Ostomy Reversal Preparation, Surgery and Post-Surgical Healing
Learning From Lived Experience - What to Expect and Reaching a New Normal Learn About ReversalPrepping for SurgeryOstomy Reversal Preparation, Surgery and Post-Surgical Healing
Learning from Lived Experience – What to Expect and Reaching a New Normal
For many people living with an ostomy, the question eventually arises:
Can my ostomy be reversed?
While not every situation allows for reversal surgery, thousands of patients successfully undergo ostomy reversal each year and return to active, fulfilling lives.
This website exists to help you understand what ostomy reversal surgery involves, who may be a candidate, what recovery looks like, and how life may change after the procedure. Whether you are preparing for a discussion with your surgeon, planning your recovery, or simply exploring your options, having clear information can make the journey less overwhelming.
Ostomy reversal is a major surgical decision, but it can also represent a new chapter—one focused on healing, adjustment, and regaining confidence in your body.
Let’s Alleviate Some of the Fears About Reversal Surgery
Thousands of people undergo ostomy reversal surgery every year. While every journey is unique, understanding the process can reduce fear and help you prepare for recovery and life after surgery.
It’s natural to be nervous about yet another surgery, especially if a medical crisis is what caused you to have an ostomy. One of the best ways to minimize these feelings is to be an educated patient. Know how to get ready for the surgery, what’s involved during the procedure, and what to expect in terms of your healing process.
You Don’t Have to Go Through the Process Unsupported
Having a community to talk to and to learn from can be a huge comfort when we’re facing a big surgery. This website is the first step! Our hope is that we can answer some of your biggest questions, and give you some resources for research and to ask questions about your individual surgery. We can get through this together!
Will all of my questions be answered on this site?
The process of ostomy reversal has a common set of steps, but the variation found in the patients makes for an almost infinite set of questions, and answers.
So, we probably won’t answer all of your questions, but we’ll make a good start.
Our goal is to present the considerations and the process of undergoing a reversal, and to offer discussion on the typical questions that patients will have.
So where do you get information that’s not covered here?
Your doctor is your partner and mentor for your surgery, so consult them for details pertinent to your individual reversal process.
You can also seek out communities of ostomy reversal patients. We recommend a few on this site that have thousands of people who have undergone this surgery. Odds are good that you’ll find someone very much like you who can offer recommendations or encouragement.
Understanding the Ostomy Reversal Process
What Is an Ostomy Reversal?
Learn more about what it means to have a reversal and the return to a more normal bowel function.
Preparing for Surgery
What are the common medical tests needed to ensure that you are a solid candidate for reversal surgery? What you can you do to personally prepare?
Surgery - It's Time for Reversal!
What will surgery look like? What will the days and weeks after surgery be like? What preparation can make this healing period easier?
After Surgery
When can I return to normal activities? What will my diet need to be like? What can I do to regulate my bowel and help it return to health?