Georgia_girl81

Hello Bariatric Pals, I have been lurking the message boards for quite some time now, but finally I want to share my experience so far with my weight loss journey. I have always been overweight (5'5 290), and tried many methods to lose weight, and have been very unsuccessful. I looked into weight-loss surgery a couple of years ago, but wasn't too sure about it until now. I have United Healthcare Choice Plus insurance through my employer and the only requirements, is to provide proof that you have a BMI 40 or greater for 5 years. No dietitian or psychological evaluation required. I interviewed two surgeons in mid January, and I decided to choose Dr. Michael Williams in Alpharetta, GA to perform the gastric bypass. He's very informative, and I've heard great things about him and his work. I submitted my 5 year weight history today, and now it's the waiting game... Hopefully I will be approved soon. I know that some people mention that it could take some time for approval, and others have gotten their approval really quick. Either way I'm glad I've taken first steps for my weight loss journey. I am very excited!!, this is going to be a major lifestyle change and I am prepared for the challenges. I will keep you all posted through this journey and will answer any questions that you have. I live in the metro Atlanta area. Thank you everyone who has posted on bariatric pals and on other online websites, it helps a lot with people like myself who want to know more information, or who just wants the support and encouragement from others. T.

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Melanie, I had the gastric bypass surgery (Roux-en-Y). My Dr. mentioned that this procedure could be outpatient, in and out basically. But nooo way for me. I chose to stay overnight. So far so good. Lost 14 pounds since 02/12. Take care everyone.

Aiplaneskinny, You are absolutely right! Research Research Research! I was approved on 02/05, and I chose Dr. Michael Williams. I had my surgery on 02/12. I posted my experience on a different forum, but will post it again so can and others can read it: I had my gastric bypass surgery on 02/12 and I stayed overnight at the hospital (Emory at John's Creek, GA). The procedure took about 2 hours, then I was in recovery, then eventually taken to my room. I was told by my doctor (Michael D. Williams, MD, who is very awesome!!!!) that this procedure could be outpatient and I could go home the same day, but knowing how I felt after the surgery. I elected to stay overnight and I'm glad I did... Within hours, I was told that I needed to walk around, and that would help with the gas pain. I was given liquids to drink, but I just didn't have the appetite. The IV will keep you hydrated, and you will be using the restroom a lot. Most of the night was spent sleeping in my hospital bed and occasionally walking if I felt up to it. The next morning, I was discharged from the hospital. I was given a flu shot, a B12 injection shot (which lasts for 1 month), and a injection in my stomach to help with the nausea. I'm still recovering, but so far things have been good. I haven't had any nausea or any throwing up. I take in about 2 ounces of Fluid every 15 minutes as told by the nurse. It's hard to get in at least 3 Protein shakes a day (60-80 grams), but I make sure I come close to it. I was also told to drink at least 64 ounces of Water a day if I can. Since Thursday, I have lost a total of 12 pounds and I am very excited!! If I continue to follow the stage 1 (liquids- 2 weeks), 2 (soft foods-2/4 weeks), and 3 (permanent) diets and monitor what I eat, I will have a very successful weight loss without any complications. The doctor says that I can start going to the gym in about three weeks, but for the time being I'm doing small things like lifting 2 pound weights and walking around for at least 30 minutes (if I don't get tired). If you have any questions, please feel free to ask, that's what this site is for, we want to help each other out. I can also be reached at tawana_williams@hotmail.com Again, I appreciate everyone's comments and telling us about your weight loss journeys, it helps a lot. ****** I'm in the exact boat that you're in. I have 2 small kids, and I have to prepare their meals everyday, and the temptation for food was there. Once you have the surgery, those thoughts will be minimal. Good luck to you, and please keep us updated.

I had my gastric bypass surgery on 02/12 and I stayed overnight at the hospital (Emory at John's Creek, GA). The procedure took about 2 hours, then I was in recovery, then eventually taken to my room. I was told by my doctor (Michael D. Williams, MD, who is very awesome!!!!) that this procedure could be outpatient and I could go home the same day, but knowing how I felt after the surgery. I elected to stay overnight and I'm glad I did... Within hours, I was told that I needed to walk around, and that would help with the gas pain. I was given liquids to drink, but I just didn't have the appetite. The IV will keep you hydrated, and you will be using the restroom a lot. Most of the night was spent sleeping in my hospital bed and occasionally walking if I felt up to it. The next morning, I was discharged from the hospital. I was given a flu shot, a B12 injection shot (which lasts for 1 month), and a injection in my stomach to help with the nausea. I'm still recovering, but so far things have been good. I haven't had any nausea or any throwing up. I take in about 2 ounces of fluid every 15 minutes as told by the nurse. It's hard to get in at least 3 protein shakes a day (60-80 grams), but I make sure I come close to it. I was also told to drink at least 64 ounces of water a day if I can. Since Thursday, I have lost a total of 12 pounds and I am very excited!! If I continue to follow the stage 1 (liquids- 2 weeks), 2 (soft foods-2/4 weeks), and 3 (permanent) diets and monitor what I eat, I will have a very successful weight loss without any complications. The doctor says that I can start going to the gym in about three weeks, but for the time being I'm doing small things like lifting 2 pound weights and walking around for at least 30 minutes (if I don't get tired). If you have any questions, please feel free to ask, that's what this site is for, we want to help each other out. I can also be reached at tawana_williams@hotmail.com Again, I appreciate everyone's comments and telling us about your weight loss journeys, it helps a lot.

Hello everyone, my surgery date will be on February 12th! It took less than a week to get approval, I am very excited and looking forward to hearing about everyone's journey.

Lithonia, GA and my surgeon is Dr. Michael Williams