Biggest Mistake

I just had my RNY surgery 5 days ago and I feel like I made a big mistake. I wish I didn't have the surgery.  I keep thinking about food and that I can't eat like I want. I should have canceled it.  I keep reading the stories about people being happy with the surgery but right now I don't feel the way.

Unfortunately you cannot go back. Now you have to take what you have and do the best with it so you do not have more health issues. Take care of yourself and follow the plan. I do not want to see you live in misery when there is nothing you can do about your surgery.   My prayers are with you.

I had similar thoughts occasionally in the first few days after surgery, just 13 days ago - but now that the pain is (mostly) gone, I'm feeling much happier. When I hit phase two of my eating on day 8, tomato soup never tasted so good. Hang in there, I'm beating once the pain goes away and you can have more than clear liquids perhaps you'll start feeling better about your decisions.

Most of us go through that phase. Most refer to it as "buyer's remorse." Right now you are dealing with recovery, doubts and regret, and it's too soon to see any of the benefits from surgery. You'll learn to live without most of those unhealthy foods. There  really isn't anything that I can't eat now, if I wanted to. But I was able to learn how to not want them like I used to. You can do that too

Give yourself some time to get used to the new you. You'll like it, I guarantee it. Stick to your plan and you'll do great.

Honestly, this is not that uncommon this "buyer's remorse".

If you are anything like me you have just lost your best friend and your worst enemy...food. And the artificial comfort it provides. You will probably have to morn the loss. I know I did.  Because you can't have food (if you started on liquids probably not even solids yet) you are fixated on it and missing it. Everyone around you has food. Why can't you? And you have to remember you have just had major surgery. Your body is still trying to figure out what you have done and how to make it all work. Give yourself a break. It's normal to be depressed after any major surgery.

Do you honestly think this was a mistake? Or were you just having a "moment" when you posted this? I hope you are just having a moment. Because if you really feel this was a mistake...well it doesn't really matter because they don't reverse these things unless your health gets so bad they have no choice. And lets hope that doesn't happen.

This is a new beginning. A reboot. Here's your chance to start over and learn more healthy eating. Grab hold of it for all it is worth. Not everyone gets this chance. And even more people deny themselves this chance because they feel ashamed of seeking medical treatment for obesity. And that's a shame.

In a few more days you will be feeling a bit better. In a few more weeks better still. And in about 3 months you will probably turn a corner and suddenly realize that things are getting easier. It's a wild ride but I wouldn't go back for anything. Good luck and keep coming here for support.

I think most of us had times right at first when we felt like that. Once you get onto a more normal diet with real food and begin to see weight loss it gets so much better. You will get to that place where you can go out to eat with family and friends,make wise food choices and feel satisfied on a small amount of food. You will get there I promise. Right now just take it one day at a time. I am 19 months post op and down 140 pounds. So thankful for my surgery!

When you feel up to it, attending a WLS support group may help.  I went through a mourning period that got quickly replaced with enpowerment (sp?) once the scale started spiraling downward.

It's very normal to feel that way.  I did, around the five day mark.  

Wait until the pounds start coming off and you remember why you did this.  I hope you'll realize you made the right decision.

I too felt that way right after surgery when I woke up very neaseated.  But I told myself, can't go back, gotta go forward and that I have.  I have not felt hunger pains,  but the cravings are still there..I made my husband meatloaf dinner yesterday and it smelled so good, but I just left the room when he was eating.  Thursday I can eat softer foods, egss, cottage cheese, etc. just take one day at a time.

I agree with what everyone has said.  the other thing to remember is that for some people the effects of anesthesia can cause depression and can last for a while.  I get a little weepy after anesthesia, usually for a week or so.  That could also be contributing.  Hang in there.  I still mourn food now and then.  And by mourn, I mean really mourn.  I will just cry for a bit and be sad about what I don't have anymore.  and then, like anything, it passes.  For me, I have to really allow those feelings.  so be sad if you need to.  But then let it pass.