I had laparoscopic surgeries (3 steps) for my j-pouch procedure.  My recoveries were pretty good.  The first was the most difficult for me as far as recovery.  The last was only difficult because of the time spent in the bathroom and the butt burn.  I think my first surgery was under 5 hours and the last was about 45 mins.  I was out of the house a little over a week after being released from the hospital following my takedown.  This was my experience, not the same for everyone.  I was prepared for much worse.

From my understanding the surgeries were done laparoscopic with robotics.  It is all done through a keyhole incision with I believe 2 other small incisions.  The other option I believe is open which is more difficult to recover from.  My hysterectomy was open and definitely longer recovery.

I had my surgery this past August done robotically, the time was 8.5 hours, yes, the recovery was quick.

If you have a 2 step you have the colectomy and creation of j-pouch together.  In my case, the pouch was created in the second step.  Based on my case, my surgeon felt it was best to do it in three.  No regrets!