Calling all post op RNY new and old

Help, I need information about life after RNY. It's the only one my insurance will approve so it looks like RNY for me. I need some info on life after RNY because my loved ones are having a lot of problems wrapping their minds around the risk of this surgery and have been told that the risk continues to be great even years after the surgery. Please email me with info.

Please share that info here too. I am really interested in the replies too. PJ wfad

Hi, I emailed Deanna but I will put here what I sent her. I'm not really exactly sure what information you are looking for. There is risk in any kind of surgery that you undergo. My husband was very skeptical also, I took him to the consult with me so that he could ask any questions he had to the doctor. Have a spokesperson from your family go with you to report back to the family. I know that they are concerned but it's mostly because it is the unknown. My husband had to have colon surgery 3 years ago (due to colon cancer) and I told him that this surgery was just as important to me and my well being as his colon surgery. You have to make up your mind and stick to it. Do the research and be knowledgeable. That will put all of yours and your families fears to rest. You can go to my profile and I've updated pretty often. Would I do this surgery again? Absolutely, in a heartbeat. Please email me if you have any specific questions. Jill 12/1/03 311/231/170?

Read every profile you can on here. The more you read, the more you get an idea of the different post-op complications that can occur. There is no way to be totally prepared before RNY for living the life afterward as it is so different for everyone. Right now, 10 months out, life is not too hard. I have the risk of malnutrition, hair loss, getting foods stuck in my stoma, ulcers, etc. All of the above can be controlled by ME, by taking my vitamins, keeping up with my protein, chewing properly, not taking meds and not smoking to prevent the ulcers and so on. THAT is the problems I could have. I've already gotten food stuck and had an endoscopy to get it out. I also had intestinal blockage, which was fixed with another surgery and my gallbladder was taken out at the same time. I agree with the other poster that said get your family to go to the seminar with you. Ask questions. Read as much as you can before the seminar to know what to ask. Make sure you choose the right surgeon for you. Styles of surgery also, open v/s lap for instance, can make a huge difference in down time and complications. I had the LAP RNY with Drs. Oldham and Weiss in Georgetown on August 4, 2003 and I thank God for sending them to me. This surgery has done wonders for me in health, and in life. I wish you luck in whatever you choose to do, and I pray that your family will open their minds and support you in your endeavor. Stephanie Bishop

As said before, read as many profiles as you can - they go thru everything you may go thru. I just updated mine today because today is my ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY! I've lost almost 100 lbs and cannot express how wonderful life is. I have had no problems. None. Zero. I understand that this is not always the case, but it was with me. In my opinion, RNY is the way to go! Good luck.

Suzanne, I just read your profile and congratulations girl on your fantastic weight loss. You are looking great. You certainly don't look 50. What a success story. My surgery date of June 25 and it is people like you who keep me inspired to go through with this surgery.

Hey Deanna- I am only about 2weeks post op. I had my surgery in Louisville. I have been following my Dr orders to the T, and have had no dumping or major problems. I know I am not that far out, but wanted to let you know. Most the time there is after loss surgeries, tummy tucks, breast lifts or reductions,lipo, and more. We loose weight so fast it is hard for our skin to go back to normal with out the extra surgeries. Drink lots of water, that is the main key in how well your skin will do. Take care and good luck, I will keep you in my prayers.-Melissa

Deanna, Life post-RNY is SOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH BETTER!!!!!!!!!!!! Not sure how else to say it. I am happier, energetic, less-stressed, more confident, HEALTHIER, more comfortable, pain-free, and the best part is that I have been able to find myself again. I was lost for years and years under all the layers of fat. Now I am me again. Yipppeeeee! Read profiles. Read all you can. Do your own research. Bring family members to support group meetings and/or surgical seminars. Inform them as much as you can. Generally, fear and the unknown cause disapproval. Ultimately, you do what you do for YOU. They will love you no matter what you do. Do this because you want it for yourself...never for anyone else. Rachel open RNY 7-31-03 285/152 (past doc's goal)