Question from the USA=RNY still done in Germany?

I am looking at having an RNY here in the States in June. My daughter lives in Germany, and her husband works for a German insurance company. He has told her that the surgery is no longer done in Germany as it is considered too dangerous (too many deaths) and a "failure", as most folks gain their weight back. Another doctor told them it was a "passe" surgery. And then I find this site, so I am confused?????? Neither of my children has been supportive, but my husband is giving me the 110 percent go-ahead. I feel that they are scared that they are going to lose their mother. Of course, my weight causes complications that they cannot see, but are no less real. But I would appreciate any info from Germany that could give my daughter a little bit of piece of mind! Smiles and Thanks! (And I will be there in December!!!! Gutersloh..) Linda

Hi Linda, I am in Landstuhl Germany and I have an appointment on Feb. 1st for a consult with a surgeon. I know a couple of people here, one who is scheduled for surgery and another who is going for a consult before me. I know Landstuhl and Frankfort are still doing the WLS and with good outcome. I can understand why your daughter is nervous though. Have you introduced her to a support group or maybe someone who has had success? I know that once my family started meeting people who were healthy and successful they felt better about me having the surgery. Good luck, Shanon

Thanks for the info! I will forward your answer on to her. Hear that it is COLD in your part of the world right now! Warm fuzzy slipper (((hugs))) to you! Smiles, Linda

Linda I can understand your daughters feelings....my husband was the same way. Then he went to an appointment with me and finally realized how much I need this surgery. I have a couple of other health problems that this surgery is going to help and he is now 100% supportive. I'm scheduled for surgery February 12th, 2007 and I'm nervous but also excited on the outcome. I would recommend that she talk to a support group or maybe attend one with you, this will put her at ease I'm sure. I also know 4 people who have already had the surgery here in Germany and from both Landstuhl and Frankfurt. They are all doing great and have lost anywhere from 40lbs in 2 weeks to 130lbs in a year. You need to do what is best for you and your health. If you need any help or support please feel free to email me back. I always check this website for any new post. Marie

Hi, Marie, Thanks for the answer. Obviously, the surgery IS still being done in Germany! My daughter only wants what is best for me. In the end, she will be very supportive. (My son and his wife, on the other hand, went ballistic!!! They are in the states, so they know the surgery is done here, and often. In fact, that is their main objection...that people are getting it left and right...!) So, I have both ends of the spectrum represented. As I said before, my husband is being very supportive and encouraging. He wants me healthier! Where are you from the Gutersloh/Bielefeld area? My brother used to live in Frankfurt, but not at the same time that my daughter has been over there, so I have never checked the actual distance. Wow, your surgery is only 2 weeks away! Every good wish for you and yours! Linda

Marie: I see that you are having your surgery in just a few days. I bet you are excited, scared and anxious all at once. I had RNY in 06/2003 and have done great with the exception of mild anemia. I also just found out that I am pregnant!! Good luck and keep in touch Cheri RNY 06/03 EDD 10/05/2007

Cheri, Thanks for the vote of confidence...I'm very nervous and scared but excited at the same time. How much have you lost since you had your surgery?? What can I expect from this? Is it easy to deal with the skin after you start loosing the weight...I know you have to get a tummy tuck after but what else is expected. You look great in your photos you should post some before and afters on your site. Congrats on your news about being pregnant....are you nervous your going to gain the weight back?? I know I probably would be but I can't have anymore kids. I have two already and thats enough for me. My daughter will be getting married in a year so I hope to look thinner for her wedding. Well congrats again and I hope to hear from you again. Marie

Hi, this is Linda from the States! How are you doing since your surgery??? Hope that everything went fine, and that you are feeling better and better each day! Wanted to know that I am thinking of you! Smiles and Hugs!

Hi Linda, I'm doing great....I'm 2 weeks post op and have lost 15lbs so far. I'm sick with a cold right now which is hard because the cold medicine has sugar in it and it makes me sick. I have an appt. today with my primary care doctor to see if he can help me. I have been doing so much coughing that my insides are so sore right now. The surgery went well...my doctor said that I was a good patient other then when he went to take out my gallbladder he had some problems. It was 4 times the size it should have been and loaded with gallstones..(I had about 300 of them he said). Are you still going to have the surgery? I tell everyone I know that it was good but the first 2 days are the worst....after that it was a walk in the park. I'm still trying foods to see what agrees and what doesn't. It was great to hear from you and keep in touch okay..Take care!!! Marie

Wow...300 gallstones and you were not having major attacks??? It was all worth it, just to get rid of THAT!!! Glad to know that you are now doing so well!!! Yes, I am still planning on the surgery. Since I started all of this, I got some answers about my back pain. I need major surgery on my back. (The weight loss will not solve or even help the current situation, sigh...but I want to be 100 pounds thinner before they go in there!!!) So, the most sure-fire way to get the weight off in a year is to have WLS. Unless my back pain prohibits it, I will be in Gutersloh for Christmas! I LOVE Germany at Christmas time!!!! I will let you know when I have a date..probably in June. Smiles, Linda