Colostomy reversal: What can I expect? Recovery time?

I have the colonoscopy in 2 weeks. The surgeon who did the original is doing the colonoscopy. Although afraid sounds like I am making the right Choice. The Ct scan came back ok. Need to get a list of all the things I need to purchase before surgery since I guess I am useless for the 2 or 3 weeks after.

Really? I wasn't aware of that. What does that look like and how do you care for it while it heals?

I had problems with the adhesive from my bags also. On changing days, I would remove everything and put a hydrocortisone cream all around my stoma. After 30 mins, I would wipe it away gently and reapply my bag. It really helped me. I’m 6 month out from my reversal and I couldn’t be happier. If not for all the scars, It’s almost like it never happened. Life is normal again.

I drove once I stopped the pain meds, about 2 weeks. I had a margarita 4 weeks after surgery and it was wonderful.

I was back to normal very quickly as far as bowel movements. The diarrhea was gone after a week. I bought adult diapers before my surgery, but never needed them. Once I was eating solid foods, everything firmed up. In the beginning you have to listen to the faint urge to go to the toilet. After all, You haven’t used that equipment for 6 months.

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?