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

I had a friend who had the surgery. I was very excited about it as a successful tool for weight loss.

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 think it was very important that I had a support person there with me. She made sure I had ice, my linens were clean, I was comfortable etc... I was only in the hospital for 2 night. I wore to the hospital the outfit I planned to wear home. I brought nothing else and didn't need anything save for toiletries. I recommend a certain type of underwear that was very comfortable for my belly post surgery. They are at Lane Bryant and are called Cacique. Get a few pair in a size larger than what you are wearing prior to the surgery.

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

The only "complication" was a stricture that needed dialation in the middle of my second month. Food got stuck and I threw up for a while. The dialation was quick and painless.

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 great. I stayed off my feet for the first few days then started getting out and about. By the end of the first week I was ready to get back to my normal routine.

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

Dr. Pennings has established a post-op support group that meets everyother week. In the beginning I went to everyone I could, now I go when I have time. They were extremely helpful to me. I learned that each person's experience with the surgery is very unique. A number of people experienced the same things I did, but not all of them and none of us had all the same things happen. I still think that pre and post op support is extremely important to make this adventure a success.

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

Dr. Pennings performed a laproscopic Ruex-n-Y. I have 6 little pin holes (less than an inch in length) that are rapidly fading away to nothing.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have not hit any plateaus. I lost 10 pounds a week for the first 3 weeks then lost 5 pounds a weeks for a couple of months. I am at my 8th month and am averaging 2 pounds a week. I am 13 pounds away from my goal of 130 with a BMI of 25. My biggest piece of advice is to stay off the scale. I only weigh in once a month. Some women weigh in every day and they have had problems hitting a plateau. It is better not to fixate on your weight and enjoy what is happening to your body!