Hey there! first off congrats on making the decision to do this! I agree with the other posts about who you tell is your own business, people will prob get suspicious, but the bottom line is you made the decision along with your dr about doing something that is medically necessary for you!! I have not told many people including family about my decision bc unless they are personally going through this they might not understand that this is beyond diet and exercise in most cases. I had my surgery 7 days ago at REX with DR NG. You are in the best hands with the Drs and staff affiliated with Rex bariatrics! They are extremely organized and caring. It took my insurance 6 months but It went pretty fast because you are constantly keeping up with monthly nutrition, education classes, and dr appts. I had a little pain in recovery but the anesthesiologist was right there with me asking me how I was feeling and pushed more pain meds into my IV. I really didn't need anything but Tylenol after. I have had 3 c-sections so I always compare everything to that and this was nothing in comparison. I was up walking the same night as surgery ( a little drugged up but walking, and the nurse let me hold onto her) I had some discomfort swallowing liquids but I think its to be expected while you are healing. Everyone experiences something different so don't be afraid to speak up and be pro active in the hospital so they can make you comfortable. I was nervous about nausea so I let the drs know and I didn't have any probs. I was in the hospital for 2 days. Im still recovering and the only set back Ive had is an unfortunate delayed allergic reaction to the solution they prep you in before surgery. this is only a 1% chance that this will happen ,- I should go play the lottery! Id be happy to help with any questions you might have especially since we are with the same group of drs. Don't let the fear of the unknown make you second guess your decision. I met a couple of gals during my classes, we stay in touch daily, one had her surgery before me and one is going in several months.. it helps having someone who can truly relate to what you are going through, we genuinely support each other!! maybe our paths have already crossed, maybe they will in the future, in any case Im not far away!