Hernia repair and tummy tuck
I had 2 C sections that left me with an ugly scar. I also have a hernia that needs to be repaired. When I get my hernia repaired can I get the scar fixed and a tummy tuck all at the same time? If so, who should do the procedure, a general surgeon or a plastic surgeon? Will a plastic surgeon know how to repair a hernia? Will a general surgeon be able to give me the same good suturing results as a plastic surgeon?
Most plastic surgeons fix hernias but may chose to do it with a general surgeon. However, general surgeons are not trained in tummy tucks and should not be offering to do them.
Most plastic surgeons are capable of repair of an abdominal wall hernia and a general surgeon may not be asked to be part of the process unless the hernia is complex, associated with chronic bowel blockages or the plastic surgeon chooses to involve a general surgeon. All can to done at the same time.
Excellent question! Many but not all board certified plastic surgeons (especially those that finished training 10 or more years ago) are fully trained in general surgery as well as plastic surgery. A combination of hernia repair with a tummy tuck will not be a challenge for any of these double boarded surgeons. If your preferred plastic surgeon opts not to perform the hernia repair portion of your surgery, he/she will no doubt have a general surgery colleague with whom the combined procedure can be coordinated. This way you will have the benefit of aesthetic portion of your surgery with the wound closure as well as having your hernia repaired at the same time.
Yes, a tummy tuck can be done with a hernia repair and the old C-section scar can be addressed as well. Normally this C-section scar is eliminated with the tummy tuck and a new incision is made. The tummy tuck should be performed by a board certified plastic surgeon. Yes, a plastic surgeon will know how to repair a hernia. Plastic surgeons are also known for their aesthetic suturing results. For the best information, it is very important to consult with a qualified board certified plastic surgeon for the best information.