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

The first time I heard of WLS was when Carnie Wilson had it done. At first, I did not even consider it because I was terrified of having surgery. I felt like I would be trying to take the easy way out. Boy was I wrong.

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

I had to be at the hospital on Wednesday at 6:30,surgery was at 8:00. I went home Friday morning about 11:00. The hospital staff were very helpful and encouraging. I was on a morphine drip the first day. By the second day, it was gone and I was taking short walks in the corridors.

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

I had the usual complications from the surgery. Vomiting,nausea being the most common. In the beginning I had some constipation, but that got better. It was very hard for me to wear my bra the first week because of the incisions. It is very important to drink only the fluids you are allowed. Once you get on solids,eat only what you are allowed. When you feel yourself getting full, STOP.

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 was so excited when I got my WLS date, I could hardly keep a thought in my head. The close it came though, I started getting nervous. What if I didn't wake up from anesthesia? I know that is silly. Make sure you make an informed decision about this surgery. Once you have it,it can't be reversed.

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

My surgeon has a bariatric support group meeting once a month. I have not been yet. I am planning on it. But right now it falls on a bad day.

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

Since I had laperoscopic surgery, my scar is not bad at all. I have five small lines around my stomach. Then one scar where my jp drain was. The scars are pink and not bad at all

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

My first week post-op, I lost 17 lbs.So naturally, I expected to lose that after that. Wrong! There have been some weeks that I only lose 1-2 lbs. Then I would lose 8 lbs in a week. It is very frustrating. My doctor told me to quit weighing every week. That has helped.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

It is nice to hear people say things like, I can really tell you are losing wt or wow,you look great!