I didn't start having anything until I hit goal. I wish I never started--too many empty calories and a really narrow window between feeling buzzed to being drunk.

My sister in law has been operated on recently. She says it's worth it.

Your health insurance card will have a phone number and a website where you can look for information on which surgeons are part of that plan. You can also send an email to ObesityHelp member services. Here is the Contact member services email page.

I was a year or more out - which for me was well past goal. I now have wine on occasion and my "glass of wine" is about 2 fingers in the bottom. I am normally shocked when I order a glass out of the house and realize what a full glass of wine looks like. There's an increased risk of transfer addiction, so no matter when you start you have to be careful.

My friend's daughter had weight loss surgery and became a full blown alcoholic afterward. She has lost her husband and children, been in jail, and been in various rehabs. Nothing helps. She did not drink before surgery. There is a substantial risk of this happening if you drink alcohol after weight loss surgery.

It is dangerous and can lead to premature death. Your tiny stomach reduces your ability to control the effects of alcohol. Here is some information to read and consider.