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

I am a nurse so I knew of it somewhat. Initially when I looked into it about two years ago, I was horrified and decided it was not for me. About a year ago, I began learning more about it, had tried one or two last diets which failed...gained more weight and approached the subject much differently. Any illness has it's treatment and while they may not be the most desirable or the easiest things to do, in the name of health they must be done. So that is how I arrived where I am today. Just under five weeks post op...and grateful for having the opportunity to pursue this life saving treatment.

Describe your experience with getting insurance approval for surgery. What advice, if any, do you have for other people in this stage?

The Company that I work for is self insured. Prior to seeking insurance approval, I spoke with the Medical Director from my Company to discuss the whole issue around WLS, the problems I was having, and the diets that I have tried. Because I have known him for several years, he saw my weight fluctuate first hand over the years. He supported my decision andas a result, contacted the Insurance Company and instructed them to approve the surgery.

What was your first visit with your surgeon like? How can people get the most out of this meeting?

It was interesting to say the least. I had the opportunity to email him prior to surgery and I also visited his site so I had an idea of what to expect. I went fully prepared with a typed list of all diets I had tried, names of therapists and MD's that I went to over the years for treatment of my weight loss, prescription diet pills I used and programs such as Weight Watchers and Jenny Craig. I also documented with each attempt, how much weight I lost AND GAINED. I asked about pre-op testing, whether there would be any invasive testing and/or pre-op preps, and an estimate of how long I would be in the hospital. We also discussed the different types of WLS and which one would be right for me.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

After two years of soul searching, unsuccessful additional attempts at weight loss and ongoing despair about my weight, I decided it was time to make myself well and happy. My decision to go forward was helped by the support of someone I know who had the surgery, my internist, the Obesityhelp.com site, and the love and support of my family and friends.

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

I was in the hospital for seven days. The nurses and their assistants are committed to working with bariatric patients. This made the stay very comfortable. Also, the doc I went to has all his patients in private rooms which was great. I had post op complications of atelectesis and pnuemonia which prolonged my stay...the normal stay for open Roux-en-Y patients (I am told) is 4-5 days. BRING SLIPPERS and roomy sweats for the ride home! Don't want anything rubbing your belly!

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

As mentioned above, atelectesis and pneumonia. Antibiotics and breathing treatments did the trick. After I went home, I developed seroma's with copious amounts of discharge. I had Abdominal pads at home that I purchased pre-op and they came in very handy. While seroma's aren't really considered a complication, I thought I would mention it.

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

Excited, impatient, like the time was not moving. I was not anxious about having the surgery at all (when you take two years to decide you are pretty sure it's what you want to do) but I was afraid that something would happen to prevent me from having it.

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

Group therapy. If this site wasn't here it would be much more important. This site is really a great support network.

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

Terrible. Worst than what I thought. A midline scar... I am only eight weeks post-op so I will answer again when it has time to fade.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Having one now... Have been on a plateau from week 5 through week 8 and holding. Hopeful that it is beginning to break.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not really. I am very lucky with those who are in my life. Nothing much has changed.