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

Knew about it for some time, but not of the new RNY procedure, just of the "old style" of doing things. I have lost the excess weight three times, without lasting results. After much research, decided to go for a permanent "fix" to my lifelong weight battle, especialy with my declining health.

Describe your first few weeks home from the hospital. What should people expect from this period?

Massive changes nned to be made emotionally to your " new way of life" and if you find yourself faultering,getting sick will fix everything.......ewwww

How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)

Approximately 50 miles one way. Aftercare is now once a month and it's not too bad to drive that.

Please describe in detail what things you could and couldn't eat in the weeks and months following surgery. What foods have been off limits? Please explain how your dietary tolerance changed week-by-week, and then month-by-month since surgery.

Chicken and turkey were my best friends, and I could not tolerate beef early on. I am now 3 months post-op and can tolerate well cooked soft beef. (pot roast, stew etc.) Filet Mignon, prime rib. Aversion to soups now after three weeks of them!!!! I get very bored with foods now and actually have cravings for different things.

What was your actvity level in the days and weeks after surgery?

First few weeks--nil, but now growing stronger with every passing week.

What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?

Don't laugh, 2 Flintstones chewables daily and two berry flavored Tums for calcium and Pro-Blend 55 time released protein drink.

What side effects (nausea, vomiting, sleep disturbace, dumping, hair loss etc.) were worse for you? For how long after surgery did they persist? How did you cope with them?

naseau, still have it every morning like morning sickness---terrible.

What was the worst part about the entire bariatric surgery process?

Naseau, still have it no matter what I do. Doesn't matter if I eat, don't eat, drink more water, nothing seems to change it for me.

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

We see a registered dietician once a month for follow up who has had the surgery herself and is well versed to advise us patients.

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

I was glued back together! No staples, no external sutures. It is about 5 inches and fading quick.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have had several plateaus but have decided not to weigh everyday and get upset anymore, just stay my course and watch the clothes fall off!

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, most definately. I don't know how to explain this, but I just don't have alot of use for the people that would not take the time to get to know me before, and now want to be friendly---I am the SAME person, just wrapped differently.