Decisions...Decisions...Decisions

I am just strating to rearch all these procedures. I know of 2 people that had this procedures down. One is skinny now and the other is struggling I believe. So looking at the suceesful one is the RNY proceudre. I am young still, 30. Tried every weight program, pills, and stuff like that. I just starting looking and seems Dr. Borao @ Mon Medical is the way to go. I just am wondering if I should attempt what looks like a long process. First let me state, I am not a big fan of needle or tests. Bloodwork I am not a big fan of. Thus my hesitancy to start this. I realize I am over reacting with blood work but no a big fan of the needles. I dont mind the meeting and the sit downs. It the testing, is there a lot of testing involved before the procedure. teh procedure, I not worried of because I will be knocked out. Can anyone help with so encouraging thought or comments.......

Tim, first let me say I am glad you are asking questions now. Keep on asking. I had my surgery May 2nd. I couldn't be happier. I am down 60 lbs. This is what I wanted to address. If you are afraid of needles, don't you think if you stay overweight you won't be seeing them? I was dying. I know I was. Slowly & painfully. This surgery has saved my life. If I had not had the surgery, I wouldn't have been here much longer. I think (& this is MY opinion) I would have been outta here in about 2 years. Don't let any fears you may have discourage you. You will face the needles anyway. I wish you the best of luck. Sara.

What typically happens day 1 from meeting the doctors( test, procedures). From the looks of people in my area, this doctro in my area is one of the best, so good that he has at least 1 year wait. They say, well worth the wait, seems too much time to think??? I appreciate all feedback. Just want to get my life on track and see my kids grow and play.

Tim...I hate needles too. ...I think we all do. Ya really got to bite the bullet on this one cause there are TONS of needles for this. Pre op...post op and everywhere in between. I think I was a human pin cushion for the 2 months pre op and then throughout the surgery and days I was in the hospital. We are talking blood testing..IV's and pain meds! B12 shots and whatnot. I really had to suck it up and figure what was best me being way overweight or a few needles. I hope this helps some. Sorry to be so blunt but this is the way it is. Best of luck to you and Hugs! Shele 31May06 -31 lbs

Hi Tim! Everyone's body is different and sometimes this doesn't work. I have to say, you really have to work with it. I am 8 weeks out and 34 pounds down. It's hard and it's definatley a life changing experience. The only thing I can tell you is do all your research and pick a good doctor. The needles suck big time, but it's worth it in the long run. I am so happy that I did this and I know so many people who feel the same way. It's not a miracle and you won't drop the weight over night, but it's so worth it. Good luck! Danielle

Tim, First off, let me say that I was nowhere near a pin cushion. The only needles I had prior to surgery were for a complete blood test. My next encounter with needles was on the day of surgery. Since then, I've not been near a needle. For my 3 month post-op visit I do need to have another complete blood test done, but that's one needle. All I know is, in my opinion, the benefits of this surgery far outweigh any discomfort had by being stuck with a needle. I had my lap RNY surgery 5/15 and I'm down 46 pounds. I have not one regret about having this surgery. If anything, I wish I had done it earlier. I've had no complications at all. Yes, it's a life-changing surgery. Without changing negative behavior, whether done with the surgery or without, you won't have any success in losing excess weight. I wish you luck in your journey. Check out my surgeon. He's wonderful. Michele : )

Hey Michele - We have the same surg date. I am only down 40 lbs. and jealous but at least it is coming off!!!! NO REGRETS HERE either!!! GO FOR IT TIM!! You will not be sorry!! Darlene

Hiya Darlene! No need to be jealous... you're not that far behind!! Keep up the great work. Isn't it THE BEST feeling in the world??? I wouldn't change a thing. Michele

Hey Tim, I feel what you are saying...HATING needles and hospitals,etc. Something is making you look at this choice. Let me say that everyone's journey toward and through this surgery unique. Your present health, weight, habits, and age will influence what preop things you will face besides bloodwork. Personally I have diabetes and heart disease in my family tree, I had high blood pressure, sleep apnea and metabolic syndrome with anemia. My cardiologist ordered a full workup whi*****luded a heart catherization to give me my clearance. I had a psych eval, two sleep studies and a pulmonary clearance with a colonoscopy for good measure! You know what? I would do it ALL again to have this surgery. I had my RNY 5/5/06 and have loss 65 pounds......my life was given back to me. I believe my life expectancy was going to be severely shortened had I not done this. I still don't like needlesm but the results of the blood tests are CRUCIAL for your doctor to monitor your health...I get extra tests 'cause of the anemia . If I were to have become diabetic like my parents are, I'd be facing at least one needle or more daily!!!! YUCK. The choice for this surgery is a MAJOR life decision..... don't let the needles and hospital deter you from gaining the benefits! I promise you are asleep during the surgery and you are given pain killers either by drip(you'll be HAPPY about the IV) or orally. My surgeon allows her patients about 4 hours to sleep after surgery then you are up and WALKING. Good Lucjk! Kathy

I hate needles as well: during my 'preliminary' period: first visit: consult only. second visit: medical clearance: blood work (4 small vials) Chest x-ray EKG Upper GI Ultrasound of Gallbladder third visit: weigh fourth visit: hospital - IV so only twice did I have any needles and one for the surgery. Kat Blog [Photographer & Mom of 5] [[ Some people are like slinkies, they don't really have a purpose, but they still bring a smile to your face when you push them down the stairs.]] 275/247/214/150 start/surgery/today/goal