Hi there. I had the first two of my three surgeries done about a year ago. It really took me down. Rough recovery with quite a few complications. Infected wound, extreme pain, diversionary pouchitis and severe fatigue due to poor nutrient absorbtion. I have only recently begun to feel better but today I got a call from my surgeon informing me that my Takedown is scheduled for January 28. I'm so scared. I don't know if I'm making a giant mistake I'm going to regret or if this is a good thing. My output is pretty watery most of the time and I'm scared that I'm going to be running to the bathroom 100 times a day. Does your output get thicker after takedown? What can I expect in terms of recovery? I have two small children and not a lot of help. I sincerely appreciate all your input. Thank you so much for taking the time to respond to these queries
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There will be a recovery and adjustment process, but in general your output will be thicker (especially if you take soluble fiber), your diversionary Pouchitis will be cured, your absorption should improve, and in all likelihood you'll (over time) get to 4-6 BMs per day. You really do need to find some help for a few weeks at least, though. Good luck!
this is why you went through the first two surgeries! you'll be ok. given the complications the first two rounds, the takedown might very well seem a walk in the park by comparison. and if anything arises youre here so you can tap into the vast body of experience available. good luck!
Thanks so much you guys. I am so grateful for this forum. It was a godsend in those dark days post surgery and I am sure will continue to be.