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Today was my first set of appointments to start the process; nurse practitioner, dietician/nutritionist, and physical therapist. In addition, I got my bloodwork and EKG done. I already have a mammogram and colonoscopy on record. I went in with a positive attitude and I think that helped, I was more excited than nervous. I mentioned that I had been reading the forums on this site to learn what I could and I think it helped me comprehend the massive amount of information I was given because I sort of studied ahead, plus, they gave me a notebook The dietician noted that I take a lot of supplements, and she stressed that I will be restricted to taking only a few after surgery, at 200% the regular dose; multi-vitamin that includes iron and other minerals and B12 sublingual at night, calcium citrate 500mg liquid or chew three times a day, plus vitamin d, liquid or small gelcaps. I forgot to ask about my Wellbutrin and allergy medicine. Oh well, there's time! A lot of people in these forums say NOT to try the drinks, food, or supplements pre surgery, but my dietician encouraged me to try different things to find what I like (even though my preferences may change post surgery). I have already purchased some Protein20 drinks, Premier Protein shakes, sugar free Gatorade, Propel electrolyte water, bone broth, and some Millie's sipping broth samples. My choice is the gastric sleeve but they will probably try to convince me that the bypass is the best option (and "gold standard" as I keep reading everywhere). I was scoped in July and they found a hiatal hernia, some non-bloody ulcers, and Schatzki's ring. I was instructed to continue with the Omeprazole in order to continue to calm my esophagus and stomach. I hope they let me stick with the sleeve, I don't want to deal with malabsorption issues and I prefer being able to take NSAIDS. I have enough dumping from having my gallbladder removed and being sensitive to grease/oil. Today while at the hospital, I had a long break so I had brunch consisting of an egg-salad sandwich (which they said was freshly made that morning) and half a bag of chips. Let's just say I had to visit the restroom 4-5 times during the rest of my time there, ugh! The insurance company has told my hospital (OHSU Portland Oregon) that the procedure is covered, but have not yet responded regarding what they require from me. The hospital requires two nutrition classes and a few more tests. My EKG came back "borderline" so I am being referred to a cardiologist to make sure everything is ok. I made my two nutrition class reservations and psychological evaluation appointment, as well as my sleep study consult. I'm 58 and have had a hysterectomy (1 ovary left) so I'm not required to get a pap smear, review birth control, and they're not requiring that I be screened for drugs & alcohol (I quit smoking 31 years ago). I'm hoping to have it all done by February, but won't know what else I need to do until my insurance company forks over some information! This facility only requires 24 hours of clear liquids before surgery (yay). While I was given my diet information, I think I'm going to slowly incorporate better habits and definitely pay attention to my protein and fluid intake for now. Since my BMI is slightly over 41, I was cautioned not to lose more than 10 pounds because it would put me below the required 40 BMI. That is unless I end up being diagnosed with sleep apnea (I have high cholesterol); neither joint pain or depression qualify as co-morbidities. My lab results have already been provided and they found my ferritin to be low, so I need to begin taking carbonyl iron with vitamin C right away. I've read a lot of different posts of people sharing their program information, so here is my post-surgical diet information from my booklet: STAGE ONE - first day following surgery - CLEAR LIQUIDS STAGE TWO - starting day two post surgery, for 14-21 days - FULL LIQUIDS STAGE THREE - starting 2-3 weeks post surgery, for approximately 6 weeks (depending on how the patient is doing) - SOFT FOOD STAGE FOUR - approximately two months post surgery - SOLID FOOD (low sugar & low fat) Over the weekend I cleaned out my cupboards of a bunch of food and food-like substances; what wasn't expired I took to work. Fed the crows some expired cereal and crackers. Haven't tackled the freezer yet. Since my surgery isn't scheduled yet I have plenty of time! I just wanted to thank everyone who posts their experiences and questions and advice, I think people are very supportive here for the most part!

So frustrated and depressed. It’s been 11 weeks - first two weeks I lost 9 pound. Went back a month later for check up and lost 1.8 pound. Last two weeks nothing. Dietician told me that I am not eating enough so I tried to eat more and put on two pounds. I see videos on YouTube of other people at 11-12 weeks being 40-60 pounds down and talking about only being able to eat five small bites. I don’t seem to have that restriction at all and could eat a full meal if unwanted but just nothing tastes good anymore. Can’t eat yoghurt or milk as it makes me sick now. Just nothing tastes like anything anymore. I cooked a huge pot of cabbage and chicken broth and basically live in that. But still not losing. Just feel so depressed and that this was such a waste of money and time. And now my hair is falling out in handfuls. Ughhhh

Hey guys, So first a quick update - Just celebrated my 10 month surgiversary on Saturday and made my 1st weight goal, which was 140. Currently at 139.7 and probably aiming for 135 before settling down into maintenance mode - yes I could aim lower at my height, but don't love the sagging skin that is starting & won't likely be able to have any cosmetic surgery. Plus, given my health issues, I feel - and my docs agree - that this is a realistic goal to maintain. Can't believe this time last year I was scheduling my surgery and taking out a loan and researching, researching, researching! Seems so long ago and also that it has flown by at the same time ; ) Have a few other victories to celebrate such as total inches lost so far over 42" when added together from biceps, bust, waist, hips, thighs & calves - so that is exciting! I tend to think of myself as "Droopy-Drawers" now, but I guess that's ok. Also out of plus sizes finally, which makes me so happy. Much more active now, both in and out of the gym - doing things around the house & yard I haven't done in a long, long time. Still dealing with all my back & chronic pain, but at least I'm able to DO more! Bloodwork is good except still a little low on the iron - continuing to work on that one. Hair could be better but I knew that was a strong risk and am praying it will start growing back soon. All in all it has been a great journey & totally worth it - that part w/o a doubt! Anyway, the reason for my post - have just started having this pinching sensation lately when bending over or leaning forward. It is in the area of the incision on my left side but the one closer to my belly button than my side - the one up about midway (not the little one under diaphragm area). It's not excruciating but is like a sharp pinch, and has been pretty much daily for the past week I guess. If I were earlier out post-op I would say it felt like being poked by a stitch or maybe popping one - but I would certainly hope that wouldn't be the case at 10 months. Has anyone else had a similar sensation this far out, and if so, did it go away on its own or did you ever find out what it was? Just wondering if I should be concerned...

Saw my surgeon today and got my date. 17th Jan. Lapband removal, possible hiatus hernia repair and revision to RNY

Hello All! I am new to the group. I received the green light for my sleeve surgery scheduled for 1/28/19. I could have had it sooner but due to work commitments and child care issues, it will be in January! I am happy and excited to start this adventure! Please comment with words of wisdom and advice! Surgery buddies are welcome. Hey

After about 5 minutes at Dr. Gagne's office the other day, I decided I am really glad I chose him as my surgeon. For starters, having the surgery at Butler instead of going down to Pittsburgh is a big plus. Especially since I have no idea how I am getting to and from the hospital, so if I have to get the male child or my uncle to do it, I am way better off doing through Butler. Talking with Dr. Gagne...he is very matter of fact, straight forward, yet seems to be very understanding. I had printed off my diary pages from MFP, put them in a binder for him and he said to just continue to eat as I have been doing because it was very good along with the exercise I have been doing.....proof positive that i need the surgery when he sees the work I am putting in and yet not so much as 1 ounce has been lost since my appointment the beginning of the month at Dr. Reyer. With regard to the holidays coming up....he said not to deprive myself, but by the same token please realize I am not going to the electric chair so please do not go overboard. LMAO Kelli told us that since Highmark has a change in medical policy, there is no more 6 month wait. So I asked for an approximate of when I could possibly have my surgery if that is the case...they will be submitting it the day after New Years when it takes effect. LOL This is going to fly!!!!

Hi guys, I've followed this app for quite some time before having my surgery.. I must admit some of you had me scared out my mind but this has been the best decision I could've made. It's no where near easy but it's worth it and I've decided to post a picture to share with you all...the pic in the middle is from today..please excuse my mirror lol.. I can let you know my starting weight was 266 I'm now around 230 and I'm 5ft 4in.

Today I finished my pre op testing and appointment- its real, 5 days left before surgery, I cannot belive it has come so fast. What did people need at the hospital? What did you take? What were some concerns that would help to ask beforehand to avoid before being sent home? Things to ask doctors or nurses about? I am just extremely nervous feeling like I am missing things I will need, or mess something up pre - op. I have the jitters..... So preparing ideas, or anything encouraging right now would be aweosme. Thanks guys. ANyone else my surgery buddy on 10/29

October 23, 2018, I started my journey towards weight loss surgery (sleeve). I am so excited to get this weight off and keeping it off. Please feel free to post if you are with me and just starting. The surgeon said it will be about 3 months until I get my date to have surgery. I will wait patiently and do everything that is required reach my goal. My starting weight is 266lbs and my short term goal is 199.75 (to get under 200) and my long term goal is 160lb. in the next could of years.

Hi All, Any encouragement and advise would be welcomed. I am scheduled to have the sleeve on Monday 10/29 and my case is still being approved by the insurance company. I believe I have met all the requirements but I've heard that the insurance may still fight it. I think the hardest mental part is that I have been on the liquid only diet for 3 days now and it is soooo hard. What is the point of being on the ultra-strict diet if I am not approved. It just makes me feel like spending the day at a buffet. Ok, maybe thats a bit extreme, I'm a bit testy from the diet. So, the diet is hard enough, and thinking I am doing it for nothing, just for now, is even more of a mental F**k. I am a pre-transplant patient (heart damaged from chemo therapy {Adriamycin} 1999) and that is why I have to have the surgery. I am going through Loma Linda University Hospital. They submitted 83 pages of details to the insurance and the insurance company told me that it takes a while to review and I should have an answer by 10/25. OMG! That's right before the surgery date!! Ok, enough ranting..... Has anyone had the insurance approved upon the first review? Any advise about getting through this crazy diet when you may not even have the surgery right now? Encouragement is always appreciated. The other reason why I'm stressing is financial. If they don't do the surgery soon I will have to pay all my deductibles again (up to $8000). Right now I am maxed out I would have no more out of pocket for the surgery. So, between the money and this diet my brain just keeps telling me that it's not worth it and to go get a pizza. Thank you for listening.

Hey guys! I'm new to this app and wanted to go head and do my first post. I had the sleeve surgery done yesterday (Wednesday around noon) I'm a 29 year old female (I'll be 30 in December 😳) my starting weight was 254.8 and After my 3 day clear liquid diet I was 246.8 the morning of surgery. I'm still in the hospital and hoping to be discharged tomorrow (Friday) Waking up in the recovery room I'll be honest was hell. pretty sure I wasn't on pain meds but if I was they deff wasn't working. Got moved to my room and was just in horrible horrible pain for a good hour straight. I had shortness of breathe and found myself taking deep gasps of air. I finally got to take 2 small pain pills (taking 5 mins apart) and was okay after and was in and out of sleep. I made sure to get the meds every 3 hours. As for nausea, I only felt it for a min before I took my first dose of medicine and I think it was just from all the pain I was in. I stayed in the bed all day prob until 8 or 10 pm until I had to use the restroom. Getting out of the bed was a little rough but just going slow is the key. Today is going better, I have walked a few times and been up more to use the bathroom and best of all I was finally able to get a shower!! Lol. I been burping and just focusing on getting my sips in. It's still a little hard to get up from out of the bed but I'm just telling myself each day that passes I'll feel a little better. Now that I shared my story I'm thinking about making a IG strictly for my sleeve progress. Only a handful of people know about my surgery so it will be a private page. I haven't made the page yet but if you have one too and wanna leave your usernames I'll add everyone soon 😁

Just got my surgery date! Please share any words of wisdom you can about surgery day and your recovery. My surgery is on a Monday. Expected hospital stay is 1 night. Any advice on how many days I will need round the clock care? And for those who have done the Robar diet ahead of surgery please share your fav foods and the worse one. TIA!

Hi All, So I am 10 months PO and I have a small bump/ball like item in my abdomen, maybe a little up and to the side of the large incision area. I had a CT scan a couple of weeks ago and everything showed up fine. Has anyone else had this? I asked to be put back on Protonix, as I think this started happening a little after the 3 months I was on it right after surgery... and my doctor just put me on Hyoscyamine to see if that would help as well. I dont have pain... it's just a annoyance as if I am leaning to the right side too long it's like HELLO! I'M HERE!... and then I readjust and it goes away. Thank you!

Hello everyone. I'm new to this forum, but hope to connect with others to get support, information, etc. I'm scheduled for my surgery 10/22 with Dr. Peter Billing at Eviva in WA State. I'm excited but a bit nervous, since this will be such a life changing thing. Any words of wisdom for me from those who've gone through it? Thanks!

Anyone else going on the bench this day? If so when are you starting liquids and going to soft foods? I would like to find someone with a similar date- to help hold me accountable, as well as for moral support. I am going to most likely head into surgery alone as my family lives out of town- and so I am a bit nervous about it. However I know it will be a great thing.

I just got off the phone with my surgical coordinator. It’s really going to happen. I have me pre-op meeting with the nutritionist on Monday, pre-op tests and meeting with my doctor Tuesday, and the 2 week liquid diet starts next Wednesday. I feel like I just won the lottery. I have so many questions running through my head. I am not worried about the actual surgery, but I know the 2 week liquid diet is going to suck. But I am so ready.