expert type icon EXPERT

Mina Saeed

Surgeon

Dr. Mina Saeed is a general and bariatric surgeon practicing in Evanston, IL. Dr. Saeed specializes in minimally invasive surgery of the abdomen, including the esophagus, stomach, liver, gallbladder, colon and hernias of the groin or abdomen. General surgeons are able to deal with almost any surgical or critical care emergency, also involving the skin or soft tissue trauma. Dr. Saeed is part of a comprehensive weight-loss program that helps patients live happier, healthier lives through lifestyle changes and surgery.
11 years Experience
Mina Saeed
  • Evanston, IL
  • Rush Medical College
  • Accepting new patients

What is the best surgery for a hiatal hernia?

In my opinion, hiatal hernias are best addressed by surgical reduction of the hernia, cruroplasty, followed by a fundoplication procedure. Before any surgery, you should undergo READ MORE
In my opinion, hiatal hernias are best addressed by surgical reduction of the hernia, cruroplasty, followed by a fundoplication procedure. Before any surgery, you should undergo esophageal manometry, upper GI contrast study or esophagram, 24 hr pH probe study, and upper endoscopy. This will inform surgical technique.

Do you get pain meds after a colonoscopy?

No pain meds are required, the discomfort is minimal, typically associated with some bloating. Best of luck!

Can internal hemorrhoids be treated without surgery?

Yes, internal hemorrhoids can be banded, often in the office. There are also procedures that constrict the hemorrhoidal tissue, without removing it, but still requires anesthesia. READ MORE
Yes, internal hemorrhoids can be banded, often in the office. There are also procedures that constrict the hemorrhoidal tissue, without removing it, but still requires anesthesia.

abdominal wall hernia

As a former mentor of mine said, "A structural problem, requires a structural solution." That is to say, a hernia, which is a defect in the abdominal wall, can only be repaired READ MORE
As a former mentor of mine said, "A structural problem, requires a structural solution." That is to say, a hernia, which is a defect in the abdominal wall, can only be repaired with anatomical intervention (i.e. surgery). Depending on the location, many hernias can be repaired in a minimally invasive fashion, which minimizes pain and recovery time.

When can I exercise after inguinal hernia surgery?

You should always refer to your doctor. I ask my patients not to push, pull, or lift > 30 lbs for 6 weeks after surgery. Climbing stairs, bending over, walking, is fine.

What foods should I avoid if I have a hernia?

Avoid constipation and straining. Lots of water, fiber (fruits and vegetables), and minimal processed foods/red meats.

How long is the hospital stay for rectal prolapse surgery?

This depends on the type of procedure you have, but in general 1-3 nights is typical. Your surgeon will want to make sure your colon and rectum function well before you leave the READ MORE
This depends on the type of procedure you have, but in general 1-3 nights is typical. Your surgeon will want to make sure your colon and rectum function well before you leave the hospital, and that you don't suffer any complications.

How can you help with Chron's disease?

Crohn's disease can cause inflammation of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus. Treatment depends on the location and type of symptoms you are experiencing. There are medical READ MORE
Crohn's disease can cause inflammation of the GI tract from the mouth to the anus. Treatment depends on the location and type of symptoms you are experiencing. There are medical therapies, ranging from anti-inflammatories, to immune suppressing drugs that modulate your bodies immune response, and can prevent or diminish "flare ups." You should talk to your Gastroenterologist about which therapies may be right for you. in severe cases, Crohn's can cause stricture, obstruction, or bleeding of the intestines. These may sometimes be dealt with surgically. Perianal fistula are also common, and can be difficult to live with and treat. Seeking consultation from Colorectal surgeon would be required in these instances.

Do you get pain medications for a colonoscopy?

Pain medications are typically not prescribed after colonoscopy, but you may receive some during the procedure, as a sedative and analgesic.

How long does the pain last after a colectomy?

This all depends on the technique. If you are having a large incision on your abdomen, your pain will take longer to subside. Typically 4-6 weeks. If it is done laparoscopically, READ MORE
This all depends on the technique. If you are having a large incision on your abdomen, your pain will take longer to subside. Typically 4-6 weeks. If it is done laparoscopically, or robotically, you will typically have small incisions, and therefore less recovery time, usually 3-4 weeks.

What medications should be avoided after bariatric surgery?

Excellent question. You should avoid NSAID type anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin), Aleve, Excedrin, Naproxen, indomethacin, etc. Tylenol is safe to take. You should READ MORE
Excellent question. You should avoid NSAID type anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin), Aleve, Excedrin, Naproxen, indomethacin, etc. Tylenol is safe to take. You should also avoid smoking, and oral steroids if possible, as they can leak to ulcer formation in gastric bypass patients. Alcohol should be very limited, due to its increased absorption into the bloodstream. You SHOULD be on a daily multivitamin, and have your levels checked regularly by your doctor. Some patients may require increased doses of B12, or iron, depending on the type of surgery they had.

What medications help with pain after hernia surgery?

If you are allowed to take NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen, alleve, excedrin, naproxen and the like, those work very well. You can also use heating pads, or warm towels over sore areas, READ MORE
If you are allowed to take NSAIDS, such as ibuprofen, alleve, excedrin, naproxen and the like, those work very well. You can also use heating pads, or warm towels over sore areas, and this provides great relief for many patients.

How long does the pain last after inguinal hernia surgery?

This really varies from person to person, and depends on the size of the hernia, its chronicity (length of time it's been there) and most importantly, the technique used. Open READ MORE
This really varies from person to person, and depends on the size of the hernia, its chronicity (length of time it's been there) and most importantly, the technique used. Open surgery tends to come with longer recovery time, and pain, while laparoscopic or robotic surgery affords patients a less pain during the recovery period.

How many days rest should I have after inguinal hernia surgery?

You can walk, bend over, and climb stairs after inguinal hernia surgery. You should avoid lifting objects greater than ~30 lbs for 4-6 weeks, and avoid strenuous exercise.

Am I eligible for bariatric surgery?

Technically, the NIH recommends bariatric surgery for this with a BMI of 40 or above, or above 35 with an obesity related medical problem. With a BMI of 39, you would also need READ MORE
Technically, the NIH recommends bariatric surgery for this with a BMI of 40 or above, or above 35 with an obesity related medical problem. With a BMI of 39, you would also need to have acid reflux, high blood pressure, diabetes or pre-diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome, sleep apnea or the like. You can visit Drminasaeed.com for more information.

Is surgery necessary for anal fissure?

Anal fissures that have been going on for less than a month, can be treated with increasing water intake, avoiding spicy foods, high fiber diet or fiber supplement such as metamucil, READ MORE
Anal fissures that have been going on for less than a month, can be treated with increasing water intake, avoiding spicy foods, high fiber diet or fiber supplement such as metamucil, miralax, benefiber, or citrucel, sometimes in addition to stool softeners. Often, an ointment that is comprised of lidocaine and nifedipine or nitroglycerin is prescribed to aid with pain relief and diminish anal sphincter spasm. Warm baths also help with this. If after one month of adhering to these measures there is no resolution, surgery may be indicated.

Complication after c section?

This really sounds like it should be addressed with more than just medication. A drain would be the bare minimum necessary, but if there is communication of the cavity within the READ MORE
This really sounds like it should be addressed with more than just medication. A drain would be the bare minimum necessary, but if there is communication of the cavity within the abdomen, it should be addressed surgically. I would start with have a general surgery and gynecologic evaluation.

How soon can I walk after abdominal hernia surgery?

You should be walking within the first 24 hours. In fact, laying in bed or sitting is worse for your circulation and your lungs. Walk as much as your body will allow, but don't READ MORE
You should be walking within the first 24 hours. In fact, laying in bed or sitting is worse for your circulation and your lungs. Walk as much as your body will allow, but don't lift objects greater than 20 lbs.