Newbie

Hi Everyone,      My name is Wanda and I am a newbie.  I have been lurking and reading since I decided to have the surgery.  I am just starting the process and it is overwhelming to say the least.  I am actually looking forward to being some what healthy again "normal" if there is such a thing.  lol   I just hope my doctor will approve of this.  I will find out on Tuesday.  I know I will need the support not only from family but also people who have had this done.  Well just wanted to say hi and congrats to all of you.

Have a great day and a better tomorrow

Just wanted to say "Hi!" back atcha & welcome you to the forum.  You'll find a great deal of support here and if you have ANY questions, put 'em down.  Trust me - someone out there will have an answer.   It's a huge undertaking and can be overwhelming at times:  it took me 3 appeals to get my approval, then the actual surgery, adjusting, rapid weight loss, slower weight loss, WOW moments, and overcoming obstacles.  Would I do it again?  IN A HEARTBEAT! So you are amonst friends, comrades, buddies, et al. Go for it!  Hellen

Thank  You Helen  Yes I have a lot of questions hearing different views can be confusing.  Have you or anyone else every heard of putting in a G Tube and JP drain for laporscopic gastric bypass? A co worker just had hers done in Aug 07 and they put that in.  My doctor hasn't said anything yet and I guess I will have to ask him.  Again thankyou for the warm welcome. Wanda

I don't remember a G tube, but yes, you will get a JP drain.  It stays in for 7-10 days depending on how you're healing.  It just drains off fluids internally from the surgery site.  By all means, ask your doctor every question that's on your mind.  It's your body so you need to know as much as possible about what's happening and what's going to happen.  In the meantime, if you think of anything else, feel free to email me at [email protected] 

Weclome Wanda the newbie--
You lurker you, hope you have been learning lots while you are lurking. Is the doctor your primary doctor you are seeking approval? Some do not support weight loss surgery, which I think is a shame. Like all things it is their opionion...and you are entitiled to a second one if he does not support your decision. If this tool of WLS is what you nned/want and feel deep in your soul that this is the in your best interest...then find those that do support you. Many will not and you will be sick of the phrase... you did it the easy way. However, the road with WLS is one the hardest you will embark on... Good luck!

Laurie   Thank you for the warm welcome.  The doctor I was refering to is my  primary.  He has never said one word about my weight.  So I am not sure if he will approve.  The surgeon is great he actually  cares.  In this world to have someone care about anyone that has a weight problem is far and few.  This is something that I know I have to do if I want to get better and start liking myself again.  I know it sounds bad but I can't look in the mirror and like what I see.  I know I have a long road to hoe and I am ready.  I say bring it on.  Thank you Wanda

Hi Wanda I noticed you are from Hartsville.  I love that town.  Both of my parents were born there and I still have quite a few relatives still there. Good luck with your quest!  It took me several years to get approval and only then after I had planned to go to Mexico to have it done.  My insurance came through after an appeal and I had RNY on June 9, 2006.  I have lost 160 lbs.  I had a tummy tuck on January 30th that took off the last 20. I'd love to talk one on one sometime.  I can be reached at (843) 991-4778. Dollie (Tyner) Pilson My mother's side of the family are the Bass family.

Hi       Just came from the doctor and he approve the surgery.  Whoo Hoo, I talked with my insurance pre cert. they also have no problem.  So know just waiting on the surgeons office to call me back so I know what else I need to do.     I moved south in '89 Family are here so I have the support system.  I can't wait I want to start living again.  Way to go on your weight loss that is great.  You must be really proud.  You can email me at [email protected]  Take care Wanda 

Hi Wanda & Welcome !!  AND  CONGRATS !!!  My jp drain came out when i left the hospital, I think I stayed in for 3 days , felt freaky as the devil when the nurse pulled it out but did not hurt at all. As I type I have 2 in !!  I had my Tummy Tuck last Wed. & knew from lurking here that jp's after a TT goes home with you ...  if you dont have a Surgen in mind , I will Suggest a GREAT ONE that I know without a Doubt saved my life several times !!  Dr Marc Antonetti , he is with Riverside surgcal /Lexington Medical center ..He might not  always tell you what you want to hear BUT he will never lie to you nor sugar coat anything for your benifit .I cant say that there are not others that are just as good BUT I do not think there are any out there any better than he is !!

welcome to the boards!! looks like everyone answered your questions.. good luck with surgery!