Hernia Repair in Fort Myers

Advanced Surgical Care of Fort Myers offers same-day hernia repair for inguinal (groin), umbilical (belly button) and ventral (abdominal wall) hernias. Most patients go home the same day, without a hospital stay.

What Is a Hernia?

A hernia happens when tissue, such as fat or part of the intestine, pushes through a weak spot in the muscle wall of the abdomen. Common types include:

• Inguinal hernia: a bulge in the groin, the most common type, especially in men
• Umbilical hernia: a bulge at or near the belly button
• Ventral or incisional hernia: a bulge in the abdominal wall, often at the site of a previous surgical incision

Typical symptoms include a visible bulge, aching or pressure, and discomfort when lifting, coughing or standing for long periods. Hernias do not heal on their own and often get larger over time.

When to seek emergency care: If a hernia bulge becomes suddenly painful, firm or discolored, cannot be pushed back in, or comes with nausea, vomiting or fever, go to the nearest emergency room. These can be signs of a trapped (incarcerated or strangulated) hernia.

How Hernias Are Repaired

Depending on the type and size of your hernia and your overall health, your surgeon may recommend an open repair or a minimally invasive repair using small incisions (laparoscopic or robotic). Many repairs use surgical mesh to reinforce the weak area and lower the chance of the hernia coming back. Your surgeon will explain the options and which approach fits your situation.

Why Choose Outpatient Hernia Surgery

• Go home the same day, in most cases
• A smaller, calmer setting than a hospital
• Board-certified surgeons who perform hernia repair routinely
• Often lower facility costs than a hospital setting

What to Expect

Before: You will first see your surgeon for a consultation at their office. Once your procedure is scheduled, our nurses will call you before your surgery date with instructions about eating, drinking and medications. See Before Surgery.

Day of surgery: Arrive at the time you are given and bring your ID, insurance card and medication list. You will meet your anesthesia provider and nurse, and after your procedure you will rest in our recovery area. You will need an adult to drive you home. See Day of Surgery.

After: You will go home with written instructions from your surgeon. Follow them closely, and call your surgeon’s office with any questions. See After Surgery and Helpful Hints.

Most patients are encouraged to walk the day of surgery. Many return to light activity and desk work within about one to two weeks, with heavy lifting restricted for longer. Your surgeon will give you specific limits based on your repair.

Hernia Surgeons at Our Center

Hernia repair at Advanced Surgical Care of Fort Myers is performed by Steve R. Siegal, MD, FACS and Peter M. Denk, MD, FACS.

Insurance, Self-Pay and Financing

Hernia repair is usually covered by health insurance when it is medically necessary. Your deductible, copay or coinsurance depends on your plan, so check with your insurance company. Surgery centers often have lower facility fees than hospitals. If you are paying for your procedure yourself, you can request a Good Faith Estimate. CareCredit financing is accepted. For billing questions, see Billing Info or call 239-236-2215.

Common Questions

Does every hernia need surgery right away?

Not always. A small hernia that causes no symptoms may sometimes be watched. Because hernias tend to grow and can become trapped, your surgeon will help you decide on the right timing.

Will mesh be used?

Mesh is used in many hernia repairs because it reduces the chance of recurrence. Your surgeon will discuss whether mesh is recommended for you.

When can I drive?

Usually once you are no longer taking prescription pain medication and can move and brake comfortably. Follow your surgeon’s instructions.

How to Schedule

Procedures at Advanced Surgical Care of Fort Myers are scheduled through your surgeon’s office. Schedule a consultation with Steve R. Siegal, MD, FACS and Peter M. Denk, MD, FACS through their office; phone numbers are on each surgeon’s page. Already scheduled with us? Call 239-236-2215 with questions about your procedure, billing or directions.

Advanced Surgical Care of Fort Myers, 13195 Metro Pkwy, Unit 12-16, Fort Myers, FL 33966, just off I-75 at exit 131. Directions.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Your surgeon will recommend the treatment that is right for you.