I was in hospital for 5 days (but I had some underlying complications). I found the pain tolerable without drugs from the first day....but the doctor and nurses were surprised. Pay careful attention to your ostomy nurse. He/she should come by several times to make sure you understand how to use your devices. I also had a home nurse for the first few weeks who helped me change my product. Even then, I was still learning new little tricks as much as a year and a half later. Godspeed on your surgery.