I was opened up to have my ileostomy reversed about 2.5 years ago. I wasn't offered "telescopic" surgery. I was in the hospital for about a week--mostly because you have to have a bowel movement before they will let you go home. It took maybe 5 days for that to happen in my case. I was almost 80 when my ileostomy was placed, and yes, it was a difficult recovery. The ileostomy reversal was much easier--and in my opinion, completely worth it. If the doctor will do the surgery, then physically, you're not too old for it! I was so, so happy to be rid of my ileostomy bag!