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

I first found out about WLS a few years ago and I thought it was a quick fix. I have learned since then that it is a lifetime commitment. it is only a tool and it only works as well as you make it.

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

Insurance approval was he** My insurance company denied me but not until I was ready for surgery literal in a gown. they said the psych eval was appropriate, which was wrong. My psych doc wrote a three page appeal letter and it got overturned. Stay ontop of things and don't let them denie you.

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

The first visit with the surgeon was great. I had my questions ready and took full advantage of seeing him face to face. Be prepared know what you want to ask.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

I realized I needed to do something to stay healthy and be around for my family.

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

I was in the hospital overnight, the staff was excellent. Bring chap stick!

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 was thrilled but worried about insurance approval and for good reason it turns out. I kept calling the ins. company to see if I was approved.

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

The first couple of days I was tired and a bit uncomfortable, but it really wasn't bad at all. After a week I felt like myself. I have to keep reminding myself not to lift things.

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

I travel 2hours each way, it is long but well worth the care I recived at Lahey. I wouldn't change a thing.

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

I was walking from day one. It increased each day. I am just about ready to get back to my normal workout tapes this weekend.

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

I have two scoops of protein powder and a multivitamin/mineral

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

waiting for insurance approval

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

I meet monthly with my surgeon's office support group. It is really helpful and very informative.

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

My scars are small nothing major very livable.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I have hit a couple small road blocks but I kept plugging through them and it is not too bad as long as you remember the plateau is only temporary.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yeah everyone is a lot nicer to me.