julia F.

Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

Had pretty much given up after 20 years of struggle; thought I was managing okay until I gained 40 lbs while on medication. Was pretty much at despair until I refocused on bariatric surgery.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

Lack of mobility; I consider myself fairly active and when it became difficult to exercise, and when I started being out of breath under exertion, it really bothered me. Of course, clothing is an issue! As are airplane seats, auto seat belts, turnstiles, etc., etc.

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

I have never NOT been able to do things, but I can just do them easier now. There are several things I am still unable to do, due to the fact that I am still obese.

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

I first found out two years ago when an acquaintance of mine had it done; I was very impressed with the results, but I didn't know the details until this year.

Describe your experience with getting insurance approval for surgery. What advice, if any, do you have for other people in this stage?

Mine was very easy -- I had Blue Cross/Blue Shield and they approved quickly.

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

Very minor (several scars -- I had the surgery done lapariscopically)

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I stopped losing weight at 7 months; my results were atypical -- I did not lose anywhere near even the minimum expected amount of weight. I think people should be aware that it isn't always the impressive weight loss. I do feel better; I am healthier. But I did NOT fulfill my expectations of what the surgery would do for me.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No.
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