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

A frien had the surgery about 7 years ago. It works she lost tons of weight.

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

My insurance gave me no problem.

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

My meeting with my surgeon was uneventful. I had been to so many meeting and saw the PA. That all the surgeon did was give me guick physical and asked if I had any questions. Ask as many questions as you can think of. Start making a list.

What made you finally decide to have the surgery?

Me wanting to be around for my daughter.

How did you decide which proceedure to have?

Research. I wish I would have done more.

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 had no fears before surgery. All my fears came after surgery.

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

I was there from Mon- Thurs. I had to stay one extra day. Some of the nurses were great others didn't have a clue.

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

No not really.

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 felt like I was dying. I had so much anxiety it was hell. I called my support person and she let me know this was normal. Xanax works.

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

To be very confused. I felt like my world was turned upside down. But, the further out the better things are. This is when your support person is so important.

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

We have 2 support group meetings a month. These are very helpful. Tell people how you're feeling and ask for input.

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

Six little 1/2 to 2 inch incisions.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

Haven't had any

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

Not yet.