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

I was not heavy enough for bariatric surgery when I first heard of it. Then about a year later, I had a friend who decided to do it and I found that I had gained another 25 lbs., making me eligible. I never intended to gain but I was in a complete downward spiral.

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

I am told it was uneventful but I hurt for 5 days. You can't sleep much and you are pretty miserable with the NG tube. I was very glad to get that out. I got sick witht he Dura-Morph and I had some pretty bad stomach spasms. My advice is to bring someone to stay with you. My husband was there the whole time and I don't know what I would have done without him.

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

Not really. I had two weeks of nausea about 4 weeks post-op but I am told it is not all that uncommon.

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 more excited than anxious so I focused on that.

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

I use this site for support. thay are great and i know they are always there, day or night.

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

It is 6 inches long and it has a keloid but I don't mind. I didn't intend to wear a bikini ever agin when I was fat so I don't intend to now that I am thin.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have constant plateaus. I don't lose for 4 or 5 weeks and then I drop 5 lobs. It is frustrating but at least I am consistent so I think this is right for my body.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Totally. I get much more respect now. It is not fair but I will take it.