New here....

I'm new here on OH and this is my first post... I live in NC and have recently started researching RNY gastric bypass surgery (both on line and by attending local support groups) and believe it is right for me.

I've contacted my insurance company to get info from them on their requirements. I've contacted Hickory Surgical to begin the process. My dr is on board w/ my decision and has sent in required info and I'm awaiting my appt w/ the psychologist.

I'm here hoping that you will share your story w/ me and I'd like to know:

-Would you recommend this surgery to others?
-Have you had any complications?
-How much weight have you lost?
-Do you have any recommendations as far as protein shakes, etc?

Thanks in advance...

Hi Mrs Lloyd,

I had a RNY gastric bypass almost two years ago on Dec19th at Duke weight loss center. I lost a total os 125 pounds. I would do it over and over again if I had to. I had a complication at 4 weeks of a stricture. Which is were the new opening of your stomach closes due to scar tissue. I had to have it dilated with a scope a total of 5 times. It was three months of HELL, no lie but I survived and would do it all over again if I had to.
The protein shake I used was Iso-pure low carb chocolate. I started using it about 3 month out, up unitl then I used sugar free carnation instant breakfast. If you have any questions I am happy to answer with the truth.

Good Luck
Audra

Welcome to the group! I'm glad you found us. I know lots of the other members will be able to chime in and give you some answers. Good luck!!

MrsLloyd,

I would absolutely do it again. I've lost about 130 lbs and been able to keep it off and my health issues that propelled towards making this decision have all resolved. I had a complication during surgery that was managed during surgery and hasn't impacted me negatively at all. I also have had a post op complication that was due to my own stupidity; my iron levels were stable for more than 2 years then started dropping. When we traced back, I realized that about 2 years ago I started donating blood to the Red Cross. It never occurred to me that the donations were connected to my dropping serum ferritin levels. I had an iron infusion a couple of weeks ago and will see my hematologist again in February to see if I need another infusion or if that did the trick . Of course, I won't be donating anymore; I'll just have to find other ways to support the Red Cross ;-). I personally am not a big fan of protein shakes, so I only used them for a few weeks post op and weaned myself off of them as soon as possible. Now I get my protein through the foods I eat and don't have any problem getting in 80 to 100 grams of protein a day. 

You are most welcome to read my profile blog and ask me any questions you might have.

Wishing you all the best,