Cate Watkins

So I had my first (of six) appointments with my bariatric specialist today, who believes with my insurance and situation, I should have no problem being approved for surgery. That being said, he discussed the differences between the sleeve and bypass and before our talk, I was set on the VSG surgery, however now I'm beginning to think that maybe the bypass may be a better option for me. He said that if I'm wanting to lose 60-80lbs, that the VSG surgery is the better choice for slower weight loss, but if I'm looking to lose 100+lbs, I should consider the bypass. I'm currently 5'5", 294.1 lbs and definitely want to lose more than 100lbs, but I've done so much research on VSG that I feel the most comfortable with that option, but also want to give myself the best opportunity to lose the most weight. What are your experiences with loss after either bypass or VSG? I'm not opposed to bypass, it was just never the direction I thought I was headed so I have done little research and feel my nerves all over again! Any advise helps, thank you!

I'm just starting my 6 month doctor managed portion, hoping for surgery in december. Located in Vista, abt 40 miles north of San Diego!

I recently decided that bariatric surgery is the best option for my weight loss journey, however I have to also go through the 6 month pre-op as part of the approval process for my insurance company. In addition, I want to take as little time as possible off from work and my employer currently shuts down for 2 weeks every year in December. That being said, I'm looking at another 16 months... Just gives me more time to focus on getting my mind in the right place.

I had the exact same thoughts as you today, actually. I recently decided that the VSG would be a very successful tool for me, but my insurance company also requires the 6 month period with a doctor to lose weight before surgery. If I could do this on my own, I wouldn't be here! However, I imagine as insurance companies go, they need to see commitment from us that we'll do whatever we need to do to make this happen once and for all. Lots of chicken and green vegetables -- tons of Protein and Water. That always works wonders for my weight loss. I most likely will not be getting surgery until next December -- my company always has a plant shutdown for 2 weeks (which is ideal for having surgery without being noticed) but I'm too close to the shutdown this year and have just started thinking of the VSG as an option...so have to wait another 16 months! Eeek! Promised my husband I would give natural diet and exercise one more try...