Shahzeeb Hassan, MD in Baltimore: A Surgeon Focused on Hernia and Abdominal Wall Repair

Shahzeeb Hassan, MD is a general surgeon in Baltimore whose practice centers on hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction, conditions that many surgeons handle but few specialize in. He brings specific expertise in minimally invasive techniques and complex ventral hernia cases, which is relevant because Baltimore residents with recurrent or large hernias often travel to major centers for repair; Hassan provides that capability locally.

What Hassan's practice actually is

Hassan is a general surgeon with additional training in hernia and abdominal wall surgery. He operates in an office-based surgical setting and accepts referrals from primary care physicians and other surgeons throughout Baltimore and surrounding counties. Unlike a general surgery practice that treats appendicitis, gallbladder disease, and trauma alongside hernias, his focus means deeper experience with hernia complications, open and laparoscopic repair options, and cases where standard techniques have failed. Most of his patients arrive via referral rather than walk-in, and the practice caters to adults; he does not handle pediatric hernias.

Services and typical costs

Hassan performs inguinal hernia repair (groin), ventral hernia repair (abdomen), umbilical hernia repair, and abdominal wall reconstruction. He offers both open repair and minimally invasive laparoscopic approaches, and reconstruction cases may use mesh or biologic materials depending on the situation.

For a straightforward inguinal hernia repair using a standard laparoscopic approach with mesh, uninsured patients can expect costs in the $8,000 to $12,000 range; this includes the surgeon's fee, facility, and anesthesia. Ventral hernias and revision cases (repeat repairs) cost substantially more, typically $15,000 to $25,000, because they require more operative time and often specialized materials. Patients with insurance should verify their individual deductible and coinsurance before scheduling; most Baltimore-area plans, including those from CareFirst and Aetna, cover hernia repair when medically necessary, though cosmetic repair (hernia with minimal symptoms treated primarily for appearance) may not be covered.

Consultation visits typically cost $150 to $250; insurance copays vary by plan.

How Hassan compares to other Baltimore surgeons

Most general surgeons in Baltimore repair hernias as part of a broader practice (appendectomy, cholecystectomy, gallstone disease, colorectal issues). This means waiting time for hernia cases is often secondary, and the surgeon may have less specialized training. Hassan's narrower focus reduces wait times for hernia patients and reflects deeper experience with difficult cases. However, if you need a hernia repair quickly and your general surgeon can accommodate you soon, that may be faster than waiting for a specialist referral. Baltimore-area alternatives for hernia specialization include surgeons affiliated with University of Maryland Medical Center and Johns Hopkins, but neither institution operates a dedicated hernia clinic in the way Hassan's practice does, and access typically requires referral through their health system.

For complex ventral hernias or recurrent repairs, Hassan is often a better match than a general surgeon in a smaller private practice. For a straightforward first inguinal hernia in a low-risk patient, your local general surgeon may be equally effective and faster to schedule.

Who this practice suits and who it does not

Hassan suits anyone with a hernia (inguinal, ventral, umbilical, or incisional) that a primary care doctor or initial general surgeon has referred for specialist evaluation. He is the right choice for recurrent hernias, hernias larger than 5 centimeters, or complex abdominal wall issues where mesh compatibility or reconstruction is unclear. Patients who prefer minimally invasive surgery and are willing to travel to a specialized practice will benefit from his laparoscopic expertise.

Hassan does not manage emergencies (acutely incarcerated or strangulated hernias should go to an ER). He does not treat pediatric patients. If you want a surgeon who manages multiple general surgery conditions and hernia is secondary, a community general surgeon is more practical.

What the first visit involves

You will need a referral from your primary care doctor or another surgeon; Hassan's office will not schedule without one. At the consultation, expect a physical examination, a review of any imaging (CT or ultrasound of the area), discussion of your symptoms and repair options (open vs. laparoscopic, mesh type), and a conversation about your overall health and surgery timing. The visit usually lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Before you leave, Hassan's staff will review estimated costs, insurance verification, and scheduling for surgery if you proceed. There is no age-related screening or special preoperative testing at this stage; those requirements depend on your medical history and will be addressed if surgery is planned.

Hours, location, and logistics

Hassan practices in Baltimore, Maryland; confirm the specific office address and hours with his office directly, as locations can change. The practice operates Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some early-morning slots available. Parking is available on-site or nearby street parking. Surgical procedures are performed at an affiliated surgical center in Baltimore, not in the office.

Bring your insurance card, photo ID, and any prior imaging (CDs or reports) to your first visit.

Hassan's specialization in hernia and abdominal wall repair fills a gap in Baltimore's general surgery landscape, giving local patients access to expertise that has historically required travel to academic centers or larger cities.