Hernia Specialist
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Boca Care Surgical Associates of Palm Beach County
Avraham Belizon, MD, FACS, FASCRS
Colon and Rectal Surgeon & Minimally Invasive Surgery located in Boca Raton, FL
Hernia repair is one of the most common surgeries in the United States, thanks in large part to advanced surgical techniques. At Boca Care Surgical Associates of Palm Beach County, Avraham Belizon, MD, FACS, FASCRS, offers minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic surgical techniques to repair your hiatal hernia and relieve your discomfort. Schedule a consultation online or call the office in Boca Raton, Florida, to learn more about the benefits of hiatal hernia repair surgery.
Hernia Q&A
What is a hiatal hernia?
A hiatal hernia is a condition that occurs when part of your stomach pushes through the diaphragm and into your chest. This type of hernia can cause gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) and acid reflux.
Symptoms of a hiatal hernia include:
- Bleeding
- Ulcers
- Scarring
- Narrowing of the esophagus
These symptoms can lead to serious medical complications and shouldn’t be ignored.
Why do I need a hernia repair?
Hernias don’t resolve on their own and can grow larger if left untreated. While hernias are rarely life-threatening, many hernias can cause a great deal of discomfort.
In rare cases, the hernia can become strangulated, which is life-threatening because the blood supply has been cut off, causing your affected tissue to die rapidly.
Since hernia repair is so routine, many people prefer to be proactive with their hernias and have Dr. Belizon repair them.
What can I expect during hiatal hernia repair surgery?
Dr. Belizon uses minimally invasive and robotic surgical techniques to reposition your stomach back into its proper location in the abdomen. He also repairs the opening of the diaphragm, making it smaller to prevent future hernias.
To keep you comfortable during surgery, you undergo general anesthesia. Dr. Belizon then makes several small incisions in your abdomen and uses small, specialized surgical instruments to make the repairs.
What’s the recovery period for hiatal hernia repair surgery?
Dr. Belizon creates a comprehensive aftercare plan to ensure that you heal properly. He prescribes medication to prevent infection and relieve pain.
You’ll need to care for your incisions daily, avoid taking baths, and follow a limited diet, eating 4-6 small meals a day, rather than three large ones. For the first few days, your diet will be liquid followed by soft foods, like mashed potatoes, until Dr. Belizon determines it’s safe for you to return to a normal diet.
Recovery time depends on your overall health before surgery, but expect to rest at home for eight weeks or longer. Dr. Belizon discourages strenuous activity but recommends frequent walks to prevent blood clots in your legs.
Learn more about the benefits of minimally invasive hiatal hernia repair by calling Boca Care Surgical Associates of Palm Beach County or requesting an appointment online.