A lightweight? Really? Need tips to prepare for surgery

I think it is hilarious that I am considered a lightweight!  I don't exactly feel lightweight!  I am pre-op and scheduled for surgery on March 7th.  When I went to my first appointment  for the surgery I weighed in with a 35.2 BMI., 5'6"  and 218 pounds.  They acted like I could not lose ANY weight.  So I thought it was crucial to not lose any weight.  

Well....... I started a couple of months of last supper syndrome.  You know........ I can not accidently lose weight and lose my best chance of ever getting a hold of this eating problem!  

Now, having too low of a weight is not an issue because I gained up to 230!  How stupid is that!  I did not notice because I HATE to get on the scale.  Anyway now I am trying to lose back down some , but losing is not exactly my strong suit.  :)    Anyway, I would love to hear any tips you can give me as I head into this RNY surgery.  Check out my before pictures and I hope to hear from some of ya'll! Catherine

Catherine, Welcome to the LW board, LOL...yeap hard to believe isn't it.

I signed into my surgeon's office at a 35.2 BMI as well. I went into surgery on Monday the 24th of January at 199 lbs which gave me a 34.7 BMI. And that was without dieting to lose weight.

So yeah, I kwym about being a lw in this world. We just barely qualify.

Liz

I know, it doesn't feel lightweight at all does it?  I too had to raise and maintain my weight during the 5 month clearance process.  It sucked big time to eat myself from 216 to 224.5, but I had to do it!  As soon as I got that surgery date though, I started eating normally and started the pre-op diet early so that I had lost 20 lbs. by the time surgery rolled around.  My surgeon was happy about that.  Maybe it's one of the reasons I seem to have bounced back so quickly.  Anyway, for me to be approved, without any co-morbidities, it was indeed crucial for me not to go under a 40 BMI and even better to be over a 41 so that there was no question whatsoever with the insurance company. 

You going up to 230 is not stupid at all, if that's what it took to get approval without question.  I would suggest starting your pre-op diet early like I did.  Mine called for 54 oz. water, 2 protein shakes, 1 light meal of 4 oz.lean protein and 1/2 c. cooked vegetables.  It also allowed me to have a handful of fresh veggies if hunger really struck, which was very fair.  I didn't think it was bad at all.

You can do this, you've got 3 weeks!  You go girl!

Welcome aboard!

--gina

As I have significant comorbidities I have to stay above BMI 35, which I am.  Barely.  I've lost 15 pounds just by changing my lifestyle, but I can tell that eating much less than what I am now will leave me hungry all the time.  I have my final weigh in this week and after than I can drop below and still not be disqualified by insurance.  Thank goodness.  It's pathetic that we can be denied surgery for following their recommendations to eat healthy and exercise, but there it is.  

Hi Catherine,
Welcome.
My surgery is Tuesday. Here's how I've prepared:
1. Get the stuff on the Newbie tool box list (you might not want everything on my list, but it's a start. see it here:
www.obesityhelp.com/forums/wls_lightweights/4295962/Seeking- Newbie-Tool-Box-suggestions/

2. Write a dear me letter reminding youself of what it was like to be before the surgery, and all the reasons (like the two sweeties you have in your avatar) you're having surgery.

3. Get a realistic idea of what it's gunna be like immediately post-op, and the months ahead.

4. Find a local support group.

5. Ask LOTS of questions.

congrats on your surgery, and welcome again.

You all are so awesome! It is going to be fun getting to know all of you guys. I look forward to checking out that tool kit.  The letter to myself sounds good too.  I am going to make a list of non-scale victories that I look forward to reaching, such as
1. getting back into regular clothes stores 
2. crossing my legs
3. less puffy looking face
4. more energy
5. the first compliment I get, etc.

It will be fun to add to the list and cross them off as I go.  

Love, Catherine

My only advice would be to not overpack :) I brought way too much stuff with me and when I was wheeled back into the recover room,  I was too weak/tired/stoned from the morphine to do much of anything.

I'd just bring the basics: hygiene supplies (soap, wash cloth, deodarant, toothbrush, toothpaste), a good pillow, and a hair brush. I was more comfy in the hospital gowns than anything else, and the slipper socks were fine so I never ended up using any of the extra stuff I brought.

Welcome to the LW Board Catherine.  Good luck with your surgery - it will be here before you know it!!

Linda

Hi from another board newbie!! Congrats on your surgery day, how exciting.

I love this board so far. These folks are so knowledgeable, kind, considerate and so supportive. I love the tool box, what a great idea!

Anyway, wishing you a speedy surgery and recovery!