Pinkpostit73
Hello All! I had Gastric Bypass RNY performed by Dr. Waldrep in April 2003 when I was 29.
At my highest pre-op weight I was 410lbs. I believe my weight at time of surgery was 390lbs.
Now 14.5 years post op I do occasionally look for support from others who are 10+ years post op but it's hard to find so thought I would join this community again not only for that, but also to help others who may have questions about long term results from WLS.
Currently, I am at 220lbs. I am 5'9 with a naturally large frame and am 44 years old. My average setpoint weight since surgery has been in the range of 195-205. My lowest post op weight was 180, that was in 2005 when my gallbladder went and I dropped some weight quickly due to inability to keep anything down. My highest post op weight reached 251 which was last year after 2 back to back ankle injuries combined with being put on estrogen thst same year. I have since gone off the estrogen and have opted for other alternatives which I believe has helped bring my weight back down. I still have a goal of reaching 175.
There is a lot more to tell but a few things that might be of interest especially to those who are curious about the future. Please remember this is my experience, everyone's body is unique:
I had a normal healthy pregnancy at age 40, my first and only who is now 3. Prior to that I had 3 miscarriages however my doctor informed me it had nothing to do with WLS.
I have never once since surgery been able to vomit. That SOUNDS like a dream, but sometimes when you just need to get it out and you can't, not so fun. Lol
I am very self concious about my Pannus aka tummy skin apron. It also has caused problems with infections and back pain as I age. I am currently starting to research insurance options for covered Panniculectomy and also an arm lift (out of pocket).
I eat like a normal person but still smaller portions and still avoid drinking with meals. I have no reaction to any type of foods including sugar. The only thing foodwise that changed after surgery and is still true today is that I am mildly lactose intollerant. As time goes by, it's very easy to learn ways to manipulate your new intestinal design to allow you to return to old habits. I have met waymore than less, who have gained all their weight back if not more within 5-6 years post op.
I take about 20 different vitamins and supplements a day and in liquid form if available because over the years I have learned that my absorption for pills is not as good as those who have not had WLS.
In 2010 I began experiencing severe depression, anxiety, and severe and constant fatigue. After almost a year my neurologist identified that I was not only anemic, but had dangerously low levels of B12 which can actually effect your mind. I was also sent for a sleep study and diagnosed with narcolepsy. I don't believe their is any connection to WLS in terms of the narcolepsy.
Despite some of the physicsl struggles of this journey so far, I have absolutely no regrets in having WLS. My life has been better in countless ways because of that choice but it certainly does change your life, your mind, your personal beliefs, your relationships, and just about everything. Change is good, but if you can't handle the possibility that everything can change, then you might need to think on it a bit more.
I was married at time of surgery. We divorced 2 years later. I was in another long term and unhealthy abusive relationship after that. Even though I had lost the weight, I still didn't see myself or feel any different emotionally. It has only been in the last 4 years that i have started to truly love myself and stop feeling like the fat girl and enjoying my life. I am now single and raising a daughter who I chose to have via donor. She has been my biggest inspiration and reason to continue toward my goal weight.
I am still extremely self concious about my skin, but I believe I will eventually save enough to have it removed. Regardless of the way my body looks now I have learned to love it even when others are repulsed by it. I am proud of what I have accomplished not only due to WLS but other life experiences as well. And I also know that I have to power in me to continue to change and transform both inside and out if I stay focused on the goal and stay positive, and continue seeing the opportunity in adversity.
Best of luck to all on their journey, no matter which phase you are in. If I can help anyone in anyway please reach out and I will be as timely as possible with my response.Be strong and be well!