What did you do to prepare?

Hello!

My TT and BA is in 25 days... I'm going to up my protein and workout.... what else should I do?
What did you find was the most important part of your recovery?  Any suggestions?

I've been dreaming about my surgery... guess I'm nervous! lol

I know I need to take my pre-op pics, not sure I like the idea of being naked in pics! Yikes!

Thanks!!

Lisa

ETA- How do I mentally prepare?????

Hi, Lisa!

I really upped my workouts several weeks before and upped not only protein but calories (especially the week before). And get all your "extras" done around the house

BTW, I didn't look at my self-taken "before" pics till 2 days ago and I teared up - the difference is astounding!

Good luck to you!

Thanks so much!

How did you prepare mentally? I read some people really struggle after their PS...

Lisa

My biggest "mental" issue was with the drains -- that fourth and last one didn't come out till yesterday and it was a source of both pain and aggravation.

I did feel myself getting a little down a few days ago and was like "is this the depression I've heard about?" but coming back to work really helped - I think it helps to get back into a semi-normal routine, especially if you're used to work, the gym, etc. I mean, it KILLED me to be limited in activities! I even put my gym shoes on for the experience

Lurking on here was huge for me. To know you're not alone. As for mental preparation, it depends on what your anxiety is about - mine was the pain. I was told by two people that i would be in agony so i kept waiting for this horrible pain to hit and it never did. My tailbone was the worst! LOL I had a few other friends tell me to quit freaking out and I told them that if I prepare myself for the worst then anything else but that will be terrific! Same thing when I had my WLS -- I kept waiting for this awful pain after surgery and nope, never came.

The drain was painful?

I agree with getting back into a routine if possible.. I did that with my WLS as well.

Thanks for all your input, I really appreciate it!

Lisa

I had 4 drains -- 3 came out within the first week. The 4th stayed in till yesterday - it was only painful because the insertion point started trying to scab over and was drying out. It was pinching when I walked....otherwise, not a physical pain just a pain in the a$$!

Lisa,

I sent you a PM!

Chris

Got it... THANK YOU!!!

Lisa

Start taking stool softeners several days before the surgery and continue as long as you need to.  Have someone pick you up in a car that's easy to get in and out of.  After the surgery when you get up and walk around keep your cell phone with you (I never needed to call anyone but it made me feel better).  Don't be a hero - take the pain medication.  Mentally - think about how great you're going to look.  Go to different websites and see other people's before and afters.  Relax and take a lot of deep breaths.   

Thanks for the good info!
Lisa