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

I saw the comercial on TV, I thought it was to good to be true. I thought the people were just actors and that it was a big scam.

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

My hospital stay was fine. I was there 3days. Be sure to bring a diary to write in about how you feel and important things that are happening to you.

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

I was fine after the surgery. I had a speedy recovery, and felt good. I have had a few bowel obstructions. I am not sure if they are surgery related or not. I do feel they might be.

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 anxious, and could not wait. I felt no anxiety till the day before, and just thought I will be better off after I have the surgery.

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

We had a support group that met one time per month. It ended in January due to complaints about BTC in general.

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

Mine is big. I have had to have part of my small bowel removed and they went in the same scar. I imagined it to be basically like it is. HUGE

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have it many plateaus, this is frustrating. I find the hardest part is to get the last 20 pounds off to my ideal weight.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes