Belly Button Bulge Evaluation & Umbilical Herniorrhaphy by Dr. Astha Bhatt
A bulge near the belly button can be uncomfortable, concerning, or embarrassing. It may become more noticeable when you cough, strain, lift, exercise, or stand for long periods. This may be an umbilical hernia, which occurs when tissue pushes through a weak area in the abdominal wall near the navel.
Dr. Astha Bhatt, MD, a Board-Certified General Surgeon with fellowship training in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, provides careful evaluation and personalized treatment planning for patients with belly button bulges and umbilical hernias across Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Tamarac, Deerfield Beach, and Broward County, Florida.
When treatment is needed, Dr. Bhatt may discuss umbilical herniorrhaphy or umbilical hernioplasty with mesh, depending on the hernia size, symptoms, tissue strength, medical history, and recovery goals.
150+ 5-Star Reviews
Major Insurances Accepted
2,000+ Surgeries Performed
Board-Certified General Surgeon
Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery Training
2,000+
Surgeries Performed
General Surgery & Hernia Care
Umbilical Herniorrhaphy
Belly Button Hernia Treatment
Broward County, South Florida
Minimally Invasive Options
Accurate Diagnosis
Personalized Treatment Planning
Abdominal Wall Expertise
Board-Certified General Surgeon
Fort Lauderdale, FL
An umbilical hernia develops when a small opening or weakness forms in the abdominal wall near the belly button.
We provide treatment with the goal of umbilical hernia treatment is to restore strength to the abdominal wall and reduce the chance that tissue will continue to bulge through the weakened area. Surgical repair is the only way to close the actual defect in the abdominal wall. Watchful waiting may be reasonable for some reducible and non-painful hernias, but surgery is generally considered when symptoms, growth, or risk factors are present.
Umbilical herniorrhaphy is the surgical repair of the belly button hernia defect. Depending on the size of the hernia, tissue quality, symptoms, body habitus, and prior abdominal surgery history, Dr. Bhatt may discuss primary suture repair or mesh reinforcement. The right treatment depends on the size of the defect, whether the hernia contains fat or intestine, whether it is painful or enlarging, prior abdominal operations, body habitus, activity level, and overall health.
2,000+ Surgeries Performed
150+ Google 5-Star Reviews
Major Insurance Accepted
Same-Week Visits Often Available
Board-certified general surgeon-led umbilical hernia evaluation and belly button bulge treatment with surgical and non-surgical guidance when appropriate. Insured and self-pay patients are welcome.
Request a Umbilical Hernia Consultation
Tell us about your belly button bulge, pain, or hernia symptoms. Our team will contact you to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Astha Bhatt.
By submitting this form, you agree to be contacted about scheduling and care options.
ADVANCED UMBILICAL HERNIA TREATMENT OPTIONS
Dr. Astha Bhatt evaluates each belly button bulge carefully to determine the safest treatment approach. Depending on the size of the umbilical hernia, symptoms, tissue strength, and overall health, treatment may include observation, umbilical herniorrhaphy, or repair with mesh. Patients from Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Tamarac, Deerfield Beach, and Broward County receive clear guidance on open, laparoscopic, and robotic options.
With the da Vinci® Surgical System
Robotically Assisted Umbilical Hernia Repair
With the da Vinci® Surgical System
Robotic umbilical hernia repair is a minimally invasive option for selected patients. Dr. Bhatt uses small incisions, advanced instruments, and high-definition 3D visualization to repair the abdominal wall defect with precision.
This approach may be helpful when careful suturing or mesh placement is needed. The robotic system is fully controlled by the surgeon at all times.
Potential benefits may include:
Minimally Invasive Belly Button Hernia Treatment
Laparoscopic repair uses small incisions, a tiny camera, and specialized instruments to repair the umbilical hernia from inside the abdomen. This option may be appropriate for patients who are good candidates for minimally invasive treatment.
The repair may involve sutures, mesh, or both depending on the hernia size and tissue strength.
Potential benefits may include:
Repair for Belly Button Bulges
Open umbilical hernia repair is commonly used for small to moderate belly button hernias. Dr. Bhatt makes an incision near the navel, returns the bulging tissue to the abdomen, and closes the weakened area.
For very small hernias, stitches alone may be enough. For larger or recurrent hernias, mesh may be recommended to strengthen the repair and reduce recurrence risk.
Open repair may be recommended when:
UMBILICAL HERNIA APPOINTMENT SCHEDULIN
Choose your preferred date and time directly from Dr. Bhatt’s live calendar for simple, convenient online scheduling.
Prefer to call? Call (954) 388 – 0860 to schedule a Umbilical Herniorrhaphy consultation.
Prompt evaluation for patients in Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Tamarac, Deerfield Beach, and Broward County.
UMBILICAL HERNIA PATIENT TRUST
Dr. Astha Bhatt provides careful evaluation and treatment for patients with belly button bulges, umbilical hernias, and abdominal wall weakness. Her goal is to help patients understand their diagnosis, compare treatment options, and feel confident about whether observation, umbilical herniorrhaphy, mesh repair, laparoscopic repair, or robotic-assisted repair may be appropriate.
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450+
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Excellent Care from Dr. Astha Bhatt! Dr. Astha Bhatt provided exceptional guidance and care during my hernia repair surgery. Her communication was clear and thorough, and she used the latest technology to ensure a precise procedure. Her staff was attentive and caring, making the entire experience smooth and reassuring. My recovery went exceptionally well, and I am truly grateful for her expertise and professionalism. Highly recommend Dr. Bhatt for anyone seeking top-notch colorectal and hernia care!
Patient Apr 06, 2026
Healthgrades
Healthgrades
Dr. Astha Bhatt has performed my Colon Surgery(March 2025) & recently Hernia Procedure (April 2026). Dr.Bhatt is amazing and I would recommend her skills, knowledge, expertise professionalism to anyone looking for the best. The staff is outstanding as well. Thanks for the opportunity to express my review. Gary Blanco 👍
Patients Jan 10, 2025
Healthgrades
WHY CHOOSE DR. BHATT FOR UMBILICAL HERNIA TREATMENT
Dr. Bhatt evaluates the location, size, reducibility, tenderness, and symptoms of the belly button bulge. Imaging may be recommended if the diagnosis is unclear or if the hernia may be larger than it appears on exam.
Some patients may be monitored safely. Others may benefit from umbilical herniorrhaphy or hernioplasty with mesh. Dr. Bhatt explains why a specific approach is recommended.
An experienced surgeon with 10+ years in medical field, should not rely on only one method. Dr. Bhatt a Board Certified General Surgeon considers open, laparoscopic, and robotic options depending on the hernia and patient factors.
Mesh may strengthen the repair in selected patients, especially with larger defects or weaker tissue. Dr. Bhatt discusses the reason for mesh, alternatives, benefits, and risks when mesh is being considered.
Patients receive guidance on pain control, walking, wound care, lifting restrictions, return to work, and follow-up. Recovery depends on the size of the hernia, technique used, and patient health.
Dr. Bhatt provides surgical consultation for patients from Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Tamarac, Deerfield Beach, and nearby South Florida communities.
BOOK AN UMBILICAL HERNIORRHAPHY CONSULTATION
If you have a belly button bulge, pressure near the navel, pain with lifting, or a hernia that appears to be getting larger, schedule a consultation with Dr. Astha Bhatt. Early evaluation can help determine whether the hernia can be watched or whether treatment should be considered.
During your visit, Dr. Bhatt will review your symptoms, examine the area, discuss your medical and surgical history, and explain whether imaging is needed. If repair is recommended, she will review open, laparoscopic, and robotic options in clear language so you understand the expected benefits, risks, and recovery.
Request a Umbilical Herniorrhaphy Consultation
Fill out the form, and our team will contact you. Patients are welcome from: Broward County, and surrounding South Florida communities.
Call us directly at (954) 388-0860
UMBILICAL HERNIA TREATMENT LOCATIONS
Dr. Astha Bhatt, MD provides evaluation and treatment for umbilical hernias, belly button bulges, and abdominal wall weakness for patients throughout Broward County and South Florida. Patients visit Dr. Bhatt for careful diagnosis, discussion of umbilical herniorrhaphy, and personalized treatment options, including open, laparoscopic, and robotic approaches when appropriate.
Central Broward Access
North Broward Access
West Broward Access
South Broward Access
Also Serving: Deerfield Beach, Wilton Manors, Oakland Park, Plantation, Tamarac, Lighthouse Point, Margate, Coconut Creek, Sunrise, Weston, Boca Raton, Hollywood, Miramar, Pembroke Pines, Cooper City, Parkland, North Lauderdale, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, and all of Broward County.
An umbilical hernia may start as a small bulge at or near the belly button. It may come and go at first, especially when lying down. Over time, it may become more noticeable or uncomfortable.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention If You Notice:
These symptoms may suggest incarceration or strangulation, which can require urgent evaluation. The American College of Surgeons notes that trapped intestine may cause sudden pain and vomiting and may require emergency surgery.
Umbilical herniorrhaphy is a procedure used to repair an umbilical hernia, which is a weakness or opening near the belly button. During the repair, Dr. Astha Bhatt returns the bulging tissue back into the abdomen and closes the defect in the abdominal wall. In some cases, mesh may be used to add support and reduce the chance of the hernia returning.
A belly button bulge may be an umbilical hernia if it becomes more noticeable when you cough, strain, lift, exercise, or stand for a long time. Some patients feel pressure, pulling, tenderness, or discomfort around the navel. Dr. Bhatt can usually evaluate the area with a physical exam and may recommend imaging if the diagnosis is unclear.
Yes. In adults, an umbilical hernia may slowly enlarge because the opening in the abdominal wall can stretch with pressure from lifting, coughing, constipation, weight gain, pregnancy, or daily activity. A hernia that is growing, painful, or harder to push back in should be evaluated so treatment options can be discussed early.
You should schedule an appointment if you notice a new belly button bulge, discomfort near the navel, pain with lifting, or a hernia that seems to be increasing in size. Patients from Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Tamarac, Deerfield Beach, and Broward County can see Dr. Bhatt for a private umbilical hernia evaluation and personalized treatment plan.
No. Umbilical hernia treatment may be performed using an open, laparoscopic, or robotic-assisted approach depending on the hernia size, symptoms, tissue strength, prior surgery history, and overall health. Small hernias are often repaired through a limited incision near the belly button, while selected patients may benefit from minimally invasive options.
Umbilical herniorrhaphy generally refers to closing the abdominal wall defect with sutures. Umbilical hernioplasty usually means the repair is reinforced with mesh or another supportive material. Dr. Bhatt will explain which option is appropriate based on the size of the defect, tissue quality, recurrence risk, and your individual medical history.
Dr. Astha Bhatt is a Board-Certified General Surgeon with fellowship training in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. She personally evaluates each patient, explains the diagnosis clearly, and recommends treatment based on hernia size, symptoms, anatomy, and recovery goals. Her practice serves patients across Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Tamarac, Deerfield Beach, and Broward County.
Yes. Dr. Astha Bhatt provides umbilical hernia treatment, belly button bulge evaluation, and umbilical herniorrhaphy consultations for patients throughout Broward County and South Florida. Patients commonly visit from Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Tamarac, Deerfield Beach, Coconut Creek, Margate, Parkland, Sunrise, Weston, Cooper City, Hollywood, Boca Raton, and nearby communities.
During your visit, Dr. Bhatt will evaluate the size of the belly button hernia, your symptoms, medical history, and activity needs. She will explain whether observation, open repair, laparoscopic repair, robotic-assisted repair, or mesh reinforcement may be appropriate for your condition. The goal is to provide clear, safe, and personalized care close to home for patients across Broward County.
Some small, painless umbilical hernias can be monitored, but delaying evaluation may allow the hernia to enlarge or become more uncomfortable. Larger hernias may require a more involved repair. A consultation helps determine whether watchful monitoring is reasonable or whether planned umbilical herniorrhaphy may be safer.
Dr. Astha Bhatt is a Board-Certified General Surgeon with fellowship training in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. She personally evaluates each patient, explains the diagnosis clearly, and recommends treatment based on hernia size, symptoms, anatomy, and recovery goals. Her practice serves patients across Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Lighthouse Point, Tamarac, Deerfield Beach, and Broward County.
If you have a belly button bulge, pressure near the navel, pain with lifting, or an umbilical hernia that appears to be getting larger, schedule a private consultation with Dr. Astha Bhatt in Broward County. Her team can help you understand whether observation, umbilical herniorrhaphy, mesh repair, laparoscopic repair, or robotic-assisted repair may be appropriate.
Private evaluation for a belly button bulge, navel pain, pressure, or suspected umbilical hernia.
Dr. Bhatt examines the hernia, reviews your symptoms, and discusses whether imaging or treatment is needed.
Surgical planning for umbilical herniorrhaphy, hernioplasty with mesh, or minimally invasive repair when appropriate.
Serving Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Coral Springs, Plantation, Davie, Tamarac, Deerfield Beach, Lighthouse Point, and nearby areas.
Self-pay options may be available for patients without active insurance coverage.
Our team can help review insurance details before your umbilical hernia consultation.
Quality umbilical hernia treatment should be accessible. Major insurance plans and self-pay options may be available for belly button hernia evaluation, umbilical herniorrhaphy consultation, imaging review, and surgical care when appropriate. Coverage may vary by plan, deductible, referral requirements, and medical necessity.
Medicare
Blue Cross Blue Shield
+ more Plans
+ Self Pay Options
