redhotgypsygirl

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My surgery was on Thursday and it took a bit longer due to a bleed. My surgeon was still able to do the single incision through the belly button (about 1 1/4 inches long), but it took an extra hour to stop the bleeding so I was under for about 3 hours. I guess I tolerated surgery good though since I am healing very well.

Here is my experience so far:

Day 1 (the day of surgery) was the sweetheart phase. I had the iv pain meds and the numbing agents from surgery was still working. I felt great the rest of the day and even was able to walk several laps around the hospital about 3-4 times.

Day 2 (starting about 1 am) nausea started to set in from the anesthesia starting to wear off. Due to my complication I was under for 3 hours and from what I understand that can create even more nausea than if you were only under for about an hour or so.

I had my leak test about 9 a.m. and everything showed up perfect. I was able to go on liquids beginning at lunch time, but it was difficult. Had cramping and nausea still for both lunch and dinner and at first felt pressure to drink a lot by the nurses, but later learned just a few sews the first few days is good.

Also found out that I am allergic to codine and my first does of liquid pain medicine wasn't the best because of that. They immediately changed me to loritab and that was amazing for pain and helping me sleep.

Took another does of loritab at about 9 pm and slept through a good majority of the rest of the pain.

I will say though that even though Day 2 was the worst for pain, I still walked at least 8 - 10 times throughout the day and did anywhere from 1 - 8 laps. The more I walked the better it felt, which is probably why I walked whenever possible.

Day 3 woke up around 3 am this morning and still had a little pain, but the nurse recommended that I drink some chamomile tea to help settle my stomach. Well I drank it and not only did it help my stomach, but it also put me back on a normal track for using the restroom and after that point it was like a release and I felt super great. Continued to walk several times today and have actually been able to tolerate everything I have tried so far. I like milk, juice, tea, and protein shakes the best so far.

I really attribute a lot of this to my walking so much and just getting all of the bad stuff out of my system as much and soon as possible. Still having twinges of pain, but I am still very happy I did this surgery and looking forward to entering this next phase.

Also just wanted to report that I have already eliminated 1 of my blood pressure medicines and the other was cut in half. Without them though my pressure was normal that whole time and the only reason I still need that half is because it is one you can't stop cold turkey. My healthy dreams are already being realized.

Well, I am finally at the threshold of getting my life back. After 2 months of fighting with the insurance company and being submitted for and approved for the wrong surgery (bypass), I have finally received my approval and surgery date. Scheduled for January 6th, 2011. What a great way to start the new year...

Yesterday was my last pre-op appointment and I was tentatively received my final approval. They had to run one final blood test, but don't anticipate that one coming back with anything that would prevent me from getting the surgery. I did, however, find out that in addition to my high blood pressure (which I already knew about) I am also Vitamin D deficient and pre-diabetic. The Vitamin D deficiency is kind of weird since I am a milk and cheese addict, but hopefully that can be fixed with some supplements. The pre-diabetic part I figured was coming at some point since my mom and grandfather both had it and runs in the family. It does, however, put my mind at ease now as to whether or not I am making the right decision to have surgery.

Not that I was ever waivering once I heard about the sleeve, but I know it will help for after or during my pre-op diet on the days when I want to question whether this is right for me or have regrets. I will just keep post its up around the house with my current and future health issues as well as some with those activities that will be much more enjoyable (such as fitting comfortably in an airplane seat or restaurant chair with arms) with my soon to be new weight loss.

Ok I am off now to start my 3 week pre-op diet...(found out yesterday afternoon so really only a 20 day diet, but should still be successful since it is only 3 shakes for lunch, dinner, and breakfast along with 2 bars for snacks). Hopefully I will be able to drop a good 20 lbs. before I even hop on the surgery table.

Looking forward to a new year, a new me, and an exiting new lifestyle...