slconley

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  • BMI 19.8

Obesity & Me

Describe your behavioral and emotional battle with weight control before learning about bariatric surgery.

I tried to lose weight for 15 years. I would lose weight, but then gain it all back, plus a few (alot) more. I have had bouts of anxiety and depression both before and after surgery. I am very pleased with my results.

What was (is) the worst thing about being overweight?

Being embarrassed to do things with my kids....not being able to ride rollercoasters, go to waterparks, go swimming....you name it. I hated being fat.

If you have had weight loss surgery already, what things do you most enjoy doing now that you weren't able to do before?

Being able to buy clothes that I LIKE instead of just what fits!!!

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

I was in the medical field, and researched it two years before scheduling surgery. I was completely confident once I made the final decision to go ahead with surgery.

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

I went for my consult on 1/9 and had approval by 1/20. my insurance experience was awesome-United Healthcare.

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

My hospital experience was excellent. I was at Southcrest in Tulsa OK. I was inpatient for 3 days. went back to work in 3 weeks. Staff was great, and very attentive. My most important item was lipgloss!! (or chap stick, I suppose :) )

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

None. Except I now have lost a little too much weight, and cant seem to gain any back. I feel fine though, and am healthy

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

Anxious to get the ball rolling. Tired of being fat, and ready to go through the doorway to a new life!

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

I was really fortunate that I had a quick recovery, and little pain. I WAS tired alot, but went back to work within 3 weeks. I stayed by myself at home while my family was at work/school. Be prepared to be exhausted after just taking a shower!!

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

No real support group. I do have ALOT of friends that have had the surgery, and we have supported each other when necessary. We are all very lucky, though. NO ONE has had complications!

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

I had lap. RNY, so my scars are almost invisible at this point. I knew that I would not have big scars, and that they would likely fade almost completely. I don't scar much.

Please describe any plateau experiences you have had since surgery.

I had alot of plateaus early on...probably between 3-6 months the most. I would just make adjustments in protein intake, water intake etc until I had a breakthrough.

Do you notice people treating you any differently now?

I get alot more male (unwelcome) attention. I just usually ignore it. I've been married almost 21 years, and with my hubby since I was 16 (23 years) so I am happy with who I have!!!
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