Treatments & Services

Hernia Repair

A hernia is a “defect” or weakness in the abdominal wall. There are several locations and types of hernias, all requiring different types of surgery. The bulge associated with most hernias is not the hernia itself, but the hernia contents protruding through the defect. The common areas where hernias occur are in the groin (inguinal or femoral), belly button (umbilical), above or below the belly button (ventral), and the site of a previous operation (incisional). Hernias are repaired to prevent the hernia from becoming larger and uncomfortable and to prevent the contents from becoming entrapped (incarcerated) or strangulated.

Expertise in Non-Mesh & Traditional Hernia Repairs

When considering any surgical procedure, the surgeon’s experience and approach to patient care are what matter most. Dr. Sandler has spent his career evaluating and performing different hernia repair techniques.

Early on, he developed an expertise in laparoscopic hernia repair and traveled the country teaching this procedure to other surgeons. Thereafter, he learned a technique called “Preperitoneal Inguinal Hernia Repair” which is performed through an incision and the mesh is placed behind the hernia defect so there is no limitation on physical activity following surgery.

He also performs an “Anterior Mesh Repair” which is known as a Lichtenstein Repair. More recently, Dr. Sandler traveled to Toronto, where he visited the Shouldice Clinic observing their “non mesh” repair. For patients who don’t want mesh used in their repairs, this is an excellent option. Given his experience and bedside manner, Dr. Sandler is a highly sought after surgeon who is able to offer many different options depending on your type of hernia, your medical history, and your preference.

Open Inguinal / Femoral Hernias

Indications: In most situations, patients with inguinal and/or femoral hernias proceed with repair.
Pre-Operative Evaluation: A history and physical examination confirm the presence of a hernia.
Procedure: A 2-3 inch incision is made in the groin with open repairs. Open repairs can be accomplished with a variety of anesthetic approaches. A synthetic mesh patch is typically used in this repair. Dr. Sandler has tremendous experience with both open “anterior” and open “posterior” repairs. He also performs “non mesh” repairs for patients who do not wish to have mesh.
Length of Stay: Outpatient.
Recovery: 1–2 weeks. Lifting restrictions vary.

Laparoscopic Inguinal Hernia Repair

Indications: Dr. Sandler typically offers laparoscopic repairs to patients with bilateral (both sides) hernias and/or recurrent hernias.
Pre-Operative Evaluation: A history and physical examination confirm the presence of a hernia.
Procedure: The defect(s) are repaired using a synthetic mesh that covers all of the defects from the “inside” behind the muscles of the abdominal wall. The mesh material is fixed to the abdominal wall in a way that eliminates the defects.
Length of Stay: This procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis.
Recovery: 1-2 weeks

Open Umbilical, Incisional And Ventral Hernias

Indications: These are hernias that develop at the belly button (“umbilicus”) and/or at previous incision sites or on the abdominal wall (including the “belly button”). Most of these hernias require repair.
Pre-Operative Evaluation: A history and physical examination confirm the presence of a hernia. Sometimes a CT scan or ultrasound is required.
Procedure: An incision is made over the hernia. The contents are returned to the abdomen and a synthetic mesh patch is usually used to complete repair.
Length of Stay: These repairs are typically accomplished on an outpatient basis.
Recovery: 1–2 weeks. No lifting over 20-25 pounds for four weeks.

Laparoscopic Ventral / Incisional Hernia Repair

Indications: Ventral and incisional hernias can be repaired laparoscopically.
Pre-Operative Evaluation: A history and physical examination confirm the presence of a hernia.
Procedure: The defect(s) are repaired using a synthetic mesh that covers all of the defects from the “inside” behind the muscles of the abdominal wall. The mesh material is fixed to the abdominal wall in a way that eliminates the defects.
Length of Stay: This procedure is usually done as an outpatient, with an overnight stay in the hospital occasionally necessary for ventral and incisional hernias.
Recovery: 1-2 weeks. No lifting over 20-25 pounds for four weeks.

Why Choose Dr. Sandler for Your Hernia Repair Surgery

Dr. Sandler is a highly experienced hernia surgeon known for his patient-centered approach and mastery of multiple repair techniques—including laparoscopic, preperitoneal, anterior mesh (Lichtenstein), and non-mesh methods—allowing him to tailor each procedure to the patient’s needs and preferences. Here’s why patients trust Dr. Sandler: