Question:
Having Surgery in 6 days and WOW ..............
I havent really had alot of concerns as far as health concerns. I guess I feel as though I shouldnt unless they start happening. I have been keeping up lately with the Q&A's from the site and it sems like everyone one has had complications or issues of some kind that seem pretty detrimental. SO now Im becoming slightly scared. My question is ...Is there anyone that has had the gastric bypass that has NOt had any complications? I have no health problems whatsoever and Im 33 .I would like to think that this will be a new chapter in my life but Im starting to get scared feet. — AmmUnique (posted on March 21, 2007)
March 21, 2007
Mark I had the surgery 2 and a half years ago. I'm 32. Though my story may
not be typical surgery was a walk in the park. I had Lap RNY on a Wednesday
and I was home on Friday evening doing laundry on Saturday. I wouldn't have
changed a thing. If I had to do over again, in a heart beat I would. I was
scared like you are I even wrote just in case letters since I was so
scared. It's a change of life and best of luck.
— kristiegarcia
March 21, 2007
Mark,
I had gastric bypass surgery 7 weeks ago today. To date I have not had any
issues whatsoever. My starting BMI was 40.2 and I too was pretty healthy
otherwise. I went into surgery on Wednsday and left the hospital on
Friday. Once I was home I never took any pain medication. On the
following day(Saturday) I went to the movies and on Sunday I went shopping.
I know every case is different but for me I would not change a thing.
Good Luck!
Valerie
— valerierose
March 21, 2007
Hey there, I just wanted to say that if you are having any reservations
about the surgery, you shouldn't do it right now. I know that it feels like
now or never, but it's not. It's such a huge thing to do, and it is NOT
fun. However, I have not had any complications so far. I love my life right
now, but the first month or so was excruciating. I wouldn't wish it on my
worst enemy. But the outcome is amazing.
Again, if you are having these second thoughts, you should wait and talk to
your doctor about your concerns. If you are really uneasy about it, you
shouldn't do it. It is NOT the easy way out, as some people think. It's the
hardest thing I've ever gone through in my life, and I've had two children,
a number of kidney stones, and a hysterectomy.
— Cheriehott
March 21, 2007
Getting scared is a normal process when you are going to do something that
is unknown or unfamiliar. I had surgery 3 months ago, at age 57, no
problems nothing and 63 lbs lighter. I never took pain meds in or out of
the hospital and I had lap RNY. I had plenty of health problems, diabetes,
heart issues, high BP, and all have been resolved. Don't make yourself
nuts worrying about it. It's not as bad as you think it is going to be,
and more than likely you will be just fine. Good luck, oh yeah my BMI was
58, so I was not a small person to start with either. Again good luck,
Diane
— Diane C.
March 21, 2007
Hey Mark....1st....getting "scared feet" is TOTALLY normal. You
are having major surgery! If you didn't think at least once through the
process "what the heck am I doing"...I would worry, LOL! Anyone
going under the knife - regardless of what is being done or if it is
elective or not....you're going to get "scared feet". I am 35
years old. Nothing wrong with me except a BMI of 40+. I had LAP/RNY on
2/15/07 - almost 5 weeks out (it seems just like yesterday). I had surgery
on Thursday, was home on Sunday. I did have a bit of a fever late Friday
night or was it early Sat. morning? 100 degrees on the nose, but to play it
safe they had me stay an extra day. I was up walking around - in fact -
walking circle around the others who had surgery the day I did and before.
Went home, took a shower and slept in my bed....heaven. The next day (my
mom came into town) we went to run errands, grocery store, to the fabric
store for projects to keep us busy as I took two weeks off. My fiance' was
at work and we met him a few times for lunch. My only
"complications" if you call them that - because they tell you all
about these "small" things that can happen, so I was
prepared.....1.) Insomnia. I am just getting back to a normal sleeping
pattern. Worked with my PCP to treat. 2.) REALLY dry mouth for 2+ weeks.
Got over it. 3.) Some hybernation syndrome - saw people if they came to
visit, but didn't answer the phone or talk to anyone for a week. 4.)
Sneezing! I though Snow White had adopted me as Sneezy. Week 3-4.5 I would
sneeze 20-30 times a day. Weird. NOTHING that would of made me second guess
the decision I made. All of this is minor and insignificant in my eyes. My
start weight 262. Today, I am 234. I am 5'8", 35 years old and feel
like a new woman....in fact, truth be told.... I am starting to see the
woman I once knew in the mirror and it is pretty darn amazing! Good luck.
If you want to email me for more support or questions, please do
[email protected]. See you on the losers bench!!
— jammerz
March 21, 2007
Mark, I'm 6 months out from having rny and so far no complications. In fact
everything is great. I'm 48 years old. I was having doubts up until surgery
date. It's normal. Just follow what the doctors and staff tell you and you
will be fine. Good luck on your surgery and let me know how it goes.
— AlamedaEagle
March 21, 2007
Mark:
I had surgery almost three weeks ago and i have not had any problems yet.
Good luck and I am sure you will do just fine.
— missyheffelfinger
March 21, 2007
Mark,
I'm 46, had surgery 4 weeks ago and experienced no complications. Its
normal to be nervous, excited, anxious, and feel like changing your mind.
If you don't have any health issues the surgeon is concerned about -- then
if the surgeon isn't concerned -- you don't be concerned. If you're
working out -- keep working out until the day before the surgery.
After the surgery my pain was very minimal. My stomach actually felt like
I'd been doing crutches are situps. At one point I couldn't tell if the
pain I was feeling was gas or pain from the surgery --turns out it was gas.
Hot tea and walking around the unit took care of that. I had surgery
early Tuesday morning, was up walking that evening and went home Thursday
and the next day I was driving and running errands (slowing -- that is).
Not "everyone" has had complications. Some people have
complications because they don't follow doctor's orders after surgery.
— the7thdean
March 21, 2007
Mark,
I dont recall being nervous. I was anxious to get this new part of my life
started. I had open RNY at age 39 with a BMI of 55. I was in decent
health aside from the usual suspects of high blood pressure, sleep apnea
and blood sugar issues bordering on diabetes.
I am happy to say that 15 months later, I have had absolutely no
complications. None. I did have substantial bleeding during the surgery
that required transfusion the next day, but otherwise, I have been
fantastic. I am down 160 pounds now, and feel great. If I had the choice
to do it again, I wouldnt put it off another day.
Good luck, and I hope you have a great outcome.
Chris
— CChappell
March 21, 2007
Mark,
My surgery is this Friday (March 23rd) and I had an emotional breakdown on
Sunday (March 18th), actually considered cancelling the surgery. I am
getting nervous about the surgery, the major lifestyle change and the
possible complications. However, I am lucky because I have great family
support. Both my mom and my sister had the surgery with great success. My
sister had the surgery 2 years ago and my mom had it last year. Neither
had any complications during surgery. Both were kept an extra day in the
hospital as a precaution because the upper GI test looked like there might
be a leak....there actually was no leak so they were released on day 4.
Since then, neither regret having the surgery. My sister is now 28 years
old and looks great. She is eating pretty much anything she wants just at
much smaller quantities than before. My mom is also looking great, feeling
great and wearing a size 6 (which she never wore in her adult life
pre-surgery). My family has always struggled with weight and it is
wonderful to see their success. When I feel scared about the surgery, I
just look to them and imagine what I will feel like when I reach my goal
weight.
— pghgolfgal
March 21, 2007
Hi Mark,
I had surgery in July '06 and haven't really encountered any problems. I
did develop a surgical hernia (I had an open RNY) but even that isn't
bothering me.
I'm able to eat smaller amounts of most foods that appeal to me (never
really want anything fried, and sandwiches/bread are even less appealing).
I've only thrown up a couple of times during the surgery and have
experienced dumping only once. Over all I'm absolutely THRILLED with my
procedure. I only had 80 lbs to lose and have lost about 70 to date.
Just wanted you to know that only a small percentage post here so keep in
mind that we'll probably see more about problems than those who haven't had
any.
Hope this helps : ) I'm excited for you - life is going to be
fantastic!!!!
Toni
— tonidaniels913
March 21, 2007
Nope, no probelms for me or my husband. I am almost 4 years out and he is
about 3 1/2 years out.
— ChristineB
March 21, 2007
Please know that the best is yet to come. I'm four months out and very
happy.No complications (lap RNY).Down a wonderful 52 pounds. I could not
have done this on my own, nor without the supportive people on this site.
Think positive...it won't be long now.Your regrets will be few. Go for it
Mark...You're gonna wake up on the losing side.I can't promise you that
EVERY second will be easy, but it's soooo worth it.Now put your fears aside
and "GO TO THE HEAD OF THE CLASS"!
— purnellj
March 21, 2007
Mark,Ihad gastic bypass surgery 14 months ago .I have not had any problems
at all.And it has made a big difference in my life and I would do it again
today,go for it and wish you the best and it will make you feel so good and
you will love life again and enjoy it .
Rose
— rosetta
March 21, 2007
Mark,
I had or have diabetes and had surgery Dec 11 2006. I haven't had any
complications, other than throwing up or dumping. I am 37 and the diabetes
is virtually gone and I am working out every other day and I find that I do
more to myself by eating things too fast or not taking time to prepare food
that I should be eating instead of stuff I shouldn't. So go into this whole
thing with a great state of mind and have confidence that it will all be
okay and you will be OK...
Good Luck. having cold feet is normal.
Lori
— motherof2boys
March 21, 2007
Mark, almost have hit my 6-mo post op date (4/1) Have not had any
complications... lost 80lbs and feel great. Am able to do lots of things
that I haven't been able to do in YEARS. Think about any other aspect in
your life, do you routinely hear people saying "what a great day... I
am so glad to be alive and I am so thankful for what I have" or do you
routinely hear..." my day is going like shit, etc, etc, etc,"
The latter right... human nature, unfortunately.... this site is one for
support and question answering, so you will see more of the negative at
times as people are trying to find out answers from others who have had the
surgery. Good luck to you...
— Kari_K
March 21, 2007
I had surgery in Nov. of 2005, everything went perfectly. I could not have
asked for better results. I was terrified before my surgery but went ahead
with it. I would do it all again. I did exactly what my doctor told me to
do. I had no complications and have lost 120 lbs. I really think if you
weren't afraid that would be dangerous. This is serious surgery but the
results are so worth it. I can walk without wheezing, I can outpace my
husband now. I went on a mission trip in Nov. 06, something I only dreamed
of doing before because of my weight. Getting on the airplane and strapping
my seat belt without an extender was so rewarding, I literally cried. Pray
for strength and try to have a positive outlook. I think even with
complications and I know many who have had them, they still would do it all
over again. It is worth it!!!!!!!!
— Vera B.
March 21, 2007
Mark,
Honestly I do understand your concerns. I took over a year to make up my
mind to have the surgery. Oh, yeah, my surgery was in Nov 2005 so I am
about 15 months out. I am 50 years old now and I feel better than I have
since I was in my early teens. I had all the usual co-morbidities, low
energy, etc. I haven't had any major complications. I had a problem with
eating too fast and causing burping, sneezing, etc but it was my fault.
Once I learned to eat slowly and small bites, that problem vanished along
with the weight. My doctor insists that his patients walk for an hour a
day, not a certain number of miles, but an hour. He said it didn't matter
how far, what matters is the time. So when I started I could barely walk
20 yards, now I can go for a long way.
Usually people only post when they are having problems, but I will tell you
that this site has helped me so much. I don't have a support group in my
little town, so the support I've received here has been wonderful. Pray a
lot, find your support team and go for it. Good luck. Kimberly
— MoabMama
March 21, 2007
Mark - it's normal to start questioning your decision at this point. Just
try to remember why you decided to go down this path. All surgery carries
risk and one of the risks is complications. However, there are many many
people that have RYN with no major complications. I had lap RYN in 6/2006
and have had no major medical problems. Early on, I did had difficulty
eating certain items, but I learned what I could eat and can say I've
probably only thrown up 2-3 times. I've gotten a little green at the gills
a few times, but that passes pretty quickly. The worst complication
probably has been gas (due I'm assuming to digestive disrupt). There are
certain foods that cause it and I either don't eat those or I take GasX to
get around the problem. I've lost 111 pounds since surgery, for a total of
120 pounds total.
— KC
March 21, 2007
Mark, I too am a success case.. no complications, no major problems, just
typical tummy aches here and there and a little gas (buy Gas-x chewables..
they are great!!) I went from 267 to 135 and am doing fantastic, just had
tummy tuck and breast lift done to complete my transformation!! It has
been about 14 months since my initial surgery. Check out my profile, I
have written my thoughts and things that I was thinking as well.. It is
kind of overwhelming thinking about this decision, but if you truly need
this surgery do it!! Don't let anything hold you back, you are young and
will do just fine!!! Have faith!! I wish you the best!!
— April
March 22, 2007
GO FOR IT! It is the best thing ever. 4 months out and so happy that this
is a new life. What a blessing to have a second chance to make a
difference. Pray that you find peace.
— reach1more
March 22, 2007
Hi Mark,
I am 5 years post op from lap RNY gastric Bypass and feel great. I have had
NO problems. I developed a sweet tooth again. but that is not a surgery
issue. I had concerns, especially the first year. Expect in about 3 months
for some hair loss...I think it is post op shock myself, but some people
tell me to take zinc suppls. when it starts to happen. Physically, no
issues. I was very good in the beginning taking small bites and chew chew
chewing and drinking sips of water. Things didnt taste good to me that
first year...kind of a metallic taste after surgery not unlick chemo
patients experience, so I was a little depressed that I would never enjoy
food again. Good news (and bad!) is that food tastes good again and I can
eat almost a normal size meal now. I have stretched a little and can eat
more, but have maintained my weight over the past 2 years after an initial
gain of about 15 lbs. You will be fine. Those folks that had complications
have individual cases and represent a small percentage of the population of
WLS patients. It is good to be concerned and do research, but you are an
individual and your success depends on your own details. Take care of
yourself and go for follow up testing. I wish you the best on your journey.
You wont regret it. :0) xx Kathy in Massachusetts
— Kathy A C.
March 22, 2007
My lap RNY was Aug 30, 2006. Almost 7 months. Not one complication. No
more high blood pressure (off meds!), no more joint pain - GERD - high
cholestrol - no longer boarderline diabetic. I am 52 yrs and feel 35! I
was a little scared a few days before but I had prayed about the decision
for 2 years and was at total peace about it. Once I had peace I dug in and
kept positive thoughts. Had surgery on a Wed at 7 am, was up walking that
evening, stopped pain meds on Thursday am (I have a pretty high pain
tolerance and low vicodin tolerance) and was headed home at 6 pm Thursday.
Take this time to focus on the "other side" of surgery. Set your
mind on what you want to acheive and what you MUST do, like walking asap,
following the diet and doctors instructions, drinking your water, taking
your vitamins and exercising. It worked for me and now I am 73 pounds
healthier and no longer obese or overweight. I want to loose 10 more
pounds although my Dr. says I could stop right now and be perfectly okay
because I am finally in normal range!! I look forward to reading your
success story posts in a few months! God Bless you Mark on your journey.
— deeport
March 22, 2007
One other thing Mark. Check into your surgeons success rate. Mine has had
only a few patients, less than 5, who have had any life threatening
complications out of the hundreds of surgeries he has performed. He has a
wonderful support system and awesome aftercare. His nurse is highly
trained in this field. All of that has aided my success now and long term!
— deeport
March 22, 2007
Mark, I was 62 when I had my surgery and that is almost two years ago. To
this day I have not had one complication except paying for it! I have lost
about 130 pounds and am almost to my goal. I still lose a pound or two and
then again I gain a pound or two, but never more than two. I am very
careful about what I eat, but I eat almost everything I want. I just don't
eat very much. Please know that being a little scared is normal, but I put
it into the hands of God and had a lot of people praying for me and I knew
that it would all be good and it was. I was home the following day,
walking the next day and back to work within a week. I feel wonderful and
thank the Lord and my surgeon every day. Good luck to you, too.
— cmancl
March 22, 2007
Mark, I had my RNY done Feb 7, 2006. I have had no complications and have
lost 158 pounds(below my goal by 20 pounds). I was anxious to get it done
and over with and yes, I would do it again.
Best wishes to you Mark!
Normie :)
— Normie
March 22, 2007
Hello,
You should be concerned, this is major surgery and should not ever be taken
lightly. I had Lap RNY on 12/8/06 on Friday. I got out of the hospital on
Sunday, 12/10/06. I walked around the hospital several times a day, very
slowly. I would walk when they would wake me in the middle of the night
for bloodwork and tests. I was able to get around the house that same day.
I could not drive (due to pain meds), until that following Friday when I
had my 1 week checkup (due to the holidays, I had a 1 week instead of 2
weeks). I had intense burning pain in my stomach for about a week but
other than that, NOTHING!!!
I am no longer on blood pressure meds, I used the patch for about a month
after surgery. I went back to work after 3 weeks even though I was feeling
100% after 2 weeks. I resumed workouts at 6 weeks out.
I threw up 1 time in the 3 month period and that was due to eating too
fast. I have lost 51 pounds and would not change this for the world. At
first, you have to get used to eating enough, getting your liquids in and
it doesnt seem like enough hours in the day to get it all in but it works.
Dont try to do too much, take it easy the first few weeks to heal.
Research, research, research. I can't say enough how important it is to
know all about what can happen, what may happen, etc. Do not become immune
to the possibilities. Dont harp on the negatives, just be realistic about
them that they can and do happen, at 1 week out, 1 month out, 3 months out,
2 years out, etc.
you need to read up on supplementation and symptoms to watch out for. Have
the absolute best relationship with your doctor, and your surgeon, they
will be there for life. You will have to manage your eating, vitamins,
liquid intake, exercise FOR LIFE. Never forget that you had surgery and
that you had a weight problem. THat part will never change about us.
I am 36 years old and this has been one of the best things that I have
done. I am no longer tired all the time, no blood pressure meds, I am not
hot all the time--in fact, I get cold before I get hot. I am wearing sizes
that I have not worn in years, my back, head, and feet no longer hurt and I
just feel good overall.
Everyone that knows me knows that I have had surgery, this helps to keep me
honest. I want complete honesty if someone were to see me slip up. I dont
want to cheat myself by doing what I am not supposed to do but it could
happen and I have to be accountable.
I personally was afraid I would have a stroke because my blood pressure was
out of control, even with medication, they could not get it to come to a
healthy, acceptable level--until I lost weight. Now, for the first time in
my adult life, it is normal.
Read as many profiles as you can, read books, articles, and ask your
doctors a million questions. Thats what they are there for. This site has
been a Godsend too, lots of knowledge here and experience. Good luck to
you and keep learning. It will only get better from here on out.
Angela
— A Q.
March 23, 2007
Yes! I had mine Feb 21st, 2006. It has been 1 year! Best thing I have
ever done. I have had NO problems! If I were just starting I would do it
again. I had a fantastis Dr. I had a few ( dumping episodes) but I knew
what I did wrong. Eating too fast, not chewing enough. All my fault. So, if
I were you I would let go of your fears and go for broke. Good luck! injoy
the new lease on life. Remember surgery is only a tool.
— mtackett
March 23, 2007
i had open rny on 11/22/06 and my husband had open rny on 11/22/06 --
neither one of us had any complications at all -- i was driving by 5 days
out -- back to work in 14 days -- husband took advantage of his 6 weeks off
haha but the only complication we have had is our clothes fall off now!! we
don't have enough money to keep buying new clothes that fit!! if you want
to call those complications lol the best of luck to you :) Roberta
— RCassety
March 24, 2007
I am glad Mark asked this question because my surgery is in about 1 week
and I have to tell you, I am feeling as he did. Must be normal! Did you
go ahead, Mark? I am. Thanks, Dian
— Quinceydian
March 30, 2007
Everyone ...you have all been absolutely wonderful!!! It made me cry when I
saw the responses( I havent had one lick of support on this side) So I went
in with my head up and knew everything was going to be fine. It was
..slight complication..not much was in there until last night in ICU for 2
days but might have been cause they didnt have a bed? dont know. But Im
walking around burping and pootin...HAA!!hAA!! throat really soar, hard to
swallow. But am getting my protien in and water. Thank you all of you for
this great system of support , and letting me be a part of it. I love you
all!!
— AmmUnique
April 9, 2007
I had my surgery last July 11th; gastric bypass done laproscopically. I
went in @5am and was released @7:30am the following morning! I did
everything my surgeon advised and have had NO complications! I'm 58yrs. old
and wish I had done this at your age! Relax and enjoy the exciting new
chapter that's about to unfold in your life! Congrats!!! Trish
— zoeysgrami
Click Here to Return