If you're preparing for a pan-proctocolectomy and will have a stoma, you might be thinking about how to manage abdominal hair, especially if you have a lot of it. Removing hair before surgery can make life easier afterward, as it can help with skin care and appliance management. Here are some options and tips to consider:

- The surgical team will shave the area for the operation, but removing hair beforehand can reduce the need for ongoing maintenance.
- Before starting any hair removal treatment, ask your surgeon to mark where the stoma will be. This way, a hair removal clinic can avoid that area.
- Talk to the hospital’s stoma nurses in advance. They can offer advice on managing skin and hair.

Permanent or long-term hair removal methods:

1. Laser Hair Removal
- Often recommended but not truly permanent; you might need multiple sessions.
- Once the stoma is in place, avoid laser treatments near the peristomal skin.

2. Electrolysis
- Offers permanent results but is costly and time-consuming since each hair follicle is treated individually. It can be challenging if you have a lot of hair.

Temporary hair removal methods and cautions:

1. Shaving
- Simple and cheap, but needs to be done every few days and can irritate the skin.

2. Waxing or Sugaring
- Removes hair from the root and lasts about 4-6 weeks.
- Sugaring is often less painful than waxing, though ingrown hairs can occur.

3. Depilatory Creams/Lotions (like Neet or Nair)
- These dissolve hair chemically and some newer formulas are almost painless.
- They can cause burns or irritation, so keep them away from the future stoma area.
- If used after surgery, keep your pouch on to protect the stoma and surrounding skin.

General skin-care tips:

- Choose methods that won't inflame the peristomal skin, as healthy skin is crucial for good wafer adhesion.
- No method is 100% permanent, so consider the cost, time, need for repeat treatments, and your skin's sensitivity when making a decision.