This topic is about understanding the expected recovery time after urostomy surgery and getting tips for flying home afterward. If you're planning to travel for this surgery, here's some helpful advice based on others' experiences:

- **Expected Hospital Stay**: For most uncomplicated urostomies, expect to stay in the hospital for about 5 to 10 days. If the procedure is more extensive, like a pelvic exenteration, it could be 2 to 3 weeks.

- **Home-Recovery Milestones**:
1. Light activity and short walks can usually start 3 to 10 days after leaving the hospital.
2. Driving might be possible after 2 to 4 weeks, but only if your surgeon gives the go-ahead, as it can strain your abdominal muscles.
3. Feeling back to normal or resuming routine chores might take 3 to 8 weeks, with 3 months being common for many. Full strength could take up to 6 months.
4. Avoid heavy lifting for 6 to 9 weeks to reduce the risk of a hernia.

- **Flying and Other Travel**:
1. Book an aisle seat so you can get up and empty your pouch as needed.
2. Consider using a small "leg bag" for flights, which is lighter and can be hidden under clothing.
3. Airlines often treat ostomy supplies as medical equipment, so contact them ahead of time to discuss any extra luggage needs.
4. Be prepared for routine pat-downs at security and mention your medical pouch.

- **Preventing Leaks & Skin Care**:
1. Some recommend Cymed one-piece pouches; you can request samples.
2. Use 3M skin-colored tape to reinforce the flange edge.
3. A suggested skin routine includes removing the pouch, showering with water only, patting dry, applying Domeboro solution, blow-drying with cool air, and then applying the pouch.
4. Another cleaning method is using a mix of half water and half white vinegar on swabs.
5. Watch for changes in stoma size in the first months and adjust the pouch opening to prevent irritation.

- **Reducing Pain & Speeding Mobilization**:
1. Walk as often as possible, even if the distance is short, to speed up recovery.
2. Some patients found relief with Tramadol or PCA pumps, which helped them move around sooner.

- **Stoma Siting & Hernia Prevention**:
1. Have your surgeon mark the stoma site while you're standing, sitting, and wearing normal clothes for easier long-term pouching.
2. Keep a stable weight, as weight gain after surgery can lead to a parastomal hernia.

- **Urinary Issues & Antibiotics**:
1. An ileal conduit might show bacteria on tests, but treatment is only needed if you have symptoms like a foul odor, flank pain, or fever.

- **Psychological / Practical Support**:
1. Stay in touch with a stoma nurse for help with any issues like leaks or appliance samples.
2. Light exercise, spending time with pets, and maintaining a regular routine can help combat post-surgery depression.

- **Typical Complications**:
1. Parastomal hernia can occur within the first year, especially if lifting too early.
2. Small, slow-to-heal abdominal wounds might need packing.

In summary, plan for a hospital stay of 5 to 10 days if the surgery is straightforward, another 2 to 4 weeks of easy activity before a 4-hour flight, and about 3 months before considering the recovery complete, while avoiding heavy strain for the first 6 to 9 weeks.