What is a Convex Skin Barrier?

The convex ostomy skin barrier has a curved base that pushes the surrounding skin down and helps the stoma stick out more. The convexity helps create a more secure seal between the pouching system and skin and helps direct the stoma output (urine or stool) into the bag and not under the skin barrier. The curvature of the convex wafers is designed for stomas that do not protrude from the skin and need support to stick out or stomas surrounded by skin that has creases or folds. People with irregular stomas or stomas positioned in a skin crease or fold can struggle with skin irritation due to leaks under their baseplate. For them, a convex wafer may provide a more secure seal than a flat skin barrier.

We at HPFY understand the difficulties faced by the ostomates and strive to provide appropriate appliances that will ease their lives. We have a comprehensive collection of convex skin barriers for those with too short stomas to allow stoma output to drain into the ostomy pouch without leakage. Our catalog features products from top brands like Assura, New Image, Sensura, etc.

When to consider a Convex Flange?

The bond between the ostomy pouch and the stoma is crucial to a good fit and prevention of leakage. A properly fitted pouching system is a priority for any ostomate. Many factors determine if a convex flange is appropriate; the patient’s body type, stoma type, and stoma size are some of the factors involved. If the stoma sits at skin level, it is flush, and if it sits below skin level, it is retracted. This causes the surrounding skin to be uneven. A convex skin barrier can help fix the problem. Sometimes, an ostomy belt is required to keep the stoma pushed out enough to prevent leakage. Be sure to consult your ostomy care nurse to determine if a convex flange is right for you. Following are some of the reasons why a convex wafer would be recommended, including:

Stoma located in abdominal folds or creases
Stomas that are retracted or flush to the skin
The opening of the stoma is off-center
Loop ostomies
Surgical scars on the peristomal skin
Flabby or uneven abdomens
Stoma height is less than 2 cm.
Parastomal hernia

Benefits of using a Convex Skin Barrier:

Provides a secure seal between the peristomal skin and pouching system
Increases wear time for the patient by enhancing fit
Helps the stoma stick out more, allowing the output to empty into the ostomy bag
Provides peristomal skin protection by preventing leakage

How to choose the right Convex Ostomy Wafer?

There are many convex skin barriers options available. They should be chosen based on your specific stoma, body shape, and output. Your health care provider or ostomy care nurse will help you choose the right product given your specific situation. Following are the factors to consider while choosing a suitable convex flange:

Soft Vs. Firm Convexity

Convex skin barriers can be soft or firm. Generally, soft skin barriers are used on firmer bellies, while firm skin barriers work best on a softer abdomen. Firm ostomy wafers are rigid, providing firm support around the stoma to help it protrude or help flatten skin folds. Soft ostomy wafers also act similarly but provide gentle support. They are flexible and conform to the body as you move.

Pre-Cut or Cut-To-Fit

Convex ostomy skin barriers come in both pre-cut and cut-to-fit varieties. The pre-cut skin barrier has an opening already cut to the proper size. A pre-cut convex ostomy wafer will likely work well if the patient has around the stoma and its size is no longer changing. If the ostomate has an irregular-sized stoma or is still changing, a cut-to-fit skin barrier will typically be better.

Standard Wear or Extended Wear

Standard wear convex flanges are ideal for colostomy patients as they typically have formed stool. Extended-wear flanges provide greater safety from stoma discharge for people with a urostomy or ileostomy.

Level of Convexity

There is variability in the degree of protrusion that convexity can provide. These variations in depth allow for some level of customization for each patient. Low-level convexity will fix minor problems such as small skin creases or a stoma that tips over slightly. Medium-level convexity can correct the more significant issues such as poorly protruding stomas or skin folds. Deep-level convexity provides the maximum degree of protrusion and is meant to fix more difficult problems such as retracted stomas or fat folds that droop over the stoma.

Best-Selling Convex Barriers At HPFY

Where to buy Convex Ostomy Skin Barriers online?

Health Products For You offers a huge collection of convex skin barriers from top-selling manufacturers like Coloplast, Hollister, Convatec, etc. You can rely on us for hassle-free delivery of all your ostomy supplies on time at your doorstep. Shop now and get reward dollars on every purchase. You can use these reward dollars on your next purchase. Place your order today!