Hernia repair is one of the most common surgical procedures performed worldwide, with over 1 million procedures performed in the US each year. In most cases, surgeons use mesh to strengthen the repair and reduce the risk of recurrence. Mesh has been used in hernia surgery since 1958. For the right patient and the right operation, mesh is very important in reducing risk of recurrence. Think of mesh as a window screen that is placed between the layers of tissue to improve its strength. The use of mesh often brings up questions and concerns among patients. In this article, we’ll address the most frequently asked questions about hernia mesh—what it is, why it’s used, its safety, and what patients can expect during recovery.