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

Years ago I had heard about bariatric surgery but the long term effects were pretty disastrous. My most recent experience was Carne Wilson and I figured if the surgery had progressed enough for her to consider it it was worth researching.

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

My first visit was with the surgery coordinator. My suggestion is to write down any questions you have on a piece of paper and go over them with the surgeon. The first visit with the surgeon was a good one we explained the program, the surgery, the risks, the follow-up and the need to attend a support group.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

The positive feedback from the program coordinator.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

By talking to persons who had both open and lap, the lap surgeon in this group does not have the best bedside manner.

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?

The surgeon group I am seeing has such an extensive physical screening before surgery that I feel they have eliminated as many of the possiblities of anything going wrong long before the surgery. I realize there is still a risk of d death etc., but I now feel these risks are at a minimum. I was really concerned about having a surgery at this weight and not making it.

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?

My children, family and significant other are completely supportive. My close friends are also very suportive. Other acquaintances have been a little more skeptical. We will see after surgery.

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

My employer is very supportive. My supervisor is also a friend and he knew I was having health problems from my weight, arthritis, diabetes, blood pressure, etc. So he is supportive.

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

My scar is from my breasts to my belly button. It was what I expected but is very thin and will fade easily.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

At about one year I plateaued. Have not lost anymore. But am happy with 150 lbs lost.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Yes, fat discrimination is really very evident.