Barbie butt surgery | by Summer
Most of you may know me and remember when I had my Barbie butt surgery back in May 2022 after my having my stoma surgery the year prior thanks to ulcerative colitis (UC). My Barbie butt surgery still to this day is one of my most commonly asked about topics. So I wanted to revisit my Barbie Butt surgery 3 years on, give you an update on what life has been like now but also cover those FAQs in case you are looking at having your Barbie or Ken butt surgery any time soon!
What actually is Barbie butt surgery?
Nicknamed Barbie butt by the IBD community, its official name is proctocolectomy which is the surgical removal of the rectum, where your anus is sewn up. It’s often needed for a whole variety of reasons from Crohn’s disease/UC flares, cancer or a failed j-pouch.
Story time: my Barbie butt surgery
When I had my stoma surgery, they removed the majority of my large bowel and left my rectum in place in the hope that it wouldn’t have active UC in once I had no food passing through as it often settles down. Unfortunately, very soon after, my rectum flared and once again couldn’t be controlled with medication, so I had to have it removed. At the time it felt quite overwhelming to be having another major op so soon but now it’s one of the best things I did.
Surgery and hospital stay
It is quite an extensive operation so discussing pain management before the op is super important. I had an epidural for the first day or two which worked really well then I moved over to morphine. I stayed in hospital for a week which I think is quite standard for Barbie butt surgeries without any complications.
Recovery at home
One thing that surprised me the most was how hard I found it not being able to sit on my bum, it made everything really difficult in the first few weeks at home. One thing that really helped me was having a big pregnancy pillow as it helps to keep you on your side and comfortable when sleeping. I also used a gel cushion to help build up the amount of time I could sit for. I would say to be careful of the doughnut rings you often see people use as my surgeon said these can actually put a lot of pressure and cause the wound to reopen. It took me 3 months before I could go back to work and sit on my bum for a long period of time and about 6 months until I felt fully healed and recovered.
So what’s it like now?
My wound has healed perfectly, and I wouldn’t know any different now. I work full time, travel, go swimming and do Pilates – it’s not affected me in any way! I can sit comfortably now for long periods without it bothering me.
Common concerns and FAQs
Will I ever sit normally again?
Yes, it takes time and everyone is different but it will heal.
What about future pregnancies as Barbie butt is linked to fertility issues in women?
I know many people who have had a Barbie butt surgery and lead successful pregnancies. Definitely worth consulting your stoma nurses and doctors if this is an immediate concern for you.
Can it be done keyhole?
I had mine done keyhole and they used the same incision sites as my stoma surgery and then I have about a 2 inch scar on my behind where my rectum was taken out.
Will it be worth it in the long run?
I can say from experience that over 3 years later I am happy, healthy and so glad I had my Barbie butt surgery. While it was a really intimidating and scary time, I have come through the other side, and I am sure you will too!
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