Am I being petty?

I went in to my surgeon's last week for my two year check-up, but instead of seeing him, I saw the physician's assistant.  I've nothing against her--she is a very nice person, but I was a bit put off by the fact that I didn't see him.  I've worked very hard these past two years and have lost 238 pounds.  He even did my tummy tuck in July.  I know I was just there for the bloodwork results, but I guess I just wanted some affirmation of what I have accomplished.  I know he personally sees other patients on their yearly follow-ups.  Maybe I am being petty, but I was really disappointed.  And it reminded me that I can still be made to feel invisible regardless of my weight!   Perhaps this was more of a problem for me as I don't have friends and family around me for the support.  I've only lived in this area for a couple of years and there aren't many avenues for meeting people in this family oriented city (they all go home to their families instead of doing things to build new friendships).  Maybe it's just time to move to a more engaging city and get over it! Do you see your surgeon at your yearly follow up? Sally

Yes, I did.  And I have seen him annually every year since.  He has always been there and spend time talking with me and checking my progress. 

First off I'd like to congratulate you on losing 238 pounds - that's amazing - well done! I had surgery in another country so haven't seen my surgeon since I left hospital.  Maybe your surgeon had an emergency or was not in that day?  I'm sure there is a reasonable explanation (as he sees his other patients) and not something related to you - perhaps they didn't want for you to have to reschedule. Do they have an achievers notice board or something similar so you could mail him your before and now pictures for him to display?  I'm sure he is pleased you have done so well not only for you but the fact that it reflects well on him too.

He was there that day seeing other patients, but they might not have been as far out as I am.  He does include my progress photos in his seminar, and he has said is is pleased with my results.  I guess I just wanted an extra pat on the back since I wouldn't be going back for another year.   Thanks, Sally

It has been 2 1/2 years for me.  I have seen my surgeon once since I left the hospital.  i don't think I ever saw him in a face to face appointment before surgery.  I did not and do not like this, but it is how he runs his practice.  He came highly recommended, so..... I kept my surgery a big secret and only told immediate family, so I did not get much support there either.  Of course, all the compliments at losing weight were nice. Patricia 262/130  (133 this am ugh) 5'1"  

I guess it all has to do with the surgeon's personality and business habits.  I have seen both my surgeon and the PA about equal times.  I don't know how he decides which patients he sees.  But I would rather have a great surgeon--and this guy is--that I never see than someone who is always there, but not such a skilled surgeon.   And congratulations on your loss.   Sally

Yes, I will take a great surgeon, too.  And Congrats on your loss too. I think at the point we both are it is hard to get back to living and quit thinking about losing the weight all the time.  I know my life has revolved around wls for 3 years now.  I am tired of thinking about it, but I am afraid not to keep thinking and working the program.  I guess that sounds crazy, but you probably know what I mean.  I am facing a revison for my TT/BA/BL and possibly an arm job, so here we go again.     Keep up the great work Patricia.  

I do know what you mean.  A part of me wants to move somewhere no one knows I had wls--just to be normal.  But then a part of me is proud of my accomplishment, and I use that as a motivator.  Four other people where I work (it's a small place) have had the surgery since I have and several others have lost weight on their own.  Some have said it is specially because of the difference they saw in me.  It is good to have that kind of accountablilty--people will notice if I don't stay on track!  I do know I could regain through grazing and not exercising if I wanted to.   I'm having more work done on my arms next month--he didn't take off enough over the elbow--but hopefully won't need any other revisions.  I would love to get the legs and butt done, but insurance won't cover that.   Hope all goes well, Sally

I need work on my butt and legs but have decided not to go there.  I really need work on my face but do not have the nerve to let them cut on my face.  Personally I am glad I do not have people keeping an eye on what I eat knowing I had wls.  Of course people are watching to see if I am gaining it back.  I know I have people sitting around saying, "She will probably gain it back--she has done this before."  I too know I can gain it back.  I have to exercise like crazy and watch what I eat.  It is tough on my DH, but I try to not even keep saltines or bread in the house.  Sometimes I feel like a crazy women. Patricia   

Oh I know about the crackers!  They are my downfall now that I can't eat bread.  I too have to keep junk out of the house.  If I do succumb, I just make sure to eat a couple of bites and then rinse whatever it is under cold running water.  That generally distroys most anything snacky!   Good luck, Sally