Thanks everyone!!!   It feels so good to be on the losing side! I walk around with a smile on my face now, because even though I'm big now.... I know I'm not going to be this way in 10 months.  I'm so thankful for this website and all you wonderful folks! Elaine

I have flown a lot in my lifetime, mostly for work. Even at my highest weight (284, 5"9')  I never needed an extender, but I did use one on my way back home from surgery just to be more comfortable. I had asked the flight attendent to bring me one before anyone else got on the plane (I pre-boarded and had a wheel chair assist to the jetway -- something you might want to take advantage of).  You should feel very proud of yourself for doing this wonderful surgery and taking charge of your life and health...and telling the flight attendant on your return flight(s) can get you some good attention from them.  For example, for me, they made sure I always had a cup of water or ice chips - depending on what I wanted, and on my final flight home, they brought me a cold compress for my forehead that felt wonderful. Given your fear of flying, you should take full advantage of them and let them be there for you in any way you need. Besides, most of the time they never get to "mother" anyone and I think some of the flight attendents really like to do that for us!  It is your choice, and I don't want to tell you what to do, but I think tellling at least one of the flight attendants that you just had gastric bypass surgery will bring a little extra comfort to you in your flight experience. You know, I never had much room with the tray table because I carry my weight in my stomach. Here is one tip:  Call your airlines and let them know you are going to be coming home after a surgery. Ask them if they have any way of bumping you to first class (sometimes they actually will!! Never hurts to ask!) OR if they can block any seats around you. In my case, Alaska Airlines actually blocked an entire row just for me, at NO charge. That way, I had privacy and room, and I could use the tray table in the middle chair instead of the one at my chair. Oh it made my trip sooo much better!  You might also ask them to put you near a forward lavaratory, since the back of the plane tends to get stinky and caused me to gag a bit, which you don't want! Another thought about the seat belt.... by the time I had my surgery, I think the whole stigma of the extender went out the window for me and I didn't care anymore.  Don't buy one because you'll never need it again! And besides.... you'll never see those people on that plane again (and they won't recognize the new skinny you even if you do!) I hope your experience is really great! hugs,  Elaine