The topic is about deciding the best height for a relocated stoma, especially when it needs to be moved due to a hernia. The person is considering whether the new stoma should be positioned higher or lower on the abdomen and is seeking advice on the matter.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. Schedule a pre-operative marking session with an ostomy or PSA team nurse. It's a good idea to have two potential sites marked in case the surgeon needs to use the secondary option.

2. Consider the beltline:
- Many people prefer to keep the stoma appliance 2–3 inches below the belt to avoid interference with waistbands.
- Some have found comfort with the stoma positioned 3–4 inches above the belt and to the left, especially when bending.

3. The severity of Crohn’s disease can influence stoma placement:
- For mild to moderate disease with a full small-bowel length, placing the stoma below the belt can help keep the pouch hidden under clothing.
- For aggressive disease or significant small-bowel loss, an above-belt stoma can make it easier to empty the pouch frequently without needing to lower pants, though it might require wearing untucked or loose shirts.

4. Hernia-repair strength is important:
- A surgeon might prefer placing the stoma through the rectus muscle (higher on the abdomen) because repairs in this area tend to have a lower failure rate. Repeated abdominal incisions can weaken tissue.

5. Experiences with leakage and comfort:
- Positioning the stoma left and just below the navel has helped some avoid waistband pressure and leaks.
- One person had issues with leaks when their stoma was above the belt, but relocating it below the belt resolved the problem.
- A stoma level with the navel has worked well for 30 years without interference from waistbands.

6. Practicality of drainage:
- A pouch hanging slightly lower than the belly button can angle into the toilet better, reducing splash when emptying.

7. Clothing adaptations:
- Using braces or suspenders, coveralls, or custom waistcoat-attached trousers can prevent pants from sliding down and dragging across a low stoma.

8. General tips:
- Discuss the disease outlook and the pros and cons of stoma placement with both your gastroenterologist and surgeon before surgery.
- Make sure you are comfortable with both marked sites, as surgical success will take priority over aesthetics once the surgery begins.