First post ever!

Hi, This is my first post ever. I have been morbidly obese my entire adult life. I found out 2 months ago that for the first time, my insurance will cover bariatric surgery. It was relief to learn this., I was 388#, my highest, in January 2012. In March 2015, I was down to 294#. Since then I have gained 20# and am struggling with dropping again. I was 311# at the doctor's today. I went to the seminar last month. I am meeting with the surgeon next Thursday. I initially thought I would go for the Vertical Sleeve, however, I think RNY may be the better surgery for me because I am PCOS and Type 2 Diabetic an I think my metabolism is broken. I guess I'm wondering if there are people here who chose RNY over VGS and how they feel about their decision since the surgery, Also, does RNY take the hunger away? Did anyone with PCOS and/or Diabetes have difficulty with weight loss after their RNY surgery? I guess I'm looking for testimonies. Thank you!!

Hi justamom, and congrats on the upcoming surgery! 

I did choose RNY over VGS and I am very happy with the decision.  I had surgery on July 27th, 2015.  Part of the reason I chose RNY is because I have severe acid reflux and the VGS can exacerbate that in some-  Also, the RNY has a good history and to me seemed just more logical.  (Not sure how else to describe it.)

The RNY for me has temporarily taken bodily hunger away, as the nerves are cut during surgery.  From what I understand, they do grow back over time.  It's up to us to learn good habits and discontinue bad ones during the first few months. 

Like you, I have PCOS, and no, I haven't had any difficulty with weight loss.  I lost 27 pounds in the first month, in fact.  (I haven't been weighed since, but I can tell I'm getting smaller.)  Before surgery, no matter what I did, I couldn't lose weight. In fact, the only way I did lose weight prior to surgery was because I had a severely infected ulcer on my leg, and my body burned a ton of calories trying to help me heal. 

I'm now starting to exercise as of today, and I can say that I don't regret my decision at all.  I have more energy, feel better overall, and see my future as something positive.  When I look down at my tummy and see the little marks from the surgery, I beam on the inside.

I hope this is the kind of feedback you were looking for! 

Progress,

-LB

It will be eight years for me next month and hunger has not returned yet.

I wasn't given a choice, however RNY cured my GERD, PCOS and foot pain.  Any major weight loss, I imagine, would do that. 

I had no difficulty with weight loss as long as I avoided carbs and ate a protein and fat-forward diet.  I also exercised (and exercise) like a demon.  I rarely feel physical hunger, but when I do I find it is often emotionally-based.

Audrey

You gave me the courage to write my 1st post!!  I am converting over to RNY from the band.  My endocrinologist told me the RNY is a much better choice for the Type 2 diabetes.  Good luck to you whatever you decide!!

Hi and welcome!! I too have PCOS and type 2 diabetes. I wanted VSG but because of GERD was told by 2 surgeons that RNY was the best choice. I'm 8 months out, still no real physical hunger at all and was able to stop metformin, insulin and lipitor day of surgery. My diabetes is in remission with my a1c at 5.2, low cholesterol and 2 weeks ago ditched the cpap!! All blood work great and all co-morbidities gone hopefully forever, although in remission to be precise.

Greatest thing I've ever done for myself!!

Hi Welcome,

i remember not too long ago I was in your place.  I just had RNY 8-25-15. I too am a diabetic and was on an insulin pump. I am happy to say I have not been since surgery. I take nothing for my diabetes. All is within normal limits. I am having the same levels as when I was on the pump.  All in control, and I held tight control of my diabetes with a a1c of 5.3 before surgery.  By Endo suggested surgery because of my diabetes and gastroparesis.  I have had no problem loosing. In fact I just had my post-op visit after two weeks and lost 12lbs. My dr was thrilled, as was I.  I am sure you are excited and nervous at the same time. As questions of your team, take advantage of their knowledge and know that your journey is your own.  You will do great.  I wish you good health.

Kim

Hi justamom -

I also had type 2 diabetes and it is now gone. I saw my PCP yesterday and my A1C is 6.1 after 3 weeks.   I had surgery on 8/18 and am very happy with my decision to have RNY and down 17 lbs.  I've been on pureed food for 3 weeks and just starting solids next week.  My hunger has returned a bit.  I get full, however, with 1/2 - 3/4 of a cup of mushy stuff.  Originally I also wanted VGS also, but my surgeon recommended the RNY because of the diabetes.  Best decision ever!

Thank You, everyone. You give me hope and its encouraging. My plan is for my husband to have his surgery first, in February. Then I hope to get it at the end of April/beginning of May. We will meet all of our insurances qualifications once the 6 months is complete. I'm thankful we have found a good surgeon. Its just a new process and life changing. Again, thank you.