This topic is about a person's experience nine days after having a colostomy reversal and parastomal hernia repair. They shared their journey, including some unexpected challenges and the helpful advice they received from their surgeon. Here are some key points and insights from their update:

- After surgery, bowel patterns can be unpredictable for 2 to 6 weeks or even longer, and this is considered normal.
- Experiencing rectal pain or pressure and left-side abdominal pain is typical during the early stages of recovery.
- You can return to a normal diet, but it's important to introduce fiber slowly to avoid gas and bloating. Adjust your diet based on stool consistency: add foods like toast and rice if you have diarrhea, and reduce fiber while keeping fluids high if stools become too firm.

Here are some detailed questions and answers from the surgeon:

1. If your belly button seems absent or hidden after surgery, it's normal. It might lie deep but is still intact.
2. The internal stoma site will heal in about 6 weeks, and internal stitches will start dissolving around 3 months.
3. There was no sign of a fistula during surgery, making it unlikely, though not impossible.
4. For hernia repair, the hernia "bubble" was removed, and muscle layers were sutured without using mesh, as mesh is often not suitable for intestinal cases.
5. A cadaver graft was not needed.
6. Any residual bulge where the hernia was is due to swelling and should flatten over time.
7. Brief, gentle pushing during bowel movements is okay, but avoid prolonged straining.
8. You can sit on the toilet for 10-15 minutes. If you're not finished, take a short walk and then return.
9. Persistent rectal pain or pressure during bowel movements is completely normal at this stage of recovery.

The surgeon has discharged the patient from further routine follow-ups but encouraged them to call if they have any questions.

Some additional advice and insights:

- Being an assertive and well-prepared patient by bringing a written list of questions can help ensure you get thorough answers and is appreciated by good surgeons.
- Expect setbacks like temporary diarrhea, but know that bowel function usually stabilizes over several weeks.
- Avoid prolonged straining after hernia repair to protect the delicate suture line.
- Emotional support is important. Recovery takes time, so patience and self-compassion are key as your body adjusts.