i had my takedown two days ago. The site where the stoma was is sort of bulging out and very swollen. I was worried that it could be a hernia. I was hoping my stomach would be normal, like completely flat but with a scar. Is this normal given I just had surgery? The peopel at the hospital was pretty sure it isn’t a hernia? Also any advice moving forward? Can’t believe I am done with all the surgeries. Feels unreal. Thank you!!
male 22
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Congrats on your takedown! Mine was 6 weeks ago. There is most likely some scar tissue that will the around that area. Could perhaps be that. Mine seems to have “flattened” out a bit but I was never expecting it to be like it used to be pre surgeries.
It's a new chapter in your journey through life and you just need to take it slow, listen to your body, and use common sense. You are young and have your whole life in front of you so don't try to push the envelope. I had takedown in my 20s as well and sometimes younger people think they are indestructible. Most of my errors were in being too aggressive especially in my diet. Just take it slow and build yourself up over time, both in diet and activity. Good luck!
I had the exact same thought a few days out from surgery! When I had my follow up with my surgeon, he explained some of the bulging was due to the type of staples they used to close the stoma... I am 4 months out and my scar has flattened out completely. I would be sure to ask at your next follow up to be sure it is not a hernia.
The best advice I can think of is to listen to your body!!!! Every single person is different, so your journey and recovery timeline will be different as well. I found myself trying to compare to people who were healing "faster" than me and I quickly learned that does nothing to help. Your body will guide you on what you need to do, so do everything you can to be patient with it (meditate, find support, scream into a pillow...). This journey sucks, but you can get through it. Don't be afraid to ask for help and speak up with your medical team. Best of luck!
@Li__ posted:I had the exact same thought a few days out from surgery! When I had my follow up with my surgeon, he explained some of the bulging was due to the type of staples they used to close the stoma... I am 4 months out and my scar has flattened out completely. I would be sure to ask at your next follow up to be sure it is not a hernia.
The best advice I can think of is to listen to your body!!!! Every single person is different, so your journey and recovery timeline will be different as well. I found myself trying to compare to people who were healing "faster" than me and I quickly learned that does nothing to help. Your body will guide you on what you need to do, so do everything you can to be patient with it (meditate, find support, scream into a pillow...). This journey sucks, but you can get through it. Don't be afraid to ask for help and speak up with your medical team. Best of luck!
That makes me glad to hear! It feels real swollen and is bulging out a bit, but could be the staples as you said. And I am only 3 days out. I am sure it’s nothing, thank you!
