I am in Memphis. I have't found a surgeon here that has done a J-pouch. I will probably go to the Mayo Clinic.

There's a great team of CR surgeons in St. Louis who have great j-pouch experience. I had mine done in 2010 by Dr. Elisa Birnbaum who is with Washington University at Barnes Jewish Hospital. She's been doing j-pouches almost since they were invented 25 years ago.

I had mine done in Memphis by Justin Monroe and I have been very happy with my pouch. He does surgeries at Baptist. There is also Stephen W. Behrman at UT Group who also does surgeries at Baptist. My doctor initially recommended him but I didn't care for his support staff so I asked for a second referral. I did talk to a couple of his patients though who absolutely loved him so maybe my experience was just different. There is also a good ostomy nurse at Baptist who was very helpful with managing my temporary ileostomy. Also, I wouldn't recommend going out of town as you may have complications and will want a local surgeon on call if you need a trip to ER. My opinion anyway.
Just curious, but why hasn't your doctor referred you to one?