4 days post-op
I am officially on the loosers side!!! Surgery went pretty well took 3 hours and 20 minutes but still was a Lap RNY. I am sipping, walking and resting. Just trying to keep my fluids up and staying out of the heat. Thanks to those of you who had me in your thoughts and prayers on Tuesday. I am very glad that I chose to do this!!! Time to rest.
As my date draws closer, my level of excitement is growing, along with my anxieties. I've been wanting to find someone to give me a DETAILED explanation of the kind of things to expect right after the surgery. I feel like the unkown is driving me crazy. What is the pain level? What other kind of discomforts are there? If you care to share your story, I'd greatly appreciate it. Good luck on your journey to skinny!
Hi Allison:
I am not sure it's possible to give an exact account of post op happenings. I think a lot of it depends on the surgeon and their rules. From my own personal experience my post op the first day was not what I would call pleasant, but it was bearable. I just had an excess of CO2 under my shoulder and it was quite painful. That lasted about 4 days. Most doctors prefer to keep us well medicated so we don't feel pain, but I can't say that's true for all. Mine did NOT want me in pain, and I bet yours will be the same. It probably says on here who your doctor is, but I do not see it. I used Bryan Freeman at RMC in Anniston. I can't tell you how wonderful he is and everyone that works for him. But back to the details. I had to have an upper GI (required by Dr. F) the next day to make sure there were no leaks. After that it's the first popsicle! Yummy!! Then it's on to the clear liquid diet I followed prior to surgery. We were encouraged to drink protein shakes but they did not do well in my pouch. Just too sweet. Oh, and expect to not rest at all night one. The nurses come in and out all night long. Night two is much nicer. I slept great!
The thing to remember is this: It's a scary time for sure, but it's a choice we have all made to better our health and it's the RIGHT choice! The first week for me was not bad. I have had pain, but it was mainly due to the drains being ready to come out. Oh, and I developed a horrible canker sore on my throat, which made drinking or "eating" painful. I do not even know if your doctor will use drains. Dr. Freeman is one that does. I'm 9 days post op and am eating soft proteins. So far so good. My favorite item is peanut butter crackers because they basically dissolve so I don't have to be afraid of how much to chew. My first official meal after leaving his office to have the drains removed was a scrambled egg with cheese at Cracker Barrel. Oh yeah, it was yummy alright!
This is so long. If you would like to email me directly I would love it. I've learned a lot on here already. It's very comforting to have so many experiencing the same things I am!
I wish you all the luck in the world with your surgery! The best thing is, the first week is over and done before you even realize it! It just keeps getting better and better with each passing day. You will do GREAT!!!!
Cynthia