disadvantages?

All of the questions that I had so far have been answered by the surgeon at the conference. But, there are 2 questions that I have that only those who have had the surgery can answer for me. They are: Do any of you have any regrets and did you see any disadvantages to having the surgery? I really am trying to make an informed decision for myself and the questions keep coming to mind 1 at a time. Thanks in advance for all of your help. You will probably see me as a regular LOL. Your friend, Beth

My regret is not having done this many years ago. I feel like I need more time to make up for all the "lost" years when I was just letting life pass me by. Immediately before my first surgical date I had the emotions about wondering if I was being selfish taking such a big risk when I have young children. This is the best thing that I could have done for my children. Another thing is that in the beginning I went through some sort of mourning for food. That's a head thing, because then you become to know that you really don't need all that food. If you follow the docs orders and get in the water, protein and vitamin supplements, etc then food becomes less of a "hobby" and more regarded as fuel for a healthier self. I still have a way to go before goal, but I am so much healthier and happier now. I wish I were able to have done this at an earlier age. Hope this helps, Dianne

Beth, I posted the same exact question when I began my research. People on this board were very honest and almost everyone said the only thing they would change is having it done sooner in their life. I am only 9 days post and so far I can say I am very happy with my choice. I have fought my weight for my entire life and it was a battle I felt I wasn't going to win. This decision is a very personal one and no one but you can make the final choice, Good luck and keep posting with all your questions. Someone here always has answers for you. Ellen Schonbach

I must say i agree with Diane. I wish I had done this sooner. I am only about 3 weeks post op but i feel good. I have lost about 25 lbs which i have never never never been able to do on my own, so I am so thankful just for that. Even with only 25 lbs gone i am starting to feel better about myself. Mary Clark

I soon wondered after my surgery if I had done the right thing or not... it took me about 6 months to get squared away with all my complications. So, in the beginning... I thought I had made a hugh mistake. But now, I would go through everything 10 times again to get the results that I have today! Life has changed so much for me and my family. I am very lucky to have had my surgery at age 30. I'm almost 3 years post op now. The only disadvantage I see is the money I wasted on the clothes that I outgrew so quickly!! ha ha So that is why I have a clothing exchange at my monthly support group meetings. Save that money for the new wardrobe when you finally get to the new size! Good Luck in your journey... only you know the answer that is right for you!! Best Wishes!

Thank you all so very much for your input, I'm not sure why I didn't decide to do this earlier either. I'm still fairly young so hopefully after I do get it done, with exercise and some hard work, I'll have the healthy body and life that I've longed for, for years. Beth

Hey T, Are you gonna let Beth know how you feel? T & I were roomies. I think for the past year she has regretted many times having had WLS (starting the day of surgery). Not sure if I ever apologized for telling Brett about you not walking, Sorry T. (he removed the cath so she'd have to get out of bed.) But she is a trooper and has hung in there. She deserves an award for perserverance. Today she looks fabulous and is still coming to support meetings and is still on an emotional roller coaster. She is my hero. This was the hardest decision I ever made in my life. Personally this is the best thing I could have done for Me and I wouldn't change a thing. Elissa

E, read my response to Beth. You are too funny, you are my inspiration! and I am so glad to call a good friend! T ps.. I forgive you for making brett yank my cath... lol

Hi Beth, Elissa is correct. I have been a real struggler through this whole process. The first 6 months were a piece of cake (no pun intended.. well.. yes it is... ). After that, my hunger returned with a vengence, I could eat whatever I wanted in what ever quantity I wanted. I lost 85# by a year, but struggled with the food demons, and my emotional roller coaster. I gave in.. many times.. but didn't totally give up. I didn't lose a pound in 5 months. After hitting the gym hard at 13 mos out, I then lost another 20# in the next couple of months. Right now I am about 3# from my original goal ( I am post PS, tummy tuck), but I am also off the wagon.. haven't been to the gym in 2 weeks, when the last 5 weeks I'd gone everyday. It is deffinately not an easy road for me, but like I said, a road that I am still on. AND yes.. I feel SOOOOOOOOO much better than I was 2 yrs ago. Should I have done it sooner? NO, I couldn't have.. I wouldn't have had the support, or the means, or the friends that I have now, that without.. I wouldn't have gotten this far. Good luck in your quest for the right road for you. T ps E.. ILU '