This topic is about someone who is preparing to undergo J-pouch surgery, which involves reversing a temporary ileostomy. They are feeling hopeful but also a bit anxious and are seeking advice from others who have already gone through this experience. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Choosing a surgeon and hospital:
- Make sure you are almost completely confident in your colorectal surgeon. If you have any doubts, don't hesitate to seek a second opinion.
- Ask for references and check the surgeon's success rates.
- Some highly recommended centers include The Methodist Hospital in Houston, TX, and a specialist colorectal team in Atlanta, GA.
- Look up surgeons and patient stories on platforms like YouTube and MeetAnOstomate.

2. Early recovery expectations:
- The first 4-6 months can be challenging, so it's important not to overdo it and give your pouch time to adjust.
- Initially, you might experience frequent bowel movements, up to 10-20 times a day, and possibly some leakage at night, but most people notice steady improvement over time.
- You may experience soreness in the buttocks or anus as your body adjusts to using these muscles again.

3. Long-term function:
- After 6-12 months, many people find they have around 6-8 bowel movements per day with good control.
- Several individuals report no regrets and a much-improved quality of life compared to living with ulcerative colitis before the surgery.

4. Continence and pelvic-floor management:
- Surgeons and physiotherapists can provide exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor and sphincter before and after the surgery.
- Using light protective pads at night can offer peace of mind and are often preferred over wearing an external pouch.

5. Medications and diet tips:
- Lomotil tablets (2.5 mg, 2-3 times a day) can help slow down output.
- Citrucel powder, taken twice daily, can thicken stool.
- Try to minimize swallowing air to reduce painful gas.
- Most people can return to a normal diet as they heal.

6. Lifestyle and precautions:
- Consider joining local or online J-pouch or ostomy support groups for community and advice.
- Follow lifting restrictions to avoid heavy loads, which can help prevent parastomal hernias. Some find support garments helpful in staying hernia-free.
- Expect guidance from your hospital team on diet, wound care, and exercise during recovery.

7. Perspective:
- Many people with positive outcomes may not share their experiences online because they move on once life stabilizes.
- The decision to proceed with reversal is personal, and some choose to keep their ileostomy longer if they are satisfied with their current quality of life.