Returning to work after ileostomy reversal surgery can be a bit of a journey, and it's natural to wonder how much time off is enough. Here's a look at what one person experienced and some helpful advice from others who have been through it.

The person in question had diverticulitis with a perforation diagnosed in March. After several weeks of antibiotics, they underwent bowel-resection surgery in April, which resulted in a temporary ileostomy. Eight weeks later, they were scheduled for an ileostomy reversal. With only 2½ weeks of short-term disability left, they hoped to return to their home-based desk job two weeks after the reversal and sought advice on whether this was realistic.

After the reversal surgery, which was completed recently, they planned to start working from home two weeks later. On-site work, which involves driving, might wait for 4-6 weeks, and their management was supportive of this plan.

Here are some insights and advice shared by others:

1. A typical recovery timeline might include a 5-day hospital stay, followed by another week off. You could start working from home about two weeks after surgery. Transitioning to half-days in the office might happen around 1½ months post-surgery, eventually moving to full-time.

2. Be prepared for early fatigue and frequent bowel movements, about 10–12 times a day, in the first few weeks. However, light tasks are usually manageable. By the fourth week, bowel movement frequency often decreases to around 5 times a day.

3. If the reversal is done laparoscopically, which is common for ileostomies, the hospital stay might be just 3 days. Walking usually begins the first night or the next day, and discharge happens once eating is tolerated. The stoma site is left open to heal naturally from the inside out.

4. Ileostomy reversals are generally less invasive than colostomy reversals, leading to quicker healing. It's advisable to plan for at least two weeks off, with more time if commuting to an office is necessary.

5. For those with desk jobs, a comfortable chair is helpful. It's also important to incorporate regular short walks, standing periods, and simple physical therapy movements to promote circulation and healing.