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

From a co-worker that had it done. I wanted to learn more right away.

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

I didn't have a great experience with the insurance company. They had very specific rules. Make sure you follow them closely and do everyhting they say. Ask alot of questions to make sure you understand exactly what they want.

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

I had a great first meeting with my docotr. He was very thorough and answered every question I had. Make a list of questions before you go so you don't forget to ask anything.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Having the medical problems I had and the weight I was carrying was enough to make me decide. Once, I met my docotr and he explained everything I was definitely sure it was what I wanted and needed.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

I followed my docotors recommendation.

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?

There is always a little fear with any surgery. I personally felt that I was dying a slow death with all the weight and the fear of the surgery was really never there for me. I felt that if I was meant to die from it than so be it, but I was killing myself with the food. I was so sure of my doctor and the fact that he would get me through it.

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?

I had support from everyone. They all knew how bad I wanted and needed this surgery. I also had plenty of support afterwards.

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

My employer was suportive. I believe they knew my losing weight would make me a more energetic employee. Unfortunately the same month as my surgery lost my job through no fault of my own. Cut backs.

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

My hospital stay was good. I was there almost 4 days. The most important thing to bring is slippers and robe so you can get up and walk around right away.

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

Some bllod pressure problems but my doctor got me through it easily.

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

Just a little sore at first. I felt a little weak but, getting up and walking is the best thing.

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

Learning how to eat properly is the most important thing. Follow the list your Dr. gives you. Don't try to eat anything heavy. Keep it light and eat very slow and chew chew chew everything. It will make it a lot easier and you won't get sick.

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

15 miles. Didn't affect me at all.

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

I was weak at first. I made myself get up and walk at least twice a day. It really helps alot. I wouldn't go far but every little bit helps. I know it helped me lose the weight too. I felt stronger each day and healthier.

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

Flintstones chewables daily.

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?

I did okay with the nausea, vomitng and dumping because I learned to chew my food propperly. That really is the most important thing I think. I did lose a lot of my hair and that was hard for me to deal with, however, I am now at the point where a lot of it has grown back so I am feeling better. I sarted losing it around the forth month after surgery and I probably lost more than half of what I had. I was lucky it was thick to begin with. My hairdresser told me it would grow back and it is.

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

Losing my hair. So that shows you how easy the surgery was.

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

My Doctor has a support group meeting once a month. I admit I don't go like I should now but I did in the beginning. They are very helpful and I suggest you go.

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

I have small scars and they don't bother me at all

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

After about 6 months I hit a period where I didn't lose for a while but it didn't last long and I started losing again

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, But in this society it's what I expected. Obese people are definitely mistreated.