Experience the future of hernia surgery with Dr. Richard Nguyen's expertise in da Vinci robotic procedures. Advanced technology meets compassionate care for superior outcomes and quicker recovery.
Hernia repair has evolved dramatically with the introduction of robotic surgery technology. At Lifetime Surgical, Dr. Richard Nguyen combines his extensive expertise with the precision of the da Vinci Surgical System to deliver exceptional results for patients requiring hernia repair.
As one of the few surgeons in the South Bay Area specially trained and certified in da Vinci robotic surgery, Dr. Nguyen has pioneered innovative techniques that minimize patient discomfort while maximizing surgical precision. His dual expertise in both mesh and non-mesh hernia repairs ensures each patient receives a personalized treatment approach tailored to their specific condition and lifestyle needs and guided by Dr. Nguyen’s insights.
Robotic hernia repair represents the most advanced form of minimally invasive surgery available today. Using the da Vinci Surgical System, Dr. Nguyen controls sophisticated robotic instruments through tiny incisions, typically measuring less than half an inch each. The system provides:
Enhanced Precision: 10x magnified, high-definition 3D vision allows Dr. Nguyen to see anatomical structures with unprecedented clarity, enabling precise identification of hernia defects and surrounding tissues.
Superior Dexterity: Robotic instruments move with human-like dexterity but with greater range of motion than the human hand, allowing for intricate maneuvers in confined spaces.
Tremor Elimination: The system automatically filters out any hand tremors, ensuring steady, controlled movements throughout the procedure.
Ergonomic Advantage: Dr. Nguyen operates from a comfortable console position, reducing fatigue and maintaining optimal focus throughout even complex procedures.
The most common type of hernia, occurring in the groin area. Robotic repair offers excellent visualization of the anatomy and allows for precise mesh placement when needed or direct tissue repair when possible.
Hernias that develop at previous surgical sites. The robotic approach provides superior access for complex repairs and optimal repair positioning.
Hernias occurring around the belly button. Robotic precision ensures minimal tissue disruption and excellent cosmetic results.
When part of the stomach pushes through the diaphragm. Robotic surgery allows for precise repair of this delicate anatomical area.
Incision Size
Visualization
Precision
Recovery Time
Pain Level
Scarring
Return to Work
Dr. Nguyen conducts a comprehensive evaluation including physical examination and imaging studies to determine the optimal surgical approach. Patients receive detailed pre-operative instructions and education about the procedure.
The procedure typically takes 1-3 hours depending on hernia complexity:
Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered for patient comfort
Port Placement: 3-5 small incisions are made for robotic instruments
Robotic Setup: The da Vinci system is positioned and calibrated
Repair Process: Dr. Nguyen performs the repair using precise robotic movements
Closure: Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures or surgical adhesive
Most patients go home the same day or after one overnight stay. Pain is typically minimal and well-controlled with either prescription pain medications or over-the-counter medications.
Faster Recovery: Return to normal activities in 1-2 weeks versus the typical 4-6 weeks with open surgery
Minimal Pain: Significantly less post-operative discomfort
Superior Cosmetic Results: Tiny scars that fade to near-invisible
Reduced Risk: Lower infection rates and complications
Same-Day Discharge: Most patients go home the same day of surgery
Quicker Return to Work: Desk workers often return within 1 - 2 weeks
Comprehensive Repair: Better visualization allows for complete hernia assessment
Reduced Tissue Trauma: Gentle handling of surrounding structures
Lower Recurrence Rates: Superior repair quality leads to better long-term outcomes
First 24-48 Hours
Minimal pain, managed with over-the-counter or prescription pain medication
Light activities are encouraged, including short walks
Normal diet typically resumed within hours
Week 1
Return to desk work is possible for most patients
Gradual increase in daily activities
Follow-up appointment scheduled
Weeks 2-4
Lifting restrictions gradually lifted
Return to exercise and normal activities
Most patients feel completely normal
Long-Term
Full healing typically complete by 6-8 weeks
No long-term activity restrictions
Regular follow-up to monitor healing
Fellowship training in Minimally Invasive Surgery from Vanderbilt University
Board certification in General Surgery
Specialized da Vinci robotic surgery certification
Over 20 years of surgical experience
National recognition for hernia repair specialization
Extensive experience with both mesh and non-mesh techniques
Pioneer in innovative surgical approaches
State-of-the-art da Vinci robotic surgical system
Access to the latest surgical instruments and techniques
Continuous investment in cutting-edge technology
Personalized treatment plans for each patient
Thorough pre-operative evaluation and education
Dedicated post-operative support and follow-up
"Dr. Nguyen repaired a nightmarish hernia situation for me; my original injury was in late 2019, and due to lockdowns, surgery in general not being allowed, etc., by the time I was able to get it repaired, the damage was severe. Repeated attempts to rectify this in the years afterward were not effective, and my quality of life was severely affected.
Dr. Nguyen performed robotic-assisted surgery to address the situation, and while the repairs were extremely extensive, incisions were tiny and the healing time was brief.”
Overall, a life-changing experience, and a very empathetic, caring, and highly experienced surgeon.
"Dr. Nguyen is THE BEST GENERAL SURGEON IN THE BAY AREA!! I've seen him a handful of times now for hernias and a few other things and he is so nice!!! He's mellow, responsive, extremely skilled and loved by everyone who knows him. Thanks Dr. Nguyen for your help!! I feel so much better!!! Ps- he does hernia surgery robotically and I was almost back to normal 2 days later!!!”
Robotic hernia repair has an excellent safety profile with lower complication rates than traditional open surgery. Dr. Nguyen's extensive training and experience further enhance safety outcomes.
Most robotic hernia repairs take 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the hernia and whether mesh is used.
The small incisions used in robotic surgery typically heal to nearly-invisible within months of the procedure.
Most patients with desk jobs can return to work within 1-2 weeks. Physical laborers may need closer to 3-4 weeks before returning to heavy lifting.
Robotic hernia repair has excellent long-term success rates, with recurrence rates significantly lower than traditional repair methods.
Most insurance plans cover robotic hernia repair when medically necessary. Our staff can help verify your coverage and benefits.
Many major insurance plans recognize robotic hernia repair as a covered procedure when medically indicated. Our experienced team can work directly with your provider to:
Verify coverage and benefits
Obtain necessary pre-authorizations
Minimize out-of-pocket expenses
Provide cost estimates before surgery
A comprehensive evaluation of your hernia
Discussion of treatment options
Personalized surgical recommendation
Opportunity to ask questions about the procedure
Insurance verification and cost discussion
Bring current insurance cards
List current medications
Previous surgical records (if applicable)
List of questions or concerns
Don't let a hernia limit your quality of life. Dr. Nguyen's expertise in robotic hernia repair offers you the best possible outcome with minimal disruption to your daily routine.