Parastomal Hernia
A parastomal hernia occurs when abdominal contents push through a weakened area in the abdominal wall near a stoma (colostomy or ileostomy). This can create a bulge around the stoma, discomfort, difficulty with appliance fitting, and risk of obstruction. Parastomal hernias are a common long-term complication of ostomy surgery.
Our board-certified surgeons specialize in advanced parastomal hernia repair, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted abdominal wall reconstruction techniques designed to improve comfort, restore function, and reduce recurrence.
Schedule Your Parastomal Hernia Consultation
If you notice a new or enlarging bulge around your stoma,
Call our office today or request a consultation online to discuss evaluation and treatment options.
What Is a Parastomal Hernia?
A parastomal hernia develops when:
- The abdominal wall weakens around the stoma opening
- Intestine or fat protrudes alongside the stoma
- Increased abdominal pressure (coughing, obesity, straining) stresses the site
Common Symptoms
- Bulging around the stoma
- Appliance leakage or difficulty with proper fitting
- Discomfort or pressure
- Bowel obstruction symptoms (rare but serious)
Who Can Benefit from Surgery?
- Patients with persistent discomfort or cosmetic concerns
- Individuals with difficulty maintaining a secure ostomy appliance
- Patients with enlarging hernias
- Those experiencing obstruction or recurrent complications
Early evaluation helps prevent more serious issues.
How to Prepare for Parastomal Hernia Surgery
Preparation may include:
- Physical examination and imaging (CT scan often recommended)
- Review of prior surgical history and stoma function
- Optimization of nutrition and weight when applicable
- Smoking cessation guidance
- Preoperative instructions including fasting
- Coordination with ostomy care specialists
Our team ensures comprehensive preparation for safe and effective treatment.
Before the Procedure
- Arrive at the hospital or surgical center early for check-in
- Bring ID, insurance information, and medication list
- Meet your surgical and anesthesia teams
- Review your surgical plan, including repair technique and possible stoma revision
We prioritize clear communication and patient-centered care.
During the Procedure
Parastomal hernia repair may involve:
- Open Repair – often used for complex or recurrent cases
- Laparoscopic Repair – minimally invasive with smaller incisions
- Robotic-Assisted Repair – enhanced precision for abdominal wall reconstruction
- Mesh reinforcement – specialized mesh placement techniques (such as Sugarbaker or keyhole repair) to reduce recurrence
- Stoma revision or relocation – when necessary
Procedure time varies depending on complexity, typically 2–4 hours.
Advanced techniques aim to strengthen the abdominal wall while preserving stoma function.
After the Procedure
Recovery depends on surgical complexity:
- Hospital stay may range from 1–4 days
- Mild to moderate abdominal discomfort
- Gradual return to normal activity over several weeks
- Follow-up with surgical and ostomy care teams
- Temporary adjustments in stoma management
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Fever or signs of infection
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Sudden stoma changes or obstruction symptoms
Ongoing monitoring ensures optimal healing and appliance function.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits
- Reduction of bulging and discomfort
- Improved ostomy appliance fit and function
- Decreased risk of bowel obstruction
- Advanced mesh techniques reduce recurrence
- Improved quality of life and confidence
Risks
- Hernia recurrence
- Infection or bleeding
- Mesh-related complications (rare)
- Bowel injury or obstruction
- Risks related to anesthesia
Our surgeons provide individualized discussions of risks and expected outcomes before surgery.
Patient Resources & Education
We provide:
- Pre- and post-operative care instructions
- Coordination with certified ostomy nurses
- Appliance management guidance
- Nutritional and activity recommendations
- Insurance and billing support
- Online patient forms
Our multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive support throughout treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a parastomal hernia go away on its own?
No. Parastomal hernias typically enlarge over time and do not resolve without surgical intervention.
Is mesh always used in parastomal hernia repair?
Specialized mesh techniques are commonly used to strengthen the repair and reduce recurrence risk. Your surgeon will determine the best approach.
Will my stoma need to be moved?
In some cases, stoma relocation or revision may be necessary, depending on the size and location of the hernia.
How long is recovery?
Recovery varies by procedure type but often involves several weeks before full return to activity.
What happens if I delay surgery?
The hernia may enlarge and increase the risk of bowel obstruction or other complications.
Schedule Your Parastomal Hernia Evaluation
Restore comfort, improve appliance function, and reduce complications.