This topic is about making a significant decision regarding whether to keep a permanent ileostomy or opt for a reversal. The person in question had an ileostomy in July and is now considering their options after a follow-up with the surgeon. Here are the choices and some advice shared by others who have faced similar decisions:

1. The first option is to keep the stoma, remove the remaining section of the large bowel, and close the rectum, which involves one additional surgery.
2. The second option is to remove the remaining bowel and attempt a reversal, which would require two operations.

The person is surprised to learn that keeping the stoma still requires another surgery. They are managing better than expected with the pouch and are considering making the ileostomy permanent. Although they sometimes miss the feeling of "normality," they appreciate being pain-free and active, especially since their biopsy was clear. They are seeking advice and experiences from others to help make their decision.

Here are some insights and advice from others:

- Take your time to gather real-life experiences and be sure of your decision, as you are the one who will live with the outcome.
- Many people who have kept their ostomy report a good quality of life, enjoying pain-free living, no restroom urgency, and the freedom to travel or exercise.
- Some see their colostomy or ileostomy as the best thing after years of illness.
- There are risks and drawbacks to reversal, such as complications that might lead to needing a permanent colostomy later, severe infections, dehydration, and regret.
- Reversal can also bring the possibility of pouchitis, ongoing urgency, or additional future surgeries.
- One person with ulcerative colitis was advised by their surgeon that reversal could increase future cancer risk, so they lean toward a permanent stoma to lower that risk and reduce fatigue.
- Practical and financial considerations are important, as reversal costs can be high in countries without full coverage.
- Age and long-term outlook matter; some suggest having both operations while young and resilient rather than facing them later in life.
- Philosophically, "normal" is subjective, and most people cope with some limitations. Accepting the stoma can end the cycle of hospital visits and surgeries.
- Whatever path is chosen, the focus should be on being pain-free and able to enjoy life, trusting both surgical guidance and personal comfort with the pouch.