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

I seen something on TV about it. Then researched it on the internet. Found OH site and participated. My first impression was that it was barbaric (RNY). When I found out about the DS, I knew I could live with that, and would not settle for less.

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

I was denied the DS and approved for the RYN. I appealed this decission and was then approved for the DS. My advice would be to appeal the decissions you don't like.

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

It was just what I expected. Keep a list of your questions and concerns and take them with you to the surgeon.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

When I realized that the risks of my co-morbidities outweighed the risks of surgery.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I researched thouroughly all of the procedures. I found that I could live more easily with having the DS.

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

My fear of dying from obesity related issues were worse than my fear of having surgery. My advice would be to decide what you can live with.

How did your family and friends react to your decision? Would you have communicated anything differently if you could now? How supportive were they after your surgery?

All in all they were pretty supportive. They had a lot of questions, and thanks to all my research I was able to answer all of them.

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

I was admitted on Monday and released on Thursday. The only thing I used from my bag was toothbrush and toothpaste.

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

No complications

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

Elated, and relieved, then anxious.

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

There is a monthly support group at Presbyterian Hospital. But the OH site is my main support.

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

7 small incisisions. I have so many stretch marks that I could care less about surgical scars.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Gaining 12 lbs. of fluid after surgery was a bummer. It is coming off. Then hopefully the weight will follow.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not yet, too early.