Making your ostomy fit better and ensuring comfort and security involves using the right products and techniques. Here are some things you can use to improve the fit and comfort of your ostomy appliance:

1. Ostomy Barrier Rings and Strips

• Barrier Rings: These are moldable rings that can be shaped around the stoma to create a better seal and prevent leaks. They fill in uneven skin surfaces and create a smooth area for the wafer to adhere to.
• Barrier Strips: These are similar to rings but come in strip form, allowing you to customize the coverage area and provide extra protection around the stoma.

2. Ostomy Paste

• This is a caulking-like material used to fill in skin creases, folds, or uneven surfaces. It helps create a more secure seal and reduces the risk of leakage.

3. Convex Wafer or Barrier

• A convex wafer or barrier has a curved shape designed to push into the skin slightly, providing a better fit for stomas that are flush with the skin or retracted. This can improve the adherence of the ostomy pouching system and reduce leaks.

4. Stoma Powder

• Stoma powder is used to absorb moisture from the skin around the stoma, which can help the adhesive wafer stick better. It is particularly useful if you have weepy or irritated skin.

5. Adhesive Removal Wipes

• These wipes help remove any residue left behind from previous barriers, ensuring that the skin is clean before applying a new barrier. A clean, residue-free surface improves adhesion.

6. Skin Barrier Wipes or Sprays

• These products create a protective film on the skin around the stoma, protecting it from irritation and enhancing wafer adhesion. They also make it easier to remove the wafer without damaging the skin.

7. Ostomy Belts

• An ostomy belt is an elastic band that fits around your waist and attaches to the ostomy pouch, providing additional support and keeping the pouch securely in place.

8. Adjustable Ostomy Pouching System

• Some ostomy systems have adjustable features that allow you to customize the fit. Choosing a system that can be tailored to your body shape and stoma size can improve comfort and reduce leaks.

9. Cut-to-Fit Wafers

• Cut-to-fit wafers allow you to customize the opening size to match your stoma perfectly. This ensures a snug fit, reducing the risk of leaks.

10. Stoma Size Adjustment

• Regularly check your stoma size, especially after surgery or if you notice changes. Using a template to measure your stoma can help ensure that you’re using the right size opening in your wafer or barrier.

11. Hydrocolloid Flanges

• These are made from a gel-like material that can adhere well to the skin and provide a good seal around the stoma. They are gentle on the skin and can absorb moisture, preventing irritation.

12. Consider a Different Appliance Type

• There are various types of ostomy appliances, such as one-piece or two-piece systems, drainable or closed pouches, convex, D-shaped, and different wafer materials. Trying different types may help you find a more comfortable and secure fit.

13. Proper Skin Preparation

• Ensure your skin is dry and clean before applying the ostomy barrier. Avoid using oily or greasy products on the skin around the stoma, as they can interfere with adhesion.

14. Regular Changes and Maintenance

• Change your ostomy pouch regularly to prevent leaks and skin irritation. The frequency will depend on the type of appliance you use and your personal needs.

15. Consult a Wound, Ostomy, and Continence (WOC) Nurse 

• A WOC nurse can provide personalized advice and support. They can help you find the right products and techniques for your specific situation and ensure that your ostomy is fitting well and functioning properly.

If you’re experiencing persistent issues with your ostomy fit, consider reaching out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support

The D-Ostomy system is created to allow room to avoid overlap of these incisions when an ostomy appliance is placed to minimize pain, leakage, and other complications that can result from an appliance overlapping a wound or scar. In the same way that the straight edge of the D-ostomy appliance can be used to avoid incisions and scars in the immediate post-operative phase, it can also be used to avoid scars, rolls, folds, other dressings, drains, second ostomies, bellybuttons and anything else that may be nearby to your ostomy long term.