thoughts from a 2 week post op...

Hi!  I thought those of you on the cusp of surgery might be interested in how things were/are for me.

My pre-op was one week full liquid with 3 -4 shakes per day and non cal beverages the remainder of the day.  I could have up to 800 calories.  It was a very hard week and I cried some, but there was an end in sight.  I lost 18 pounds that week.

I had a slight meltdown in pre-op.  My surgeon even gave me the chance to backout - but I didn't. 

I woke up from surgery with O2, monitors, catheter, IVs and JP drain.  I was given ice when I returned to the room at 2pm.  Oh, and a pain pump!  That night I began my phase 1 diet which was non caloric clear liquids  and a 1/4 c of regular juice 4 times a day.  My pain was very much controlled by the pain pump but I was very swollen and felt bloated.  I sat up in a chair that night.

First day - cath, heart monitor, O2 and pain pump and IVs removed.  I had to request pain med when I wanted it - Roxiset.  I was told to walk hall 3-4 times a day which I did.  I could not go far. 

Discharge day - out by 9am.  There was a problem with Roxiset Rx so could not get it filled.  I managed on liquid Tylenol during recovery.  It was adequate but I did have some pain.  I gained 6 pds in the hosp.

I slept in a recliner for 3 nights - too much pain in bed. 

I have no issues with drinking.  I take regular size sips and don't have to pause much at all.   

I moved to puree last Thursday.  I have had refreid beasn, scrambeld eggs with cheese, cottage cheese, peaches, farina made with double milk (skim milk + milk powder), atkins shakes with PB2, chicken, potatoes, ricotta cheese,  tuna melt and no incidents of nasuea, vomitting, bloating, cramps, etc.  My gas is also minimal at this point.  I eat up to 4oz, but usually 3 with no problems,  (I am permitted up to 4oz per meal).

My only issue is weakness and light-headedness.  I am off work for 3 weeks, I return next Wed.

I def had buyers remorse last week one day while still on full clear liquids, but after I moved to puree I have not had that issue.

I take Bariatric Advantage Chewable Multi Vitamin (which I hate - tried all flavors) BA Calcium chews which are fine, Biotin, Vitmamin C, and Prilosec.  I added the Biotin and vit. C myself they are optional.  My doc gave me the B12 injection which is good for a month.

This is long - sorry but thought some of you just heading into things might appreciate reading from someone who has had a relatively uneventful recovery!

Thank you for sharing. My surgery was the day before yours. I have had almost an exact experience. Only difference is I could only have 6oz of ensure a day. Yesterday I started my puree and soft foods. Things seem to be moving along as they should. I have one bothersome issue. Things don't remotly taste good at all even water. Probably for the best. I am pushing flavor water and I'm ok. So far I have lost 19lbs. Thanks for listening Michelle

Glad you are doing well Tessie. Like you my post op has been uneventful. Water us easy for me. I am still working on slowing down eating. I have to remind myself frequently. Putting the fork down helps. It's a brain thing. I look forward to further updates from you.

Thank you so much for sharing! I am looking at surgery in May so this is very helpful to read! Good luck with your journey!

Kristie

wow you got lucky! I have to have an emergency reversal due to complications. I envy you for the pain you went through.

Good Luck!

 SUPER jealous... I'm on liquids for 1 month, then move to pureed for 1 month. It's not even been a week and I'm not sure how I'm going to make it :( 

Glad it has gone so well Tessie. I am still on liquids so I pray I can tolerate what you are eating when I start next week.  I have also been lightheaded and am now struggling with constipation.  But I am starting to really feel like ME which is great.  Good luck to you on your continued journey!

Thanks so much for your post. I will be having the surgery in May. It is very helpful getting an idea of what those first couple of weeks will be like.. (Hard !!) thanks for sharing.

Sounds like you are doing very well.  I am impressed by the variety of foods that you are able to eat.  That is great.  I chuckled when I read that you had gained 6 lbs in the hospital.  I know the feeling---I gained 11 lbs.

Just one question--what are you doing for iron?  You didn't mention that.

Congratulations on your surgery and weight loss thus far.  Hold on for the ride o your life!

My surgeon did not order iron.  I don't know if that changes at my one month follow u*****t.