This topic is about dealing with a stoma that has shifted from protruding outward ("outie") to retracting inward ("innie"). This change can cause discomfort, pain, and issues with appliance leakage. The person experiencing this has had a colostomy for four years following colorectal cancer and is currently cancer-free. They are seeking advice and insights from others who might have faced similar situations. Here are some helpful points shared by others:

1. Consult professionals promptly.
- It's important to speak with both an Enterostomal Therapy (ET) or Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (WOC) nurse and your surgeon. Pain and changes in your stoma suggest the need for a medical evaluation.
- Stoma retraction can be related to factors like hernias, pregnancy, heavy meals, or changes in scar tissue.

2. Expect some natural stoma movement, but persistent retraction is beyond normal.
- While minor changes in the shape or size of your stoma are common, a pronounced and lasting inversion is not normal and may require correction.

3. Try conservative leak-management tips.
- One person with intermittent retraction manages leakage by adding extra tape on the flatter side of the wafer overnight, reporting no leaks with this method.
- Keep an eye on hernia bulges, as they often coincide with stoma movement.

4. Surgical revision is a common, effective fix when a stoma permanently retracts.
- Some people have undergone surgery to address this issue:
- One person had their stoma pulled out and secured, describing the procedure as quick, not painful, and effective in resolving leakage.
- Another person is awaiting the creation of a new, larger stoma after other procedures did not work.
- Surgeons consider this operation routine.

5. Ongoing monitoring is key.
- It's encouraged to keep your healthcare team and the community updated on any changes, especially if discomfort or leakage worsens.