Hi daffyduck. I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2008, had my entire colon removed minus a "rectal stump" for j-pouch attachment and had a temporary stoma in 2010 (two, actually - an end with surgery #1 and then a loop with surgery #2.) Had my reversal with surgery #3 of that same year. Lived five uncertain, stressful years with my j-pouch and opted for a permanent end stoma and barbie butt with surgery #4 in 2015. Because of my UC, I had issues after reversal as the disease continued to affect what colon I had left, which was that little stump. I also had pouchitis, an inflammation of the j-pouch. So I think it depends on why you're getting reversed, what your diagnosis was, how much colon you have left, etc. Can your surgeon put you in touch with a former patient who can share their experience with you? I'm sure you'll get helpful feedback on here, too. It's a tough decision!