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

I began to run into people that had had the surgery done open, and because I worked for a surgeon, I knew that eventually, it would be done laparoscopic. I hung in there until that was started. Then I found out the the Surgeon I work for would be doing the surgery and I hung in there for him to start. I was his third patient.

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

My insurance was approved within 1 month. I would advise everyone to take their medical records showing attempted weight loss and comorbidities for at least 2 years to their surgeon's office on the first visit. Also, check with your Insurance company to see what they require for precertification.

What was your first visit with your surgeon like? How can people get the most out of this meeting?

Because I work for the Surgeon who did mine, it was just a matter of an examination. I had already discussed the surgery with him. But he also told me all the Pro's and Con's again.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I saw some people who had the surgery, and talked with them. I decided that I wanted my life back.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I wanted the laproscopic, but I would have had it open if necessary. I only condidered the Roux-en-Y, I would definately not have anything else.

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

I never had any fear at all. I had all the confidence in the world in my Surgeon and Anesthesthist.

How did your family and friends react to your decision? Would you have communicated anything differently if you could now? How supportive were they after your surgery?

My family and friends were very supportive. Some in my family were scared about it, but I convinced them that I was doing the right thing.

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

My Surgeon is my employer, and he was great. Also the other Surgeon in the office has been very supportative and caring. I was out of work only 1 week.

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

I had my surgery on Tuesday and went home Friday am. I would adivse everyone to bring a good book to read, and plenty of underwear.

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

I had no complications from the surgery. I did have a hard time getting over the anesthesia.

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 felt a little weak for a couple of weeks, then I began to feel great and improved every day. I was afraid to try different things to eat, but eventually, I conquered this fear.

Describe your first few weeks home from the hospital. What should people expect from this period?

I went back to work a week after my surgery. My co-workers were among my best supporters.

How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)

Traveled only 10 miles.

Please describe in detail what things you could and couldn't eat in the weeks and months following surgery. What foods have been off limits? Please explain how your dietary tolerance changed week-by-week, and then month-by-month since surgery.

At three months, I threw up some chicken, and from that day for about a month, I had provlems with vomiting. This eventually cleared up. I still have a hard time eating chicken and Krystal hamburgers, but anything else is all go (in moderation, of course).

What was your actvity level in the days and weeks after surgery?

My energy soared upward every day. I am doing things now that I have not done in years.

What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?

I take 2 chewable vitamins with iron, 2 600 mg Calcium with Vit. D daily, and B-12 injection monthly.

What side effects (nausea, vomiting, sleep disturbace, dumping, hair loss etc.) were worse for you? For how long after surgery did they persist? How did you cope with them?

The worse was the neausea at 3 months that lasted for about a month. The hair loss was scary, but it has stopped.

What was the worst part about the entire bariatric surgery process?

The worst part of the surgery was the X-Ray the day after surgery. After that, it was a cakewalk.

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

I started a support group for our area. I have learned so much from others. I have had several guest speakers in and everyone seems to enjoy the group very much. Support Groups are very important. They are a great tool for people considering the surger.

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

I have little tiny scars that are becoming lighter and lighter. I predict that within another year, they will be almost invisible.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I experienced a plateau at 50 pounds off, and I am in a plateau now at 85 pounds. I have begun working out, so I hope to see this plateau going away very soon.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I can't believe how much people have noticed. I have gotten so many compliments. Some people I have known for years don't even recognize me. I can't wait for my next class reunion.