Ileostomy reversal coming up - what will be my new normal?

Hi @iamthekat, I added your discussion to the Ostomy Support Group too. See https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/ostomy/

You're asking good questions to prepare for and know what to expect after the reversal. I, too, would want to know what to expect with possible fecal incontinence or if you will need to wear protective underwear etc. I'm tagging fellow members who may have experiences to share, like @robinsonaocampo @wilcy and @mkat5955, who have had (or a family member) an ileostomy reversal, and @engelee who lives with an ileostomy.

@iamthekat, when is the surgery scheduled? What have you been told by your surgeon?

I’m waiting for the hospital to open up. Surgery probably late May. Surgeon stated it will be different. I’m getting an IVC filter on 5/1 too

Just scared. I didn’t have to get chemo or radiation.

Middle age in diapers?

Thank you BTW

Hi I had my reversal almost 4 years ago. I had ulcerative colitis and had a total colectomy. As far as what to expect everyone us different. Older people sometimes have more issues. I had the initial surgery just over 4 years ago, I was 1 week away from my 58th birthday. Recuperation was rough 12 weeks out of work. I couldn't wait for the reversal as I had an infection from one of the incisions that popped open underneath my illeostomy bad. Some people can eat anything, I cannot tolerate anything hot, spicy or acidic. I visit the restroom 9 to 10 times a day. I take metamucil 2x a day to bulk up. If I don't eat some sort of carb (bread, rice, pasta etc.) For dinner I will usually have some leakage while sleeping. I do wear pads 24/7.
Sometimes my butt is on fire and cannot always figure out why??? On another note I do feel better most of the time.
It just stinks sometimes with what to eat. I also still have Gerd & Gastritis. Good luck to all

You may experience some stool incontinence because you have not used that sphincter muscle in awhile. Prior to the surgery, practice kegel exercises but squeezing that rectal muscle. This can help strengthen the muscle prior to surgery. Once the muscle gets stronger, you will experience less incontinence. What have others experienced after reversal surgery?

Hi all, I want to let you know that on Oct 7, @candywocrn will be hosting a Zoom chat for ostomates. See details here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/event/virtual-ostomy-support-group/
All welcome.

@iamthekat, I wanted to check in to see who you are doing? Did you have the reversal done?

@d1ane, how are you doing? You mentioned feeling like your butt sometimes feels like it is on fire. Does this happen at specific times or after specific activities or eating something in particular?

Hi all. I, too, have an ileostomy and would like to have a reversal. My ostomy was due to IBS with C. The surgeon said he gave me "barbie butt" in case I got a reversal later on. I would love to get rid of this bag. Am wondering if the reversal was worth it to any of you? I do know everyone is different but was just wondering. Thank you and blessings to all.

I had my ileoscopy done in September of 2021. Due to an adverse reaction to chemo in 2022 and a backlog for "non essential" surgery due to COVID in Canada I couldn't get the reconnection surgery until March 6, 2023.
It's taking some time to readjust, but things are getting better each day as my body learns to function normally. I highly recommend walking every day, it helps get things moving.

In my case, it was well worth having the reconnection done.

Thank you for your answer. My surgeon in Rockford said no to doing it because of all the diarrhea I would have. I'd like to get a 2nd opinion somewhere. Do you think that would be a good idea or should I just stay with this darn bag?

I certainly wouldn't discredit anything that your surgeon has told you. However, it's your body and your life. I'd definitely get a second opinion. The freedom of not having to deal with the pouch is well worth it. What have you got to lose?