This topic is about finding better ostomy appliance options for someone with a concave (indented) stoma. A new ostomate is experiencing issues with their current system, which is causing skin irritation and requires frequent changes. They are seeking advice on products that offer longer wear time and better skin protection. Here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Consider switching to a convex wafer or skin barrier. This can help push the concave stoma outward, improving the seal and reducing leaks.

2. Use a barrier or seal ring to enhance the fit. Options include Brava Moldable Rings, standard Brava rings from Coloplast, Hollister moldable rings, or paste. Warming the ring with a hair-dryer before use can make it easier to mold.

3. Order free samples from companies like Hollister, Coloplast, ConvaTec, Marlen, Nu-Hope, and Cymed. They typically ship within 2-3 days. Request both one-piece and two-piece convex options.

4. Many people find two-piece systems more effective. For example, a Hollister two-piece convex skin barrier combined with a Brava ring can offer 3-4 days of wear. Coloplast two-piece systems, when used with irrigation, can extend wear time to about six days.

5. Reinforce the edges of any wafer with barrier strips, such as Brava Y-shape strips, and/or medical adhesive to prevent edge lifting and leaks.

6. Protect your skin by keeping it very dry before applying any products. Use protective barrier wipes or spray at every change. For raw skin, try alternating stoma powder with barrier wipes (a technique known as "crusting") or apply a thin layer of hydrocortisone cream, allowing it to dry completely before attaching the pouch.

7. Measure your stoma at every change during the first three months and cut the opening just slightly wider than the stoma.

8. If you have a left-sided colostomy, consider starting irrigation. Users with concave stomas report fewer appliance changes after adopting daily or alternate-day irrigation.

9. If commercial baseplates are not working, some advanced users have created custom baseplates and attached standard wafers to them. However, it's recommended to try all manufactured options first.

10. Be prepared for follow-up calls from manufacturers after requesting samples. You can choose to respond only if you wish.

11. A support belt can be helpful but is unlikely to solve concavity leaks on its own. Use it in combination with convexity and sealing products for better results.