Abdominal hernias are among the most common of all problems solved by surgery.
Hernia repair surgery is an incredibly popular solution, with more than one million hernia repairs performed each year in the US. Inguinal hernias—located below the navel and above the groin—account for nearly 770,000 of these cases. Femoral hernias, located near the upper inner thigh area, are the second-most common.
If you’ve noticed symptoms of a hernia—noticeable lumps, a painful sensation at the site of the lump—you’re likely ready to get it fixed. Hernias cause pain, not just at the location of the lump, but when carrying or lifting heavy items, too. They can also cause bowel obstruction.
In other words, they’re a nuisance and you deserve peace. Here’s how to find a reputable hernia repair surgeon in your area.
1. Consider a Surgeon Who Uses Robotic Assistance
If this isn’t something you’ve heard of before, you might balk at the suggestion of having a robot involved in the surgery.
But the opposite sentiment is true. Robot-assisted surgery is actually less invasive, fast (as in 30-45 minutes), and safe.
Robotic surgery still makes use of a laparoscope, just like open hernia repair. A laparoscope is a tool that sends photos of the inside of the abdomen to the surgeon, letting them view your abdominal wall better. The main difference is that the surgeon controls the robotic arms of a surgical console rather than operating the surgical tools themselves.
The robotic arms simulate the surgeon’s own hand, wrist, and finger movements, except the robotic arms are incredibly precise. So, while it mimics a standard open hernia repair, it’s a more accurate procedure that allows for a greater range of motion.
Additionally, patients can expect a quicker hernia repair recovery time, reduced blood loss, and minimal post-operative pain.
2. Look for an Experienced, Certified Surgeon
Surgery is not the time or place to skimp on seeking out a high-quality candidate.
For a procedure such as this, it’s important to look for someone who’s had years of surgical experience under their belt, both with traditional and modern methods. Your standards should remain high, looking for someone who specializes in minimally invasive surgeries that result in the easiest recovery for the patient.
At SURGCO, you can expect a world-class team that provides superior treatment before, during, and after your surgery. Our premier doctor, Dr. Valentine, has all the credentials one should expect from a surgeon:
- Specializes in minimally invasive surgery
- Has practiced since 2007
- Has practiced robotic-assisted surgery since 2016
- Has performed over 500 robotic-assisted procedures
- Offers compassionate care with individualized attention
- Provides extensive pre- and post-operation instructions for maximum results
How are you to know ahead of time about your doctor’s bedside manner? The answer is simple. The right doctor for you won’t have a problem having a consultation where they answer all your questions.
As far as credentials go, it’s easy to find this information online, and worth the time it’ll take. Since you’re not having emergency surgery, you can research your surgeon beforehand.
When checking out your potential doctor’s background, look for their state license, verify any board certifications, and confirm the length of their practice. This information is readily available online and is also something you’re allowed to ask for as a patient.
Another thing you should look into is their reviews from previous patients. While these are less verifiable, they can provide a wealth of information. See what other patients have said about this surgeon online in their testimonials.
3. Find a Location That Empowers You as a Patient
Being an empowered patient is incredibly important. When it comes to your health, it’s crucial to feel comfortable when making medical decisions that impact your daily life.
If you feel any kind of trepidation (beyond the scope of general nervousness, which is normal), you should take that as a sign. The right location should instill a sense of ease and peace of mind.
A few fundamental components of patient empowerment include:
- Understanding your role
- Having sufficient knowledge to engage with your provider
- Having a facilitating environment
Some ways a surgical institute can empower you include being there for you every step of the way—before, during, and after surgery. They should provide the information you need to adequately prepare for surgery, as well as the do’s and don’ts of recovery. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to handle the operation.
Another way a practice can empower you is by taking the time to answer your questions. While surgical practices are a business, you should never feel like just a number. Your doctor should take the time to explain all your treatment options, even drawing you pictures if that’s what you need to understand them better.
Finally, something we’ve touched on already is the use of minimally invasive procedures. This practice alone should empower you with the knowledge that the surgeon wants to make surgery easy on you. Rather than getting you under the knife, they’re concerned about your well-being and want to make the experience as seamless as possible.
Hernia Repair, Done Right at SURGCO
This list is the perfect place to get started in your hunt for the best hernia repair surgeon.
And the best part is that we check all the boxes. Whether that’s our robotic-assisted, minimally invasive surgery that gets you in and out, or our board-certified surgeon with years of experience, consider us the right choice.
For hernia repair in Hendersonville, TN, there’s no one better than Dr. Valentine.
Please click here to schedule a consultation or appointment with us today. Our experienced and passionate team looks forward to returning you to your happy, healthy, pre-hernia self.