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

I work in a hospital and unfortunely was forced to see some of the negative outcomes from a certain surgeon. I was very frigtened of the surgery after seeing so many terrible problems with others.

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

It was overwhelming at first all the steps to take, but I just took it one step at a time and was finished in a very timely fashion and it turned out very easy.

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

I think I would of got more if I would of gone to all the online support sites to get an idea of what the surgeon will discuss.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I decided I've wasted enough of my life letting my weight control my happiness.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

Research and of course my surgeon was also a factor in the decision.

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 knew in my particular case the risks were minimal. For those who are in a higher risk catagory I would suggest to really really research what they can do prior to surgery to minimize their risks. It would benefit them greatly.

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

It was better then expected. I stayed over one night. I really didn't need to bring anything myself. Everything was provided for me.

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

None

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 was excited and scared. I kept making sure with in myself that I felt comfortalbe with the decision.

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

It took more out of me for the first few days than I expected. I was lucky to have family visiting to help me with things.

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

20 miles.

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

For the first few days I tired easily, then after about 2 weeks I was pretty normal. Resumed walking regularly. By the end of a month or 6wks I was back.

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

Calcium, centrum

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?

NOne

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

Learning how to eat again.

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

I had no idea about the scar, I hadn't considered it. I was suprised to see the large scars for a lap band. I have 5 in all. 2 vertical ones about 3 inches long and 3 smaller ones less then a inch.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes. People look me in the eye more.