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

My Aunt and Uncle had it done, I compulsively read everything I could about it, after I realized that it wasn't as suicidal as everyone though and my Aunt and Uncle lost so much weight, I wanted it, and I did it!

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

My hospital stay was o.k. for being in a hospital, my roomate wasn't the greatest, all she did was complain, she had bariatric surgery with the same doctor the same day, and I just wanted some earplugs. I was there 2 days, supposed to be 3 but since I was doing so well they let me go early! The most important thing was my pajamas and toothbrush, after they took the tube out of my nose (which was the absolute worst part of it all!) I had to brush my teeth!!! and that gown they give you! Oh god, how uncomfortable.

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

No complications at all, and never have, I never get sick and when I do it's because I ate too much, so it's my fault...I've herd some horror stories, but luckily I've done great!

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

The first week, I would cry evertime I saw a taco bell or burger king commerical, but as I started to eat more solid foods that went away, I think I was also having withdrawls from all the caffine I drank..as the days went on, everyday I felt better, after I got the staples out, I was 100%! I feel now (being 3 months out) like a hole new person, and I'd do it all over again.

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

Obesityhelp.com is the only support group I have, which has been an enormous help, at first. Now that I'm feeling back to normal I don't come on as much, but this was the most benifical site I have found, and believe me I looked...

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

My scar is about 6 inches long, with the staples marks on each side, although they are starting to fade. The scar itself it elevated and itches a lot, frankly it is nasty and I hate it. I cried when I saw it the first time, I didn't expect it to be so big, but I put cocoa butter on it and hopefully it will go away...someday...

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

None

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I haven't had anyone treat me that different, because I am still "big" although I've lost 63lbs. I still weigh 238lbs. Maybe when i loose another 100lbs, they will.