This topic is about someone who has been living with a temporary ileostomy for five years after having surgery for ulcerative colitis. They are considering having the ileostomy reversed but are concerned about the potential outcomes, lifestyle changes, and risks involved. Here are some insights and advice shared by others who have been through similar experiences:

- The person has delayed the reversal for personal reasons, including caring for a spouse who has since passed away. They are now considering the reversal to honor their spouse's wishes but have concerns about losing bowel control, surgical recovery, and how it might affect their physically demanding job.

- They are seeking advice on whether they will be able to control their bowel movements post-reversal and how strict the post-operative weight limits are, especially since their job involves heavy lifting.

- One person shared a positive experience with their reversal, noting a hospital stay of six days and a gradual return to normal bowel movements. They were advised to use Metamucil daily to help regulate output and to follow a dietitian's eating plan. They also mentioned the importance of wearing an abdominal binder and adhering to lifelong lifting and bending restrictions.

- Another person shared a cautionary tale about experiencing severe postoperative complications, which led to a permanent return to an ostomy. They emphasized the importance of making a personal decision about the reversal.

- Someone with a long-term ileostomy shared that if the rectum or sigmoid colon is still diseased, reconnection can fail, and conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn's can recur. They advised clarifying the surgical plan and weighing the risks against the current quality of life.

- General advice includes discussing personalized restrictions with a surgeon, using an abdominal binder, and managing diet and medications to help with early control. It's also important to address any serious post-op coughing to prevent hernia formation and to have faith in a skilled surgeon.

- Emotional support is crucial, especially after losing a spouse, and several people offered to continue the conversation privately for further support.

- Medications and products mentioned include Metamucil, Imodium, Dilaudid, Eliquis, and an abdominal support binder.