This topic is about a 57-year-old named Jason who is considering whether to undergo ostomy reversal surgery. After having a stage-4 colon tumor removed and completing chemotherapy, Jason has been living with a temporary colostomy for nearly a year. As he approaches 60, he is contemplating if life without the stoma would be better and if he is mentally prepared for the surgery.

Here are some pieces of advice and insights shared by others:

1. The decision is personal. Trust your understanding of your own body and don't feel pressured by others.
2. Have an open discussion with your surgeon. Ask if there are any medical reasons to avoid the reversal and understand your specific chances of success.
3. Temporary colostomies generally have higher success rates for reversal compared to ileostomies.
4. Consider the risks of surgery, including potential complications, against how well you are currently managing with the stoma.
5. Be aware of possible downsides of reversal, such as unpredictable bowel movements, urgency, incontinence, and the need to carry spare clothes or supplies.
6. Reversal can feel like a gamble; if the outcome isn't favorable, another stoma might be necessary. Reading older forum posts might provide insight into real-world experiences.
7. New medical issues can affect the timing of reversal. For example, one person delayed their reversal due to a peristomal hernia, while another had to wait for a large polyp to be removed.
8. Timelines vary: one person with stage-2 colon cancer is going ahead with reversal 14 months after chemotherapy, while others have decided to keep their stomas permanently.
9. Emotional support is available, and the community is there for you regardless of your decision.