Discover how stoma flange extenders can improve adhesion, add security and prevent leaks around your stoma bag. Learn how to apply a flange extender with a step-by-step tutorial and explore the CliniMed range, HydroFrame and UltraFrame.
What are stoma flange extenders?
Flange extenders (sometimes called strips, half-moons or even bananas) are adhesive strips that are applied over the edges of your stoma pouch. They help to secure the stoma bag more firmly by reinforcing the edges of the pouch. They also help to increase pouch wear time and reduce lifting and leaks from your stoma bag.
Why use stoma flange extenders?
Flange extenders provide extra security and confidence for everyday life and active moments. By increasing the adhesive area of the pouch and securing the edges, they help the stoma bag stick better to the skin when you need it most.
You can use flange extenders every day, or for certain activities like swimming, gardening or walking.
Stoma flange extenders are useful for:
People with a hernia, uneven abdomen or with abdominal creases
Physical activity like sport or exercise
Holidays or hot weather
Keeping your pouch secure and reducing the risk of leaks
Increasing stoma bag wear time
Choosing the right stoma flange extender
Flange extenders come in different shapes, sizes, and materials to suit your needs. Here are some examples:
Hydrocolloid extenders
(e.g. HydroFrame®)
- Strong, skin-friendly adhesive
- Thicker material
- Suitable for enhancing security and durability
Ultra-thin film extenders
(e.g. UltraFrame®)
- Discreet and breathable
- Waterproof for swimming and sports
- Ideal for active lifestyles
You can also choose smaller, mini extenders to support sensitive or smaller areas.
How to apply a stoma flange extender
Before you use a stoma flange extender, you will need to apply your pouch.
Take the extender out of the pack and remove the protective liner*
Position the flange extender, make sure that at least 1cm covers the edge of the flange and the rest covers the skin
Press gently to adhere the extender
Remove any additional protective liner sections
Press firmly along the entire length of the extender
Repeat the process with additional flange extenders for full coverage, if needed
*Some flange extenders have protective liners that release in sections, make sure to follow the instructions given.
HydroFrame® Flange Extenders
In this video, Educational Support Worker, Sarah Brown explains how to apply and remove HydroFrame Stoma Flange Extenders.
Introduced in 2003, HydroFrame was the first ever flange extender. Today, HydroFrame remains the original and trusted choice for lasting security and extended wear time.
Provides 360-degree fixation with just two pieces, even around challenging areas
Skin-friendly hydrocolloid features fewer ingredients and lowers the risk of sensitivity and irritation
Available with Manuka Honey and accredited by The Skin Health Alliance
View the video transcript +–
Application:
- Take one HydroFrame Flange Extender out of the pack
- Remove the top part of the release liner, place it over the flange, making sure at least 1cm covers the edge of the flange and the rest sticks to your skin
- Press down gently
- Remove the bottom part of the liner and apply pressure to secure
- Repeat on the other side if needed
Removal:
- Spray a small amount of medical adhesive remover at the top of the extender
- Gently peel away from the skin before removing your pouch
UltraFrame® Flange Extenders
In this video, Educational Support Worker, Sarah Brown explains how to apply and remove UltraFrame Flange Extenders.
UltraFrame is our thinnest flange extender offering an almost invisible appearance so confidence is not compromised, no matter the lifestyle.
Made from an ultra-thin film, the transparent design blends seamlessly with the skin, making it virtually invisible under clothing
Crafted from highly breathable materials, UltraFrame prioritises skin health every step of the way
Waterproof properties make sure UltraFrame stays put during activities, even during swimming and other water-based activities
View the video transcript +–
Application:
- Remove an UltraFrame Flange Extender from the pack
- Peel back the part of the liner marked 1 and position the extender over the edge of the flange so part covers the flange, and part touches the skin
- Press down on the centre to adhere this section
- Peel back liner 2 at the bottom and press into place
- Peel back liner 3 at the top and press into place
- Remove the final protective layer marked 4, starting with the top half, then the bottom half
- Repeat on the other side with the next extender
Removal:
Grab the release tab and gently pull outwards, this lifts the extender away from the skin easily and leaves just a small piece of material to dispose of
Key takeaways
Stoma flange extenders are adhesive strips that reinforce the edges of a stoma pouch to improve adhesion, prevent leaks and increase wear time. They offer extra security for everyday life and active moments.
From thicker hydrocolloid options to ultra-thin breathable film, there’s a solution to suit your body, your skin, and your lifestyle.
The CliniMed range of stoma flange extenders, HydroFrame and UltraFrame are available to sample for free.
Flange extenders help secure the stoma pouch, reduce lifting and leaks, and boost confidence
Useful for people with hernias, uneven abdomens, skin creases or active lifestyles
HydroFrame® Flange Extenders by CliniMed: thicker, skin‑friendly hydrocolloid; strong adhesion; long‑lasting durability; also available with Manuka Honey
UltraFrame® Flange Extenders by CliniMed: ultra‑thin, transparent, breathable and waterproof; blends with skin for a discreet look.
Easy to apply: position over the flange edge, press gently, remove liner sections and smooth firmly.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, most flange extenders fit all stoma bags. Make sure that the flange extender sufficiently covers the edges of the stoma pouch flange around the perimeter. HydroFrame® and UltraFrame® work with all pouches.
Full size flange extenders usually require two extenders for full coverage; smaller extenders may need more. Less extenders can be used if coverage is only required in a specific area.
No, you do not need to cut flange extenders to size. They are pre-shaped to fit around the flange.
Flange extenders can be worn for the same duration as your stoma bag. Replace them when changing your pouch.
No, flange extenders prevent lifting and reduce the risk of leaks due to security, but they won’t stop leaks from happening under the flange due to the fit of the bag around the stoma.
View our tips for managing stoma leaks, your Stoma Care Nurse can also help identify why your pouch may be leaking.
Yes, many stoma flange extenders are designed to be suitable for sensitive skin, using skin-friendly materials like hydrocolloids and breathable film.
HydroFrame® Flange Extenders are made from an all-natural hydrocolloid formulation to reduce the risk of sensitivity and irritation and are available with Manuka honey which may help to promote healthy skin.
If irritation occurs, discontinue use and contact a healthcare professional or a Stoma Care Nurse.
Yes, many stoma flange extenders are waterproof, designed for activities like swimming and bathing. They are made from waterproof materials like breathable film or hydrocolloid. UltraFrame® film flange extenders are made from a breathable, waterproof film that stays put during water activities.
Stoma flange extenders do not typically look and feel bulky under clothing. UltraFrame flange extenders are made from a breathable, waterproof film that is almost invisible to the eye, designed for security without the bulk.
No, flange extenders are single use items and removed with the stoma bag.
Flange extenders are disposed of in the household waste together with the used stoma bag.
Further reading
Find lots of helpful tips and downloadable guides in our resource library.
Your guide to mouldable stoma seals
Discover how mouldable stoma seals can help protect your skin, prevent leaks, and improve the fit of your stoma pouch.
Stoma bag customisation
Learn how and when to measure your stoma – and how to cut and fit your pouch to achieve the best possible fit.
How to change a stoma bag
Find out how to change a stoma bag and what you’ll need to do so with this step-by-step guide.
Living with a stoma
From diet to relationships find information and advice about living to the fullest with a stoma.