This topic is about people who have undergone a complete proctectomy, a surgery where the rectum and anus are removed and sewn shut, often referred to as having a "Barbie Butt." The discussion revolves around the curiosity of how many people might have this condition or an ostomy, as it is relatively rare in the general population.
Here are some insights and advice shared by the community:
1. The originator of the discussion is part of the "Barbie Butt Gang" and knows only one other person with the same surgery, a veterinary technician at their dog's clinic. This connection was discovered during a conversation about their cancer and surgery.
2. The term "Ken Butt" or "GI Joe Butt" is suggested as the male equivalent, but "Barbie Butt" is more commonly recognized. There's a light-hearted joke that losing the physical anus doesn't stop someone from having a difficult personality.
3. Some members of the community try to spot others with ostomies in public by looking for signs like bulges under clothing, especially in places like beaches, medical offices, and gyms. However, they rarely see others with ostomies.
4. Other members choose not to look for ostomy indicators, emphasizing that many people deal with serious conditions invisibly and may be confined to their homes. They encourage respect and empathy for everyone.
5. One member shares their experience of an unsuccessful Barbie/Ken Butt closure, resulting in a non-functional "dry well/hole," but they still look for others with ostomy bags.
6. Humor is a common coping mechanism among members, with references to Ken Butt, GI Joe Butt, and even "Rex Butt" for pets. Jokes about no longer being "assholes" after the surgery help lighten difficult conversations.
7. For those experiencing delayed healing after radiation, one member found that undergoing three stem-cell procedures significantly improved wound closure, leading to a cancer-free status.
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