Because my insurance was easy to deal with, I was able to get approval and through all the required testing in about 3 1/2 months. My first appointment was in early August and I had the surgery at the end of October. My hospital stay was 2 days and I'm not going to lie, it was a rough couple of days with nausea and moderate pain. I know a handful of people that have had this surgery and they all made out fine. Some had more pain/nausea than others, but all were up and around a few hours after surgery. Dr. Gandsas and the AAMC program have a very good track record with their patients. He is approachable, respectful and nice. Like any doctors office, though, it's a "machine", always quite busy! I have always gotten responses from the nutritionist and/or RN coordinator within 24 hours, so I have felt well supported. I understand your anxiety about the long term! I'm almost 5 months out, and I'm still "adjusting" to everything. Just be sure in your heart that you are dedicated to making a change because it really will rock your world (but ultimately in a good way)! Every day is a challenge, but an opportunity to make good choices. Is it difficult? YES!! Do I regret it? No way!