This topic is about a person who is preparing for an ileostomy reversal after living with a stoma for nine years. The individual is hopeful about regaining a sense of normalcy and confidence but is understandably anxious about the surgery and recovery process. Here are some helpful insights and advice from others who have gone through similar experiences:

1. Success rates and mindset:
- Many people have positive outcomes after reversal surgery. It's important to remember that those with smooth recoveries often don't share their stories online, so forums might seem more focused on problems.
- If your surgeons believe you are a good candidate and you expect a significant improvement in your quality of life, it's worth considering the surgery. Focus on the positives and prepare for the recovery process.

2. Immediate hospital needs:
- Bring your own adult diapers, as hospital-provided ones may not be sufficient.
- You will be discharged only after you have passed wind and some stool. Initially, expect very loose, mucus-rich output.

3. Post-operative bowel behavior:
- In the early days, you may experience frequent, watery stools with little warning, but this usually improves over time.
- Passing gas can be uncertain, so many prefer to use the toilet to avoid accidents.
- Hospital staff will likely ask if you have "passed wind," as it's an important recovery milestone.

4. Diet and hydration:
- Start with small portions and gradually reintroduce foods.
- Soluble fiber, like oats, is often better tolerated than insoluble fiber, such as raw vegetables and whole wheat.
- Foods like bananas and marshmallows can help firm up output, while raw produce might speed up transit.
- Maintain a normal diet as tolerated, but try new foods at home first.

5. Medications and products:
- Loperamide (Imodium) can help slow output, which is useful for outings or special events, but it may cause bloating.
- Sudocrem can soothe skin irritation from loose stools.
- A hot-water bottle can relieve abdominal cramps.

6. Activity and hernia prevention:
- Follow lifting restrictions carefully (nothing over 5 lbs/2 kg for at least 6–8 weeks) to prevent an incisional hernia.
- Even months later, avoid over-exertion to prevent hernias. Gradually return to full activity.

7. Coping tips:
- Plan for restroom access when outside the home.
- Keep spare underwear, diapers, and wipes handy during the early weeks.
- Track your food intake and bowel patterns to identify personal triggers.

8. Long-term outlook:
- Many people who have had reversals report settled routines with 3–4 predictable bowel movements per day and enjoy normal lifestyles, including work, travel, and wearing form-fitting clothing, without the stoma.