The topic at hand is about whether people with ostomies have a distinct appearance. This question arose from a conversation where a doctor remarked to a patient, "You don’t look like a person who has an ostomy." This left the patient wondering what the doctor meant, and whether there is a specific look associated with having an ostomy.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others on this topic:

1. Many long-term ostomates, including those who have had an ileostomy for over 26 years, have never encountered the idea of an identifiable "ostomy look."

2. Some suggest that the doctor's comment might be subjective, possibly reflecting his own mood or bias rather than any reality. It's recommended not to take such comments to heart.

3. One perspective is that the doctor might be referring specifically to cancer patients with ostomies, whose expressions could be influenced by their cancer experience rather than the stoma itself.

4. Suggestions for handling similar remarks include:
- Challenge the speaker to identify ostomates in a crowd to highlight the flaw in their assumption.
- If the comment is repeated, politely ask the doctor to clarify or provide evidence for his claim.
- Remind yourself that an ostomy does not define your appearance; your attitude and self-perception are more important.

5. Personal stories emphasize that many ostomates look healthy, often keep their condition private, and surprise others when they disclose it.

6. The general consensus is that there is no characteristic physical look associated with wearing an ostomy appliance, and any assumptions otherwise are considered unfounded.