This topic is about the early stages of healing after a colostomy reversal, focusing on how long it takes for the stoma site to close, changes in body image, and what to expect during recovery. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others who have gone through similar experiences:

1. If you notice a raised lump around the former stoma site, it might be a parastomal hernia. This won't go away unless it was repaired during your reversal surgery.

2. The time it takes for the stoma site to close completely can vary. Many people have experienced full closure in about three weeks. Some needed extra care, like additional dressings, if there were issues like a leaky center hole.

3. For scar care and improving body image:
- Consider using silicone scar sheets, such as ScarAway, which are often recommended by surgeons to help fade scars from both the midline incision and the stoma site.
- Be prepared for changes in your abdominal contour, like a small "pooch" or puff under the navel. Wearing underwear or pants can help flatten this area, and acceptance of these changes often improves over time.

4. Emotionally, it's important to give yourself time to adjust, just as you did when you first got the ostomy. Initially, you might focus on normalizing bowel patterns, and later, you can address cosmetic concerns.

5. Functional outcomes can differ. If you have little or no colon left, you might experience frequent watery stools, around 4 to 6 times a day, and possible continence issues. Those with more of their colon intact usually report better control.

6. Remember, each recovery journey is unique. At just one week post-op, it's normal to have significant swelling and an unfamiliar appearance, but these usually improve with time.