I think it's important that you tell those closet to you prior to doing the surgery.....you need their support!! My boss and two other co-workers were all who knew about it (other than a few select immediate family members). I returned to work after an extended weekend of what most thought was Rest & Relaxation. My boss and close co-workers helped me through the first few weeks after surgery. I eventually came out and I am quit proud that I had it done. I am not ashamed and few skinny people realize the impact of being overweight, so why do I care what they think about me now?? I think you have to mentally be at a point of being proud in taking such a drastic measure to change your life in doing the LapBand. There is nothing easy about the Lapband, I will admit I've had to defend myself against critics who have no clue what it entails. So stand up LapBanders and be proud of what you've done. You're life will never be the same!!