Hernia Surgery
in Long Island, NY
At Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors, hernia repair is one of our highest-volume specialties. Our surgeons perform over 250 hernia surgeries per year, ranging from routine inguinal hernias to the most complex recurrent and robotic hernia repairs. Led by Dr. Hesham Atwa, a designated Master Hernia Surgeon with more than 20 years of surgical experience, our team is among the most experienced hernia surgery practices on Long Island.
Why Choose LILD for Hernia Surgery?
With more than 250 hernia surgeries performed each year across all hernia types, our team brings a high level of experience and consistency to every case. Our program is led by a surgeon recognized with the prestigious Master Hernia Surgeon designation from the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC) — a distinction awarded for advanced expertise and proven outcomes.
In addition to clinical excellence, our lead surgeon has authored a chapter on robotic hernia repair techniques in a nationally published surgical textbook, reflecting a deep commitment to advancing the field.
We specialize in both robotic and laparoscopic approaches, utilizing the da Vinci Surgical System to deliver precise, minimally invasive care. As an appointed proctor for Intuitive, the maker of the da Vinci system, Dr. Atwa also trains other surgeons in these advanced techniques — a role that underscores both skill and leadership in modern hernia repair. Most procedures are performed on a same-day outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home within hours and recover comfortably. We treat the full spectrum of hernia conditions, including inguinal, umbilical, ventral, incisional, femoral, hiatal, and recurrent hernias, ensuring comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs.
What is a Hernia?
A hernia is a result of an internal organ or tissue protruding through the connective tissue or muscle that holds it in place. Hernias are often caused by weakened muscles. Some people are
Trusted Source
Hernia
National Library of Medicine
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born with weakened muscles
, but this can also be caused by strains, excessive body weight, heavy lifting, giving birth, or even a persistent cough.
Types of Hernias
The most common types of hernia are:
Inguinal Hernia: This is by far the most common type of hernia, and it occurs when part of the intestine or fatty tissue protrudes into the groin.
Femoral Hernia: A femoral hernia happens when the intestine crosses into the canal that carries the femoral artery into the thigh.
Ventral Hernia: A ventral hernia occurs at the front of the abdominal wall. Umbilical hernias are a type of ventral hernia.
Incisional Hernia: This type of hernia occurs at the site of a surgical incision, and may occur just after a surgery or even years later.
Hiatal Hernia: A hiatal hernia forms when part of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm. This is one of the most common causes of chronic acid reflux (GERD), persistent heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. If you have been diagnosed with GERD or experience frequent acid reflux that does not respond to medication, a hiatal hernia may be the underlying cause. Our surgeons perform robotic and laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair, including Nissen fundoplication, to provide long-term relief. Learn more about our acid reflux surgery options.
Hernia Symptoms
Hernia symptoms differ slightly according to the location of the hernia. In general,
Trusted Source
Hernia
Cleveland Clinic
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symptoms include
:
- A visible or palpable bulge
- Pain or aching at the bulge
- Increase in the size of the bulge
- Pain while lifting or otherwise straining the herniated area
- A sensation of fullness
- Signs of an obstructed bowel
- Heartburn
- Difficulty swallowing
- Regurgitation
- Chest pain
Hernia Treatment
The only way to treat a hernia is with surgery. During hernia surgery, the contents of the hernia are moved back into the proper position, then held in place with sutures or synthetic medical mesh. For some patients, open hernia surgery is the best option. Other patients, however, may be candidates for robotic/laparoscopic hernia repair, where a thin instrument called a laparoscope is inserted into the treatment area via a series of small incisions. These instruments are connected to a camera, which gives the surgeon a thorough view of the surgical field without the need for longer incisions.
Preparing for Hernia Surgery
Once your hernia repair surgery has been scheduled, we will give you instructions for preparing for your procedure. Some steps you’ll take include:
- Refraining from eating the night before your surgery
- Discontinuing use of certain medications
- Making arrangements with a friend or family member to drive you home after your procedure
The Hernia Surgery Procedure
Laparoscopic hernia surgery is performed under general anesthesia. During this procedure, the surgeon makes a series of very small incisions through which specialized surgical instruments are inserted. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide, a harmless gas, so the doctor can clearly see the internal structures. The herniated tissues are put back into place, then the area is reinforced with stitches and mesh.
Recovery After Hernia Surgery
The recovery period after hernia surgery differs according to the type of hernia repaired, but most of our patients are able to return home within a few hours of their procedure. Our surgeons will prescribe pain medication to help patients stay comfortable as they recover. The majority of our patients are able to get back to their normal activities after one to two weeks, but strenuous activity should be avoided for up to six weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hernia Surgery
When should I seek treatment for a hernia?
If a hernia is causing you pain or discomfort, you should talk to your doctor. Frequently, hernias are small when they begin, but often enlarge. Treatment is generally recommended to avoid emergency surgery or other health problems.
Which type of hernia surgery is right for me?
The surgeons at Long Island Laparoscopic Doctors can help determine what type of surgery is best for your specific type of hernia. The decision depends on many factors including the type of hernia, whether or not you have had previous surgeries, and if you are a candidate for general anesthetic, nerve blocks or local anesthesia. Our surgeons will determine the best surgical procedure for you, helping to avoid recurrent hernias and complications.
What is robotic hernia surgery?
Robotic hernia surgery is a minimally invasive approach that uses the da Vinci Surgical System to give surgeons enhanced precision, control, and visibility during the procedure. Dr. Atwa is one of the leading robotic surgeons on Long Island and has been appointed a proctor by Intuitive, the maker of the da Vinci system, to train other surgeons in these techniques. Robotic hernia repair typically results in smaller incisions, less pain, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Can acid reflux be caused by a hernia?
Yes. A hiatal hernia, which occurs when part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm, is one of the most common causes of chronic acid reflux and GERD. Many patients who experience persistent heartburn, regurgitation, or difficulty swallowing may have an undiagnosed hiatal hernia. If medication has not resolved your acid reflux symptoms, surgical repair of the hiatal hernia through a procedure called Nissen fundoplication may provide lasting relief.
Contact Long Island
Laparoscopic Doctors
Our surgeons perform over 250 hernia surgeries each year, from routine inguinal hernias to the most complex recurrent and robotic repairs. If you are experiencing hernia symptoms, or if you have been told you need hernia surgery, schedule a consultation with our team.
contact us.
1 National Library of Medicine. Hernia. Available: https://medlineplus.gov/hernia.html. Accessed December 2, 2022.
2 Cleveland Clinic. Hernia. Available: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15757-hernia. Accessed December 2, 2022.