How did you first find out about bariatric surgery and what were your initial impressions of it?

I've known about it for about 9 years due to some co-workers having it done. At first I thought it was just an easy way out but now I see that if you're extremely obese, it's a need.

Describe your experience with getting insurance approval for surgery. What advice, if any, do you have for other people in this stage?

Insurance only approved $5000 lifetime maximum. I ended up going w/ self-pay in Mexico.

What was your first visit with your surgeon like? How can people get the most out of this meeting?

I only met my surgeon prior to the surgery but he answered all my questions and kept all his promises.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Impulse

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

The doctor I chose specialized in sleeves so I decided to go with his specialty.

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

I did have fears of dying or complications such as infections, leakeage, etc. The only thing that calmed me is knowing that when it's your turn to go, it's your turn. No matter what.

How did your family and friends react to your decision? Would you have communicated anything differently if you could now? How supportive were they after your surgery?

They were happy but scared. Some where skeptical since it was going to be done in mexico.

How did your employer/supervisor react to your decision? What did you tell him/her? How long were you out of work?

I advised I would be out for a week for surgery but my boss is not very nosy so he didn't ask what kind.

What was it like attending your first information seminar on weight loss surgery? Were you glad you attended? if so, why?

They're okay but for someone like me who does alot of research, I found it unnecessary.

What was your stay in the hospital like? How long where you there? What things are most important to bring?

I was at the hospital for 2 days. Everyone was so nice and caring. Things to bring: gas ex, socks, lip balm.

Did you have any complications from the surgery? If so, how did you deal with them?

None

In the weeks after you got your surgery date, how did you feel? How did you cope with any anxiety you might have felt?

I just couldn't wait for the day to arrive. I was sad some days and other days I was happy. Alot of emotions.

Describe your first few weeks home from the hospital. What should people expect from this period?

It's only been a few days that I've been home. I still feel weak from not eating as much but every day I feel a little stronger.

How far did you travel to have your surgery? (If far, how did this affect your aftercare?)

I traveled from Miami, FL to Tijuana, MX. I'm having my PCP do my after care.

Please describe in detail what things you could and couldn't eat in the weeks and months following surgery. What foods have been off limits? Please explain how your dietary tolerance changed week-by-week, and then month-by-month since surgery.

I haven't tried to eat anything that I shouldn't. I've been sticking to the diet plan given to me by my surgeon: 1st week clear liquids (Jello, Chicken Broth, Water). 2nd week (Cream soups, yogurt, milk protein shakes).

What was your actvity level in the days and weeks after surgery?

Very low.

What vitamins and/or dietary supplements have you taken since your surgery?

I took pain killers for a week. Currently taking cheweable adult multi vitamin, antacid relief and biotin for hair & nails.

What side effects (nausea, vomiting, sleep disturbace, dumping, hair loss etc.) were worse for you? For how long after surgery did they persist? How did you cope with them?

Have not experienced any yet. The only thing is that I have not done #2 for almost a week.

What was the worst part about the entire bariatric surgery process?

The gas after the surgery.

What aftercare support group/program do you have? How helpful/important is this?

I don't have one.

What is your scar like? Is this what you expected?

Very thin. still healing.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Have not experienced yet.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I smell a little jealousy from some women but I expected it.