Our Team of Experts | Keck Medical Center / Other Locations | Case Studies / Before and After Photos

The Hernia Institute of USC (HIUSC) offers a multidisciplinary approach for the treatment of a full spectrum of abdominal wall hernia defects. Through a collaborative effort involving pioneering leaders from general surgery as well as plastic and reconstructive surgery, the HIUSC develops a patient-centered approach to treating functionally and aesthetically disabling hernia defects.

The HIUSC delivers the highest quality interdisciplinary specialty care for patients with abdominal hernias, ranging from the simple to the most complex defects. Using the most advanced diagnostic techniques available, patients undergo a customized evaluation to establish a clear characterization of their abdominal wall defect. Patients meet with both our specialized general surgeons as well as our plastic and reconstructive surgeons to develop a customized reconstructive plan that assures the best
functional as well as cosmetic result.

Our team of surgeons has extensive experience in managing patients with complex abdominal hernias. The HIUSC utilizes state of the art technology enabling minimally invasive options tailored to the patient’s individual needs. This individualized approach using advanced minimally invasive technology, coupled with leading plastic and reconstruction techniques, ensures quality outcomes while decreasing discomfort and allowing for quicker recovery.

The HIUSC also works collaboratively with our Bariatric Center of Excellence. Many overweight patients will benefit from weight loss surgery prior to undergoing abdominal wall reconstruction and hernia repair. This approach allows for a lower hernia recurrence rate as well as a better cosmetic result in the overweight patient population.

Types of Hernias and Abdominal Wall Defects

• Inguinal and femoral hernias
• Umbilical hernia
• Ventral and incisional hernia
• Diastasis recti
• Athletic pubalgia (“sports hernia”)
• Recurrent hernias
• Infected mesh
• Post-bariatric abdominal wall reconstruction

Advanced Services

• Laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair
• Laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair
• Laparoscopic incisional hernia repair
• Laparoscopic component separation
• Abdominal wall reconstruction
  • Component separation
  • Biologic mesh reconstruction
  • Flap surgery
• Abdominoplasty
• Panniculectomy
• Post-bariatric services (combined hernia repair with body contouring
  procedures such as “tummy tuck,” breast, arm, and thigh lift)

Recurrent abdominal hernia with infected, exposed mesh, and large open wound		1 month after hernia repair with component separation