Ostomy Reversal Recovery - What to Expect?

I finally have a date for my reversal surgery. It's March 27. My doctor isn't very informative, so I'm reaching out to ask about the recovery. I have all my "parts" - nothing has been removed or altered. I'm told this should make it easier. I've had this ostomy bag for about 3 years. I have been to pelvic therapy for about 2 years to strengthen muscles and learn how to poop.

I'm wondering how the recovery will be. I'll be in the hospital for 2 nights. When I'm home, will I be able to take walks? How tied to the bathroom will I be? About how long before I have a regular poop? How long before I can be away from a bathroom? What kind of foods can I eat or not eat? When will I be able to go out without worrying about having problems?

I'd be very grateful to hear of others' experiences. Thank you.

It is difficult to comment on what to expect without knowing what kind of stoma you have and why you had your stoma.

During my hospital stay for my Hartmann reversal, walking was imperative to healing.

The poop came rather naturally by the 2nd morning, and I remember the moment as I was ecstatic in my head. Not a momentous amount, but the pipes were working easily. My first gas moment was also pretty cool.

I was eating like normal within a few days, but the caveat was I took myself off of the Dilaudid and regained my appetite.

You got this!!!

Thank you!

My questions about a reversal weren't really addressed, even though I asked them several times. This was disappointing. However, I have now had the reversal and things are going well. Ten days post-surgery, the pain is manageable, and I am now having bowel movements regularly. Some are runny but are firming up gradually.

I've been on this site for several years and have benefited from reading others' experiences, for which I am grateful. I only wish I could have had a better response the few times I needed it.

 

Stories of Living Life to the Fullest from Ostomy Advocates I Hollister

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