Need advice on my stoma and reversal

[phelim]

Hi so I was diagnosed with crohns when I was just under 2 years old. I got a stoma around that time to. When I was 8 I had some of my large intestine removed and was given a new stoma. I am 20 now and have had a stoma ever since I was just under 2 and I remember the doctors telling me before I could have it reversed in my later years which is about now. I have been on no medication for the past 12 years and have had no flare ups either and only need to go see my doctor once a year for a check up. I am at that age now where I want it reversed but I just wondering how difficult it will be for me to get back to going to the toilet normally as I haven't in bout 19 years

Also recently I noticed my stoma has reduced in size recently and wondering what could cause this

 

[nogutsnoglory]

It would likely depend on how much colon you have left and your body getting used to it post abdominal surgery. Have you consulted with a surgeon to see if you are a candidate?

 

[UnXmas]

How happy are you living with the stoma? Is there a particular reason you'd want it reversed now?

Have you heard of bio-feedback for bowel control? I've not heard of it being used specifically after stoma reversal, but if you google it, it sounds like it could possibly help you learn to open your bowels if you do have the reversal.

The reduction in stoma size - is it protruding less now? If so, it's possible it's retracting. Also if you've gained weight, the stoma may appear smaller.