This topic is about a 44-year-old father and offshore worker who recently underwent a successful colostomy reversal after living with an ostomy for four months. He shares his experience and thoughts on deciding whether to keep the ostomy bag or go bag-free. Here are some insights and advice based on his journey and the experiences of others:

- The decision to undergo reversal was influenced by his active lifestyle, professional duties, and the desire to swim again. He found living with the bag easier than expected, with acceptance from workmates and a mostly normal daily life. However, he preferred reversal at his age, noting he might have kept the bag if he were 20 years older.

- He advises those facing their first ostomy surgery not to worry, as the appliance can offer a "new lease of life," and acceptance comes quickly.

- Age and lifestyle played a significant role in his decision. Quiet business meetings, intimacy concerns, and raising toddlers made him favor reversal at 44. At 64, he believes he would have been more comfortable keeping the bag.

- The bag restricts only about 1% of activities, with benefits like freedom from urgent bowel movements and the convenience of emptying on one's schedule.

- Reversal outcomes can vary:
1. Some people experience smooth recoveries, like the originator.
2. Others face ongoing complications and wish they had kept the bag, with some noting weight gain after reversal.

- Life with an ostomy can be very manageable. People engage in activities like playing tennis, working out, and maintaining demanding jobs without others noticing the appliance.

- Age and overall health are important when considering reversal. Elective surgery over 60 carries additional risks and should be weighed against the current quality of life with the bag.

- Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) reversal is an option offered by some colorectal surgeons.

- Important questions to ask surgeons post-reversal include potential complications, the need for closure or skin graft at the stoma site, and the expected recovery timeline.

- Regardless of the decision, staying active, seeking support, and knowing that both living with a bag and undergoing reversal can lead to a fulfilling life are emphasized by many.