This topic is about a concern raised by an ileostomy user regarding the Hollister New Image wafer 14602. The user has noticed that these wafers, which are crucial for attaching the ostomy pouch, seem to have become thinner and less durable over the past couple of years. This change has led to the need for more frequent changes, reducing the wear time from 6-7 days to just 4 days. The user suspects this might be due to "shrinkflation" and is curious if others have experienced the same issue.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. Several users have confirmed that Hollister wafers and pouches do feel thinner and require more frequent changes. Some are considering reaching out to Hollister customer service to express their concerns.

2. Hollister offers wafers and barrier rings in different thicknesses. It's worth checking if the correct product was supplied or if a thinner version was mistakenly provided.

3. Experiences with other brands:
- Coloplast wafers are known for being very thin and flexible. While some colostomates find this beneficial for adhesion around hernias, others, particularly ileostomates, report that they don't last as long.
- ConvaTec Durahesive wafers are specifically designed for ileostomy output and might offer a longer wear time. It's a good idea to request samples to try them out.
- Salts barrier rings, including the Salts Aloe version, are thinner than those from Hollister and Coloplast but have provided longer wear time for some users. However, their availability in the U.S. is uncertain.

4. Supplementary products that can improve wear time and seal:
- The Coloplast Brava moldable ring, when used under the Hollister wafer 11204 with pouch 18194, has helped one colostomate extend wear time to 12-14 days.
- Barrier rings in general, such as Salts Aloe, Hollister, and Coloplast Brava, can add a protective layer against the harsh output from an ileostomy and may help compensate for thinner wafers.

5. Product numbers and configurations mentioned:
- Hollister 14602 wafer (the main product in question)
- Hollister 11204 wafer + 18194 pouch (New Image 2-piece system)
- Hollister soft convex wafer (noted for being more flexible)
- Coloplast Brava moldable ring / barrier rings
- ConvaTec Durahesive wafer

Overall, the general feeling is that the thinning of the wafers seems to be a cost-cutting measure rather than an improvement. Users who are unhappy with the recent quality of Hollister products are encouraged to try samples from other brands.