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

When I first learned about bariatric surgery I thought it was too good to be true. I immediately picked-up anything I could, by way of literature, articles, and scanned the web for information regarding the surgerical procedure(s), side effects, complications, and success rates. In addition, I knew two women who had gone through it and asked them a multitude of questions before coming to my decision. Personally, Obesityhelp.com has been the single most informative site, for WLS, I have come across to date!

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

My hospital stay was very good. I was in a private room and my husband remained with me the entire time - four days. The most important things to bring with you are personal toiletry articles i.e. toothpaste, hairbrush, hand lotion, soap, shampoo, chapstick, and lipstick. You'll want to feel clean and well-groomed because it lifts your spirits, in turn, making you feel better! Keep in mind, that your sense of smell is at an all time high; keep the lotion scent VERY light or you'll be miserable.

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

I did not have any complications from the surgery.

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

After surgery I felt pretty exhausted and sore. Each week after returning home I felt a little stronger than the previous one. I never felt anxious because of my research beforehand. I knew what to expect and where to turn if I needed additional clarification or information regarding my procedure. I also have an amazingly supportive family which directly attributed to my overall success.

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

My surgeon has a detailed aftercare program consisting of regular visits to both my nutritionist and primary care physician. There is a support group in place and I went to one meeting before WLS. I am not a "support group" type of person and prefer to research things on my own. I have a friend that attends her support group on a regular basis and swears by it - so for many it's a wonderful thing.

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

My scar is barely visible and a lot smaller than I expected. It's about 4 inches long and pale in color. My surgeon is exceptional and did a wonderful job!

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Around month 3 I experienced a plateau that lasted for nearly 5 weeks. I thought I would be the one person surgery did not help, but after increasing my protein intake and activity level my weight steadily came off. I also read other patients' stories and found the "library" to be very helpful. Once I realized I was not the only person dealing with this frustrating occurance, I calmed down and make some small changes.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

People have always treated me with respect and my colleagues have commented that I "never looked my weight." The one thing that has changed is me and the way I carry myself. I am no longer worrying about my appearance or whether I'll have enough energy to get through my day. In addition, I was always a "people pleaser" and now (post-op) I find it much easier to say "no" when I don't want to do something. I no longer have the need for people to accept me - they do or they don't. It's an empowering feeling to be comfortable in your own skin - especially when there's so much less of it!