APRIL 17th!!!!
Hi Everyone,
April 17th will be the start of my new life. I'm really excited and very nervous. I can not believe how fast the 6 month diet has went. It feels like I had my psych eval yesterday. My insurance approval went way smoother than I thought. I was approved in less than a week. Is there any advice that you would like to share? EXAMPLE what to take with me to the hospital, pain after surgery, when can I shower after surgery, anything really. I'm just curious see if you have any constructive advice. I'm trying to plan ahead.
Thanks In advance,
Jenn
Hi Jenn,
That's exactly how I felt about my surgery date - a new life! I don't know what surgery you're having so I'll just tell you a little about my experience getting the lap-band. I had it a week ago today and I still do take the liquid tylenol, sometimes the kind with codeine in it. The pain really isn't all that bad (that might be the morphine I got in the hospital talking)
. It's more of a soreness like you just did 8,000 situps. That brings up the point that that was and still is the most painful thing - sitting up from laying down. And some pain in my back.
I only stayed at the hospital one night so I really didn't need much. I brought books, but had no desire to read them while I was there. Just the basics - clean underwear, really soft comfortable pants that are loose around the waist for the ride home, and a bathrobe for when you have to walk the halls. And CHAPSTICK. Do not forget the chapstick. My mouth got so dry waiting until the next day to drink anything. When you're in your room if they forget to give you mouth swabs that look like lollipops, ask for them. You can dip them in water and run them around the inside of your mouth.
I showered about a day and a half after surgery. The wounds are no big deal. Five cuts across my abdomen and they closed them with dermabond that just flakes off as they heal.
I'm not loving this whole liquid thing now that it's been a week, but that's just a mind thing, it's all your pouch can handle for a while.
And last, but not least, when you're on the stretcher being wheeled into the OR and your're thinking "I can't believe I ASKED to be cut open", remember that's normal. At least I hope it is, cause that's what I did. Good luck with everything and I hope my long letter helps a little.
Suz
. It's more of a soreness like you just did 8,000 situps. That brings up the point that that was and still is the most painful thing - sitting up from laying down. And some pain in my back.
I only stayed at the hospital one night so I really didn't need much. I brought books, but had no desire to read them while I was there. Just the basics - clean underwear, really soft comfortable pants that are loose around the waist for the ride home, and a bathrobe for when you have to walk the halls. And CHAPSTICK. Do not forget the chapstick. My mouth got so dry waiting until the next day to drink anything. When you're in your room if they forget to give you mouth swabs that look like lollipops, ask for them. You can dip them in water and run them around the inside of your mouth.
I showered about a day and a half after surgery. The wounds are no big deal. Five cuts across my abdomen and they closed them with dermabond that just flakes off as they heal.
I'm not loving this whole liquid thing now that it's been a week, but that's just a mind thing, it's all your pouch can handle for a while.
And last, but not least, when you're on the stretcher being wheeled into the OR and your're thinking "I can't believe I ASKED to be cut open", remember that's normal. At least I hope it is, cause that's what I did. Good luck with everything and I hope my long letter helps a little.
Suz Hey there! Congrats on getting your date and your new start on life. I'm 3 months post op now and I remember surgery day like it was yesterday! My biggest peice of advice I can offer is...Don't sweat the small stuff!" Try as best you can to keep your thoughts calm and collected. Try not to stress and don't worry about the pain when you wake up. I know it's probably easier said then done, but when you get there you will see how much this helps. I myself am petrified of needles and I wanted to freak when the did my IV....only 6 times they had to jab me! And the shocking part was...I didn't shed one tear and I kept calm. I really think that tackling the mental aspects of this game will definitely help in the long run. I have to honestly admit that there was really NO pain...it was more soreness like someone punched me in the gut when I moved around, got up or sat down. Other than that, the pain was non-existent...and let me tell you...I'm a WUSS! Pain is different for every person so please don't think I'm saying you won't have any at all, but it should really be minimal. As far as taking things to the hospital...pack light. I overpacked and didn't need any of the stuff I took with me. My hospital was great in letting me use my cell, but some aren't so make sure you have phone cards handy. When they have you get up and walk, remember the more the better. The gas discomfort is by far the worst part of the whole thing...it was for me for sure. Chap stick was my best friend and still is! Hope some of this helps you and best wishes for a safe and speedy recovery. If you need anything what so ever, please feel free to ask...I'm an open book!
Hugs
Kerri
Most Active
Recent Topics
