This topic is about managing a transverse colostomy that has a dipped or recessed area around it, and maintaining proper nutrition while on a temporary low-fiber diet. The person is recovering from surgery and is concerned about how to handle these challenges, especially since they are a long-term vegan and want to stay healthy for upcoming chemotherapy.

Here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. Consider using a seal or ring to create a flatter base for the appliance:
- Products like Salts Seals, Eakin Seal, and Hollister convex rings can be molded around the stoma to help level the dip and improve adhesion.
- A seal can be particularly useful if the stoma retracts at times or if you start experiencing leaks.

2. Try Coloplast Paste Strips:
- These are pre-formed, non-sticky strips that can be rolled or flattened to fill in hollows without the mess or drying time of traditional pastes.

3. Use a support belt with the pouch:
- Tightening the belt slightly can encourage the stoma to protrude a bit more and may help stabilize the appliance.

4. Dietary guidance from long-term vegetarian or ileostomate members:
- Once healing progresses, slowly reintroduce high-fiber vegan foods in small amounts.
- Pay attention to which foods increase output, like large amounts of lettuce, and adjust portions as needed.
- Gradual experimentation usually allows a return to most plant foods without issues.

5. Keep regular appointments with a stoma or ET nurse:
- They can monitor the stoma as it changes size, recommend the best convexity or accessories, and teach techniques for easier and quicker pouch placement.