Top Hospitals for Postpartum Abdominal Laxity Repair in New York City in 2025

Postpartum abdominal laxity is a common concern among new mothers. It can not only affect the appearance but also lead to various health issues such as back pain, urinary incontinence, and hernias. Finding a good hospital for postpartum abdominal laxity repair in New York City is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. In this article, we will explore some of the top hospitals in New York City that offer high - quality postpartum abdominal laxity repair services.

Comprehensive Hernia Center at NewYork - Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital

Expertise in Hernia Repair

The Comprehensive Hernia Center at NewYork - Presbyterian Brooklyn Methodist Hospital is dedicated to the care of hernia patients. Their surgeons are absolute experts in the field of hernia surgery, unlike other surgeons who may perform hernia repair as a small part of their practice. They can offer advanced hernia repair techniques that are not available elsewhere, with superior outcomes compared to nearby centers.

Hernias are a significant cause of abdominal discomfort and can contribute to abdominal laxity. A hernia is a weakness or opening in the wall of the abdomen, where soft tissue such as fat or the intestine can protrude through the abdominal muscles and occupy the space under the skin. The center treats a wide range of hernias, including inguinal (groin) hernias, umbilical (belly button) hernia, ventral hernias, spigelian hernias, incisional hernias, recurrent hernias, hernia incarceration/strangulation, rectus diastasis, lumbar, obturator, and flank hernias.

Treatment Options

The hospital offers a variety of treatment options, including open hernia repair, laparoscopic hernia repair, robotic hernia repair, abdominal wall reconstruction, component separation, totally extraperitoneal hernia repair, non - mesh hernia repair (suture only repair), mesh excision, nerve resection, and hernia repair under minimal anesthesia. They also perform other general surgery procedures such as gallbladder removal, lipoma or cyst removals.

The surgeons most often use a robotic surgery approach for abdominal wall defect repairs. During the procedure, the operating room staff positions the arms of the robot on the patient’s abdomen, and the surgeon controls the robot while sitting at a console nearby, operating through multiple very small incisions with exceptional dexterity and precision.

Patient Experience

Before surgery, patients are advised to avoid taking aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), or other aspirin - containing products for two weeks before the operation. They also need to follow the surgeon’s instructions regarding bowel preparation and stop smoking if they are smokers. During surgery, patients receive general anesthesia and are asleep. After surgery, if the patient has robotic surgery, they will likely stay in the hospital one night and go home the next day. The stay may be a few days if they have open abdominal surgery. Patients can expect some discomfort but few report serious pain. They may be given an abdominal binder to wear after the operation, and the surgeon will let them know how long to wear it. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or exercise for at least 4 to 6 weeks and can expect to return to their normal activities after this time.

The surgeons at this hospital have over 50 years of combined experience in repairing complex hernias and abdominal wall defects. They have been at the forefront of this surgical procedure in New York City and have become a well - established destination for people with complex hernias.

Postpartum Abdominal Wall Reconstruction with M. Shane Dawson, MD, FACS

Addressing Postpartum Hernias and Diastasis Recti

M. Shane Dawson, MD, FACS, located in the upper east side of New York, offers postpartum abdominal wall reconstruction to women in and around the area. Pregnancy places enormous strain on a mother's body, especially on the abdominal structures. Postpartum hernias can develop when pressure causes an organ to squeeze through a weak spot in the abdominal wall. For example, an umbilical hernia can occur when part of the intestine protrudes in or around the belly button, and an incisional hernia may develop near the incision line if the baby is delivered via cesarean section.

Diastasis recti is another common condition among pregnant women. It occurs when the pressure caused by the expanding belly causes the muscles on the right and left sides of the abdomen to separate in the center, creating a widening space between the abdominal wall muscles and causing the belly to protrude even after losing the baby weight and healing from delivery. Left untreated, diastasis recti can lead to numerous health problems such as constipation, lower back pain, and urinary incontinence.

Treatment Approaches

If the pregnancy - related hernia is small and not causing significant problems, the patient may only need to keep a close eye on it and visit Dr. Dawson if changes occur. If the patient is already having symptoms that interfere with their normal routine, hernia repair surgery may be warranted. One approach involves using surgical mesh to strengthen an area of weakened tissue, and the mesh is secured in place to prevent organ displacement. Another option is suturing a gap in the muscle or connective tissues.

Abdominal wall reconstruction is a surgical procedure that reconnects the left and right abdominal muscles to restore proper abdominal alignment. It can address both postpartum hernias and diastasis recti. This approach differs from a tummy tuck, which involves the removal of excess fat and skin and the repositioning of the belly button to create a more refined stomach profile.

Dr. Dawson completes a thorough assessment of the patient's postpartum hernia and overall health before determining the best treatment option for postpartum abdominal wall reconstruction. Patients can request an appointment online or call the office to check availability.

Columbia Hernia Center

World - Class Physicians and Advanced Care

The Columbia Hernia Center brings together a group of world - class physicians focused on delivering the highest - quality hernia care. All of their surgeons are fellowship - trained in advanced hernia repair and are thought leaders in the world of hernia surgery. They are adept in laparoscopic and robotic surgery, which, through the center's own research, has been shown to improve outcomes and quality of life compared to traditional methods.

The center treats a wide range of hernia - related conditions, including inguinal (groin) hernias, umbilical (belly button) hernia, ventral hernias, spigelian hernias, incisional hernias, recurrent hernias, hernia incarceration/strangulation, rectus diastasis, lumbar, obturator, and flank hernias, sports hernia (athletic pubalgia), chronic groin or abdominal wall pain after hernia repair, hiatal hernias, paraesophageal hernias, and diaphragmatic hernias.

Treatment Offerings

The Columbia Hernia Center offers a comprehensive list of treatments, including open hernia repair, laparoscopic hernia repair, robotic hernia repair, abdominal wall reconstruction, component separation, totally extraperitoneal hernia repair, non - mesh hernia repair (suture only repair), mesh excision, nerve injections for chronic pain, nerve resection, sports hernia treatment, hernia repair under minimal anesthesia, minimally invasive and robotic hiatal hernia repair, minimally invasive and robotic paraesophageal hernia repair, minimally invasive and robotic diaphragmatic hernia repair, and other general surgery procedures such as gallbladder removal, lipoma or cyst removals.

One of the pioneering treatments at the center is the transversus abdominis release, pioneered by the hernia center’s director, Dr. Yuri Novitsky. This technique allows for the reconstruction of the abdominal wall to fix massive hernias that were once thought unfixable. It has even been extended to be performed robotically, enabling patients undergoing major abdominal wall reconstruction to leave the hospital after a day or so.

Patient - Centered Care

The center focuses on providing comprehensive hernia care. They collaborate with physicians specializing in rehab medicine, physical therapy, sports medicine, interventional radiology, clinical nutrition, and orthopedic surgery. This ensures that patients are always seen by physicians who are all familiar with the hernia repair and recovery process. The center is always available to patients for consultation, surgical treatment, follow - up, or just for questions. They can typically provide appointments within a week, and one of their surgeons is always on call for emergency situations. They have offices throughout Manhattan and also in New Jersey for the convenience of patients.

Mount Sinai's Rehabilitation Program

Pelvic Floor and Postpartum Rehabilitation

Mount Sinai’s rehabilitation program provides treatment for patients with pelvic floor dysfunctions, pelvic pain syndromes, and prenatal/postpartum conditions. Women's bodies face many physical changes during and after pregnancy, and pelvic floor therapy can be very useful during this time. During pregnancy, the pelvic muscles adjust to make room for the growing baby, and pelvic floor therapy can help prepare women for childbirth.

The program treats a variety of prenatal and postpartum - related conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome and other nerve entrapment syndromes, incontinence (urinary and fecal), leg and foot disorders, neck and back pain, painful labor and delivery, sacral joint and coccyx pain.

Treatment Techniques

After a thorough review of each patient's history, the experts conduct a comprehensive exam to determine the best course of treatment. Their therapists specialize in using a variety of techniques to diminish pain and increase the strength and functionality of the pelvic floor muscles. These techniques include computerized biofeedback, which uses a computer to help the pelvic floor with contraction and relaxation techniques; classes in body mechanics, postural education, pilates, and yoga techniques to re - educate the postural and core muscles; external/internal soft tissue and joint mobilization such as myofascial release; home exercises including postural, therapeutic, and kegel exercises; muscle - specific training using manual and verbal techniques; relaxation training to diminish anxiety and muscle spasms during intercourse; and scar management to decrease pain from scar adhesions after surgery.

The program's goal is to provide safe and effective treatments to ease pelvic pain and help patients get back to their normal life with restored pelvic floor function.

Postpartum Pelvic Floor Health Program at Weill Cornell Medicine

Expert Care for Pelvic Floor Disorders

The Postpartum Pelvic Floor Health Program at Weill Cornell Medicine provides expert care in a compassionate environment tailored specifically for women who have recently given birth. After pregnancy and childbirth, women may experience changes in bladder function, as well as the anatomy of the vagina and surrounding organs. Some women may experience symptoms such as urinary incontinence and vaginal prolapse, which can cause undue stress and affect their quality of life.

The program offers state - of - the - art diagnostic services to identify optimal treatments. As many women are affected by more than one pelvic floor disorder, the team of physicians works jointly with other specialists to provide comprehensive treatment plans. They treat a wide range of conditions, including vulvar and vaginal conditions (such as vaginal pain after laceration, prolonged healing or breakdown of perineal laceration, genitourinary or rectovaginal fistula, vaginal bulge or pressure sensation, vaginal prolapse, pelvic muscle weakness), bladder symptoms (leakage while coughing, sneezing, or physical activity, leakage of urine with a strong urgency, urinary frequency or urgency, incomplete bladder emptying, recurrent urinary tract infections), bowel conditions (accidental bowel leakage, incomplete bowel movements or straining, constipation), and other conditions (vaginal cysts, urethral diverticulum, sexual dysfunction).

Treatment Options

Each patient receives a thorough exam and the appropriate diagnostic tests based on their individual needs. These tests may include pelvic floor muscle strength assessment, full urinary and bowel continence assessment, urodynamic testing to assess bladder function, cystoscopy testing using a small camera to inspect the inside of the bladder, anorectal manometry, and ultrasound.

The program offers several surgical and non - surgical treatment options. Non - surgical treatment options include in - office pelvic floor muscle training and strengthening exercises and biofeedback, pelvic floor support devices (pessaries), medical therapy for incontinence, behavioral therapy, percutaneous posterior tibial nerve stimulation, and office procedures for incontinence. When surgery is recommended, the physicians typically opt for minimally invasive procedures, which generally lead to shorter hospital stays, smaller incisions, faster recovery, and less post - operative pain. The surgical procedures offered include vaginal reconstructive surgery including cosmetic vulvar surgery, vaginal scar revision, vaginal cyst excision, fistula repair, anal sphincteroplasty, laparoscopic and robotic assisted pelvic reconstructive surgery, surgery for urinary incontinence, and urethral bulking.

Weill Cornell Medicine is a leader in the field, with a history of expertise and innovation. In partnership with New York - Presbyterian – the #1 hospital in New York according to U.S. News and World Report – their obstetrics and gynecology program is consistently ranked among the top in the nation. Their team of urogynecologists has been trained specifically to diagnose and treat women with pelvic floor conditions, and all of their physicians are board - certified in female pelvic medicine, reconstructive surgery, and urogynecology. They also offer telehealth appointments as needed.

NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue Hernia Center

Hernia Repair Expertise

The NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue Hernia Center has surgeons with expertise in all types of hernia repair, including inguinal (groin), umbilical (belly button), ventral, and incisional (due to scars from prior surgeries). Hernias occur when there is a protrusion of fatty tissue or internal organs through a weakness or an opening of the abdominal muscles, causing a noticeable bulge on the stomach that can be painful and prevent patients from performing their daily activities.

The center has a particular focus on optimizing the patient's health and other medical conditions prior to surgery to obtain the best and most durable hernia repair. This includes working with patients to improve their diabetes, stop smoking, and lose weight.

Treatment Modalities

They offer open or minimally invasive hernia repair surgeries using laparoscopic or robotic techniques. They can repair recurrent or complex hernias, using component separation techniques to attain a more functional abdominal wall. The surgeons work with a multidisciplinary approach, providing referrals to smoking cessation clinics, internal medicine, and bariatric surgery to optimize the patient's health before surgery. Patients can discuss all the available options during their initial consultation, and the treatment plan will be individualized for each patient's specific needs.

Rectus Diastasis Repair at Maman Plastic Surgery

Specialized Diastasis Recti Treatment

Dr. Daniel Maman at Maman Plastic Surgery offers specialized rectus diastasis repair. Diastasis recti, or abdominal muscle separation, is a common problem mainly in women after pregnancy. It results in a protruding bulge of tissue down the abdomen midline that cannot be reversed by diet and exercise. It can cause emotional frustration, a lack of confidence, and various physical effects such as back pain, urinary incontinence, constipation, painful intercourse for women, functional instability, and hernias.

Dr. Maman is a Harvard fellowship - trained and board - certified plastic surgeon specialized in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the breast, body, and face. He completed a Harvard fellowship as well as a 6 - year plastic surgery residency at the Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City and has appeared on the New York Times top doctors and super doctors in plastic surgery lists.

Treatment Process

The consultation process at Maman Plastic Surgery is comprehensive. A 90 - minute consultation with Dr. Maman includes a thorough review of the patient's medical history, an in - depth physical assessment performed by Dr. Maman, a comprehensive and detailed operative plan, a review of cost, accommodations, and follow - up visits, and the scheduling of surgery.

Rectus diastasis repair involves closing the separated stomach muscles using permanent, internal sutures. This procedure is often combined with a tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) for patients who have excess abdominal skin. After surgery, patients are provided with detailed aftercare, including luxury recovery room options at NYC hotels, attentive and routine aftercare visits, and a personalized, holistic patient - centered approach. Patients receive Dr. Maman’s personal contact information along with direct round - the - clock access to the nurse and surgical coordinator.

To maintain the results of the diastasis rectus repair, patients need to adhere to post - operative protocols, including wound - care practice, activity restrictions, staying in a stable weight range, and ensuring proper form during exercise and lifting.

Abdominal Core Health Program at NYU Langone Health

Advanced Hernia and Abdominal Wall Treatment

Surgeons at NYU Langone’s Abdominal Core Health Program are recognized leaders in the field of hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction using the most advanced robotic surgical techniques. The abdominal wall is made up of muscles and other connective tissue that play a crucial role in protecting the organs in the abdomen, maintaining stability, balance, and enabling an active life.

The program treats all types of hernias, including umbilical hernias (near the navel), incisional hernias (through an incision or scar from previous abdominal surgery), inguinal and femoral hernias (in the groin area). They also care for people with hiatal and paraesophageal hernias at their center for esophageal health. In addition to hernias, they treat abdominal wall conditions such as diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy), athletic pubalgia (weakening or tearing