Experiencing an ostomy reversal can be a significant journey, and many people are curious about what to expect. Here are some real-life outcomes, recovery issues, and helpful tips shared by those who have gone through it:

- In the first few weeks after an ileostomy or colostomy reversal, you might experience 10 to 12 bowel movements a day, along with urgency, fatigue, and dietary restrictions. By weeks four to six, many people find that their bowel movements reduce to 3 to 8 times a day, and their energy levels start to normalize. Initially, a low-fiber, low-fat diet and avoiding late-night eating can help manage the frequency of bowel movements.

- Long-term results can vary. Some people average 1 to 5 stools per day and can eat almost anything, though greasy foods and large evening meals might still trigger issues. Others have faced complications like pouch failure or infections, leading to a permanent ileostomy, and they might not opt for reversal again.

- Timing and logistics of surgery are important. One person chose to wait for their original surgeon to recover from an injury to ensure continuity of care. Elderly patients or those who have had multiple surgeries may require extended physiotherapy to regain abdominal and thigh strength.

- Diet and eating strategies can make a difference. Chewing food thoroughly and reintroducing foods slowly can help. Some people found they could tolerate popcorn, nuts, and high-roughage foods after several months. A "forced" bathroom visit before bedtime might help ensure a good night's sleep.

- Managing bathroom frequency and gas can be challenging. Morning coffee often triggers the first bowel movement of the day, so planning around this can help avoid surprises. Excess gas is common but often decreases over time, though it may persist for some.

- It's crucial to watch for signs of obstruction or infection in the early days at home, as immediate medical attention can be lifesaving. In some cases, additional surgery might be necessary if tissue becomes necrotic, leading to a permanent stoma.

- On a psychological and practical level, many people who have successful reversals tend to leave online forums, which might skew the perception of outcomes. Fear of further surgery, costs, or preferring the known situation can deter over half of eligible patients from pursuing a reversal.

- For those with a permanent stoma after a failed reversal, some have found success with specific supplies like Hollister 2-piece pouches and flanges, using ostomy paste for better adhesion, with a typical wear-time of six days between changes and minimal issues.

- For more detailed experiences, the forum has a dedicated "Reversals" section with diaries and past posts that offer additional first-hand reports.