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

I several years ago read an article about the surgery but knew I would never get approved. I saved that plus any other article I could see. I thought that the surgery was a great thing but fighting the insurance was a battle and I would never get it because of that. Then the popularity increased and I thought lets try at least. I knew it was a major step but nothing else worked and I need help. It was a neccessary step worth taking.

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

My hospital stay was pretty good. I was there from Friday morning of the surgery till Monday, so 3 days. I almost went home on Sunday but my blood count needed watching so I stayed. The only problem I encountered was awaiting my pain medicine on two occasions. The most important things to bring were your positive attitude and determination, something to read, slippers and personal care items. In the hospital it is better to wear there gowns and easier to.

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

I really didnt have any complications other than some normal drainage from the incision. For that I just would wear a pad on it when it was heavy and left it open to air when not.

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

After I got my surgery date I was happy and anxious. I was upset at first it took 6 weeks to schedule once approved but it was holiday time and worked for the best. I kept busy making sure arrangements were made and my house was ready. I maintained visits with my psychologist before and after and that helped also. I had the attitude this will be the start to the rest of my life and I need to do what needs to be done!

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

A support group and helpfull numbers to call are so vitally important to your physical and mental well being! I have been attending our Staples for Life support group meeting every month since last september. It is like a lifeline of help and love and support. Also Dr Ali's after care is important to follow for the success to be obtained. He is such a caring and knowlegeable man. He has a schedule of visits with a call anytime attitude for questiosn or help. He has a program written out for after surgery for eating that is extremely helpfull to!

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

I expected a long scar but was hoping it would fade. the lower aspect is fading nicely but near the top it is I believe what they call like a keloid scar. I am a bit dissapoitned but am using cocoa butter and it is softening and shringkign a bit. This is nothing though! I would rather have this that the weight.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

So far I have only slowed once to one or two pounds for a week or two. It was around one of my menstraul cycles one month. I think that may have been the reason for it. I was so worried but then I started up again.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

YES definately!!!!! I am still heavy but less than before and people are nicer and friendlier to me. I stillg et those looks but not as much and they do not bother me anymore!