This topic is about what to expect during the recovery period after having surgery to remove the rectum and anus, often referred to as "Barbie-Butt" surgery. The focus is on the first few weeks at home after the procedure. Here are some insights and advice shared by others who have gone through this experience:

- **General Outlook**
- Many people felt significantly better once the diseased rectum was removed, and they found the recovery process worthwhile.
- The first week in the hospital is usually the hardest, but things tend to improve steadily once you're home.

- **Sitting and Positioning**
- You might experience soreness, swelling, and numbness in the buttock area, making sitting uncomfortable for 4 to 8 weeks.
- Lying on your side or reclining is often the most comfortable position early on.
- Use a soft, flat pillow, large cushion, or "egg-crate" foam cushion instead of a donut cushion, which can strain the wound.
- Some people could sit with a cushion almost immediately, while others needed 3 to 6 weeks before sitting for long periods.

- **Pain and Wound Care**
- Pain levels vary but are generally manageable with prescription pain medications. An epidural or PCA can help in the hospital.
- Drains may be placed and are usually removed before you leave the hospital.
- You might feel "phantom rectum" sensations, which should diminish over time.
- Sitz baths after stitches are removed can ease soreness and promote healing.
- Limited air circulation can slow healing, so be patient; full comfort often returns by 6 to 8 weeks.

- **Activity and Mobility**
- In the first 1 to 2 weeks, move carefully, roll to the side to get out of bed, and avoid lifting heavy objects.
- Light walking around the house is encouraged, and your stamina will gradually improve.
- Some people returned to work between 3 to 8 weeks, depending on complications and overall health.

- **Possible Variations**
- Permanent anal closure might reduce post-op drainage and sitting discomfort for some.
- Pain from an abdominal incision (if open surgery) can be more noticeable than buttock pain.
- Internal itching is common and can last for months or even years.

- **Psychological Aspects**
- Some found the mental adjustment more challenging than the physical recovery, while others found this surgery easier emotionally because they had already adapted to an ileostomy.

- **Encouragement**
- Compared to previous bowel surgeries, many found rectum removal to be equal or easier to recover from.
- Expect gradual but definite improvement, with most people being pain-free and sitting normally by 2 months.