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

by searching the web. found the site obesityhelp.com did major research thought it was risky at first but did more research and know this is the only way for me to change my lifestyle.

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

Still trying to get approval. Sent packet to coordinator for surgeon. says my insurance GHP never approves anybody, but my policy (for federal emloyees) specifically states that it is covered. Told me to get psych evaluation and documentation of previous weight loss attempts. Will have by next week. Had to get new insurance Blue Choice and new primary doctor. After sending packet to insurance I was approved in two weeks.

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

Very short. Since I did most of the research I didn't have alot of questions. I felt like I could perform the surgery I knew it so well.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

It was my last option. I didn't want to continue living like I was

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I know I want the RNY because I want because I like the fact that calories are not absorbed and success is much better. Definitely want the LAP because who wouldn't. Six weeks of pain compare to one week. Doesn't take a brain surgeon.

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 don't have any fears. It's like be scared your going to get hit by a truck or lightening when you go outside.

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?

Husband is iffy. Sister all for it--she's going to do it too. Mom is worried.

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

havent told them yet

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

Hospital was great. Nurses were caring. I was in for two days. I should have stayed the third day. It was my option. At home I could not move and in the hospital there was an adjustable bed. Only bring the clothes you are going to wear home. Most of the time you just sleep. If you are not sleeping somebody is prodding or poking you and waking you up.

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

no complications

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

The first couple of weeks were hard. There was pain and not able to move much. Expected to feel better after second week but really didn't feel better until fourth or fifth week. I had a surgery buddy (she had surgery the day before me) and it really helped with any questions or concerns I had in the first few weeks.

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

There is a support group every wednesday. I have gone about five times. Sometimes it is helpful. I really like it afterwards when I get to talk my friends I have made.

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

There are six little scars and I never ever think about them anymore. They are really fading

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have a plateau about every two to three weeks. It sucks But I just keep telling myself that in the end the weight will all be gone.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No not yet