How did you first find out about bariatric surgery and what were your initial impressions of it?

I was introduced to bariatric surgery about 10 years ago but after meeting with the drs. seeing the video and learning of the side effects, I chose to remain fat and to try again on my own. I had lost over 100 pounds on 4 separate occasions.

What was your stay in the hospital like? How long where you there? What things are most important to bring?

I was in the hospital for 4 days. I didn't bring anything of great significance.

Did you have any complications from the surgery? If so, how did you deal with them?

I only had the usual complications. The pain wasn't too bad, but the throwing up was lousy.

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

I was reallly ready when the surgery date was made. I had attended all the support groups, had the psych testing and was looking forward to my new life.

What aftercare support group/program do you have? How helpful/important is this?

I had the long awaited courage to finally leave "home" and venture out into the world. Fortunately I found a support group in Port Charlotte, Fl. They have been somewhat helpful, but I feel a huge lack of follow-up by a medical professional and am keenly aware of problems as a result of the surgery and am frustrated by the lack of knowledge by the medical community as to how to handle my unique situation.

What is your scar like? Is this what you expected?

The scar is minimal and the very least of my concern

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

It's been 3 years and I didn't lose nearly the amount of weight I had hoped to lose. I'm still about 50 pounds overweight and now have medical issues I wouldn't have had. Many medical areas have improved however, like diabetes.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I'm different and people here didn't know me before so I'm not treated differently. I'm still a fat person.