Dealing with Recurrent Hernias and Surgical Mesh Concerns

Hi I'm new at this computer. I'm 67 and not very computer literate. I have a hernia on my left side at my ostomy and one on my right side. The doctor won't operate until I lose at least 35 pounds unless I have a problem. They were both operated on in 2014. It was laproscopic surgery. They lined most of my abdomen with mesh and sometimes I think I can see the mesh under my skin.I'm worried about how big the hernia at my stoma will get and how they will remove the first mesh? I'm very frustrated over this whole thing.

hernia repairs are quite often not permanent repairs, you cannot make your abdomen stronger by cutting it. i suggest you lose the weight if possible. i had a hernia repair 2 years ago and the surgeon told me to watch my weight and change my life style {no more heavy lifting}. the only person who can change the situation is you, make the commitment to lose the weight, get it repaired and be very caeful about anything that might stress those abdominal muscles. you can do it !!! 

Hi CDM. You got great advice from MMSH. My brother had a very bad experience with hernia repair, mostly because his surgeon was sloppy and negligent. Following the surgery for a routine (non-stoma related) hernia, his whole groin areas swelled and turned deep purple. His scrotum became the size of a large grapefruit and he needed to some contraption to support it. Apparently too many unnecessary "nicks" occured. If he could do it over, he would much rather live with the hernia than go through the current nightmare.

Not to wander too afar off your topic, CDM, I would add that when one doctor screws up, don't expect the other doctors in the same region of the state to jump in and help correct the situation. If there's ever an old boy's network, it's observed most acutely when the doctors who are sought for a second opinion on a botched surgery turn their backs on the patient and run.

If you find a surgeon you have implicit trust in, you are very fortunate and should feel comfortable with his or her plan of care. If it's not there, find someone else fast. Good luck!

   PB