Topic Explanation:
The forum topic "If Not a Hernia, Then What?" revolves around a user, Heather, who is experiencing a puzzling medical issue. After undergoing a colostomy and ileostomy reversal, Heather noticed a bulge near her midline incision scar, opposite the old stoma site. Initially suspected to be a hernia based on an ultrasound, a subsequent CT scan contradicted this diagnosis, showing no hernia. Heather is seeking insights from the forum on what this bulge could be, as it appears when standing but not when lying down, and is not accompanied by pain.

Extracted Advice and Insights:
1. Access Medical Reports:
- Obtain and review your own medical reports, such as CT scans, from your health portal to stay informed and bring them to your doctor's appointments.

2. Consider Further Diagnostic Tests:
- If initial tests like CT scans and ultrasounds provide conflicting information, consider additional diagnostic methods such as MRI or PET scans, which might offer more clarity.

3. Explore Other Medical Conditions:
- Research and consider other conditions that might explain the symptoms, such as diastasis recti, which involves the separation of abdominal muscles and can mimic hernia-like symptoms.

4. Seek Second Opinions:
- Given the conflicting test results and the complexity of the symptoms, getting a second opinion from another surgeon or specialist could provide further insights and options.

5. Be Cautious with Surgery Decisions:
- If surgery is suggested, thoroughly discuss the risks, especially concerning the use of surgical mesh and its potential to migrate, and explore all surgical options including the type of mesh and surgical approach.

6. Monitor and Manage Symptoms:
- While awaiting further medical advice, monitor any changes in the symptoms and consider non-surgical approaches such as targeted exercises for conditions like diastasis recti, which might help manage the bulge.

7. Stay Informed and Prepared for Appointments:
- Before consultations, prepare a list of questions and concerns to discuss with your surgeon, including detailed questions about the surgical procedure, recovery, and potential complications.

8. Consider Financial and Employment Implications:
- Understand the financial implications of potential surgeries, especially if they might affect employment or insurance coverage. Discuss these concerns with HR or your insurance provider to explore all available options and support.

9. Emotional and Psychological Support