2.5 years out from VSG

So, most people kind of stop posting after they loose from their surgeries. I was never a big poster back in my day anyway but wanted all of you newbies to know what life really is like on the other side!
I had my VSG done in Nov 2006 I was 280 lbs starting my presurgery diet. had my VSG done in PV with Dr.Joya. In a year I lost 110 pounds. Over the past year I did gain back 10 pounds and now sit at 170-180 pounds - which on my frame is as low as I want to go - I fit into a size 10/12 and that makes me happy! ( I could squeeze into an 8 but I hate being squeezed!) I am now scheduling my plastics ( hoping for a June date!)
So, what is post op life like?
It is wonderful, I found true love (with myself!) I became a stronger person, I found out that I CAN do things I put my mind to. I have struggled, I have eaten things I shouldnt have but it was a rebirth, a gift I could not explain even if I knew the words! I went back to school, I started ENJOYING exercise. I truly became the person I wanted to become. I began to LIVE.

I hope those of you sitting on the sidelines thinking next month or next year take a little bit of advice.
Do it now!
You ARE worth it!
12 months from now you will look back at the choices you have made and marvel at why you waited so long to start living again!

If anyone wants to chat send me a message - I am always lurking but I never really end up posting. I just realised today that now sending in for my plastics date that there probably was someone just like I was 2.5 years ago sitting reading these boards and wondering if it really does FIX you, or if you are going to fail yet again...I did it, you can do it! I know what a gift this surgery is.

I have NO regrets...NONE. The only thing I can say is regrettful is that I didnt get brave enough to take control of my obesity until 2006! These past 2.5 years have been the best. I wish you all success and happiness!

Thank you for this post...it is very inspirational. I am booked for surgery at the Royal Alexandra Hospital on Tuesday, May 19.

I am excited and a tad scared....but mostly relieved that I have come this far and finally realize it's going to happen.

Brenda

 

Brenda - your surgery will be the day your life really begins! Do you have people to be with you after surgery? If you need some support I have no issue coming up! Let me know...I wish you an easy surgery day and relaxation - it truly is a great thing to begin to live again!
Best wishes.
L

Your message is truly an inspiration. I have been sitting on the fence for some time - doing lots of research and reading lots of what people have to say on OH.

I have my meeting with my family doctor tomorrow and hope to book a surgery date for early June.

I can hardly wait for my new life and journey to begin.

Thanks again - I look forward to hearing from you - I am in Saskatchewan and plan on going to Mexico for my surgery.

Hey there close neighbour oh2bthinagain
Wecome to the ab board. I am excited for you...I have heard a lot of great things on the VSG board about some of the docs in Mexico. Have you picked a clinic/doc yet. Which procedure are you going for?

Please pop back in and say hello and let us know how things are going. Best wishes to you

Thanks - the Saskatchewan board is pretty much extinct! ha ha

I have it down to 2 different doctors - Alvarez and Aceves.... I don't think I can go wrong with either one of them. They both seem to be held in high regard by many.

Thanks for the well wishes - I will post what takes place after my doctors appointment tomorrow!

Thank you, thank you for taking the time to pop back in...it sounds like you new life is amazing. I am just waiting for the VSG and so I was super excited to read your post.

Can you share what type of plasics is needed after your weight loss? I can't imagine you have very much?

Where do you plan to have them done?

Plastics...well I am going back to Mexico.
I did see a plastic surgeon in Edmonton but he was AWFUL - if anyone wants names and what happened please PM me I dont want to Dr bash on here!
I need a full tummy tuck with muscle work  and I am having gel implants placed. I have BAD skin - with no elasticity...NONE so nothing bounced back - I have my "chicken flap" arms, saggy tummy and thighs to cope with...but I want to be rid of the tummy because it is causing back issues,hip issues and is really just awful to look at and try to camoflage! I look like my undies have bunched up all the time!
The VSG was wonderful, it changed my world...when is your date?

I heard the docs are amazing for plastics in mexico. A friend of mine has had almost everything done there...and looks terrific. She is not worried about the scaring at all...and honestly who cares if you are more comfortable. Have you looked into Ab health care coverage for a panni? Some people qualify...others don't, just depends. On the other hand you mentioned the doc wasn't great...
I am hoping to get approval tomorrow...I am so excited and nervous...all this waiting..hoping. I am ready...I have done tons of work...hope it happens....If I get approval then I assume it will be another 6 weeks? Not sure.
Thanks for posting, cheers

AHC told me straight up because I went out of province for the surgery that I would not be covered for a panni. only people who go through weight wise  are usually approved. I guess it wouldnt matter to me anyway - even if I could get approval for the panni - I NEED the muscle work that goes along with a full tummy tuck instead of just skin removal so I would be getting what I need anyway - it sucks to pay again though for sure! I think if you get approval (depending on who your Dr is) it can be very quick or a year or so to wait for scheduling. My girlfriend had a tummy tuck in Edmonton and even paying for it herself she waited 8 months to get in. I thought that was weird - but I have only dealt with Mexico pay as you go healthcare! And basically with Mexico, when you want it you basically can have it.
GOOD LUCK! I hope approval and a quick surgery date follow!