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

I had originally first heard about it when it first came to light. The dangers were so great then I did not want to take that chance. So i waited to it to become a more commonly spread operation and the mortality rate to become better.

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

I actually had an easy time of it all. My doctor's office handled all that for me which made it less stressful for me.

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

My first visit was so scary at first but I had such a great Doctor and his staff that I was put to ease quickly.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Finding the perfect doctor!

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

IDK-- I just wanted the quickest recovery time.

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?

I had high fears about this. I went filed a will and made sure my estate was in order before surgery. My doctor assured me that whatever complications came up that he and the staff would know what to do.

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 some family that was so excited for me and I also had family that was so scared. I got mixed reviews and promised to prove the horrible reviews wrongs!!!

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

My stay was awesome!! I was there for 3 days. The most important thing I could bring was a little photo album of my kids since I didn't want them to see me in the many stages you hit at the hospital.

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

No I had 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?

I cried a lot and cleaned a lot!!

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

Getting tired very easily and a swarm of different emotions!!

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

I traveled about 20 minutes for sugery.

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

I redecorated my apartment, planned and bought everything for my wedding and so much more.

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

complete vitamin regimine.

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 get nauseous at times, slight hair loss, some sleep disturbance, I have had dumping once, I have lots of gas- stinky gas, and a few more.

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

Nothing ---- yet!!!

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

I have a support group I can go to--- a nutrition group and seeing my doctor often.

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

My scars look like an addition to my stretch marks. The scars are a lot smaller than I expected.