Reasons why we choose to have weight loss surgery

Hi! Since I've only been MO since 1994, I'm feeling as though I don't have enough legitimate "reasons" why I should have gastric bypass. My family keeps telling me that, since I used to be thin, I should just do what I used to do. If it was that simple, I would have done it a long time ago. While I don't have high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems or high cholersterol, I don't want to wait until my body crumbles under the strain of my extra 200 pounds. My husband thinks that I should wait until I have some "real" reasons for the surgery such as diabetes. I think it's OK to have tried and failed many, many diets and to decide that you've had enough of the yo-yo. Even my PCP thinks gastric bypass would help me to live longer (even though I'm not ill now). Did anyone else struggle with feeling like you had to justify having the surgery to friends and family? If so, what were some of your reasons? Thanks for sharing your experiences! Cassandra

HI Cassandra, I am approximately 150-175 pounds overwieght with no other contributing factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, etc. I did not tell people that I was having the surgery until my appointment with Dr. Irgau was within a week for this very reason. I did not want to have to admit that I was a failure or had an addiction to food. I told my parents about the surgery and they were shocked. They even offered to pay for me to go to weigh****chers again. I thanked them but told them this is what I really wanted to do. They have since come to realize that this is something that I need to do for myself and have given me their support. I had difficulties accepting it myself at times but the more I read, ask questions and go to meetings the more I know that I am making the right decision for ME. No matter what people will have their opinions and suggestions but only you will know what is best for you. It is possible that if you wait for the "real" reasons to have surgery it might be too late. I wish you the best in your journey. Ellen

Hi Cassandra, You're correct, it's only a matter of time before obesity related illnesses find their way to you. Losing the excess weight will improve your quality of life so MUCH...it really is amazing. Even more amazing is how quickly you feel the benefits. I never felt the need to justify my choice with anyone. I had ( and have ) the full support of my hubby and kids. My mom was scared when I told her I made an appt with a surgeon for a consult. I can understand that, but she also knows that when I make up my mind to do something, get out of my way lol. I have encountered very little negativity regarding my choice, and what I have encountered I chalk up to a general ignorance about the procedure, mostly due to the few negative, sensational media stories that float around every so often. I use any opportunity I get to educate. I have to say I am concerned about your husband thinking you should wait till you have "real reasons" This takes alot of commitment and in my opinion this surgery and it's success are about 90% MENTAL. Only you can know if you're prepared to deal with all that may come from that. Good luck in your choice and I wish you much success! Linda

HI Cassandra, I have been over weight since age 5. I had gastric bypass on September 29, 2003 and have gone from 269lbs to 133lbs. I know the feeling of having to justify my reasons to other why this surgery was needed. My husband fortunately was not one of them. He knew from the time I told him I had a consultation for this and knew of my attempts at diets. But other famly members I had to explain my reasons. I did not have diabetes or high blood pressure....I basically had leg and back pains and saw my life starting to go down hill and I am only 33. I felt like I was in 70 year old body. But once I made up my mind to go through with this surgery I decided I would not let anyone change my mind. I knew what I needed to do and refused to believe anyone when they told me I needed more self control or more will power. the others were not living my life and didn't feel the way I felt. I didn't want to die early or end up coming down very ill with obesity related problems. I feel we should not have to justify our reasons for RNY but it is easier said then done. Good Luck!! Hope

Hi Cassandra, I did not have any illnesses, however my BMI was 50.3. Many of my family and friends said I didn't look so big, however I was 170 lbs overweight. I looked at my family's medical history, with diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack, etc. and decided I wanted to do something now. I did have problems with my knees due to the weight. I wanted to have this operation early, while my body was healthy to heal from it. That was my take on it, I wanted to be proactive instead of reactive. I hope you find peace in your decision to have or not have WLS. It is truly a decision you have to make. Your family and friends are not the one who has to deal with the xtra weight on your knees and the pain in your joints. I made my decision and nothing anyone said could have changed it. This is truly a personal journey. ~Shelly

Cassandra I was in the same situation. I had no health problems to mention only that I was morbidly obese. I tried everything. My husband felt that this procedure was drastic. We argued for about 3 years. Finally, in February 2004, I told him, If you love me, come to the consultation appointment with me and hear the Doctor out. My appointment was in August. My husband questioned the doctor about everything. He was finally comfortable with my decision and I proceeded with all the testing. My surgery was 11/17/04. I have NO REGRETS. I am so much happier with myself. My recovery was quick and somewhat painless. I was mentally prepared for this procedure and I think that this is the key for a quick recovery. I'm hearing a lot of doubt from you and not having the support you need to get through this, will be a problem. I hope you make the right decision for yourself and know that we are all here for you. Franca