Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Sponsored by Hollister
Login   |  
Forgot password?
 
Forum
Videos
Reviews
About Us
Color Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
Where Everybody Understands You
41,466 members
Jun 09, 2021

Tummy Tuck with Ileostomy - Seeking Advice

This topic is about a person who has been dealing with daily leaks and skin issues due to their stoma being located in a deep skin fold. After trying various non-surgical solutions with the help of ostomy nurses and a specialist, they were advised to undergo an abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, along with a stoma revision. This procedure aims to create a flatter surface for the pouch, hopefully ending the cycle of leaks. The person is seeking advice from others who might have had a similar experience.

Here are some helpful insights and advice:

1. **Seek Multiple Opinions**
- Consult with a skilled Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (WOC) nurse to ensure all possible non-surgical options have been tried, including different products and techniques.
- Some people manage well without surgery, so it's important to explore all avenues first.

2. **Consider Surgical Opinions**
- Get opinions from multiple surgeons, as some may be hesitant to perform the procedure due to risks like scar tissue and infection.

3. **Use Medical Terminology**
- Refer to the procedure as "abdominoplasty for medical necessity" to avoid it being labeled as cosmetic, which can affect insurance coverage.
- Have your medical team document the issues to support your case for insurance approval.

4. **Insurance and Costs**
- Be aware that insurance might only cover the side with the stoma, potentially leading to asymmetry. Discuss options with your surgeon.
- Medicare may cover 80% if the procedure is inpatient, so prepare for potential out-of-pocket costs.

5. **Surgical Considerations**
- Ensure the colorectal surgeon will be present for any necessary stoma revision.
- Be prepared for post-surgery recovery, including drains, swelling, and a period of bent posture.

6. **Real-World Experiences**
- Some have found success with the procedure, while others have faced challenges like asymmetry or denial of surgery due to perceived risks.

7. **Alternatives to Surgery**
- Before opting for surgery, try different pouching systems, barrier rings, and support garments.
- Some people choose to live with their current body shape and focus on finding a leak-proof system.

8. **Finding Surgeons and Resources**
- Consider clinics and surgeons recommended by others, such as those in Toronto.
- Convatec nurse representatives can help document your needs and suggest modifications to your appliance.

These insights aim to provide guidance and support for anyone considering a similar path to address their ostomy-related challenges.
See full discusison
Gray Logo for MeetAnOstoMate
MeetAnOstoMate.org

MeetAnOstoMate is a remarkable community of 41,466 members.

“Every morning with my coffee, I read here and feel wrapped in warmth - I hardly post, but it still feels like family.”

“Our oncologist literally wrote down the link; they said more patients need this website.”

“This place pulled me out of the dark. I went from lurking to living again.”

“At 3am, someone’s awake somewhere in the world. I’m never alone here.”

Join Free

Popular Topics

Newbie Alert… Simon, an anti-help group dude seeking a help group lol
Hello new friends!
Outspoken, outrageous, and newly ostomated — proud mom to a teen son & a rescue wiener who keep me laughing daily.
Hiiii
Best Deodorant and Lubricant Tips for Ileostomy Users
Hey stoma mamas!
Just found support online and couldn't be happier and amazed!
MENU ITEMS
TIGER SNAKE ENCOUNTER
BACK IN THE SAME BOX

New Topics

CAR LOVE
Rings
B. Withers - Be Kind 141
Red Blood During Cleaning: Is It Normal?
My first spa day
Is it normal to pass stool with an active ileostomy?
New Products
Anyone Tried These Treatments for Diversion Proctitis?
Social media ban for children under 16
Best Deodorant and Lubricant Tips for Ileostomy Users
About us | Privacy policy | Terms of use | Ostomy Blogs | Ostomy Q&A | Guides | Contact Us
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and Google Privacy Policy and Google Terms of Service apply.
Copyright (c) MeetAnOstoMate.org All Rights Reserved
Create Account
Login
↑