UTGal99

Great topic! I don't have a surgery date yet, but I expect it to be end of September/early October. I have been preparing as best as I can with items I think I will need post-op (wedge pillow, Gas-X strips, Biotene mouthspray, etc.) As for my husband and 4 year old son, I plan on spending the entire weekend before my surgery cooking for 2 full days to freeze a bunch of meals to get them by as I don't think I will want to cook for the better part of 2 weeks (maybe even more) I have somewhat been packing a bag for the hospital (socks, chapstick, etc.) as I go along prepping for this journey. I have not gotten any foods, shakes, etc for myself. I hear alot of people say that what you could stomach before surgery doesn't taste great after and so don't buy a large quantity; however, I did run across a great website (www.mybariatricpantry.com) that has samples for sale. I was thinking about securing some samples to have on hand and try what I like after surgery. I do plan on having hubby stay home for about 3 days and the weekend and then my cousin is coming to town to help out for the next week, considering I have a little guy on my hands here. Anything you are doing particularly? Let's share notes...

How are you feeling? How was surgery? How has recovery been? Any tips for a pre-opper soon to be in your shoes??

Some call it Twoderville - I don't really like it either. Let's pitch some new names....

I don't think one has anything to do with the other. I don't believe that the WLS is causing heart problems, rather keep in mind people having WLS are obese and may already have heart related co-morbidities. Just my 2 cents...

Wow, I am shocked to see that food is the least favorite thing about the surgery. A bit concerning for me. I was hoping that after the surgery food wouldn't be such a huge issue and focus in my life.

For some reason I thought that Tomato soup was off limits in the first few weeks - something about the acidity? I sure hope it isn't - it is my FAVORITE!

Awesome!

Thank you, Suzanne. So great to here a long-term post-op perspective. As a pre-opper myself I would be glad to hear any information you would like to share. You are an inspiration to us all! Keep up the great work. I am hoping to be on the losers bench with you soon.

So yesterday I met with the surgeon - I have my Psych Eval on Thursday - Nutrionist appointment on Monday - labs, EKG and chest x-ray next Wednesday - submit to insurance next Friday. Wow! If insurance approves quickly enough I could possibly be on the surgery table by mid-September. Craziness! Anybody else have it go so very fast like this once your PCP monthly meetings were met? I am scared but excited to start a new life.

Do not reschedule - you may be surprised what you do on the scale. I think all surgeon's expect their patients to not get to the goal. You have made significant strides and you will still have time before surgery to drop the additional 2-4 pounds. Go get 'em Tiger!

I'm all about high fashion hospital gear! I have been looking to purchase some polka dot and striped patterned night gowns that are designed for hospital use. Just think a little color will brighten my day while there for 2-3 days. Good luck to you!

Good Luck! I look forward to being on the losers bench with you soon (hopefully late Sept/early Oct). You will do great! Let us know how it goes...

Good Luck to you too, Stonecutter. Have a surgery date yet or just gathering information?

This is my biggest fear! I fear that I would go and have the surgery done and then hit a stall right out of the gate and be so very frustrated and mad at myself for having this surgery. I just don't understand what is going on for you? You definitely should be losing something. Does this happen often to people where they have the surgery and don't lose the weight - seriously???

Congrats on getting approved! I sure hope it happens for me too. Did your insurance give you a reason why they denied you and denied your appeal before? Also, just curious...why an IVC filter? Does everyone have one placed in prior to surgery? Do you have other medical concerns that require it? Just wanting to understand better so I know what I am getting into too, as I am still pre-op too.

Great job! I LOVE the picture with your daughter holding her arms out for the picture too! Too cute! Keep up the great work and thanks for sharing your success!

What did your surgeon require? 3 days liquid, one week hi protein, etc???

So great! I have Cigna too and sure hope I get approved. I wonder what would cause one not to get approved if you meet all the requirements they are asking for? How long did it take for Cigna to approve once submitted to them?

Complications? Why the 5 day stay? Most people only stay 2 days, right?

How did it go from labs are fine to gallbladder/needing surgery in that short amount of time? Did the hospital call? Weird...

Thank you for posting this - I wonder the exact same thing.

10-4, Chief - I hear you all the way. I want control over my life and addiction with food too. This is exactly why I am having the vertical sleeve gastrectomy done. I need that tool that will control and restrict what I can consume. I can have an all out free for all at a fast food drive in or all you can eat buffett. I am tired of feeling so guilty about food.

Why are there issues with drinking plain water post op?

I have seen a lot of people on this forum complain of that. I personally have no experience as I am a pre-opper, but others have said if you add crystal light, mio, lemon juice, etc. it helps. Good Luck!

Woot woot! That's what I am talking about.... So happy for you - keep up the great work!