Does acid reflux surgery (Nissen fundoplication) work?

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What the operation does

In a Nissen fundoplication, the upper part of the stomach is wrapped all the way (360 degrees) around the lower esophagus to create a stronger barrier against reflux. A partial fundoplication wraps part of the way around. If you have a hiatal hernia, it is repaired at the same time. Dr. Tufts performs these operations with minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopically or with the Da Vinci robotic system.

Who tends to do well

• People whose testing confirms reflux is the cause of their symptoms
• People with regurgitation that medicine does not control
• People with a hiatal hernia causing reflux
• People who would prefer not to take reflux medicine long term

Being at a healthier weight also matters. Recurrence after hiatal hernia repair is very high when BMI is over 35.

Side effects to know about

Some trouble swallowing is common at first and usually improves as swelling settles. Some people find it harder to burp or vomit, and swallowed air can cause bloating (gas-bloat syndrome), which often improves with time. The hernia or reflux can come back. In some studies recurrence after hiatal hernia surgery has been as high as 15 to 18 percent; in Dr. Tufts’s practice it has been much less common than these published figures. No operation can guarantee a result.

When to see a surgeon

• Reflux that continues despite medicine
• Regurgitation, chronic cough or hoarseness from reflux
• A hiatal hernia with reflux symptoms

Learn more: Nissen or partial fundoplication? · Full hiatal hernia & anti-reflux surgery guide

Talk with Dr. Tufts

Dr. Tufts is a minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon. To have your symptoms evaluated or talk through your options, call (941) 391-5102 to schedule a visit at Charlotte Harbor Surgical, 4245 Kings Hwy, Unit A, Port Charlotte, FL 33980. We see patients from Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, North Port, Englewood, Cape Coral and North Fort Myers and across Southwest Florida.

Written and medically reviewed by Dr. Matthew Tufts, MD, FACS, a board-certified minimally invasive and endoscopic general surgeon in Port Charlotte, FL. Last reviewed 2026-11-11.

This page is general information, not medical advice. Every patient is different. Dr. Tufts will review your history, exam and test results with you and explain the options, benefits and risks that apply to you.