Expertise in Hernia Surgery
About
Dr. Monica Polcz is a fellowship-trained hernia specialist in Tampa, Florida, focused on complex hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction. Her practice is dedicated almost entirely to the treatment of hernia.
She provides comprehensive care for inguinal, ventral, incisional, recurrent, parastomal, flank, and atypical hernias using advanced open, laparoscopic, and robotic techniques. Dr. Polcz offers both tissue-based (non-mesh) and mesh repair options, tailoring each approach to the patient’s anatomy, prior surgical history, and goals.
She has particular expertise in the management of complex and recurrent hernias, including patients who have been told their condition is too challenging or that surgery may not be an option. She also evaluates and treats patients with pain after prior hernia repair, including mesh-related complications.
Dr. Polcz is an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of South Florida and practices at Tampa General Hospital. She completed her surgical training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and advanced fellowship training in abdominal wall reconstruction at Carolinas Medical Center.
She is an active member of the American Hernia Society and contributes to national committees, research, and guideline development focused on improving hernia care. She is also deeply involved in the education of medical students, surgical trainees, and practicing surgeons through teaching, mentorship, and national courses.
Personalized Approach to Hernia Repair
Not all hernias require mesh—and not all should be repaired without it.
Dr. Polcz offers both non-mesh (tissue-based) and mesh hernia repair options, allowing for a thoughtful, individualized approach to each patient.
A non-mesh repair may be appropriate for:
- Certain primary hernias (such as select inguinal or small ventral hernias)
- Patients who prefer to avoid mesh
- Patients with prior mesh-related complications
For other patients—particularly those with larger or recurrent hernias—mesh may be recommended to provide a more durable repair. A variety of mesh types and techniques are available, and selection is carefully tailored to each patient.
Dr. Polcz specializes in helping patients understand these options and choose the approach that best fits their individual situation.