Preparing for Ostomy Surgery
Start preparing for ostomy surgery by learning more about the procedure.
If you are facing ostomy surgery, you have a medical condition or injury that is stopping your bowel or bladder from working properly. But you’re not alone. There are approximately 725,000 - 1,000,000 people living with an ostomy in the US1.
Ostomy surgery is life changing in many ways. Like any major surgery, it can also be nerve-wracking—for you and your loved ones. The process of feeling comfortable living with your ostomy starts with understanding the procedure.
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If you are preparing for ostomy surgery, the good news is, you don’t have to go through it alone.
A dedicated team of me+™ ostomy nurses and product specialists is just a phone call away, 1-800-422-8811, with answers and support to make preparing for surgery and living with an ostomy a little easier. Whether you need help with ostomy care, knowing what products to use or are coping with tricky lifestyle issues, they genuinely care about you and getting you back to doing the things you love.
Meet Rebecca Zamolo & other people living with an ostomy
After eight years of suffering with Ulcerative Colitis, Rebecca decided to have her colon removed and is now actively promoting awareness of inflammatory bowel diseases and living with an ostomy. Since the time of her documentary, Inside Out - My battle with IBD, Rebecca was able to have reversal surgery.
Prepare for ostomy surgery by reading the stories of other people who are living well with an ostomy.
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More in Before Surgery
Before Surgery
Before Surgery
Here you can learn about ostomy surgery and prepare you with helpful questions to ask your doctor or nurse.
Read moreBefore Surgery
Preparing for Ostomy Surgery
Ostomy surgery can be scary, but you’re in good company. We can help you get ready—physically and mentally.
Learn moreBefore Surgery
Ostomy types
Colostomy, Urostomy or Ileostomy, we've got all the information you need.
Read moreBefore Surgery
How is a stoma surgically created
All stomas are not created equal. They vary in size, shape, location and construction.
Read moreBefore Surgery
At Your Pre-Surgery Visit
Like most people who are preparing for ostomy surgery, you may be wondering what to expect.
Read moreBefore Surgery
In the hospital
Stoma placement may also be discussed in your pre-surgery visit. If your surgeon does not discuss stoma placement with you, we encourage you to ask about it before surgery.
Read moreGetting Back Into Life
Immediate Weeks Following Surgery
When you are in the hospital, you will be taught how to care for your stoma.
Read moreFeatured in Ostomy
