Hernia Surgery in Port Charlotte, FL
Hernia repair in Port Charlotte, FL
A hernia occurs when internal tissue pushes through a weakened area in the muscle wall. Hernias often cause a visible bulge and aching discomfort with lifting, coughing, or standing, and they do not heal on their own. Dr. Guarino repairs:
- Inguinal hernia surgery: repair of a hernia in the groin, on one or both sides.
- Femoral hernia surgery: repair of a hernia in the upper thigh, just below the groin crease.
- Umbilical/epigastric hernia surgery: repair of a hernia at or near the belly button (umbilical), or in the midline of the upper abdomen between the belly button and the breastbone (epigastric).
Laparoscopic and open hernia repair
Many hernias can be repaired with minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques through small incisions, allowing a smooth recovery. At your consultation, Dr. Guarino will review your history and test results, answer all of your questions, and discuss what to expect before and after your procedure.
Where your procedure is performed
Dr. Guarino performs procedures on an outpatient (same-day) basis at Murdock Surgery Center. Consultations and follow-up visits take place at the Charlotte Harbor Surgical office in Port Charlotte.
We care for patients from Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Englewood and across Charlotte County and Southwest Florida.
Frequently asked questions
Will an inguinal hernia go away on its own?
No. A hernia does not heal by itself. Some hernias stay small for a long time, but they do not close without repair.
Do I need surgery right away?
Not always. If a hernia is small and causes few symptoms, your surgeon may discuss watchful waiting. Surgery is usually recommended when a hernia is painful, growing or limiting your activities. A hernia that becomes firm, very painful or cannot be pushed back in is an emergency.
How is an inguinal hernia repaired?
Most repairs are done either laparoscopically (through a few small incisions with a camera) or through one small open incision in the groin, usually with surgical mesh to reinforce the weak area. Your surgeon will explain which approach fits your hernia and health.
Will I go home the same day?
Most planned inguinal hernia repairs are outpatient procedures, so most patients go home the same day.
When can I get back to normal activities?
Walking is encouraged right away. Your surgeon will tell you when you can drive, return to work and lift heavier objects, which depends on the type of repair and your job.
What causes an umbilical hernia in adults?
An umbilical hernia forms at a weak spot at or near the belly button. Anything that increases pressure inside the abdomen, such as pregnancy, excess weight, heavy lifting, straining or a long-lasting cough, can contribute.
Is an umbilical hernia dangerous?
Many cause only a bulge and mild discomfort, but tissue can become trapped. Go to the emergency room if the bulge becomes firm, very painful or discolored, or cannot be pushed back in, especially with nausea or vomiting.
Is mesh always used?
Not always. Very small hernias may be closed with stitches alone, while larger ones are usually reinforced with mesh. Your surgeon will recommend the repair that fits the size of your hernia.
How long is recovery?
Most planned umbilical hernia repairs are outpatient. You can walk right away, and your surgeon will tell you how long to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Guarino
Call Charlotte Harbor Surgical in Port Charlotte. Mon–Thu 7:30 am–4:00 pm, Fri 7:30 am–12:00 noon.