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"Hiatal hernia surgery is indicated for severe, refractory GERD, esophagitis, or complications such as stricture or strangulation. Dr. Babak Moein performs laparoscopic/robotic Nissen fundoplication with or without mesh reinforcement, restoring gastroesophageal anatomy and sphincter competence. Most patients are discharged same day and recover within ~6 weeks with staged diet and lifestyle modification."This article highlights comprehensive hiatal hernia surgery in Los Angeles for patients whose heartburn, acid reflux, or GERD no longer respond to lifestyle changes or medication. Minimally invasive and robotic techniques, including Nissen fundoplication, offer lasting relief. Dr. Babak Moein, an expert bariatric, cosmetic, and general surgeon, leads care at Healthy Life Bariatrics.

Hiatal hernias are far more common than many people realize. While some cause no symptoms at all, others can severely impact daily life with persistent heartburn, acid reflux, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). For patients in Los Angeles seeking long-lasting relief, Healthy Life Bariatrics, led by Dr. Babak Moeinolmolki (widely known as Dr. Babak Moein), offers advanced, comprehensive hiatal hernia surgery tailored to each patient's needs.

What Is a Hiatal Hernia?

A hiatal hernia occurs when a portion of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm into the chest cavity.

Small hiatal hernias may cause no symptoms and often require no treatment. However, larger or more severe hernias can lead to:

• Chronic heartburn

• Acid reflux or GERD

• Chest discomfort or burning

• Difficulty swallowing

• Regurgitation of food or acid

When these symptoms persist despite lifestyle changes or over-the-counter medications, patients are encouraged to seek a specialist evaluation.

When Is Hiatal Hernia Surgery Recommended?

Surgery is typically recommended when symptoms are severe, persistent, or when complications develop. Warning signs that may indicate the need for hiatal hernia surgery include:

• Symptoms that interfere with quality of life

• Ulcers related to reflux

• Narrowing of the esophagus (esophageal stricture)

• Poor response to heartburn or GERD medications

In rare but serious cases, the herniated stomach tissue can become“strangulated,” losing its blood supply. This is a life-threatening emergency that requires urgent hiatal hernia surgery to prevent severe complications.

Advanced Hiatal Hernia Surgery Options in Los Angeles

At Healthy Life Bariatrics, Dr. Moein offers a full spectrum of surgical solutions for hiatal hernia repair, focusing on precision, safety, and durable symptom relief.

Open Hiatal Hernia Repair

Open surgery is the traditional approach, often reserved for complex or recurrent cases. During this procedure:

• A single larger incision is made in the abdomen.

• The stomach is gently repositioned back into the abdominal cavity.

• The upper part of the stomach (fundus) is wrapped around the lower esophagus to create a new functional valve that helps prevent acid reflux.

In some patients, a temporary tube may be placed to help keep the stomach in position and reduce the risk of future herniation. This tube is removed after several weeks.

Nissen Fundoplication (Keyhole / Laparoscopic Surgery)

For most patients, the preferred option is laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication, a minimally invasive“keyhole” technique that uses several small incisions instead of a single large one.

In this procedure:

• A laparoscope (a thin, lighted camera) is inserted through a small incision.

• Surgical instruments are introduced through additional keyhole incisions.

• The hernia is repaired, the stomach is repositioned, and the diaphragmatic opening is tightened.

• The fundus of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to reinforce the anti-reflux barrier.

This approach is associated with:

• Lower risk of infection

• Less postoperative pain

• Minimal scarring

• Shorter hospital stays

• Faster return to normal activities

Mesh Reinforcement for Large or Recurrent Hernias

In patients with large or recurrent hiatal hernias, mesh repair may be used to reinforce the weakened area. The mesh provides additional support to the diaphragm, helping lower the risk of future hernia recurrence.

Cutting-Edge Techniques: Robotic Surgery and Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation

Healthy Life Bariatrics incorporates advanced technologies to optimize outcomes and enhance surgical precision.

Robotic-Assisted Hiatal Hernia Repair

Robotic-assisted hiatal hernia surgery offers:

• Exceptional visualization of the surgical field

• Highly precise and controlled instrument movement

• Enhanced ability to operate in confined, delicate spaces

This can be particularly valuable in complex or revisional cases, allowing for meticulous dissection and reconstruction.

Magnetic Sphincter Augmentation

Another modern option for select patients is magnetic sphincter augmentation, which uses a small magnetic device placed around the lower esophageal sphincter. The device helps:

• Strengthen the valve mechanism at the bottom of the esophagus

• Prevent acid reflux

• Preserve the ability to swallow and belch normally

This can be an excellent alternative for patients seeking effective reflux control without traditional fundoplication in appropriate cases.

Recovery After Hiatal Hernia Surgery

Recovery is structured and generally well-tolerated. Most patients:

• Go home the same day or within 24 hours

• Experience initial discomfort that typically improves within 48 hours

• Achieve full recovery within approximately 6 weeks

A typical recovery timeline includes:

• Week 1: Light walking, pain control, and careful incision care

• Weeks 2–4: Gradual increase in daily activity; avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise

• Months 1–3: Return to normal physical activity and exercise, pending surgeon clearance

Long-Term Benefits: Relief from Hernia, Reflux, and GERD

When performed by a skilled surgeon and paired with lifestyle modifications, hiatal hernia surgery offers:

• Long-term relief from hiatal hernia symptoms

• Significant reduction or resolution of GERD and chronic heartburn

• Improved quality of life and daily comfort

Many patients are able to reduce or discontinue long-term dependence on reflux medications after successful surgery, under medical guidance.

Why Patients in Los Angeles Choose Dr. Babak Moeinolmolki

At the heart of Healthy Life Bariatrics is Dr. Babak Moeinolmolki (Dr. Babak Moein), a highly trained surgeon with a uniquely comprehensive background.

• A board-certified bariatric surgeon and cosmetic surgeon

• One of the very few surgeons double-fellowship–trained in bariatric (weight loss) surgery and body contouring cosmetic plastic surgery

• Experienced in complex general surgery, including sophisticated hernia and hiatal hernia repairs

This rare combination of skills allows Dr. Moein to care for patients not only from a surgical disease perspective, but also in terms of overall metabolic health, weight management, and post–weight loss aesthetics. At his Los Angeles practice, patients benefit from:

• A patient-centered, comprehensive approach

• Advanced minimally invasive and robotic techniques

• An accredited surgical center environment

• A team focused on safety, comfort, and long-term outcomes

For individuals struggling with hiatal hernia symptoms, acid reflux, or GERD, Dr. Moein and the team at Healthy Life Bariatrics offer personalized evaluations and tailored treatment plans designed to provide lasting relief and a better quality of life.

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