It's only necessary if the 2 aspects of the abdominal wall can't be pulled together. I had an inguinal hernia repair, no mesh.

I think there is an advantage to a mesh repair. You will likely be less susceptible to re-tearing the same spot. I think it might look asthetically better too. I have an indentation left due to the pulling they had to do to get the two sides together. So, if they put in mesh?? Well, I think it might just give you a more flat, even appearance.

Are you getting a hernia repaired?? If so, my advice: make sure you take your pain killers even if you don't have pain, get some stool softeners in case they make you constipated, have someone stay with you at least for 48 hours.

You'll likely sleep a lot and won't feel like doing much for a couple weeks. The second day is the worst, but thereafter improves. It wasn't a horrible experience, at least for me.

Anyway, hope I helped in some way. Wishing you a speedy recovery!!