The topic at hand is about seeking positive experiences and reassurance from individuals who have undergone an ostomy reversal. This is a procedure where a temporary ostomy is closed, and the bowel is reconnected. If you're considering this surgery, here are some insights and advice from those who have been through it:

1. Recovery Time
- Real-world recovery can vary, but laparoscopic surgery typically takes about 6-8 weeks.
- The time it takes for your system to adjust can differ, and while some experience temporary incontinence, it is rarely permanent.

2. Hospital Stay and Bowel Function
- Some people experienced ileus, where the intestines temporarily stop working. The best remedy is often to avoid eating and give it time.
- Walking frequently and staying upright can help encourage bowel function to return.
- Hospital stays ranged from as short as 2 days to as long as 3 weeks, depending on complications.

3. Pain and Mobility
- Post-surgery pain is often similar to the initial ostomy surgery.
- Getting in and out of bed can be challenging; using the hospital bed's head adjustment or rolling onto your side to push up can help.

4. Continence and Bowel Control
- Temporary incontinence is common, with some needing control for just a day, while others may use protective wear at night for a month.
- Those who had a stoma for a longer period might face more initial control issues.

5. Return to Normal Activity
- Light-duty work, such as walking and sitting, was possible for some individuals about 10 days after discharge.
- One person reported feeling completely normal, aside from scarring, 1½ years after the reversal.

6. Wound Care
- Some surgeons leave the incision open to heal from the inside out, requiring daily gauze packing.
- A tension stitch might cause sharp pain until removed, and the opening may temporarily enlarge before closing.

7. Diet and Symptom Management
- Most people return to a nearly normal diet, though spicy foods can cause discomfort.
- Keeping Imodium handy can help manage occasional high-output days.
- Being mindful of gas-producing foods can aid in stool control.

8. Long-term Outlook
- Out of hundreds of reversals, only one patient reportedly requested a return to a permanent stoma, with most leading normal lives.
- Abdominal scars can be refined with plastic surgery if desired.

9. Psychological Tip
- Online forums may seem negative as people often post when they have issues. It's important to balance this with discussions with your surgeon and educational resources like the VeganOstomy YouTube channel.