What do you wish someone had told you?

Hello - I am seriously considering getting the MGB done in early October, 2012 with Dr. Rutledge in Las Vegas.  Does anyone have any feedback or tips that you would recommend that you WISH someone had told you before you had the surgery?

I am working through my packet right now and trying to get everything done.  I would also be extremely interested in hearing from MGB people that were "smaller" for the MGB, i.e. 240-260 pounds for a female.

All feedback would be appreciated.

Thank you and happy losing!

Hi,

I have to say, by the time you finish the packet, you will know just about everything you need to know.  Being 12 years out myself, I do have some advice.  The first two years postop is the best time to lose the most weight.  Now, while you are working on your packet, get your support systems in place.  As you know the surgery deals with the stomach and NOT the mind.  If you have food issues, find a good counselor who has experience working with people with food addictions or disorders.  Think about, now, what activity you want to do when you are able.  Something that will keep you moving (biking, hiking, dancing etc.).  Find a support group and go!! This is so important and many, many, many postops don't realize it.  If you struggle making good food choices, find a good nutritionist to help you with it. 

This journey is a total body healing process and it is for life.  So, the more prepared you are now, the better chances of success you will have later.

Talk to your doctor, write it down everytime you have a doubt. Research, research and more research. I think that's the best advice you can get. However, I thought the gastric bypass was only for the extremely obese and was the last option as a surgery. Is that true or have I heard wrong?