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

I found out about the surgery through a fiend that had it done about 6 years ago. She was very heavy and it totally transformed her. I was very interested, but it was not offered laproscopically at that time.

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

This experience couldn't have gone much smoother. I went in on a Wednesday morning. My surgery only took a record hour and 15 minutes. I went home on Friday. The doctors office even paid for my husband and I to stay in a hotel the night before. They were all very professional. The most important things to bring are just the basic necessities and comfortable clothing. Walk as much as possible.

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

I had no complications at all. Gas pains are the only thing I really suffered through.

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 ate everything in sight, but I had a peaceful feeling about the entire thing. I prayed a lot, and felt as though this was an answer to my prayers.

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

I work with 5 other women that have had the surgery and I depend on them a lot. We all will go through different things, but they can really help you through plateaus and bad eating habits.

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

I have 6 very tiny incisions. I thought they would be on my midsection, but they were all under my breasts.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Once I could start eating, I went 8 days with no weight loss. My body was in shock. Since then, I lost 2-5 lbs. per week.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

No, but it is nice to be complimented. My husband takes notice!