A reversal of colostomy (also called colostomy takedown) is a specialized surgical procedure that reconnects the two ends of the bowel after a period of temporary diversion through a stoma. At our practice, we understand that while patients are eager to restore normal bowel function, this transition can create both excitement and anxiety. That's why we're committed to providing compassionate, expert care while helping you understand each step of your treatment. This procedure effectively restores the natural digestive pathway after the original condition necessitating the colostomy has resolved, such as after healing from diverticulitis, bowel trauma, or protective diversion following colorectal surgery. Our reversal approach utilizes meticulous dissection techniques around the stoma site with the preservation of maximum healthy tissue. We employ precise anastomosis methods that ensure optimal blood supply and tension-free reconnection, resulting in the successful restoration of intestinal continuity with minimized risk of complications and a carefully managed transition back to normal bowel function.
You may be ready for colostomy reversal if you experience:
Complete resolution of the original condition that required diversion
Adequate healing time since your initial surgery (typically 3-6 months)
Good overall health status for another surgical procedure
Normal bowel segment confirmed by appropriate imaging or endoscopy
Successful completion of any needed additional treatments (like chemotherapy)
Nutritional status optimized for surgical healing
Psychological readiness for the transition back to natural bowel function
No significant complications with your existing colostomy
Confirmed adequate bowel length and health for successful reconnection
Absence of significant intra-abdominal infections or inflammation
Stable weight maintenance with good protein intake
Strong desire to eliminate the ostomy for quality of life improvement
At Lifetime Surgical, our approach to colostomy reversal combines precision with personalized care. The procedure begins with a comprehensive preoperative evaluation to confirm the resolution of the original condition and assess bowel health through contrast studies, endoscopy, or imaging. Our surgeon possesses expertise in minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, including laparoscopic or modified approaches that minimize additional scarring while providing excellent visualization for safe adhesion management and bowel mobilization. We employ state-of-the-art anastomosis techniques, including hand-sewn or stapled connections based on your specific anatomy, always prioritizing optimal blood supply and tension-free reconnection.Our distinctive approach includes meticulous dissection around the stoma site to preserve maximum abdominal wall integrity, reconstruction of the abdominal wall to prevent future hernias, and tailored management of the previous stoma site based on individual patient factors. Throughout your care journey, we implement enhanced recovery protocols specific to colorectal surgery, incorporating optimal pain management, early mobilization, and staged dietary advancement. We provide specialized counseling to prepare you for the expected changes in bowel function, along with personalized strategies for managing the transition period, ensuring both physical and emotional readiness for life after ostomy reversal.
Immediate Post-Procedure (1-7 days)
Expect a hospital stay of 3-7 days depending on how quickly bowel function returns
Begin with clear liquids when bowel sounds return, advancing diet gradually as tolerated
Use enhanced recovery pain management protocols to minimize narcotic use
Participate in early mobility protocols, walking within 24 hours when possible
Manage the healing wound at the former stoma site with appropriate dressings
Monitor for normal bowel function resumption, typically beginning with gas passage
Track first bowel movements, which may be irregular or loose initially
Work with nursing staff to manage any incontinence or urgency issues
Learn abdominal splinting techniques for support during coughing or movement
Prepare for discharge with understanding of expected bowel pattern changes
Short-Term Recovery (1-4 weeks)
Attend your follow-up appointment (typically 1-2 weeks after surgery)
Continue caring for the healing stoma site wound until completely closed
Manage expected changes in bowel habits, which may include:
Increased frequency of bowel movements
Occasional urgency or difficulty controlling gas
Changes in stool consistency
Use recommended dietary modifications to help regulate bowel function
Take any prescribed medications to manage bowel habits if needed
Gradually increase physical activity while avoiding heavy lifting (nothing over 10 pounds) for 4-6 weeks
Return to work based on your surgeon's recommendation and job requirements (typically 2-4 weeks)
Implement pelvic floor exercises if recommended to improve bowel control
Monitor for any signs of complications at the anastomosis or former stoma site
Long-Term Adjustment (1-6 months)
Bowel function typically continues to improve and stabilize over 2-4 months
Complete healing of the former stoma site, with gradual fading of the scar
Return to full normal activities and exercise after 6-8 weeks
Continue refining diet to optimize bowel function and comfort
Address any persistent bowel control issues with your healthcare team
Most patients achieve a stable, predictable bowel pattern by 3-6 months
Former colostomy site typically heals completely but may leave a visible mark
Abdominal wall strength gradually improves around the former stoma site
Emotional adjustment to managing natural bowel function after period with ostomy
Follow-up with your surgeon at 1-3 months to assess recovery progress
Most patients report significant improvement in quality of life once stable bowel function is established
Long-Term Expectations
Complete internal healing of the anastomosis within 3-4 months
Refined reconstruction marks at the former stoma site that continue to improve over time
Most patients return to their pre-colostomy bowel habits, though some notice subtle differences
No long-term dietary restrictions necessary for most patients
Minimal long-term impact on clothing choices or physical activities
Regular cancer screenings if your original condition was malignancy
Normal participation in all desired activities including swimming and intimate relationships
Psychological benefits of restored body image after ostomy removal
Rare instances of altered bowel habits may require ongoing management strategies
Excellent long-term outcomes with normal quality of life for the vast majority of patients
Annual wellness visits help ensure continued digestive health
Common Side Effects
Temporary changes in bowel habits (frequency, urgency, consistency)
Incisional discomfort at the former stoma site during healing
Mild abdominal bloating and gas pain during initial bowel function adjustment
Subtle contour depression at the former stoma site
Temporary dietary sensitivities during bowel habit stabilization
Phantom sensations where the stoma was located
Mild anxiety about unpredictable bowel function during the adjustment period
Initial fatigue during recovery from surgery
Less Common Complications
Anastomotic leak (separation at the reconnection site, 2-7% risk)
Anastomotic stricture (narrowing at the connection site)
Surgical site infection at the former stoma site
Bleeding requiring transfusion or reoperation
Small bowel obstruction due to adhesions
Prolonged ileus (delayed return of normal bowel function)
Incisional hernia at the former stoma site
Fistula formation (abnormal connection between bowel and skin)
Recurrent disease requiring additional surgery
Persistent alteration in bowel habits requiring medical management
Urinary retention or difficulty in the immediate post-operative period
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
Severe, worsening abdominal pain
No bowel movement or gas passage for more than 24 hours with abdominal distension
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Significant bleeding from the rectum
Inability to tolerate liquids or maintain hydration
Significant redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage at the former stoma site
Reopening of the wound with exposure of underlying tissue
Severe diarrhea or constipation unresponsive to management
Foul-smelling discharge from the former stoma site
Severe abdominal distension or bloating
Chest pain or difficulty breathing
From your first consultation through your complete recovery, we provide:
Thorough evaluation and explanation of your condition
Clear discussion of all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives when appropriate
Detailed pre-operative instructions to help you prepare
Compassionate care during your hospital stay or outpatient procedure
Comprehensive follow-up care and support during recovery
Ongoing availability to address questions or concerns
We understand that facing head and neck surgery can be intimidating, but you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Our team is committed to providing expert care with a personal touch, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Your health and wellbeing are our highest priorities, and we're honored to be part of your care team.
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All our laparoscopic procedures are performed by our highly trained surgical team using state-of-the-art equipment and techniques.
We're committed to providing you with the most advanced, minimally invasive options because we believe you deserve:
Less pain after surgery
Shorter hospital stays
Faster return to work and activities you enjoy
Smaller, less visible scars
Lower risk of complications
Better overall outcomes
Dr. Richard Nguyen is a board-certified General Surgeon with over 20 years of surgical expertise and fellowship training in Minimally Invasive and Bariatric Surgery from Vanderbilt University. Since establishing his practice in San Jose in 2007, he has pioneered innovative surgical techniques, including single-incision laparoscopic procedures and mastery of the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System. Beyond his acclaimed bariatric surgery practice, he has earned national recognition for his specialized expertise in both non-mesh and advanced mesh hernia repairs, while also serving as a critical approach surgeon for anterior spine access procedures. Dr. Nguyen combines technical precision with personalized care across multiple premier facilities throughout the South Bay Area.
I would refer Doctor Nguyen to anyone, in fact I have and they have all had the same experience as me. He is truly great. I owe all my success to Doctor Nguyen and I thank him for all the work he has done for me and continues to do so. He is extremely amazing, and I am very grateful to him.
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At 50, I now have a life I had only dreamed of a year before. My body tells me if I am done eating. This surgery is a tool that I have used to the fullest. It is not an easy way out. It still took work. But I honestly know that I would not be living this amazing new life if I didn’t step forward to embrace this life-saving surgery.
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Dr. Nguyen has changed my life completely. I feel so much better and I also feel like I’ve got control of my life again…I had high blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol. I took at least 5 different medications for the past 30 years. NOW, after surgery I take no medications only vitamins!
Wondering which surgical procedure might be right for your condition? We're here to help you understand your treatment options and develop a personalized surgical plan. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Your path to improved health may be more achievable than you think—with advanced surgical techniques leading to faster recovery, reduced complications, and a significantly enhanced quality of life.