Question:
I have been hearing a lot about post op complications, wound, etc.

I have had three friends who have had several problems post op. Does anyone know about wound healing problems or complications such as a bowel being nicked. My friend was operated on Dec.6 and she is still in ICU today. She has had three surgeries and now has a colostomy. All of these people have had the same surgeon. Should I check out a different surgeon?    — [Anonymous] (posted on December 27, 2000)

December 26, 2000
I am not going to tell you what to do, but if it was me, I would be checking out another surgeon. It just seems funny that 3 people that you know are having these types of problems. Is there others that you know of that have used this surgeon and not had any problems?? Is there any way to find out?? Personally I would not feel much faith if I was in your shoes, but the decision is entirely yours. You didn't say how far into the process you are, but if you are just starting, maybe a different surgeon would be better for you and put your mind at ease. Have you even had your first appointment?? Do you have a surgery date? Do you know the exact details of what is happening to your friends?? I feel for you hon, I would be questionning this myself and I too would be worried. Good Luck and I will say a prayer for you.
   — [Anonymous]

December 26, 2000
Well, I will gladly give my opinion. YES, check out another surgeon!
   — Cindy H.

December 26, 2000
I agree w/the answer below. I'm hear about lots of surgeons, including mine, who haven't had any problems with their many patients. I'd be worried about myself knowing that 3 of my surgeons patients had such serious problems. Have you checked your state listing here in AMOS to see what other surgeons are available? I changed my surgeon and am very happy with my second choice. I thought it would be a hassle, but it wasn't at all.
   — Kristy J.

December 27, 2000
Wound healing problems are not uncommon after WLS. Because the incision is large, and because they have to cut through a thick layer of fat (which doesn't have a great blood supply), the wound sometimes re-opens partially or fully and has to heal from the inside out. But, other complications like a nicked bowel are rare. If you are talking about serious problems like that for more than one person that you have met, then I would seriously consider shopping around for another surgeon. Your confidence in your surgeon will make a big difference in your anxiety level.
   — Lynn K.

December 27, 2000
I agree with everyone else..find another surgeon, that is a big problem. As far as the wound question goes, I was one of those people who had to heal from the inside out. The staples down near my belly button were actually ripping my skin instead of keeping it together so they were taken out and I had an open wound for about 2 months. The difference in my scar to other peoples who healed the correct way is that the scar is much thicker near my belly button and was very discolored. It also was a little painful having that open wound and was very tender for a long time, I couldn't wear jeans until recently because the button rubbed the area and made it sore, and it is kinda gross. Sometimes it depends on your body and the way your body lays when you sit. The way my body was it pulled the staples from the sides so it wouldn't allow the skin to close together. It is very common for this to happen and other then it taking a little longer to heal and having to change the bandage, it doesn't keep you from living normally after the surgery. I am totally healed there now.
   — christine L.

December 27, 2000
It's time to do some surgeon shopping!
   — Paula G.