Colostomy reversal: What can I expect? Recovery time?

I definitely got my life back after my reversal. Within 6 weeks I felt normal again. As far as bathroom issues…..I only had diarrhea for the first week after surgery. Once I had solid food in me, bowel control returned. I’m 6 months out from the reversal and I couldn’t be happier.

In my case I didn’t have any cons! I could not be any happier.The Dr. that did my original surgery was in another state,my intestine burst while visiting my daughter 6 hours from where I live. That Dr. recommended the 6 month wait stating it could be done laparoscopic instead of another large incision. He recommended a Dr. in my state that agreed with the Six month schedule. The scar from my reversal is the size of a small thumb print and I healed up rather quickly. My life is back to normal!

I didn’t drive for one week after the reversal. I ate soft food for the first 3 weeks then returned to my normal diet. I went back to work after 2 weeks and I’m a bartender so I was on my feet all day and didn’t have any problems. I don’t know if you are aware that the stoma is left open on the outside it heals from the inside out, so just be careful.

I am thinking about having a reversal. I am 3 months out from surgery and I am having trouble with my allergy to adhesive from the bag. I will wait the 6 months before the reversal. What are the pros and cons of the reversal?

how long after surgery before you could drive and maybe have a beer and a burger?

My life is completely normal as if it had never happened!

I keep seeing videos of people who cannot stop going to bathroom and other problems. I do not want to trade bag for diapers for the rest of my life. Did you go back to the life you had pre stoma?

I waited six months after having my original surgery to have my reversal which had been recommended by my doctor and I totally agree waiting those extra few months was well worth it. had the reversal a year and a half ago and I am doing fine. I am 71 years old. Just listen to the doctor after the reversal and take it easy eating soft easy foods, letting your body digest it until you’re fully healed.

I'm thinking of reversal scheduled for march. Will I be spending the rest of my life running to the bathroom? I am 70 plus and would like to go back to pre-stoma lifestyle. Is that possible?

Educating myself for takedown surgery of the ostomy due to severe colitis.