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

My doctor asked me if I had ever considered it. I just always thought it was a cosmetic type of surgery for the rich and famous. Never knew that a regular Joe Schmoe could have it and your insurance cover it.

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

My hospital stay was for 3 days. I had lap rny. It was very pleasant except for the regular things you have to go through after any surgery. I was taken good care of.

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

I had none whatsoever. I did get sick oneday but they gave me some medicine right away then I was fine. Think it was from the anesthicia (? spelling).

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 felt all kinds of emotions. That I was finally going to be thin and healthy. As my date got closer, I had so many emotions i just cried. Once I was at the hospital I knew it was where I was suppose to be and was very calm. It was the build up. You wait so long.

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

Just that you need the time to recover. Expect not to feel great and keep a positive attitude. You will be tired and sore. I was dying to chew after a few days at home. that was the hardest part. Sugar free popsicles saved me. Then i was fine.

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

abot 7 miles.

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.

I started out on a soft diet. soft boiled egg on toast.....tried one item for a few days then eventually just added more. If once I tolerated I moved on. You just have to take it real slow. Give your body time.

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

it was slow but i forced myself to walk immediately. Everyday going a bit further. Now at 3 months post op I walk 2 miles every day. I feel great and its easy

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

I take 2 multi vitamins per day, 2 tums per day and one b-12 sublingual once a week

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?

well between months 1 and 2 I vomited alot. I think my stomach wasnt quite ready for some things, then other reasons eating too fast, not chewing well. I believe it will be trial and error for everyone.

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

well it was the best thing that Ive ever done for myself. Just wish I didnt have to have surgery to get where I need to be. But I thank God for it.

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

we Have a monthly support group and a Gastric Bypass Nurse practioner that we can call anytime.

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

I have 7 tiny scars. Just one being the biggest of about an inch and a half. I also had my gallbladder taken out at the same time.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I havent had any yet.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

not yet