Preparing for Hernia Surgery

Pre-op care plan

Surgery can be a difficult decision for anyone. Weighing the benefits and risks are important in helping you make this decision. Here, at the Comprehensive Hernia Center, we believe that our patients should be at their best physical health before surgery. There are many different ways you can be an active participant in your health and improve your chances for a successful surgery.

While some health conditions cannot be eliminated, such as COPD or asthma, some issues can be improved with acts such as tobacco cessation, and exercise. For people with complex hernias and a BMI greater than 35, weight loss is recommended to ensure success of the hernia repair and decrease the chance of the hernia reoccurring. We believe that you are an essential member in our team and your active involvement in your care can lead to improved outcomes.

Below are some resources to help you reach your goal:

Useful documents

Exercise and nutrition and stress management

Weight loss and diabetes

Bariatric and Metabolic Institute (medical and surgical weight loss available)
(412) DOCTORS (412) 362-8677

Smoking

QUITLOGIX: 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)

Drugs and alcohol

The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs’ (DDAP) Get Help Now hotline:

Contact us

For additional resources, please call (412) DOCTORS (412) 362-8677.

For follow-up questions related to your hernia care, contact the Comprehensive’s Hernia Center’s Clinical Coordinator, Jennifer Somers at (412) 578-4215 or at Jennifer.Somers@ahn.org.