mesh repair? [Thread contains photographs]

[Laz66]

Am wondering if anyone has had this repair for parastomal hernia and outomes?

Am considering getting this done. Saw colorectal surgeon- didn’t fill me with enthusiasm due to risk of it recurring. I am beginning to look like I have a fully inflated helium balloon lurking! I wish I had been advised on wearing support belt after stoma surgery so would thoroughly encourage anyone to do this to hopefully prevent ( exceptionally less than attractive ) hernia!🙁.

Thanks

[Itha]

Hi, I had a really large hernia - see photo. (stretch marks from pregnancy when I was young). I had a hernia repair surgery which was done by a hernia specialist and a reconstructive surgeon (in South Africa). It was done 25 May. The surgery involved the following technique : broadcastmed.com/gastroente...

I had a mesh inserted. Operation was not as complicated as expected and I was under for 2 hours (and not the expected 4). I am still careful. I wore a supporting 'brace' for 6 weeks.

I still have very large numb areas and the areas where sensitivity is coming back feels tender to touch. It was the best thing ever! I would do it again despite the discomfort and sore.

See my after surgery results to inspire you

Before the surgery: hernia which was getting larger all the time

[Itha in reply to Itha]

This is the results for me. I also had my port removed at the same time. The surgeon could not keep my belly button, but I am ok with that. I can wear nice clothes again and not have the discomfort of the hernia.

Note: I weigh exactly the same before and after the operation - even though it looks like I lost a lot of weight

3 weeks after hernia operation

[Laz66 in reply to Itha]

Wow, thanks for sharing, what a good job! Mine is actually under the colostomy so a bit more tricky he said. I know they are fairly common after bowel surgery. Reassuring to see how good you look x