Everything you need to know when searching for the best hernia surgeon for your care.

Introduction: Why Choosing the Right Hernia Surgeon Matters

A hernia may seem simple, but choosing the wrong surgeon can lead to long-term complications like recurrence, chronic pain, and poor healing. When a bulge, abdominal discomfort, or persistent pain appears, many patients ask:

• What type of doctor treats hernias?
• Who is the best specialist for hernia repair?
• Do I need a hernia expert or just a general surgeon?
  

Because hernia outcomes vary widely, finding a fellowship-trained hernia specialist gives patients the safest and most advanced treatment options — especially for complex hernias or recurrent repairs.

What Type of Doctor Is a Hernia Specialist?

A hernia specialist is a General Surgeon with advanced fellowship training specifically in abdominal wall reconstruction and hernia surgery.

This is not routine training — it is additional, elite training completed after general surgery residency.

Why fellowship matters

Fellowship-trained hernia surgeons have mastered:

• Complex abdominal wall reconstructios
• Minimally invasive and robotic hernia repair
• Open reconstruction when necessary
• Reoperations for failed or recurrent hernias

Completing hundreds of advanced cases

Only a small number of surgeons nationally hold this advanced credential.

Dr. Gabriel Arévalo

Dr. Arévalo is fellowship-trained in hernia and robotic surgery and provides individualized treatment plans in Houston for both routine and complex hernias.

Fellowship Training Matters in Hernia Surgery

Not all surgeons who repair hernias are hernia specialists.

A surgeon who completes a formal abdominal wall or hernia fellowship has undergone:

• Hundreds of advanced open, laparoscopic, and robotic repairs
• Complex reconstructions for large or recurrent hernias
• Advanced mastery of anatomy and mesh positioning
• Training in preventing recurrence and chronic pain
  

This depth of experience is essential for high-quality outcomes.

Active Membership in Hernia Societies Shows True Expertise

Hernia experts are part of global organizations dedicated to advancing hernia care.
Participation in groups such as:

• American Hernia Society (AHS)
• European Hernia Society (EHS)
  

demonstrates ongoing commitment to scientific research and innovation.

Dr. Arévalo serves on the Board of Governors of the American Hernia Society, a respected leadership position that reflects national recognition for his expertise.

Surgeons who speak at conferences, publish research, and sit on committees stay at the forefront of modern hernia care — and bring these advances to their patients.

A True Hernia Expert Focuses on Quality and Patient Outcomes

Expert hernia care is not measured by the number of surgeries performed — it is measured by:

• Recurrence rates
• Infection rate
• Readmissions
• Complication prevention
• Patient satisfaction
  

Dr. Arévalo follows evidence-based, standardized pathways and presents his results at national and international hernia conferences — demonstrating ongoing accountability and excellence.

Advanced Technology: Robotic and Minimally Invasive Hernia Surgery

Modern hernia repair has evolved dramatically. Fellowship-trained hernia surgeons are skilled in:

• Robotic hernia repair Smaller incisions, faster recovery, less pain.
• Laparoscopic repair Minimally invasive, excellent for many primary hernias.
• Open reconstruction Needed for severe damage or complex abdominal wall defects.

Dr. Arévalo is one of the few surgeons in Houston who can repair large, complex hernias through small incisions using robotic retromuscular techniques, offering strong and durable reconstructions while minimizing recovery time.

Leadership & Mentorship Are Signs of a True Hernia Expert

Hernia experts do more than perform surgery — they teach the field.

Dr. Arévalo:

• Mentors surgeons across the U.S. and internationally
• Proctors robotic hernia techniques for experienced surgeons
• Teaches medical students and residents
• Contributes to training programs that elevate standards nationwide

A surgeon trusted to teach others is a surgeon trusted to treat you.

Why Choosing a Hernia Expert Gives You the Best Chance of a Strong Recovery

Selecting a fellowship-trained hernia specialist ensures:

• Accurate diagnosis
• Personalized treatment
• Better long-term outcomes
• Safer surgery
• Faster return to normal life
• Lower recurrence rates

Whether your hernia is small or complex, or whether this is your first repair or a recurrence, choosing the right surgeon is the most important decision you can make.

Dr. Gabriel Arévalo provides expert, evidence-based hernia care built on precision, experience, and compassion — so you can return to life with strength and confidence.

Patient-Friendly FAQ

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Individual evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider is required for diagnosis and treatment.