This topic is about preparing for a specific type of surgery known as "Barbie-Butt" surgery, which involves a proctectomy and a permanent end ileostomy. The person is getting ready for their hospital stay and is looking for advice on what to pack and how long they might expect to be in the hospital.

Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others who have gone through similar experiences:

1. Typical length of stay:
- Most people stayed in the hospital for about 5 days if their recovery was uncomplicated.
- Longer stays, such as 7 days or even 2 weeks, were usually due to additional procedures or serious health issues.

2. Pain and mobility expectations:
- Some experienced surprisingly little pain, while others felt soreness around the closed rectal area, which improved over time.
- It's important to start walking as soon as the medical staff allows. If you're unable to get out of bed, try doing leg and arm exercises to maintain muscle strength.
- Having an ostomy nurse involved can greatly improve your care and help with choosing the right products.

3. What to pack (travel light):
- Bring a phone or tablet with a charger, and download books, music, or audiobooks in advance.
- Pack loose, elastic-waist pajama pants or shorts and an oversized top for the trip home. Avoid tight clothing around the abdomen.
- Slip-on shoes with rubber soles or grip socks are essential for early walks in the hallway.
- Personal toiletries like a toothbrush, hairbrush, lip balm, and your favorite lotion are useful.
- Consider optional comfort items like a gel seat cushion, noise-canceling headphones or earplugs, a water bottle with a lid, and a small pouch for personal items.
- Only bring what you really need to avoid tracking too many items when going home.

4. Hydration and diet after surgery:
- People with an ileostomy need extra sodium and balanced electrolytes. Plain water might not be enough.
- Consider homemade low-sugar sports drinks, electrolyte powders, Vitamin Water, or foods rich in fluids and minerals like watermelon and cucumber.
- Whole milk works for some, but dairy can cause gas for others, so test your tolerance.
- Start with soft, bland, low-fiber foods like mashed potatoes and bananas.

5. Appliance tips and skin care:
- Even the best wafer can eventually leak, but lying on your back doesn't automatically cause failures.
- Regular follow-ups with an ostomy nurse can help ensure you have the right products and prevent skin irritation.

6. Mental outlook:
- Many found this elective surgery emotionally easier than emergency procedures because it was their choice, which reduced fear.
- Realistic but positive stories were helpful, while overly graphic horror stories were not considered useful for newcomers.