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Hernia Surgery in Brownsville and Harlingen, TX

Hernias can be painful and unsightly and can interfere with enjoyment of daily activities. However, there are many treatment options for each type of hernia. At the practice of Carlos A. Barba, MD PLLC, our focus is on choosing the solution that suits you best and performing a surgical repair with critical precision. Solutions can range from watchful waiting to laparoscopic repair to minimally invasive robotic surgery.

Dr. Carlos A. Barba is one of the most experienced surgeons specializing in hernia repair at his general surgery center in Brownsville and Harlingen, TX. His years of experience operating on all types of hernias provides his patients with peace of mind, knowing Dr. Barba will get them back to living a life free from hernia related pain. If you would like to schedule a consultation for hernia repair surgery, please call (956) 621-4981  or request an appointment online today!

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What is a Hernia?

Hernias occur when an organ pushes through an opening in muscle tissue. They are typically found in the abdominal wall, but can also affect the upper thigh and groin area. The issue will develop as the result of muscle weakness or over-exertion. If the hernia is the result of muscle weakness, it may develop over time. But, if it happens because of intense physical exertion, it could happen immediately.

Sufferers will usually notice a bulge or lump in the affected area and may experience pain, weakness, and burning. In most cases, the issue isn’t immediately life-threatening, but hernia surgery may be required to prevent long-term problems.

Most Common Types of Hernias

Inguinal Hernia
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Accounting for approximately 70% of hernias, inguinal hernias occur in the lower abdomen near the groin area. Men are more likely to experience this type of hernia due to a natural weakness in these muscles.

Hiatal Hernia
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This type of hernia affects the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. Hiatal hernias can cause heartburn and are more complicated to repair than other hernia types.


Incisional Hernia
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These typically occur in the abdominal area where a previous surgery has been performed. The section of muscle surrounding the area where an incision has healed tends to be weaker than normal muscle tissue.

Umbilical Hernia

Most commonly occurring in infants, these hernias affect the area around the bellybutton. This is the only type of hernia that may resolve itself, but if it doesn’t, it may require surgery to be repaired.


Femoral Hernia

Femoral hernias affect the groin area and are much more common in women than men. These occur just below the crease between the leg and the abdomen and are often the result of pregnancy and childbirth.

Epigastric Hernia

Epigastric hernias appear when fat pushes through the muscle anywhere between the breastbone and bellybutton. Most of these hernias are small and cause few symptoms, but may cause pain or burning.

Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery

Laparoscopic hernia surgery offers patients a minimally invasive approach to hernia surgery using tiny incisions and a camera. This option helps to reduce the amount of time in the hospital as well as recovery time.

Find Out If Laparoscopic Hernia Surgery is Right For You