I have done this procedure in 2 cervical and 2 lumbar herniated disks:Recovery time is excellent. I highly recommend it in cases where the hernia is in its earlier stages. I also recommend a good health insurance.
Powerlifter friend of mine has the mesh repair... Fully healed in 12 weeks, was back to deadlifting 700 lbs after a 1-month "ramp-up" progressive training cycle...