Hernia Specialist
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Faith Menken, MD
General Surgeon located in New York, NY
A hernia is a painful condition that develops when an organ, or fatty tissue pushes through a weak spot in surrounding muscle. Dr. Faith A. Menken, of Faith A Menken MD, offers surgical treatment to patients with most types of hernias in the Upper East Side area of New York. Patients who think they may have a hernia should contact Faith A Menken MD to make an appointment.
Hernia Q & A
What is a hernia?
A hernia develops when part of an organ or other tissue bulges through a weak area in the muscle that surrounds it. This condition can develop in several locations, including the belly button, the groin, and the abdominal wall. Hernias can also develop near incisions or scars.
Patients usually notice hernias as a bulge or lump. In many cases, patients will be able to push the herniated tissue back to its proper place, but it will reemerge after the pressure is removed.
What causes a hernia?
Hernias can affect anyone. However, they’re more likely to develop when a person has weak muscles in a certain area and the person engages in an activity that puts strain on that area, such as heavy lifting.
How does Dr. Menken treat hernias?
Dr. Menken repairs hernias surgically. During a hernia repair procedure, Dr. Menken accesses the hernia through an incision, places the protruding tissue back into its proper place, and closes the weak area in the muscle to prevent it from recurring. Dr. Menken will try to treat hernias laparoscopically whenever possible, but she can also perform open surgeries when necessary.
What types of hernias can Dr. Menken treat?
Dr. Menken can treat most types of hernias, including:
- Umbilical hernias: Hernias located near the belly button
- Inguinal hernias: Hernias that develop in the groin
- Ventral hernias: Hernias that develop in the abdominal wall
- Incisional hernias: Hernias that develop in an incision or scar
Is hernia surgery always necessary?
Some types of small hernias may not require surgery. However, hernias that are large or causing symptoms should be treated to prevent complications.
How effective is hernia surgery?
Hernia surgery can effectively resolve hernias and eliminate all of the associated symptoms. However, new hernias can appear in the future. Patients should be careful to avoid activities that could increase the risk of hernias.
What are the risks of hernia surgery?
As with all surgical procedures, hernia surgery presents some risks to the patient. Some of the risks of hernia surgery include:
- Infection of the surgical site or incision
- Excessive bleeding
- Damage to surrounding tissue
- Bad reactions to anesthesia
Insurance
Dr. Menken accepts a number of major insurance plans. Please contact her office if you do not see your insurance plan listed.
Words from our patients
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"Dr. Menken is awesome, caring, and well trained. Her knowledge makes me feel comfortable and safe, her staff is very competent and efficient. Highly recommended."
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"I have been a patient of Dr. Menken for several years. She is wonderful. Her staff is great. I would recommend her to anyone in need of a surgeon."
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"If you are searching for a breast surgeon that is knowledgeable, experienced, thorough, informative and kind - search no more."
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"One of the best surgeons. She saved my life. The second time I got breast cancer in 2008, none of the tests showed it, but Dr. Menken didn't give up."
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"I've been treated with respect and never had to wait. She is a top-flight surgeon and is conscientious about her approach and post-op follow up."
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"When I walk in her office, she really cares about my health and healing. I wish she specialized in every area of medicine--there aren't many doctors like her."
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"I've always found her to be a highly skilled, kind, and caring physician. I would not make a decision about any surgery without consulting her."
