Question:
I'm not sure if my surgery was done right, not much change.

I'm from VA and a general surgeon I consulted said he could do a VGB without any problems. Said he recommended this as safer than the other. Less complications. Well, I am 5 weeks postop, I've only lost 13 pounds, the first 10 in the first 10 days, and I can basically eat what I want except some bread or some drier foods because they seem to get stuck and hurt my chest. I can eat way more than a tablespoon of food. However, I have cut my calories by about 2/3. My doctor said he couldn't do the surgery the way he planned because the stapler wouldn't fit so he did it a different way but he said it would be better because it would have less chance of stretching back out. There is no aftercare. I went to see him to get my staples and g-tube out a few weeks after surgery and he said to just call in my weight every week. He told me I could eat what I want except hot dogs and potato salad. He did refer me to the dietician at the hospital but she didn't know much about it and gave me some handouts from her materials. I'm so disappointed! and frustrated. I'm on the verge of tears alot. The only way I can really curb my appetite is to take Effexor, an antidepressant. But I don't want to be on that. I was hoping with the surgery it would force me to change my eating. I see it didn't except in small ways. Does anyone have any suggestions?    — Linda C. (posted on May 9, 2001)

May 9, 2001
Oh my, If it were me, I find a specialist and go see them. I'm a firm believer in seeing specialists. I'm seen too many GP say they can do surgerys and just because they have a license doesn't mean that that is what they ought to be doing. I'm sorry for what you are going thru. But these doctors aren't GODS. You have to take the initiative to find out for your self. It's your life and well being. AND if you don't feel like you can, PRETEND that you can until you get used to it. It gets easier the longer you try. Remember, your hire them, not the other way around!
   — [Anonymous]

May 9, 2001
I agree that you might want to consult a specialist for better aftercare, and maybe find some kind of support group in your area. Basically, your health is in your hands now. Get into the library section of this website and do nutritional research, as well as on the many other good websites available. Email Michelle Curran and talk to her about what vitamins and supplements you should be taking, and see if you can find a nutritionist in your area who has some knowledge or surgery, or is willing to research it in order to help you. Don't dwell on what has happened, look forward and take your future into your hands! Best of luck!
   — Susan S.

May 9, 2001
Hi there. I'm so sorry you don't have the proper aftercare. You should not be eating any old food at this point in the game.....the first 6 weeks are pureed's, fairly bland and the next 6 weeks are softer foods. I am posting my surgeon's website on here for you. He has sample menu's as well as helpful tips for the post-op vbg'er and ways to make this a long term success. Feel free to email me and I'll answer any questions you have. HUGS to you.....you don't have to stay in the dark with this ok? <p> http://www.weightlossurgery.com/ <p> A friend,
   — Jo C.

May 9, 2001
Your Doctor sure dropped the ball with you. Hasn't anyone told you that the trick isn't seeing how much you can hold? Obviously you know where this site is and you need to do some serious reading before you undo everything. This is just a tool to help you lose weight not a magic cure.
   — buhret