The topic at hand is about deciding whether to undergo surgery for a parastomal hernia. A parastomal hernia can be painful, noticeable under clothing, and make it difficult to keep an ostomy appliance in place. The person considering surgery is concerned about the possibility of the hernia coming back after the operation and is seeking advice from others who have been in a similar situation.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Look for past discussions to find detailed, long-term experiences. You can use the Google Search tab on the site with the phrase “peristomal hernia ostomates” to find threads from various years.

2. Some people manage well without repairing the hernia:
- One person mentioned that their hernia, about the size of half a small grapefruit, doesn't cause pain and actually helps provide a stable surface for the flange. They change their appliance twice a week without leaks.
- Wearing pants with some stretch can help disguise the bulge and prevent pressure on the stoma area.
- If you are new to having an ostomy, it might be helpful to give yourself time to adjust before considering more surgery, unless the pain becomes too much to handle.

3. There are potential downsides to repair surgery:
- One person had their hernia repaired during emergency surgery for a bowel blockage, but they developed a wound infection and sepsis, and the hernia came back within two months.
- Their surgeon now advises against further repair, suggesting it will likely recur. This person now manages a large, visible hernia with loose-fitting clothing and prefers to avoid another operation.

These shared experiences show that the outcomes can vary greatly. Some people live comfortably with a hernia, while others experience complications and quick recurrence after surgery. It's important to weigh the level of pain, how it affects your lifestyle, and the risks of surgery when making your decision.