If a ventral hernia is going to come back will it be in weeks, months or years?

First year: Recurrence rate of ventral hernia is very high when compared to inguinal hernias. At best over all lifetime recurrence rate of 11% to 21%. . If they recur majority will in first year , then they taper.

All of the above: It is obviously variable, and it depends on the specifics if the hernia repair. Ask your surgeon for a follow up if you're concerned.

Can happen anytime: Unfortunately hernia repairs are never as strong as the original tissue, and there is always a small chance they could come back regardless of what you do. Factors that put you at high risk for recurrence include infection, obesity, diabetes, COPD, smoking, and steroid use. However with modern techniques, recurrence rates have dropped. Good luck!