Persistent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and that uncomfortable feeling of food sitting in your chest — these are not just minor annoyances. For many people, they are the daily reality of living with a hiatal hernia. If medications are no longer providing relief and symptoms are affecting your quality of life, surgery may be the most effective solution.
At NYC Hernia, Dr. Brian Jacob, MD, FACS, offers expert hiatal hernia surgery with a patient-centered approach designed to help you feel like yourself as quickly as possible. A named Top Doctor in New York Magazine for 14 consecutive years, Dr. Jacob brings world-class surgical expertise to every procedure.
What Is a Hiatal Hernia?
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach pushes upward through the diaphragm and into the chest cavity. The diaphragm has a small opening called the hiatus, through which the esophagus passes. When the stomach slides or protrudes through this opening, it can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Many people with small hiatal hernias have no symptoms. Larger hernias, however, can cause:
- Chronic heartburn or acid reflux (GERD)
- Regurgitation of food or liquid
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain or pressure
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling full shortly after eating
When Is Hiatal Hernia Surgery Needed?
Surgery is typically recommended when symptoms do not respond to medication or lifestyle changes, when the hernia is large, or when a paraesophageal hernia poses a risk of complications such as strangulation. Dr. Jacob will evaluate your situation and discuss whether surgical repair is right for you.
The Surgical Procedure
Hiatal hernia surgery is most commonly performed laparoscopically, a minimally invasive approach that uses small incisions and a camera to guide the repair. During the procedure, the stomach is repositioned below the diaphragm, the hiatus is tightened, and, in many cases, a fundoplication is performed — where the upper portion of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophagus to strengthen the valve and prevent acid reflux.
Minimally invasive surgery generally means less pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery than open surgery.
Recovery and Results
Most patients go home within one to two days after surgery. A soft or liquid diet is typically recommended during the initial healing period, with a gradual return to normal foods. Many patients experience significant relief from reflux and other symptoms following surgery. Dr. Jacob’s goal is always an optimized outcome and a smooth, rapid recovery.
Why Choose NYC Hernia for Hiatal Hernia Surgery in New York, NY?
When it comes to hiatal hernia surgery, experience and specialization matter. Dr. Brian Jacob has dedicated his career to hernia surgery, performing thousands of procedures and developing an individualized approach for each patient. As a Professor of Surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and founder of the International Hernia Collaboration, he oversees the surgical education of over 15,000 hernia surgeons worldwide, underscoring his standing as a global authority in the field.
Dr. Jacob operates at Mount Sinai Medical Center and Midtown Surgery Center, giving patients access to top-tier facilities in New York City. His extensive publication record, including contributions to The SAGES Manual on Hernia Repair, reflects a commitment to advancing the science of hernia treatment. Patients choose NYC Hernia not just for credentials, but for the individualized, expert care that comes with seeing a surgeon who treats hernias as a true specialty.
Get Long-Lasting Relief from Hiatal Hernia Symptoms
Living with chronic reflux and discomfort does not have to be your normal. If conservative treatments have not worked and your symptoms are holding you back, hiatal hernia surgery with Dr. Brian Jacob may be the answer. With his expertise and a patient-first philosophy, you can move forward with confidence.
Contact NYC Hernia in New York, NY, at 212-879-6677 or schedule a consultation online (opens in new tab).
