I will second what CTB23 stated. I also had the 3-step after an emergent subtotal colectomy with end ileostomy. I remained undecided about next steps for about 6 months. I was 62 when I made the decision to continue on with steps 2&3 last year. In my opinion I had one shot at a j-pouch and it was now it never. I did OK with the ileos but the bag always seemed to be in the way, my clothes didn’t fit, I had minor skin issues that were annoying mostly, and changing the wafer/bag was always stressful. So I did my research and then created a T-chart of pros/cons for a permanent Ileostomy vs a j-pouch. I also researched hospitals and surgeons as you want the best for these surgeries—it’s complicated work and you’ll have enough to worry about in recovery so why take a risk on a less experienced doctor? I’ve found this recovery to be the most challenging of the three. I’m a little over 7 months out from take down and am still overly distracted with BMs (up to 10 per day still), managing diet, medications, how long I can go out, what supplies to take, etc. Every day when I leave the house I still carry a panty liner, small plastic bag, baby wipes and a tube of iLex paste. I’m hoping to be a happier camper after a year—sure hope so—as my butt burn, some night-time leakage and frequency is a lot of maintenance and I’m soooo tired of it all, especially after making it through all the surgeries. Would I go for it again after all I’ve been through? Yeah I would, but it would certainly be a whole lot easier if I was already retired. Hang in there and make your own t-chart.
-John