some information please

Hi. I have my surgery consult July 2. My BMI is 60. I would like to know a couple of things. How did you prepare yourselves for sucessful surgery? Did you have any comorbidities? What complications did you have if any. Did anyone have DS. I appreciate your advice. Thank you. Jo

 I know you're hearting pounding but first thing RELAX. Preparing for surgery will come easy after consultation as you'll get a road map showing you how you'll eat before, during and after so the guesswork will be done. I myself have no comorbidities unless you consider joint issues one and that's due to the weight. I have a mild sleep apnea but I'm not on a machine so according to the insurance I'm just fat. Someone with the jargon will have to explain DS as you lost me there but all in all I can say. My BMI is 54 and since starting this run last year my advice would be to read all your information and ensure every visit you attend that you're getting EXACTLY what you need otherwise it's delays things. Otherwise prepare yourself to start moving as they'll be less of you when it's all over regardless of what surgery you have, you're going to loose with the right mindset.

My starting BMI was 65 and I had High Blood Pressure, High Cholestrol and type 2 Diabetes..... my BMI is now in the mid 30s and I'm no longer taking medication for any of my co-morbidities....  As for preparing for the surgery, I just followed my surgeon's advice/guidelines/requirements and left the rest in God's capable hands.....

Thanks for the support. I am just trying to learn all I can to give myself the best chance for a good outcome. Jo

Dear Jo, My BMI was 66 without any comorbidities.  My knees are shot, but that's it.   As for preparing for the surgery, your surgeon and his/her team should do a good job of explaining the process and recovery.  If there is a program for you to participate in--nutrition, exercise, behavioral therapy/support group--that should be explained as well.  I would strongly encourage you to take advantage of these sessions and really get your head wrapped around what they are saying.  I find some people are already so set and ready for the surgery that they see these steps as "hurdles and hoops" rather than opportunities to learn. The surgery is really the easy part of the process.  I'd encourage you to prepare by being honest with yourself about any food issues you might have.  How do you use food--for coping, comfort, socialization, to show love, etc.  What is your food "identity"?  The nuturing mother with the comforting hot meals? the classy gourmet who knows all the food trends and tips?  the picky eater who needs extra attention?  We all have one.  If food is going to become less a part of your life, you need to begin to find ways to express yourself without it.  These "head" issues often cause more problems for people than anything to do with the surgery itself.   Personally, I had a great experience with the surgery.  I didn't have any complications (Irish peasant stock!).  I'm down over 220 pounds and actually trying to become more naturally active instead of my normal sedintary self.  I still make some bad food choices--especially around PMS time--but am working on that.  It is great to feel "normal" about myself instead of always self-concious and worried that I won't be able to do something--such as sit in a chair without breaking it.   I had the lap RNY and have had a breast reduction and arm lift so far.  I've just submitted my paperwork for a tummy tuck to the insurance carrier.  I bought a bike--first time since I was a teenager--and plan to go an a carnival ride when it comes to town--again, first time since a teen.  So the effort is really worth it.  But your attitude and compliance will be what makes it a chore or a thrill.   Good luck, Sally

Thank you both, I appreciate all the advice and encouragement. Jo

Hi  Jo -  My BMI was 66.3 before surgery and today a little more than 10 months later it's 36.7. I've lost 167 pounds since July last year. Amazing isn't it? I was diabetic taken oral med. before surgery, but stopped the day before and haven't had to take anything besides vitamins since. I think the best thing you could do to prepare yourself, is find a great DR. Follow all their orders to a tee, and know without a doubt that you are going to succeed!!! I'm one that doesn't push the limits, I've convinced myself that if I eat anything I shouldn't I'll dump, and I do not want that to happen ... I dumped once on a bite of sausage ... not nice! Read all you can, be informed, and ask any question you can think of, that's why we're all here! Best of luck to you as you begin your journey!

Hi Jo! I know you mush be excited about your consultation.  My BMI was in the mid-50's (I actaully don't remember exactly what it was!).  I taking five blood pressure pills per day, 2 different asthma inhalers, I had GERD and took protonix, I had sleep apnea and they wanted me on a cpap (but I refused), I also had IBS My surgeon put me on a preop diet.  It was not required for my insurance, but he asked all his patients to cut out soda, sugar, and bread before surgery and to begin exerrcising and taking vitamins.  I follow his diet and lost a few pounds preop.  I really recommend doing this because I had already gotten soda and sugar ot of my sustem before surgery and I was used to walking.  It helped make the transition much easier. I wish you all the best as you embark upon your journey! Hugs, Tracy

Hi there, I have not had WLS yet but I have been through  the whole process and got denied in 2005. I am self paying for my WLS. I am 425+ ( haven't weighed in 1yr. ) my BMI is 62-64???? and I have no co - morbidities. Thank God , I am lucky. I do have issues with by legs and my lower back. I am Anemic a stay tired all the time. When I was going through  the process in 2005 I attended many many support meeting it was required but I attended far more than I was required to. I also did a lot of online research. This forum is a wealth of info. I have learned more hear than all the meeting that were led by a WLS surgeon. I dont know anything about the DS because I want the RNY but there is a forum on here just got DS members. Good Luck and Best Wishes on your WL journey. I cant wait to see you post your Approval Date. } Dedee

I am a healthy super obese girl- is that even possible- i think not. I have a BMI of 70. I have sleep apnea. No high blood pressure, no cholesterol, no diabetes... but that is just a matter of time at this weight. I had my consult. I have to continue to use my CPAP- no problem I like it- and I have to lose 25 pounds to make surgery lap instead of open. I am also going to start exercising a bit to be as healthy as I can.