Welcome, Matt!

First, do you have access to a stoma nurse who can assess your stoma and the skin surrounding it? 

Some brands offer different depths of convexity, which may be worth checking out.

You can also find convex appliances that are stiff, soft, squishy, etc. Try to sample different types of convex materials, not just depth.

If you are considering a belt to secure the appliance, which sounds like you may need, use caution as too  much pressure can cause pressure sores. I'd always suggest working with a stoma nurse when considering convex products because of that risk. 

With all that said, if it's an option to work towards toning your stomach area, this will be helpful in the long term. 

I had some weight changes associated with my illness and surgery, and it was a challenge until things eventually settled. 

Good luck, and let is know if you have any other questions! I'm hoping that others will chime in with their own experience and tips 👌

Posted by: @mwolf88

Hi everyone! I have a new ileostomy as of 6 weeks ago and, like many in these early days, am struggling to find a pouching system that works well for me.

My primary obstacle at the moment is my very soft belly - a result of fairly major weight loss about a decade ago. Though my stoma protrudes a bit, it's surrounded by flabby skin. I figured out rather quickly that I need convex wafers. When applying the wafer, however, my stoma only protrudes properly if I push the wafer as hard as I can into my belly. Otherwise, with no support, the stoma becomes almost flush with the wafer opening - which is a recipe for leaks.

I have had some limited success wearing the basic accessory belt from Hollister and tightening the hell out of it. This is of course not comfortable, but it at least seems to prevent leaks for a few days. I just purchased a stealth belt (which I love) but it unfortunately does not seem to pull the wafer into my belly nearly as much as a regular belt. This has caused stool to start seeping under my barrier ring and irritating my skin.

I usually wear barrier rings as I've read these help provide some additional convexity, but my stoma just seems further recessed from the wafer opening while using them. so I'm giving it a try today without a ring for the first time.

My current pouching system is a 2-piece Hollister New Image CeraPlus Convex (#11403) for added context.

Does anyone here have any suggestions that avoids a super tight belt? I'd love to figure out a way to wear the stealth belt, if possible. Thank you!

 

 

As another ‘soft belly’, I also was troubled with leaks. I use Hollister’s Convex wafer. My surgeon prescribed a hernia belt during my post op which is extremely helpful in placing just enough pressure on my stoma to protrude. I have an expensive, custom made one and two ‘Amazon’ purchases which work just as well. The latest is one made by Uriel and is by far the most comfortable. Good luck.