This topic is about dealing with a retracted, cone-shaped stoma after undergoing hernia or prolapse repair surgery. The person is experiencing issues with wafer leakage and skin damage, which is causing discomfort and frustration. Here are some helpful suggestions and insights for managing this situation:

1. Consider using liquid skin protectants that can help wafers stick better and protect irritated skin. Some options include:
- Calvion 3M Advanced Skin Protectant
- Marathon Liquid Skin Protectant (also available from 3M/Medline)

2. To improve the fit around an uneven or retracted stoma, try adding a moldable seal, like moldable rings, between the skin and the wafer.

3. If you continue to experience leaks with all pouching systems, you might want to think about a surgical stoma revision. This is usually a minor procedure compared to the original ostomy surgery. The surgeon will re-enter the same opening and pull the bowel through to gain more length. Post-operative pain is generally less severe than the initial surgery, though some soreness is expected.

4. Be prepared for variability in how long your appliance lasts. Many people with retracted stomas need to change their appliances every 1–2 days. Achieving 2 days without leakage can be considered acceptable until a revision is done.

5. The optimal stoma height is about ¾ inch (2 cm) above the skin. While stomas naturally change length with peristalsis, stomas that consistently sit below the skin can cause ongoing problems.

6. It might be helpful to discuss your situation with both a colorectal/ostomy surgeon (for stoma length) and a general surgeon (for the status of the existing mesh/hernia). Hernia repair can sometimes fail or worsen, and continuous use of a hernia support belt is an alternative if further hernia surgery is risky.