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

My husband told me about the surgery Rosanne Bar had. I started hearing more and more about Dr. Fobi and then started researching his procedure on the internet. I was actually approved to have him do my surgery, but couldn't afford to pay his outrageous fees. I then started researching further and learned of the DS procedure and Dr. Welker and couldn't wait to get started.

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

My insurance policy has a weightloss exclusion stating it will not cover any expenses for any form of weightloss treatment UNLESS the patient is deemed morbidly obese. I fit that category so I provided them with my medical history, diet history and included copies of my medical records showing doctor assisted weightloss attempts. I also wrote a letter on my own behalf stating my families history of diabetes, heart disease and obesity. Furthermore, I included pictures of myself and letters from my current and past physicians. I would suggest providing your insurance company with as much information as possible.

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

At first I was very nervous during my consultation with Dr. Welker. He was very easy to talk to and I soon became comfortable. We went over my medical history and he asked me several questions about different comorbidities I had. He explained both procedures, the RNY and the DS, including the pros and cons. He explained the post-op requirements and what tests would need to be done and what supplements I would be required to take. Overall, the consultation went well and I was eager to get my surgery date.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I knew that surgery was my only hope for having the normal and healthy lifestyle of so strongly desired.

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

My stay was just fine. I slept most nights in the recliner that was in my room. I just felt better there. I had one night time nurse that wasn't very good, but after complaining, they never got her back. My room was extremely stuffy and the hospital staff couldn't locate a fan for me, so I had to have a family member go out and buy one. I would suggest making sure your room will have a fan or plan on bringing your own. I would also recommend chapstick as your mouth will be very dry.

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?

This surgery kicked my ass. I was so extremely weak and tired. The first week I did really well with eating and such. I can't really complain. About week 3 I became very nausious and vomitted quite frequently. This lasted for about 2 weeks. I ate lots of soda crackers which seemed to help. About week 3 I also became extremely depressed. I cried about everything. I eventually had to go on antidepressants. Apparently, depression is quite normal when your body goes through major surgery like this.

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

I am part of an on-line support group. Currently, I am seeking an eating disorder counselor because this surgery doesn't cure the desire to eat and to feed those emotions. I think it is extremely important to have some form of support whether it be through local meetings or on-line. There's lots of issues that will arise and you will want to be able to talk to individuals that have been there.

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

My scar extends from my breast bone to my belly button. It's purplish in color and exactly what I expected. I don't consider it a scar, this is my new beauty mark.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have had several small plateaus that last about 2 weeks. I stop losing right before my period and won't lose again for a few weeks. I'd like to know how to prevent this from happening, but haven't been able to figure it out yet. I haven't had any real major plateaus other than that. Currently I'm losing about 10-15 pounds a month.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, people do treat me different. My husband treats me different. He waited until after surgery to tell me that he didn't want me to do it. He now thinks I'm too skinny and yet, I'm still obese. I also work with all men and when I was heavier they didn't think twice about sharing a dirty joke with me, now many of them don't feel comfortable doing so. I also have family members that avoid me because they are now very unsecure about their weight.