Abdominal wall reconstruction surgery is used to repair a weakened or damaged abdominal wall. It can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including hernias, abdominal wall defects, and injuries. Injuries to the abdominal wall can result in a variety of problems, including pain, discomfort, hernias, and abdominal wall weakness. If you have suffered an abdominal wall injury, you should see a doctor to assess the damage and discuss your treatment options. Dr. Solomon Azouz can treat the deformity and pain caused by these injuries with abdominal wall reconstruction surgery. He is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon who is dedicated to providing the best possible care to his patients. Dr. Azouz uses plastic and general surgery principles including abdominoplasty, component separation, diastasis repair, placement of specialized biologic and nonbiologic mesh, liposuction and specialized suturing techniques to minimize the chance of recurrence of a hernia in abdominal wall reconstruction.

Injuries That Cause Abdominal Wall Deformities

• Hernias: A hernia occurs when an organ or tissue pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. This can result in a bulge or lump under the skin.
• Abdominal wall defects: Some people are born with defects of the abdominal wall, such as gastroschisis and omphalocele. These defects can expose the abdominal organs outside the body. Abdominal wall defects at birth can also result in umbilical hernias or a poor cosmetic appearance of the abdomen and umbilicus (belly button). Dr. Azouz performs umbilicoplasty to improve the look and contour of the abdomen.
• Car accidents: Abdominal wall injuries are common in car accidents, particularly those involving high-speed impacts.
• Penetrating trauma: Penetrating trauma, such as a gunshot or knife wound, can also cause abdominal wall damage.
• Sports injuries: Sports injuries, such as those sustained while playing football or hockey, can result in abdominal wall injuries.
• Surgical complications: Surgery can also cause abdominal wall damage, particularly if the incision is not properly closed.
• Injuries at work: patients can suffer significant injury to their abdominal wall with commercial machinery and therefore would need a plastic surgeon who will take worker’s compensation to care for them. Dr. Solomon Azouz is able to take care of many injured workers with complex abdominal wall injuries.
• Hernia after Caesarean section: Many women can have problems with their C-section scar, which includes neuromas, diastasis, pain, and hernia. Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Azouz is able to repair problematic scars on the abdomen with abdominal wall reconstruction.

Symptoms of Abdominal Wall Deformities

Depending on the severity of the condition, symptoms of abdominal wall deformities can vary. Among the most common symptoms are:

• Bulge or lump under the skin
• Pain in the abdomen or groin
• Difficulty lifting or carrying heavy objects
• Feeling of weakness in the abdomen
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Heartburn or indigestion

Candidates for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgery

Abdominal wall reconstruction surgery may be an option for people who have deformed abdominal walls that cause pain, discomfort, or other issues. Repairing hernias that are at risk of strangulation, a serious condition that can cut off blood supply to the intestines, may also require surgery.

Benefits of Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgery

Abdominal wall reconstruction surgery has a number of advantages, including:

• Relief of pain and discomfort
• Improved abdominal strength and function
• Reduced risk of hernias and other complications
• Improved quality of life

Abdominal Wall Reconstruction in Dallas

Dr. Azouz will make an incision in the abdomen, which can often be hidden in the lower abdomen like a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). With a tummy tuck incision, he can repair the weakened or damaged area of the abdominal wall. This may entail the use of mesh or other materials to reinforce the abdominal wall. Often, Dr. Azouz can repair hernias without mesh using specialized suturing techniques. Dr. Azouz may also need to remove a portion of the abdominal wall and reconstruct it in some cases. Dr. Aozuz may use grafts to reconstruct and repair abdominal structures such as nerves, depending on the severity of the injury.

Anesthesia for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgery

Sedation and local anesthesia are typically used during abdominal wall reconstruction surgery. This means that the patient will be unconscious and asleep during the procedure. The local anesthetic will help with pain control both during and after the procedure. Some patients may require a general anesthetic; however, there are many hernia repairs that require deep sedation rather than a full general anesthetic.

Risks of Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgery

All surgeries have risks, such as bleeding, infection, anesthesia reaction, blood clots, scarring, pain, and hernia recurrence. Dr. Azouz uses meticulous techniques, medications, and technologies to reduce these risks. He also sees all of his patients shortly after and consistently after surgery to monitor their progress.

Recovery After Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgery

Most people who have abdominal wall reconstruction surgery are able to leave the hospital the same day. The length of recovery depends on the extent of the surgery. However, most people are able to resume their normal activities within a few weeks.

Cost of Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgery

The cost of abdominal wall reconstruction surgery varies according to the extent of the surgery, facility fees, and anesthesia fees. If you suffered from an abdominal injury at work, your workers’ compensation carrier will usually cover the surgery.

Other Surgeries That Can Be Combined with Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgery

Abdominal wall reconstruction surgery can be combined with other surgeries, such as:

• Liposuction: Liposuction can be used to remove excess fat from the abdomen, improving its appearance after surgery.
• Tummy tuck: A tummy tuck can be used to remove excess skin and tissue from the abdomen, improving its appearance after surgery.
• Diastasis Repair: A diastasis repair can repair separated muscles consequently strengthening the quality of a ventral or umbilical hernia repair.

If you are considering abdominal wall reconstruction surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Solomon Azouz to discuss your options. Dr. Azouz will be able to assess your condition and recommend the best course of treatment for you. Call his office at (972) 702-8888 to schedule your consultation today.