This topic is about the challenges faced after a failed hernia repair surgery, which resulted in a high-output stoma positioned above the waist. The person involved had a difficult experience, including multiple surgeries and a long recovery process. Here are some key points and advice shared by others who have been through similar situations:

- After the surgery, the person was left with a new ileostomy that produces only liquid output, requiring the use of drainable pouches all the time. They also have a large open abdominal wound that needs daily professional care and is slow to heal. The stoma is noticeably protruding, which can be seen under clothing.

- Although plastic surgery could help close and improve the appearance of the abdominal wound, the person is not ready for more major surgery. They are struggling with changes in body image, the unpredictability of the stoma, concerns about odor, and feelings of social isolation. Despite these challenges, they are grateful to be alive and are seeking understanding and support from others.

- They continue to receive daily nursing visits for wound care and experience intrusive dreams and flashbacks related to their time in the ICU. A specialist has reassured them that these experiences are common and tend to improve over time.

- The person feels unattractive due to the stoma's ballooning, odor, visible bulge under clothing, and abdominal disfigurement. These issues make them hesitant to go out and uncertain about future relationships. Although cosmetic improvement would require major surgery, they are trying to focus on the importance of inner qualities.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. Emotional coping:
- It's normal to grieve, feel angry, cry, or vent. Don't feel guilty for having bad days.
- Sharing experiences can help lessen the pain. Support forums, hugs, prayer, and simple acts of kindness can be comforting.
- Focus on small self-care actions, like stretching or light exercise, especially on tough days. Remind yourself that you survived for a reason.

2. Practical tips for managing a protruding stoma:
- If possible, manually reduce a bulging stoma and wear an elastic abdominal wrap or support belt, which can be found at medical supply stores.
- Choose a large wrap size to allow for pouch expansion. Cut an opening in the wrap so the drainable pouch can be emptied without removing the belt.
- The wrap can help contain minor leaks and prevent one side of a shirt from sticking out.
- You may need to make DIY modifications, as there are no off-the-shelf wraps that fit a 4-inch wafer and pouch.

3. General post-surgical issues:
- Persistent pain and tightness may be due to scar tissue after hernia repair.
- Large parastomal hernias can develop if weight control and smoking cessation are not addressed before further surgery.