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

I started to hear about it on television and couldn't imagine having something that drastic done. The more I heard the more I investigated and found that this could be my answer. I researched surgeons, clinics, and tried to watch and read about every possible story. Some were bad and most were good. I wanted to live so I haad to know more.

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

I had my surgery on a thursday and went home on sunday. I could have gone home on saturday but I was having a problem with nausea. My doctor wanted to be sure I could hold down atleast water. My stay was very tiring but that is because they were monitoring you constantly. I went thru a LOT of ice chips and really had no interest in anything else. They started bringing me other liquids on Friday but nothing tasted good. Maybe because I was so nauseated. I say bring your own PJ bottoms atleast and some slippers. Nothing else really mattered. I was hooked up to so many IV's, etc that it was just easier to use their gowns for the top. I did have a strong urge to brush my teeth real often because my mouth was extremely dry.

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

I did not have any complications from the surgery but I did have an intolerance to one of the antibiotics. I have never been sick and had never really taken any before . It wasn't a great time to find out.

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

From my approval to my surgery was only a couple of weeks but it was an emotional rollar coaster. I was very happy but it gave me to much time to think. I never doubted it but I had some anxiety. I just tried to keep busy

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

My doctors office offers a monthly support group which I plan to start next week. I also have made many friends that are waiting for or have had this surgery. It has been more than helpful because i found others just don't get it. This web site has been great also.

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

My doctor takes pride in small scars. It is about 3 inches and should shrink to about 2.5 as I lose weight. It doesn't hurt and it's really not that bad. I just put vitamin-e on every day. It is way better than I thought it would be.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have not plateaud yet but I don't think it will bother me to much. This has been the most awesome experience and what ever it bring i am ready.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Oh Yes!! I wish I could say it is all good but thin people and even some close family haven't been very kind. I think over all the more weight I lose even store clerks are more attentive. I always felt like there was discrimination when I was heavier and now I know it wasn't my imagination