Restore abdominal wall strength and relieve discomfort from bulging, pressure, or abdominal pain caused by a ventral hernia. At Virginia Hernia, Dr. Michael Svestka, our board-certified general surgeon, provides highly specialized, evidence-based ventral hernia surgery with a focus on durable outcomes, functional recovery, and individualized patient care.
The Anatomy of Ventral Hernias, Explained
Your abdominal wall is made of multiple layers of muscle, connective tissue, and fascia that work together to support the intestines and stabilize your core. A ventral hernia develops when a weakness or gap forms in these layers, allowing fat, intestine, or other tissue to push outward through the abdominal wall. These hernias commonly occur in the midline of the abdomen between the breastbone and the belly button.
Some ventral hernias develop naturally over time due to pressure, heavy lifting, weight gain, or weakened tissue quality. Others form at the site of a previous abdominal surgery, known as an incisional hernia. As the defect enlarges, you may notice visible bulging, pressure, discomfort, or worsening abdominal wall weakness that can interfere with daily movement and activities.
Signs & Symptoms of Ventral Hernias
Ventral hernias can cause both visible and physical symptoms that often worsen over time.
You may notice the following signs and symptoms of ventral hernias:
- A visible bulge along the middle of the abdomen
- Abdominal pressure that increases with lifting or straining
- Aching, pulling, or burning discomfort in the abdominal wall
- Pain when coughing, exercising, or standing for long periods
- Weakness or instability in the core muscles
- Bulging that becomes larger throughout the day
- Tenderness around a previous surgical incision
- Nausea, vomiting, or constipation in more advanced cases
- Tissue or intestine becoming trapped within the hernia defect
- Difficulty with physical activity due to abdominal wall discomfort
The Complete Ventral Hernia Surgery Process
Your treatment begins with a detailed consultation and abdominal wall evaluation with Dr. Svestka. During this visit, he reviews your symptoms, prior surgeries, imaging studies, activity limitations, and tissue quality to determine the size and complexity of the hernia defect. Some patients may benefit from preoperative optimization, including weight management, smoking cessation, or medical clearance before surgery. During surgery, Dr. Svestka uses minimally invasive, laparoscopic, robot, or open techniques, depending on the complexity of the repair. Small ports are placed through the abdominal wall to insert a camera and specialized instruments into the abdominal cavity.
Adhesions between the intestine, omentum, and abdominal wall are carefully released to fully expose the hernia defect and surrounding healthy fascial. The protruding tissue is returned to its normal position, and the fascial edges are brought back together to restore abdominal wall continuity whenever possible. In patients with multiple defects or weakened midline tissue, several defects may be closed individually before reinforcement. A mesh prosthesis is positioned against the healthy abdominal wall layers and secured to strengthen the repair.
The Recovery Process After Ventral Hernia Surgery
Recovery after ventral hernia surgery focuses on protecting the repair while gradually restoring abdominal wall strength and mobility. You can expect temporary soreness, swelling, tightness, and fatigue during the early healing period. Dr. Svestka provides detailed aftercare guidance regarding lifting restrictions, walking, incision care, and abdominal binder use.
Dr. Svestka personally manages your follow-up care to closely monitor healing and help reduce the risk of complications or recurrence. When appropriate, selective postoperative physical therapy may also be recommended to improve core function, mobility, and long-term abdominal wall strength and function.
Schedule a Consultation for Ventral
Hernia Repair in Fairfax, VA
Dr. Michael Svestka is a board-certified general surgeon with advanced training in abdominal wall reconstruction at the Cleveland Clinic Comprehensive Hernia Center. As the former Medical Director of the Inova Comprehensive Hernia Program, he has extensive experience treating hernias ranging from simple defects to large, recurrent abdominal wall hernias.
At Virginia Hernia, your care is centered on education and evidence-based treatment planning. Dr. Svestka personally manages your initial evaluation, surgery, and follow-up care to ensure continuity of care and long-term support throughout recovery. Schedule your consultation for ventral hernia repair in Fairfax, VA, to learn more about your treatment options.
