A composite prosthesis and method for limiting the incidence of postoperative adhesions. The composite includes a non-inflammatory or coated mesh and a barrier material which prevents exposure of tissue elsewhere in the body to tissue covered by the composite prosthesis. The barrier material is absorbable which allows tissue through-growth and localization of the composite prosthetic. In use, the composite prosthesis is positioned over the tissue defect and may be positioned with the barrier material oriented against the tissue defect or repair site.