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

My initial thought was no way! My best friend told me she was having it done and I tried to talk her out of it and she quit calling til after she had it. After learning her journey after the surgury, she talked me into it. We both had the non adjustable lap band, it is the least invasive method of this surgury and the recovery time is the best. I had mine on a Wednesday and went to work on Monday. I fo course was sore and really babied my body cause I did not want to cause any harm to my 2 inch incision. I recovered wonderfully and quickly.

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

My stay at the Hospital was the Best at SpringBranch Hospital in Houston, Texas. The staff was very attentive, I was there only overnight and release in the AM. Dr. Oria was the picture of a perfect Doctor as was his staff. He explained every little step to my husband and I. Any time after the surgury that I have had questions, his staff has bveen more than helpful and he has even gotten on the phone on 2 occassions, and all that makes me feel like he is really interested in his little chickens.

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

None, all went very well!! :}

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 no anxiety, I was ready to loose the weight and just could not beleive the small amounts it takes to feel satisfied!

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

It is very important to have a support group or person you can talk to. The aftercare was Dr. Oria's nurses and staff, they were great and still continue to do so when I call. I of course have my best friend that talked into to share support type conversations.

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

My scar..............its only 2 inches long and isa very light pink since it seems to be fading. I was pleasantly surprised!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Oh yes.......... all of a sudden I'm getting noticed again and it feels great! Some of who I thought were friends have made comments like I don't remember you being this small before. I am currently wearing the same size of uniforms as when I began this job. That was 8 sizes difference. My true friends are really happy for me and are always complimenting me. My husband loves the look. People in genreal treat overweight people with less notice - if that makes any sense. Unfortunately overweight people have a harder time in life , it is easier for the thinner person to get noticed in a positive way. I know I've been thin fat and thin again - I have felt that discrimination-