The Flat Panel belt is designed for pouch support, to aid in the prevention of hernias, to support small reducible hernias and general support around the ostomy. The Flat Panel belt has a non-stretch panel into which the ring or opening is sewn. This panel is what provides the support and it will not conform to irregular bulges.
The Nu-Form belt is designed for non-reducible hernias, larger hernias, to aid in pouch support and for hernias that are not directly behind the stoma. The belt is made of elastic and the ring is placed directly into the elastic (instead of into the panel on the Flat Panel). This offers more flexibility around the stoma area in case of irregular protrusions and hernias, round bellies that may not go flat.