This topic is about managing a colostomy with a stoma that sits flush with or slightly below the skin surface, often referred to as an "innie." The person sharing their experience is doing well but is curious to hear from others who have a similar type of stoma. Here are some helpful tips and insights for managing a non-protruding stoma:

1. Colostomies that do not protrude can often be managed effectively with regular irrigations and by wearing a security pouch to collect any residual output.

2. Stomas come in various shapes and sizes, such as flush, protruding, large, or small. The important thing is to find a system that keeps you comfortable and free from leaks.

3. If a stoma retracts to skin level or becomes "just a hole," it can still function well. Surgeons often consider this normal and not a problem as long as the skin remains healthy.

4. People with retracted stomas located in a sitting crease may experience more leaks. Standing or lying down more often and limiting prolonged sitting can help reduce this issue.

5. Temporary skin irritation is common after retraction, but careful skin care usually resolves it.

6. Managing an "innie" may require extra steps and some experimentation with products, but it is entirely manageable.

7. Some products that work well for flush or retracted stomas include:
- Sensura Mio Convex pouches by Coloplast, which several users report result in zero leaks.
- Tegaderm transparent film dressings by 3M, which are helpful for those with sensitive skin that lifts most adhesives.
- Cavilon No-Sting Barrier Film by 3M, which protects irritated peristomal skin. While it can be costly, it is often covered by insurance.

8. Changing the wafer every 48 hours, rather than opting for longer wear times, may be necessary if the skin rejects adhesives.

9. If prolapse pain is severe, a colorectal surgeon can convert a loop colostomy to an end/terminal colostomy. Tacking the bowel inside often turns an "outie" into an "innie" and relieves pain.

10. Ultimately, what matters most is comfort and having a setup that is leak-free and pain-free. Be kind to your ostomy and try different products and techniques until you find what works best for you.