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

I had a co- worker who had the surgery and I was amazed at how much better she looked and felt after only a few months. I knew I wanted that!!!

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

I am very lucky to have insurance that is paying and that they approved it in only 3 weeks with no delays. My advice is just to present all of you health records at once to avoid delays in approval. Also, be ready for the approval, but expect a denial so you won't be as disappointed if it happens with the first letter.

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

I researched a lot and knew quite a bit about the surgery before I went, but I still asked questions. The main thing is to write it all down and make sure you get answers that make you feel comfortable. This person is the one (along with YOU!) who will change your life, so it's important that you have a good rapport.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Sick and tired of being FAT! It's just that simple. We all have our breaking points and mine is resorting to surgery since nothing else worked for me.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

My surgeon helped me decide. I am having a LAP RNY. He does that procedure and I feel that I can recover well with it instead of an open procedure.

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 can only make informed choices with the best possible medical doctor I can find, but in the end, I can't worry myself with "what ifs" when I know I have done everything humanly possible to prepare for this surgery.

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 didn't share my surgery with very many people. It was more of a personal decision for me and I just didn't want a lot of people making a big deal about it. Those that I did tell were very supportive and I am very lucky to have such a great family and friends.

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

I stopped working a few years ago, so this isn't an issue for me right now. However, I am planning to go back to work when my children are in school and I am curious to see how I will be treated when I interview for a job as a "thin" person instead of a size 26. I wonder how I will be treated then? Can't wait to see! :o)

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

I love the aftercare program. It is always nice to meet people who understand.

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

My scars aren't bad at all. I had a laproscopic RNY and I have been using Mederma.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have only noticed plateaus when it's time for my monthly menstrual cycle.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, I do. People look at me with a "puzzled" look, but are usually afraid to ask. For those that have told me "I look different", I just tell them that I got my hair cut a little shorter. :o) I don't know why, but I get a giggle out of that.