Mesh overall is very safe when the correct mesh is used for the correct clinical circumstances and placed in the correct body space. Ideally, a hernia should be repaired with a permanent synthetic mesh that has been designed to be strong enough not to break or rip under the stresses of the human body. The mesh should be woven in such a way so as to maximize its resistance to infection. The mesh should be placed in a location in the body that promotes the best tissue ingrowth, (which will decrease both the risk of recurrence and infection), and the mesh should be in a location that minimizes the risk of the mesh causing complications with normal body structures. Internet and TV advertisements about mesh complications and “horror stories” should not be taken at face value. Many of these stories are unrelated to circumstances that surround routine hernia repairs. Any manmade product that is placed into the human body may have complications that should be carefully weighed against its benefits during an educated conversation with your surgeon. In regards to hernia surgery, mesh use is very safe and results in better outcomes overall as compared to hernia repairs without mesh.