This topic is about making a decision between having one combined surgery or two separate surgeries for someone who has a temporary ostomy and a large abdominal hernia. The person in question has been living with a temporary ostomy for about a year after a serious injury and is now considering the best surgical approach to address both the hernia and the ostomy reversal.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights to consider:

1. It might be helpful to get a second opinion from another specialist, such as a colorectal or abdominal-wall expert, to confirm the treatment plan and the order of surgeries.

2. If it's safe and possible, having both the hernia repair and the ostomy reversal in one surgery could be beneficial. This approach might reduce the total time under anesthesia and shorten the overall recovery period, as long as the medical team is experienced and the protocols are in place.

3. Try not to delay the surgery. Waiting too long could lead to complications with the mesh or cause the hernia to become obstructed. One person shared their experience of delaying surgery, which resulted in an obstructed hernia, an unexpected ileostomy, and eventually a third surgery, which was painful and could have been avoided.

4. It's important to act while in good health, carefully considering the risks and benefits. Aim for a surgical plan that minimizes the number of surgeries needed.