I had 4 diverticulitis episodes in the last year, but my left side pain was constant. The flare ups were accompanied by diarrhea. The antibiotics made me feel even worse but obviously necessary.
I was in the hospital for 3 nights. My surgeon told me 3-7 nights depending on how the surgery went. Fortunately for me it was all robotic. I didn’t need to be on strong painkillers for too long. Tylenol and gabapentin worked after about a week. My digestive system is still not normal and I’m on a low fiber low residue diet for a couple more weeks.
I’m not sure if my system will ever be “normal “ again but if I never have diverticulitis again it will have been worth it.
Others who have had the surgery might have better information on long term recovery.

I had 4. Yes. much pain.
Every episode was more pain and more down time from life.