That is a great question, Rick. My stoma sticks out about 3/4 of an inch (but on one side seems “shy” and that is the side where my Cera ring really deteriorates). It seems to function well and I appreciate that.  Could it be just how things settle/heal after the surgery?

PS At my post-op checkup the surgeon said “that is one good-looking stoma” 

Ideally, I think most surgeons aim to have a stoma that protrudes. Not too much, and not too little.

This is why stoma site marking before surgery can help.

But there are quite a few factors that can make getting the "perfect stoma" a little difficult for the surgeon.

A patient's weight, before or after surgery, can change the stoma's size or length (relative to the skin). 

A surgeon's skill can also impact the final result. A colorectal surgeon has likely created more stomas than a general surgeon, for example.

For me, my stoma is quite happily protruded 99% of the time. Only when it struggles to pass output does it contract and go flush with the skin. Since I wear a clear bag, I can observe this happening in real-time.

But unfortunately, some ostomates live with a permanently flush or recessed stoma, and they do require some additional effort to manage it. Only in rare cases do patients get corrective surgery, but it's always an option if someone's quality of life is extremely negatively impacted by the way their stoma sits.

Rick, my stoma is only about half an inch, but it was a bit longer right after my surgery. I do find that I need to wear a convex flange; a flat flange will often produce leaks. Other than that, the length doesn’t really cause me any issues.

Laurie

Hey Rick ... my stoma hangs a good 1 1/2" to 2 inches past the skin level. I agree it should be mandatory teaching for surgeons to make a stoma at least 1" past skin level.  For the time I've been here, I have noticed that the owners of flush or very short stomas, are dealing with a lot more issues verses the stomas that are more adventurous looking.

I felt really lucky the day I realized my stoma was causing so few issues compared to what I thought verses flush or barely there stomas.  HONESTLY... it made me feel angry for those suffering thru multiple pouch changes in a day or even an Hour!!  I think of Squeaky here especially,  ?.  The battles shes faced & may still be facing are not fair,  esp. knowing a longer stoma may have prevented her issues in the first place.  My sympathy & understanding to all those that are in that category!!  

I have been happy with my stoma & tho I had a time where I struggled with frequent leaks it was resolved fairly well once I learned from Erics site & those who contributed.  The different tips to try & resolve my issues were so helpful & I'm still so grateful.  

My advice to anyone having time to discuss with your surgeon for this life saving/changing surgery is to bring up the topic of stoma length & what you learn from sites like this & what you prefer.  Make it your business to know & to discuss stoma length & DO NOT BE SHY about it. It is your body, your right to know in advance as much as possible, so for your future,  just ask.  You have the right/choice to be a part of that discussion & your choice should matter more then anything. I found I get the best office time & answers from Doctors & Surgeons when I take someone in the appointments with me. They can't blow you off so easily then with a witness...lol!  You also have the right to 2nd & 3rd opinions if there is time. . . Just saying....! 

Good question & topic Rick! 

Posted by: @dlkfiretruck

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I felt really lucky the day I realized my stoma was causing so few issues compared to what I thought verses flush or barely there stomas.  HONESTLY... it made me feel angry for those suffering thru multiple pouch changes in a day or even an Hour!!  I think of Squeaky here especially,  ?.  The battles shes faced & may be still facing are not fair,  esp. knowing a longer stoma may have prevented her issues in the first place.  My sympathy & understanding to all those that are in that category!!  

 

Thank you so much, Linda. You have always been such a strong supporter for me. ❤️

 

Two years ago I had problem with HUGE  prolapse and hernia of my stoma, picture is included below.

An ingenious community nurse suggested that I try to use a second ostomy belt, to prevent the stoma from sliding out. The round opening in a commercial ostomy belt was located somewhere else, like on right side of my belly or even on the back. The belt was placed over my first belt, which had a donut-shaped ring, lined with sponge and felt, its thickness - height - was 1/2" (or 13 mm). I wear two belts since, and so far did not get the stoma coming out that much...