Question:
What's the most important question you wished you asked your surgeon, before WLS?

I have my first consultation with my surgeon at the end of this month. My husband has to work and I will be going alone. I know that whenever you see a surgeon, it is best not to be alone, as you might forget to ask him/her something important, the other person could ask for you. I have done extensive research on WLS, and am prepared (I think). My question is: What was the most important question you asked or WISHED you asked your surgeon at your first visit?? I am taking notes. :) --Thanks Annie    — Annie R. (posted on April 9, 2001)

April 9, 2001
Ohhh, a million questions. How long will I be in the hopsital, what can I expect when I wake up from recovery, how long will I be in surgery. Those are the immediate concerns post op. Post op, what can I eat after surgery, can I take regular meds, what % of weight do you expect me to lose and how fast will I lose it. How long have you been performing this surgery, how do you handle complications, on what problems should I call you vs my primary care physician. If I have underlying medical problems, how will this surgery help or hender my health. No questions is too small or trivial to ask.
   — Jan M.

April 9, 2001
Anne, Why don't you get a copy of the book "Weight Loss Surgery" by Michelle Boasten. In it, she has 4 pages of questions that you should ask your doctor. It is a great resource. My first consultation is the end of this month too! Good luck!
   — Kimberly L.

April 9, 2001
I wish I had asked EXACTLY what will be done in surgery. I thought all RNYs transected the stomach like the Fobi pouch. Now I find out there are variations which include banding and staples but are still RNY. I wanted the Fobi pouch style specifically because I want the restriction and less chance of staple disruption. I have a funny feeling that my surgeon used the variation. My second six-weeks check up is this Thursday when I plan to find out exactly what was done. Not that I have any complaints for the short-term. - I've lost 61 lbs in 10 weeks and feel great. But I'm concerned about the long-term stability of the possible staple line. GOOD LUCK!
   — Lili R.