vomiting, extreme cramping with bowel movements cramping that I’ve never experienced before because now it went all the way across my abdominal area, my vagina swelled only on the left side the same side I woke up holding and screaming after the mesh and plant was placed in side my body. Now my lymph nodes are over and almost 2 cm on level 123 and four of my neck. My breasts are completely calcified. My teeth are cracking out of my mouth. I’ve had to have one extracted. I have one remaining with a long crack spongestic dermatitis. I have every symptom of some sort of mesh rejection after the foreign object came out of my body in a bowel movement. I have no longer thrown up with any bowel movements, which I’m really grateful for. I know the longer need nausea medication that I’ve needed every six hours since March 6, 2020 however, when I have a bowel movement, the left side of my body goes completely numb and I did suffer a mini stroke on August 27, while trying to pass a movement because the vomiting that accompanied with bowel movement, pressure pain and burning feeling wasn’t pushing the bowel movement out like it typically did and I puked for three hours until I stroked out. I’ve tried to see help with the surgeon locally, but no one wants to get involved in my case because they don’t want to be the responsible doctor. That’s going to place the other four doctors license in jeopardy and this is at my expense. I’m an educated woman. I understand what’s happening to me Mesh was used. I went into the hospital and I pulled my surgical notes so I realize mesh was used. This was never disclosed even though I woke up from this procedure out of anesthesia, thrashing and screaming, even though I followed up every month with the primary care physician who signed off on the surgery, even though I went in front of the surgeon over 50 times face-to-face explaining it feels like a foreign object is inside my body burning me even though I was rushed by an ambulance to the same hospital system over 150 times I’ve received no help. I realize now that my life is definitely in danger and I have nowhere to go here locally because no doctor wants to help me as a matter fact I’m treated very poorly until I’m intimidated enough to walk out of the hospital on my own, even with all of my notes, all of my documentation which I have videos of every single time this has happened now it’s happened over 1000 times I’m surprised I’m even still here. I appreciate you posting your video. I wish I had access to a doctor like you.
Thank you for your comments.
Just got mine done, & feel much worse than I thought. Aside from what you would expect from a surgery.., I’m feeling something (probably the mesh) clipping against my lower right rib when I take a breath. Can you please tell me if this is normal. Also I feel like when I roll over, all my guts , slosh over . Like if you were to be carrying a water balloon. It doesn’t move at the same rate that you do. It’s gotta catch up.
Thank you for your comments. Good luck in your recovery.
Hi Doc. Great vid. Question: I'm looking at Inguinal Hernia surgery. My options are the standard open, laparoscopic, or Da Vinci. Most Dr.'s in my network want to do the Da Vinci option.
But, I get a very "salesy" feel about the Robotic option. And, I just don't understand how the goggle vision will be able to replace the ancillary mobility of the head & neck in conjunction with the eyes (in terms of angles, layers, broadness of vision, & spotting additional/potential abnormalities).
Also, are surgical Techs still hands on involved with Robotic surgery?
I have a lot of questions. It's very odd to ask one's surgeon these questions without getting a sense of "awkwardness."
So, I appreciate any feedback & advice you'd be willing to offer.
Dolf Dervish, Your questions on robotic surgery are very common to patient who are trying to make their decision on the best surgical approach. Because of this we created several pages on our website discussing robotic hernia repair. We hope they help: californiaherniaspecialists.com/about-robotic-hernia-surgery/ Best, CAHS
I got umbilical mesh removed after 2 years. Nightmare the pain I lived with. It also prevented me from breathing. Expanding my tummy. Removed a week ago. Feel 100% again. It was infected but not externally visible. 7 surgeons told me I was not able to remove it and some said I'm making it up.
Thank you for your comments. We're glad you're back to 100%.
I am scheduled for an umbilical hernia repair surgery next week. I am not experiencing any pain or discomfort, however I have developed an "outtie" over the last several years. I am 51 and in good physical shape- work out regularly with no physical discomfort. The only issue is this area is sensitive to the touch and when I also happen to brush it up against something like a countertop. This is an elective surgery, but yet I worry that repairing it could put me in chronic pain , even though the risk is small. How does the risk factor of someone doing this on an elective basis with no pain compare to those who NEED to have this done? I don't want to forever regret my decision, especially when the surgery wasn't necessarily required.
David, Umbilical hernia repairs are extremely common and it is very very rare for patients to have chronic pain after this surgery. Inguinal hernias tend to have a higher incidence of chronic pain due to the nerves that are found in that area. Good luck in your upcoming surgery, we're sure you will recovery 100%, CAHS
Update? Here's my story for anyone interested.I had a hernia so many years I couldn't tell you exactly when I first noticed. I'm 52 now. I'd say it's been there 10 plus years. They say if you've had prior surgery in that area, it's more likely..... I had my tubes tied, after having 4 babies , am overweight, and did lots of heavy lifting tand labor that was too strenuous for me all along. It kept getting steadily worse. Even though the hole was only about quarter size, it was sticking out further and wasn't going to heal on its own.
The surgeon told me it was urgent, not an emergency. So a month later I got it repaired. I insisted on no mesh.
this was about 18 hours ago. Felt like I was run over by a truck when I bend down or try to get off the couch. I find that standing and walking aren't terribly painful. Took my tramadol I think it's called. and trying to fall asleep. Pain level just about 0 when lying still. I think I'll be glad I finally got this hole sewn up. in the past few months, when it got hard, I'd slowly push it down and would here a squishy sound and it would collapse and it was starting to scare me a little.
How long after your family doctor refers you to a Hernia Specialist does it take to actually see the specialist?
Mark Mullins, The time it takes between a referral and seeing a specialist varies greatly depending on insurance. In our area, most patients with private insurance (PPO) don't need a referral and can make their own appointment. Good luck, CAHS
Do you use traditional flat mesh? I had a 3D Max mesh which I understand is not the conventional type.
Bard anatomical meshes are very common and used by a large number of hernia surgeons. Best, CAHS
Hello we are very worried. My partner had open right inguinal surgery (1 mesh inserted) and everything was fine. 4 months after he had open left inguinal surgery (unfortunately 2 meshes had to be inserted, which is ironic because the other hernia was more troublesome). Since the second surgery (almost 4 months and half ago now) my partner can't pass the stool naturally and even using Dulphalac, Iberobalance or Laxibiotic, table spoon of olive oil, linseed liquid, warm water, plenty of water, fiber it doesn't really help much. Also although drinking a lot of water he doesn't seem to pee much and in fact it's difficult for him to go for pee. He also has a pain in the leg (not strong) towards his knee on the same side as the 2 mesh surgery. So far these test have been done: blood tests for some cancers, kidneys function, test from his stool and an Ex Ray of abdomen, where after 6 days not passing stool and taking a lot of Dulphalac and passing a lot of stool there was still stool going right up towards his stomach. The physical test whether there is a blockage in colon was also done. Also maybe 9 months ago prostate blood test was done with good result (that was before hernia repair). Currently we are waiting some additional check ups. Our dedicated spanish gps think that it might be pointing towards the inguinal surgery as a culprit. Although other tests must be done. Dear doctor any idea or help? Or is there anybody there who had the same problem after inguinal hernia mesh repair? Thank you very much.
Lucie Sitarova, The situation that you are describing sounds very complex after a seemingly straightforward hernia repair. Most inguinal hernia repairs are not anywhere near the colon, bladder and other structures in the pelvis. They are focused just on the abdominal wall at the level of the groin. I have never seen a patient have any of the symptoms you describe after a hernia repair so I would lean towards these issues being unrelated to the hernia surgery. Good luck in your upcoming appointments, CAHS
California Hernia Specialists: Specialty Care for Hernia Repair Thank you very much for your reply I really appreciate it!!! Thanks and all the best to you too.
Lucie Sitařová. If a double mesh was used, it sounds like a Rutkow Robbins procedure, in wich a plug and a patch is used, like in my case. The plug or patch usually create bowel adhesions leading to intestinal oclusion.
The European Union Hernia comité recently post a paper in wich discourages the employ of plug, due among others high erosion, strong fibrosis, adhesions and more chronic pain outcomes.
@@paco3447 Thank you for your reply!!! Yes thought about the adhesions too. After about 5 months of agony when the bowels were not moving one bit, we found that 1 tablet of omeprazol and the next day bowel working perfectly. Adam is entering his cluster headache now as it's end of October, so relieve was short lived.
I'm having Ctif with a mesh put in. What is the probability of something going wrong with the mesh. The mesh scares me. I'm 72 yrs. old.
Thank you for your comments. Good luck in your upcoming surgery.
Excelent vídeo. Thank you só much!
Thank you for your comments.
Thanks Doc, had hernia surgery 1/25/24 and was looking for info why my testicle area has swollen. I feel lucky after you
mentioned football and soccer size swelling. Mine is only a small baseball size. Sounds like part of the process. Have a follow
up appointment on 2/8 so I won't worry yet. Thanks Again
Thank you for your comments. Good luck in your recovery.
Mine was football size!! I thought I was mutilated!! I'm in week three of recovery, starting to feel short sharp pain and I keep thinking I've torn it again
Thank you for your explanation
No problem! I'm glad we can help. -CAHS
I had an open bilateral inguinal hernioplasty about 3 days ago, I had a fever, swelling and pain on right side of surgical site but fever, pain and swelling only last for 12-15 hrs and now I am feeling fine, I am just worried was that normal or was my mesh repair failed ?
Arslan, Your recovery sounds very normal based on your comments. Good luck, CAHS
Doctor, is Organ Perforation and bowel obstruction common after Hernia repair surgery using Mesh? Should we worry about other complications like Adhesions?
Gautam, It is extremely rare to have a bowel injury during a hernia repair. The only time this becomes more common is when patients have intestines stuck in their hernia which is not usual. Many hernia surgeons use the TEPP repair technique which avoids adhesions in the abdomen. Best, CAHS
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists thnx doc for your reply
I have a question received a Hiatal Hernia repair, but during my surgery my side pleural was nicked and my lungs started to fill up with fluid. Can you explain and tell me what happened during surgery. I was diagnosis with Thoracic duct injury? Thank you!
We're sorry but we don't operate on hiatal hernias so we wouldn't be able to comment on your situation.
Hello Dr. Harris. I had an incisional hernia repair 10 months ago. The defect was closed and a two layer gortex mesh was used as well. My incisional hernia was due to a bowel ressection I had to have for a Meckel's infection two years ago. I am a 36 yo female and have had two pregnancies as well. I still notice that when I cough, bear down to play my trumpet (I am a trumpet player/band director), sneeze, etc. I can still feel a bulge in the same area. I have occasional burning pain (mostly because I'm paranoid and keep pressing the area trying to figure out of my surgery failed). I have an appointment with my surgeon soon, but she thinks it is pretty unlikely the surgery has failed and more likely that I just have a bulge of the mesh itself due to weight loss since my surgery. She most likely will want to have me get another abdominal CT scan to see what is going on. I have had a lot of CT scans of my abdomen in the last few years and really don't' want more radiation. My questions are (1) Is there another method we can use other than a CT scan to see if it's a cosmetic bulge or an actual surgery fail; (2) Is it fairly common for umbilical incisional hernia repairs to have minor bulging during coughing etc. even after repair and (3) Is it better to leave the bulge be than try to place a second mesh and risk more issues. I don't plan to have more children (I had originally wanted three before this whole mess and now I'm not willing to risk any more health issues), but I do have a career that requires a fair amount of internal pressure, so I wanted to get another opinion. I live in Maryland and am actually considering coming to CA if I indeed need a second repair, I'm just fearing how painful the flight back would be after only a few days of recovery. Thank you for any input you may have.
Amy, you have some good questions that you will need to ask your particular surgeon. Unfortunately CT scans are the best to evaluate for ventral hernias and the decisions to operate or observe are not easily made without examining a patient. I hope that your surgeon provides you with good information to help make your decisions easier. Best, CAHS
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists can I travel by road 10 days after open inguinal hernia repairment?
Still in pain since 2018 October mesh hernia surgery,also another pain in the right lower belly and lymph nodes in my kneck..... nothing seen in my stomach in a CT scan!
Silvia, We're sorry to hear about your pain. We hope you are able to find help soon, CAHS
how are you now?
I had just my incarcerated umbilical hernia repaired here in vegas last night as a emergency ,I had it for 6 years and I just couldn't push it in and in so much pain, they did a open repair and I pray I heal ok...I'm in so much pain now..
Billy Zanghi, It sounds like the last few days have been better since your surgery. We're sure you're going to heal quickly. All the best, CAHS
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists thanks so much,my only surgery in 50 years on earth,just lot of pain and constipation...I pray to heal,I have a follow up this friday 10 days after surgery with my surgeon dr Peter caravello here in Vegas, hope the staples come out...
Thank you and I left a post on you Facebook page with pictures of wound day after surgery..
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists hi its 3 weeks today since my surgery, I'm just fatigued and trying to heal, I have a hardness above my incision like just one hard spot,the surgeon's assistant said it might be scar tissue or a seroma or hematoma, I just want to get better, I have to be back to work in two weeks, they said hot compress on it....any input appreciated...
Sir since 2 yrs I have grade B Hiatus hernia, acid reflux, bloating, burping , shortness of breath. What kind of mesh I ask my Dr to use. And how much time I take rest after surgery .
Mohammed, I'm sorry but we do not work with hiatal hernias so we can't comment on your situation. All the best, CAHS
i have a fluid collection in my Paraumbilical hernia that is probably softball size, but my entire transverse colon, Omentum fat, and vessels, and part of my small intestines were incarcerated there for a couple of years. My doc said the fluid will probably go away in about 6 weeks and I will have pain for about a year. I got off the pain pills in 2 and a half weeks because they constipate you. The pain is freaking torture. My fluid collection is hard as a rock. He made 9 entry points. it fixed a few umbilical and Paraumbilical hernias. Also, the same doctor fixed my boyfriend's football sized Inguinal and the one on the other side, too, plus, he fixed my neighbor's Hiatal hernia. Also, none of us have post-op parasthesias of any sort.
Thank you for your comments and sharing your situation.
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists You're welcome. I'm not seeing signs of it shrinking. I feel like it's going to encapsulate instead if it hasn't done so already. Unless I coughed the surgery and undid it. I'm going to go back late February and if it hasn't resolved I'm going to get ct scan to make sure. Then I'm going to have to insist something be done because it is still painful after over a month. Getting a little scared.
Having open bilateral surgery in two weeks. My surgeon did not offer laparoscopic said open the technique he would use. Hope to God I’m not making a terrible mistake going with open mesh.
Bill, Good luck with your surgery, CAHS
Nicely done..
Thank you for your comments.
Thank you sir...
Lawrence, We're happy to help, CAHS
I have hernia surgery 8days ago, and I have a sweeling but the swelling is down, then a long strong sfufff there, in my scrotum, very strong I don't this im scared
Famous, Having hard swelling and bruising after any surgery including hernia surgery is 100% normal and will resolve in days/weeks. Best, CAHS
Had an inguinal hernia operation a week ago. There feels to be something like a lump the size of a human eye in the area where the intestines used to reside prior to the op. It felt a little more softer the second day after the operation, but after a week, it feels a bit hard with a bit of pain. The doctor told me that it was just a swelling that would go away with time. What could it be??
A blood clot or what??
I'm scared 😢
Sibong'ani, Having swelling and the feeling that the hernia is still there is 100% normal and happens in most patients. In the coming weeks/months that swelling will resolve completely. Best, CAHS
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists Thank you Doc.
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists Thank you Doc.
Wow, felt the same, thanks doc for your help 🙏
I heard alot of good things about you Dr. Harris and thankful that i've finally found a video of you about hernia. Its so informative and a stress reliever i would say on how you manage to evaluate all the circumstances on hernia surgery. By the way i had a inguinal surgery last monday and i was on a recovery period now. Thank you Dr. Harris for the video. Ram here from the Philippines. Salamat (Thank you).
ram dex, We are glad you've had your surgery and are on your road to recovery. I'm sure each day will get better and easier. Let us know if you have any questions during these weeks. Good luck, CAHS
California Hernia Specialists: Specialty Care for Hernia Repair
Dr. Harris thank you for the reply i really appreciated it. For now i dont feel any pain just some feeling of something down there is flowing or i felt some kinda liquid streaming down. I dont know what was that? Is it normal?
@@Ramiito Hi! Tanong ko lang namamaga rin ba ang bayag mo at masakit after ng ilang linggo ng operasyon mo? Maraming salamat.
@@kennethbryledeguzman8401
Nornal un na namamaga ung balls mo sa mga una hanggang tatlong linggo kz nagaadjust ung internal muscle m s loob. Parang lumuwag kz s loob un kz naalis ung laman n sobra dun. Relax lang bro. Wag ka lang ppwersa. Kahit anong mangyari wag ka mgbbuhat atleast hanggang 1 month kz para mas mas mablis pagrecover m. Goodluck bro.
Do you have any pain now? Has the mesh cause any discomfort after these years?
Hi doctor , i had my hinguinal hernia 36 days ago. I still have little pain on my right testicle , my hernia Was on this side. Is it normal? Thank You sorry for mi english i write you from italy
Mario, Testicle soreness and pains after hernia surgery is 100% expected and can often be the last thing to fully resolve. In some patients this can take months to completely improve. Best, CAHS
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists thank you best doc of Usa
Thank you doctor!
You are welcome.
Dr. Harris. I am having right inguinal hernia for about three months. I am contemplating open surgery without mesh and with a mesh. There are many feedbacks from people who repaired with mesh surferring permanent chronic pain. In your opinion, what are the things the surgeon should not do and should do in order to avoid letting his patient get permanent chronic pain when repair with mesh? If yourself needed an inguinal hernia repair (occurs about three months) what option would you go for? Please kindly advise us I believe many people around the world will benefit from your opinion.
Eliving, We have some information on our site and in videos which discuss the use of mesh for hernia repairs californiaherniaspecialists.com/about-hernia-mesh/. We hope this information helps, CAHS
Doctor, my indirect inguinal hernia surgery was performed around my left groin area. It's been 11 days now and I feel a slight pain in a 'vein' or 'track' that leads from the groin area to the left testicle. My left testicle also feels a little heavy with slight pain when touched.
Will this go away when the wound heals?
We hope that you're doing well since your comments last year. All the best, CAHS
What would cause urinary urgency to happen around 8 months after a tepp inguinal hernia repair, was repaired with paritex polyester mesh. Never had this issue before surgery. Thank you for your response
Urinary urgency is not something that we hear of after laparoscopic or robotic hernia repairs so it's not clear what would be causing your symptoms. Best, CAHS
Blessed day Sir,
I had my laparoscopic surgery on my right inguinal hernia last 2 weeks. Right now I noticed that there's still a bulge/lump on the previous location of my hernia, the same exact spot. There's no pain but mild discomfort.
1. If it was a tear or anything then shouldn't there be more pain or discomfort?
2. Could this be a post operation healing taking place? Given I felt back to almost 100% after a week without any pain reliever or meds, this could be my body telling me that it needs to heal more?
2. Or is this an issue of the hernia pooping back up due to several factors like the surgeon's techniques or patient's condition?
3. My next appointment with the surgeon is only 2 weeks aways from now and an earlier date is unlikely. I don't want to rush or anything due to zero pain and minimal discomfort.
Seeking insights if this is normal, or should I get immediate attention...
Thank you very much in advance...
God bless us all.
Sombrero, Having swelling and a bulge in the area of a prior hernia is completely normal at the 2 week mark. Over time the swelling will resolve and that area will be flat. Best, CAHS
hi doctor hernia surgery is complete one day and i cant stand and walk properly
Maddela, Hopefully now that you are 2 weeks after your surgery, your recovery is improving. Best, CAHS
how are you now ..I had inguinal hernia surgery 5 days ago and I have swelling in my scrotum. I have some hard thing in my scrotum and lumps, bulges too did you feel the same
Hi doctor 👨⚕️,i had a open hernia repair before one month and fluid get store in my scrotum , i scared and i told to doctor about this. My doctor say it is a seroma and he give. Me some antibiotics and say to shake it with hot water. I do it for 1 month now it only 30% left now my doctor say to only shake with hot water. And stop antibiotics. I am scared that will it be self healed or it will problem ?
And when i touch it it feels like a little finger. What i do ? I am so scared 🥺🥺
Having a seroma after hernia surgery is very common and usually resolves on it's own over the course of months. Sometimes they can take up to 6 months to resolve but usually nothing needs to be done about them. Keep us posted on your recovery.
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists i think account yo symptoms it is a non-communicating hydroxyl. Is it possible ? And what is the cure of it , thank you dr....
Dr Harris I had my 1st laproscopic right side inguinal.hernia surgery in 2011. I than had a recurrence in 2019 and had open surgery. For the past 3 years I have had intermittent soreness and stabbing nerve pain. So frustrated because I have never fully recovered. Not sure if what I experience is chronic pain or another recurrence. If I require a 3rd surgery I certainly will not be using the same surgeon. Would very much consider CHS even if I must pay out of pocket. I am on Medicare and after one failed surgery and now possibly another I will only consider a hernia specialist. I have read a lot of great things about your facility.
Alaplex, Chronic pain after any surgery, including hernia surgery, can happen. We're sorry to hear that you never fully recovered. There are treatments for this type of situation, including nerve injections and sometimes nerve removal. These are often best done at larger University type hospital settings. Good luck, CAHS
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists Thank you
I really like this video. Got inguinal hernia surgery and got plagued by seroma and a rock hard lump from the incision down to the scrotal area about the size of a potato. How frequently does this happen? Can this be prevented? This hard lump have been sitting there for a month. My surgeon goes with the "give it some time".
francis lalancette, What you are describing certainly sounds like a seroma. We often see these in patients who have slightly larger hernias that extend down to the scrotum and testicle. Fortunately, as your surgeon has suggested, most of these resolve on their own over time. Usually we see improvements within 1-3 months after the surgery. If by the 6 month mark there is still residual significant swelling, we discuss treatment with patients. But we strongly prefer to let your body reabsorb the fluid on it's own. Good luck, CAHS
heyy.how are you now.I had my inguinal hernia surgery 6 days ago and i have swelling in my scrotum.There is some hard thing and lump in my scrotum.Is this normal.did you also feel this...
How is your lump now
Has anybody who has had the robotic surgery for an inguinal hernia ever experienced severe muscle cramping in the scrotum, taint, and bottom of buttocks where it meets the thigh? I had to go to the ER because I physically could not move and the pain was constant. It felt almost like a golf ball of pain moving from the scrotal area to the buttocks and all around but never in all those locations at once. I literally could literally move the pain to different locations with pressure from my hand. Labs said all blood and electrolyte levels were normal. My hernia was left sided but I also experienced pressure in the anterior right side of my neck and numbness in my right jaw. If anybody knows a cause for that please let me know
Thank you for your comments and sharing your situation. We hope that you're recovering well at this point.
One complication that you did not mention but the FDA does, is blockage of the large or small intestine after mesh surgery. How often would you say this occurs with open or laparoscopic surgery?
Steven, That isn't something that we've seen in any of our patients and isn't something that we've heard of as a possible complication despite the FDA's comments. Best, CAHS
I am a welder, and sometimes lift heavy mterials, i had just hernia mesh repair 7 weeks ago. How long should i rest before going back to work. Is it too risky to do lifting? Thanks.
Willard, We allow our patient to return to full lifting activities with no restrictions after 3 weeks. Best, CAHS
I had Laparoscopic hiatus hernia surgery last month, I still have acid reflux problem and pain of sutures at the place incisions were made
Mona, We don't perform hiatal hernia repairs so we would defer any questions to your surgeon. Best, CAHS
I had a robotic repair of a hernia on the right side, and in the process a cyst on the spermatic cord was excised. Now I'm dealing with a hematoma in the area, so it hasn't been as easy as anticipated. Hopefully the hematoma with be effectively drained in another couple of weeks. Hopefully.
Thank you for your comments. We hope you're back to normal soon!
doc do you think is it ok if i will no remove the stichess in my hernia surgery i cut only the head of stitchess
almost 1 month after my surgery last july 20 2017
We hope that you're doing well since your comments 2 years ago. All the best, CAHS
Thank you Doctor for your information,
I'd like to ask you something about my case, i had a mesh repair for my inguinal hernia a month ago , i still have a hard inflammation around the surgery scar, also i have a lump in the groin area connecting with my left testicle, i mean it prevents my testicle from resting in the scrotum, it's almost like the seroma has formed around my testicle, please help
Shourya, Having hard scar tissue and firmness around the incision is completely normal after any surgery, including hernia surgery. Over the coming weeks/months that firmness almost always resolves. Best, CAHS
Hi, thank you for your video. I had hernia surgery(laparoscopic) for two epigastric hernias(above my naval and middle of my abs), and an umbilical hernia. I had the surgery done with mesh. I am about 12 days post-op right now, and feel great, but concerned because the two epigastric hernias that I could feel before the surgery I can still feel it seems.. I was curious in your opinion if you think this is hernia recurrence already, or fluid build up in the old hernia sac, or a healing ridge? They are firm to the touch, but they don't hurt. My stomach is still somewhat filed with fluid/water from the surgery, but has gone down quite a bit over last 12 days, and once it did I could start to feel those bumps. Any information would be super helpful- I am seeing my doctor for post-op visit next week- but have been trying to do research on my own about this. Thank you.
Rybo, Having the feeling that the hernias are still present after a hernia repair is 100% normal. There is always some swelling and inflammation in the area which will feel like the hernia. However, over time (weeks/months) all this swelling resolves and the feeling that the hernias are there will resolve. Best, CAHS
@@CaliforniaHerniaSpecialists Thank you for your reply! Much appreciated.
Is it possible for a hernia to return nearly immediately after mesh repair? It’s in the exact same location.
CB, Hardness and firmness around the hernia surgery site immediately after surgery is almost always just normal swelling and scar tissue. This will resolve and soften over the coming weeks to months until it is completely resolved. Best, CAHS
I am so lost. Why “pressure in the groin” ? Thank you
After any surgery there is expected swelling and inflammation. These often cause the sensation of pressure in the area where the surgery took place.
Hi Doctor, my 71 year old mother have Small Umbilical Hernia, little pain, she have Diabetes, Is it Necessary to do hernia Surgery immediately or can we do it later?, if necessary, which type of Surgery is Best, less Pain and Complications, Open Surgery or Laparoscopic?
We advise our patients to undergo surgery when the hernia is symptomatic or getting larger. The type of surgery is best discussed in person when the patient can be examined.
I had umbilical hernia surgery and i am now seeing a round lump in the same area where the original hernia once was and it’s the same size as the previous hernia. It’s been six weeks since the surgery. The surgeon says this is normal. But is it? Or is that another hernia? My belly button also went back to normal. When he originally did the surgery it was different but now it’s went back to how it was prior to the surgery
Jessica McCall, We often see some swelling after surgery which can take weeks to months to completely resolve. Some patients can develop a small seroma after surgery which can also take months to resolve completely. It's unlikely to be a recurrent hernia this quickly so we advise our patients to give it 2-3 months before we offer any further work up. Best, CAHS
Hi Dr . what about stiffness and hardness in the abdomen after use of surgical mesh in umbilical hernia
The meshes which are typically used for umbilical hernias are very thin and lightweight. We've never had a patient feel his/her mesh after an UHR.
Si my left inguinal hernia 8 months ago but few days is my right abdomen pain what's reasson
It would be impossible to provide much insight on your situation.
I’m 2 months post op. How long does it take for fluid in scrotum resolve
Patients can have seromas for up to 6 months after a surgery. Usually these resolve on their own with time.
hello i had surgery for inguinal hernia with mesh applied 2 weeks ago , question : is it normal when i sneeze the area feels - hear like a pop movement and noise ??? ty
Qaw, We have not heard of patients hearing a popping sound in the area of their surgery. Best, CAHS
I had on Sept 14th a robotic right frontal hernia with mesh. I am having a lot of discomfort and the lump is still there.
Thank you for your comments.
Good explanation doc
We're glad it helped, CAHS
Iv been sick every since i got this abdominal mesh,its caused alters .an pain
Thank you for your comments.