Hernia Specialist
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Melinda Nicole Lamb, M.D.
General Surgeon located in Costa Mesa, CA
If you have a hernia and it causes you pain or interferes with your ability to work or exercise, it’s vital to seek professional help. At Dr. Melinda Nicole Lamb MD in Costa Mesa, California, Dr. Lamb regularly repairs umbilical, inguinal, ventral, and incisional hernias. To make an appointment, call or click the online booking feature today.
Hernia Q & A
What is a hernia?
A hernia occurs when an organ or another piece of tissue pushes through the outer wall of muscle holding it in. Hernias can occur in various locations, but they’re especially common near the abdomen and groin.
If you have a hernia, you might feel a soft lump in your belly. You might notice the bump is painful if you cough, bend over, or lift something heavy.
What are the types of hernias?
Dr. Lamb treats several types of hernias, including:
Umbilical hernias
An umbilical hernia occurs when your large intestine pushes through an opening in the abdominal muscles near your belly button.
Inguinal hernias
An inguinal hernia occurs when your small intestine pushes through a weak spot or opening in your abdominal muscles.
Ventral hernias
A ventral hernia occurs when any type of soft tissue pushes through a weak spot or opening in your abdominal muscles. Inguinal hernias and umbilical hernias are two examples of ventral hernias.
Incisional hernias
An incisional hernia occurs when an organ or piece of soft tissue pushes through a weak spot or opening near a past surgical incision.
How is a hernia diagnosed?
To diagnose a hernia, Dr. Lamb reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms. Then, she conducts a physical exam, checking your abdomen and groin for signs of a bulge or bump. She might also ask you to stand up or cough to make the hernia more visible.
If visual observation isn’t enough to make a diagnosis, Dr. Lamb might also order a CT scan or an ultrasound. These imaging procedures allow her to spot weak or damaged areas of abdominal muscle.
How is a hernia treated?
Dr. Lamb individualizes treatment for each patient.
What is recovery like after hernia surgery?
After hernia surgery, it takes about one or two weeks to recover. Dr. Lamb will provide detailed instructions after your surgery, as well as follow - up appointments.
To learn more about hernia repair surgery, make an appointment at the practice of Dr. Melinda Nicole Lamb MD by calling the office or clicking the online booking feature today.
