New and wondering about surgery

Hopeseeking1, I was on 6MP (mercaptopurine), Lialda (and previously Asacol), with attempts at things like Canasa and Rowasa for about 9 yrs. I was been prescribed prednisone a number of times which I was not a big fan of, but it was tolerable and put my UC symptoms in check, for a bit. I also had to have a blood transfusion at one point. I made a decision to try Remicade about 1 yr ago, despite similar distrust. I stopped Remicade because it wasn't working for me and still dreaded the thought of being on Remicade. I elected for surgery which I had in August of this year.

I was in the hospital for 6 nights and surgery supposedly took 8 hrs while apparently attempting to form a J-pouch -- pouch creation failed. I'm told I have a 50/50 chance of reversing my illeostomy down the road. I'd prefer better odds, but remain hopeful. I still have no regrets. I had a lot of back pain after surgery possibly because I was favoring my stomach area. Surgery and what follows was no picnic, but in the long run I knew it would be like a blip out of my entire life. Recovery at home took longer than expected for me (6 or so weeks). I probably wasn't absorbing enough nutrients for some reason, but I know I had trouble remaining hydrated. That's in check after some good advice from doctors.

I've never regreted having surgery. The quality of my life is completely different. Most prevalent con for me: Having what I call a bagging system is something to get used to, but I'm used to it now for the most part. Pro: Being able to eat again, not make trips to the restroom, not worry about emergencies, be able to go places with people you'd like to be friends with, and spend more quality time with family is great.

Please consult gastroenterologist and surgeon(s) as needed.

I wish you the best of luck!

Thank you both very much for your feedback. It has given me a little more to think about. While I know that all treatments have there pros and cons, it is a bit reassuring to hear that both of you are happy with your decisions for it. This is something that perhaps i should know but have a hard time understanding. Does having the pouch mean that there is something that is visable? In other words, in a bathing suit or with lesser amounts of clothing, is this something that can be seen? Again, I really appreciate your feedback.

Many thanks for your response. I will check out the site.

     Don't get scared, all your hair won't fall out..lol.  about six months post op I had a bit of hair loss and was told it was due to the anesthesia, but I use Nioxin shampoo and conditioner and they have helped a lot.