This topic is about a person who is dealing with a large parastomal hernia that has grown significantly since December. The hernia is so pronounced that strangers mistake it for a pregnancy. The person has humorously named the hernia but is understandably worried about it. They have a surgery scheduled in two weeks to reverse the ileostomy and repair the hernia. Their main concern is whether they should be worried that only a colorectal surgeon, and not a general surgeon, will be present during the operation.

Here are some important points and advice related to this situation:

1. The hernia is causing increased pain, limiting the types of foods that can be eaten, and continues to grow. The surgeon, who is located five hours away, has reviewed pictures and advised waiting for the scheduled surgery, eating very soft foods, and wearing a hernia belt. The person plans to visit the local emergency room if there are any changes.

2. Rapid enlargement of the hernia is serious. A larger defect or more bowel protruding increases the risk of incarceration and strangulation, which can lead to bowel death.

3. It is important to contact the surgeon immediately if there is any change in the size of the hernia. If symptoms worsen, it is advised to go to the emergency room rather than wait.

4. Wearing a hernia belt continuously, day and night, can help reduce pressure on the hernia.

5. One forum member shared their experience of having three large hernias repaired at the Cleveland Clinic. The repair was done with mesh by a general surgeon who specialized in digestive diseases, and the referral came from a colorectal surgeon. Two years after the surgery, the repair has held up well, with only a small new hernia at the stoma site due to lifting heavy loads.

6. Concerns about the surgical team are common, but repairs done by a general surgeon within a digestive-disease unit can be successful. It is common practice for a colorectal surgeon to coordinate such referrals.

7. After surgery, it is crucial to avoid lifting anything over 20 pounds (9 kilograms) to protect the repair. Not following this advice increases the risk of the hernia recurring.