A couple of questions. Has anyone had a reversal done, and did it work? I had one 3 months after surgery, but it didn't take, so the doctor wants to try it again after a year (this September).
Also, has anyone gone swimming? Is there anything special to use while in the water?
Thanks in advance...Cindy
G-Day Cindy,
First thing is, do you have a colostomy or an ileostomy? That makes a lot of difference.
Regards, IGGIE
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A swimming suit? 😁 They make belts/wraps specifically for swimming with an ostomy. Otherwise, you may need to change your stuff a little more often, but it's all made to get wet.
Welcome.
You will need to check out some of the forums. There are a lot of good recommendations for swimwear and ostomy care there.
Some of us don't have the option of reversal.
Those of us who've had it done, yes, the reversal took. They are writing their stories on here.
There are issues that need to be addressed, but yes, it's been done and most are happy from what I have read.
Now, you're going for a second reversal? Why did the first reversal fail? You know each time you get cut, it causes more issues like scar tissue.
Don't be taken in by false hope here, hon. The doctor may seem to want to help, but to me, he seems a bit knife-happy...
I would carefully weigh the pros and cons now after a failed reversal the first time.
The doctor sounds too eager to me. You will see why when others chime in.
Good luck.
I've gone swimming. I used a wrap to keep my bag securely in place. It worked, and I was able to stay in the water for an hour with no problems in the water or after. I just dried the bag and wafer very well after my shower when I was done swimming.
Hello! My reversal was done after 8 months - my surgeon told me 6 months was the soonest he could do it, but he had me wait 8 to make sure I was fully healed. I've had no issues. Best of luck to you!
Thanks DexieB
I had a reversal 3 months after the first surgery, but my stomach bloated so badly that it burst open. It was way too early. So I had 3 surgeries in about 3 1/2 months.
The doctor wants to wait a full year before trying again, but I'm somewhat apprehensive.
Hi, what kind of wrap did you use and where did you get it? I might like to try it. Is there any way you could send me a photo of it?
Hi Warrior
The reason the reversal didn't work was that it was done too soon. After 3 months, but that was because I wanted it done. So the doctor did it, but my tummy bloated up so bad, I got an infection and the scar burst open. He thinks it will work if I wait a full year to heal, and that will be September or October.
I understand the scar tissue problem, but it's just too costly to keep buying these bags. I realize that not everyone has the option of a reversal, and I might be one of them. If so, I will live with it and continue to have a positive outlook on life.
I appreciate your note...thank you
