I had an incisional hernia repair with mesh about a year following my 1-step. There was no discussion about any danger to my skin. I think there is something unique to you that predisposes you to this additional risk. Anyway, I have had no issues with the mesh since then. This was in 1996.

Jan

Thank you for replying. I had the colectomy done in 3 steps with tons of complications. I had to be opened back up too many times that I lost count. I have diastasis recti too and tons of back trouble due to having such a weak core and I’m only 45.  I guess that is why I am at risk.  I have also had liver surgery and two c sections. Every time they went in the same incision.  I just don’t know what to do. I guess I could start by asking my surgeon her opinion.

I would talk to my surgeon about this.  I had a softball size hernia and they fixed it (so far so good).  They mentioned pig skin I believe as an alternative to mesh to hold muscles together under my skin.  I of course don’t want to render a medical opinion, but I would not jump to a conclusion that your skin would “die” until you speak to your surgeon.  My surgery was 11 hours and I had no skin issues.

I think I'm an outlier but here's my story.  During a hernia surgery in 2001, the surgeon used mesh.  Within a year, I had stabbing abdominal pain.  A few months later, I had a hysterectomy.  Long story short, the gynecologic surgeon was appalled at the mesh ... said it had sharp edges (hence the stabbing pain).  He took it out while he was in there.  

Can't prove it was the result of mesh but I've never been the same since.

I had a hernia repair with mesh and that was in 2010 and thankfully I've done well since.