Restore abdominal wall function with specialized epigastric hernia repair at Virginia Hernia. You may notice upper abdominal pressure, tenderness, pain with lifting, or a visible bulge above the belly button. Dr. Michael Svestka, our board-certified general surgeon, provides individualized, evidence-based care focused exclusively on advanced hernia treatment and recovery.
The Anatomy of Epigastric
Hernias, Explained
The upper abdominal wall is formed by several layers of tissue, including skin, fat, connective tissue, and paired abdominal muscles that meet in the midline. Between these muscles is a fibrous structure called the linea alba, which helps stabilize the abdominal wall and distribute pressure generated during movement, lifting, coughing, and core activity.
An epigastric hernia develops when a small defect or natural weak point forms in this midline tissue between the belly button and rib cage. Fat from inside the abdomen pushes through the opening, creating a lump or localized bulge beneath the skin. Some epigastric hernias remain small and painless, while others cause tenderness, burning discomfort, pressure with exercise, or pain during straining and abdominal muscle contraction.
Signs & Symptoms of Epigastric Hernias
Epigastric hernias may cause subtle or progressively worsening symptoms over time. You may notice the following signs and symptoms of epigastric hernias:
- A small bulge between the belly button and rib cage
- Upper abdominal pressure or aching discomfort
- Tenderness when pressing on the area
- Pain during lifting, coughing, or straining
- A lump that becomes more noticeable when standing
- Burning or pulling sensations in the upper abdomen
- Discomfort during exercise or core engagement
- Localized swelling along the abdominal midline
- Pain with twisting or sudden abdominal movement
The Complete Epigastric 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, activity limitations, and overall health, and carefully examines the abdominal wall to assess the size, location, and complexity of the hernia defect. Some patients may also require imaging studies to better evaluate the surrounding anatomy. Epigastric hernia repair is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia.
Dr. Svestka creates a carefully planned incision over or near the hernia site, then identifies the weakened tissue and protruding fat. The herniated tissue is returned to its proper position, and the abdominal wall defect is repaired using layered suturing techniques, with mesh reinforcement used selectively depending on the size and tension of the repair.
The Recovery Process After Epigastric Hernia Surgery
Recovery after epigastric hernia repair aims to support proper healing of the abdominal wall. Dr. Svestka provides detailed postoperative guidance regarding walking, lifting restrictions, incision care, pain control, bowel management, and activity progression. Early movement is encouraged to promote circulation and reduce stiffness, while excessive strain on the repair is carefully avoided during the healing phase.
Dr. Svestka personally oversees your recovery and emphasizes individualized postoperative care. Follow-up visits focus on monitoring abdominal wall healing, evaluating comfort and mobility, and helping you return to exercise and physical activity. When appropriate, physical therapy recommendations may also be incorporated to restore strength, flexibility, and long-term abdominal wall function.
Schedule a Consultation for
Epigastric Hernia Repair in Fairfax, VA
Dr. Michael Svestka is a board-certified general surgeon with advanced training in abdominal wall reconstruction completed at the Cleveland Clinic Comprehensive Hernia Center. At Virginia Hernia, he provides highly specialized hernia care focused exclusively on abdominal wall conditions, including routine, complex, and revisional hernia repairs.
Dr. Svestka personally guides every stage of your care, from diagnosis through recovery. Patients have access to extended consultations, individualized treatment planning, and direct postoperative follow-up focused on education. Schedule your consultation for epigastric hernia repair in Fairfax, VA, today.
