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This is a tough journey, even if you have no complications. Glad you're doing well. I am 7-8 weeks out and I have found the hardest thing is that I'm not sure if I'm eating too much. I'm on the road for work and I've been hungry all the time since surgery, so I'm eating 800-900 calories a day. I'm not as hungry now that I'm on the road because I'm busier, but now I'm eating more because the food is less healthy (Or, am I less hungry because the food is less healthy/I'm eating more?).

a lot of women experience screwed up cycles the first few weeks or months after surgery because of extra estrogen (or so they say...). Estrogen is stored in fat cells, so it's released during rapid weight loss. For most people, it'll eventually stabilize. However, with your medical history and various meds, your situation may be more complicated than that.

I had the regular gastric bypass - not mini - and I had two strictures early on. They're minor and an easy fix (just saying this because you said you were glad you didn't have strictures -- but they're really a pretty minor complication and easily fixable)

Sometimes you have to do things other people don't agree with. It's hard, and you can try to educate her by having her read asmbs.org (lots of good resources). It's definitely not easy. I've been struggling and I haven't even had any complications! It's not guaranteed that you will keep your weight off with surgery, but you have no chance if you don't have surgery. (I lost 100 lbs 7 years ago but in 5 years gained almost all of it back; I knew I needed surgery to get a re-set on my metabolism. But no matter how much research you show her, she may not be willing to support you, and you may have to decide to do it anyway. I am super close to my mom, so whenever I have to do something she disagrees with, it breaks my heart. But I would have done this even if my parents didn't agree. Fortunately, they were very supportive. Good luck to you!

I suffer from anxiety as well and have had a handful of full blown attacks. I was actually surprised that my anxiety level going into this was not through the roof. I think it helped that the surgeon operated on my uncle twice and they think he is the best doctor ever and a friend of a friend just got the same surgery done by him and had no issues either. I also read that the chances of dying are less than the chance of dying in a car crash and I figure the chance of a car crash doesn’t stop me from driving so why would a similar chance of a severe complication stop me from getting a surgery I want and need. Afterwards, my moods were a bit all over the place (I have bipolar disorder so this is not totally uncommon for me but it was different). It was from the surgery. I was just very hyper sensitive and emotional with a bit of anxiety. Nothing I couldn’t handle myself and work through though. I would say just to let your psychiatrist know that you will be getting surgery and that you may need some temporary adjustments to your medications and don’t be afraid to call and ask for those changes if you need them. I, thankfully didn’t have to change anything but my bipolar and anxiety were pretty stable with my meds going into it.

I had my surgery at HopsitalBC in Tijuana, Mx. by Dr. Illan. I did about 200 hours of research before my surgery and based on that research, finances, and other personal considerations, decided to go the medical tourism route and have been very happy with that decision. These hospitals ONLY do bariatric surgeries and are geared towards medical tourists. They run a VERY well oiled machine from intake to discharge. The process was so smooth, I was completely confident going alone. The surgeon I chose is highly accredited, has done thousands of WLS procedures, has relationships and mentorships with some of the most well known US bariatric surgeons for continuing ed, is board certified, etc. He is just as qualified, if not more so, than many of the bariatric surgeons in my area. Regarding complications, I met with my PCP beforehand and she was 100% supportive. I knew that if I had any issues post-op she would be my advocate. Additionally, US hospitals CANNOT legally refuse to treat you if you present to an ER, regardless of what caused the complications. Now, would a US bariatric surgeon agree to take you on for follow up once you've been stabilized? Maybe not. But that's why you should establish post-op care BEFORE you have surgery. Additionally the complication rate with bariatric surgeries is VERY low in general; these are long established surgeries with very good post-op outcomes. My PCP is also doing all of my labs, meds, etc. For travel, my surgeon recommends blood thinners for 7 days post-op. I also wore compression socks and a compression shirt for my flight home. I started walking as soon as I could post-op, which also helps. Blood clots are a risk with this surgery, whether stateside or abroad, and the travel aspect can increase that. So take your blood thinners and walk as much as you can. Money wasn't a huge factor, though it was a factor. I have very good insurance but after all the pre-op appointments, tests, scans, and everything else, we estimated our out of pocket would be in the $7,500 range. Out of pocket including spending money, an extra night in the hotel, and flights, I paid about $5,500 for surgery in Mx. It was also SIGNIFICANTLY faster. With the 6 month diet program and required insurance approvals, it would be about 9 months from first appt to surgery vs. less than 3 months from intake to surgery in Mx. The reality is, there are amazing surgeons in the US and just as many in Mexico and other places. Conversely, there are terrible surgeons here and everywhere else. There are pros and cons to each, and every person has different needs. Ultimately it boils down to doing your research, finding a surgeon you trust, and a program that fits your needs. For me personally, medical tourism was the right choice and I'm extremely happy with my decision. Feel free to send me a message if you have any other questions!

I suggest you check out "My Level 10 Weight Loss" videos on YouTube by Erin Branscom. She had surgery in Mexico and has a FB group (private, $10 a month, but I think it's worth it!) where many people talk about this. However, this is not really "research". I think you would have to see if there are any clinical studies on patients who had their surgery in Mexico and compare them to patients who had their surgery in the US, but then I'm not sure if you'd find those studies. You could contact ASBMS (American Society for Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery), to see what data they have, but I suspect they are biased in favor of people doing it in the US. I wouldn't have done it Mexico. Sure it's cheaper, and most people come out fine, but what if you have a complication? Some doctors in the US won't treat you if you had your surgery elsewhere - at least based on some posts I've seen. And you may have to take a flight home. It's risky to fly right after any surgery due to the increased risk of blood clots, which are also increased if you are obese.

You are spot on with what you say, I’m 3 weeks post op and it’s been the toughest journey I’ve ever walked and I’ve been up and down throughout these 3 weeks. it’s not easy. I know it will get easier but I’ve been down every other day as apparently with fat loss your estrogen levels rise and that causes feeling down so that sucks. Im still finding it hard to get my fluid intake in and in turn now today have a migraine probably due to dehydration. im eating soft food and cracker crisp bread with a little cheese or chicken with avocado or yeast extract. Ive gone off eggs, that’s a shame. my sense of smell and taste seems so different, I don’t know if anyone else’s has changed? I’ve lost a total of 17lbs since my op and lost 16 with pre op diet. I feel like it’s slow this week like a quarter of a pound but I’ve been told there is a 3 week stall. I’m really fed up with the down days. Ive not gone back to work yet. Took another week off. Im really struggling today. I’m sorry to be so negative but when I read your insert and though you are so right, people need to know complications can arise as issues and to know you will need support.

I had the band in Jan 2012, horrible experience many hospital visit, a revision and it got worse. Finally had it removed. But very upset with everything I went through. Do you know of a lawyer in Ottawa that could help me?

Mine was on October 14th. It’s really nice to see how positive and excited everyone is. But it is equally as important to acknowledge our fears and the reality of recovery. I was very scared going into it and everyone said “you’ll be fine, and shared their positive experiences”. I was planning to have family come to stay and help out with the recovery period but because of all the positive experiences, I didn’t go that direction and really regret that decision. I am now 2.5 weeks post op and it has been so difficult to manage all the different pieces related to the diet whilst trying to manage anemia and other issues that arose post op. I see others that had the surgery on the same day as I and with the same doctor go through an easy recovery period. We’re all different and the reality is that it is not always easy, complications are possible, and we need to be prepared for complications.

Hello there, my daughter is hard pressed on having the procedure in Tiajuana. I am looking into having it myself and was thinking of staying in the states. However, if my daughter is going to do it, I will not stand by and let her go at it alone. I am a true hard pressed researcher. I have read and read online, but would like to hear from many people what procedure they had there, any complications and what doctor they used and the name of the clinic. I think replies to this post will help many people find the right place to go in Mexico and avoid the dangerous places. Please post a response if you have had bariatric surgery in Mexico. These details will help keep Americans who are hard pressed on doing the procedure in Mexico safer. Lets all help each other and keep one another finding the safe clinics and doctors overseas if that is the hard pressed plan you have. thank you so much.

AnnieDebbie I would like to know how your surgery went as I was approved by MBC to have GB surgery with Dr Christian Rodriguez Lopez. I have yet to schedule as I am just doing a bit more research to be sure I am choosing the safest doctor. Any other feedback from anyone who has had surgery in Mexico. I am a true hard pressed researcher. I have read and read online, but would like to hear from many people what procedure they had there, any complications and what doctor they used and the name of the clinic. I think replies to this post will help many people find the right place to go in Mexico and avoid the dangerous places. Please post a response if you have had bariatric surgery in Mexico. These details will help keep Americans who are hard pressed on doing the procedure in Mexico safer. Lets all help each other and keep one another finding the safe clinics and doctors overseas if that is the hard pressed plan you have. thank you so much.

I didn't have any complications - but sorry to hear that you did and hope you're on the mend soon...

I had a vertical sleeve gastrectomy. No post op complications for me, no reflux (although a certain percentage of sleevers do get this). I surpassed my goal weight. I started at 286, today 135. I was 49 when I had my surgery, I’m a 5’3.5” female. I followed my plan, upped my exercise, and found every bit of success that I was hoping for.

3 days post op still in the hospital with 🥵 🤒fever Fluoroscopy, CT w/contrast, Venus ultrasound was done on both of my legs, c-diff panel. Heart Rate above 115. Today I am doing better. They have ruled out leakage, peritonitis, sepsis, A bit worry but I know each body responses very different after surgery. Has similar reaction when my gallbladder was remove. No pain though able to walk freely around the ward, bathroom is not an issue. Cramps because of the gas but other than that ok hopefully the next 24 hours are decisive and taking antibiotics as of yesterday I do not regret going Thru all this I know my health is going to be way better as time goes by as long as I follow my team’s direction. Has anyone else had similar or any complications that they wish to share.

The first days were the hardest. I remember that first car drive, every bump made bell jiggle and Ouch. That’s how I ended up on the forum. I though I must be having complications. Came here saw other people’s posts and realized it’s normal. Then it did start getting better. I do have to follow some wacky rules, biggest one nothing cold , I can only tolerate warm or hot. It may not seem it right now but it does start to feel better. Keep on sippin

I'm so sorry the pain is so bad. Have you contacted your surgeon's office to discuss? Pain isn't necessarily indicative of a problem, but if it is truly unbearable, then it justifies a call to discuss. Are you able to walk around at all, even if slowly? Getting up and moving will help expel the gas used to inflate your abdomen during surgery, which nearly always helps reduce pain. Also taking Gas-X can help, use the chewables if you need to. A heating pad can also help with the pain from gas and the discomfort. As far as eating or drinking, make sure you are following your surgeon's plan and not eating or drinking anything that isn't recommended. But try and sip as much water as you can, as dehydration will only further complicate your recovery. Again, everyone's pain tolerance is different and their recovery experience is different, but if you are in so much pain that you are concerned, you absolutely should contact your surgeon.

Congratulations!!! I am 25 and also a shortie haha I'm 5 feet even. I am 2 weeks post op today, and like you I feel well. No complications so far. My surgery weight was 264 ( in the beginning I was 274) and I am currently down to 245.I hope my journey is as good to me as it is to you.

I just found in another post how this is normal. It was the 7 day post gastric sleeve post. I was so glad to read those responses I thought I was having complications. By the way my weight was up to then I did some yoga poses for gas pain relief and started passing Flatbush and having diarrhea and my weight start going down. I had been told the weight gain was the gas they pumped into us to do the surgery and we had to wait till the bod absorbed it. guess mine finally is. Also any surgery is treated by the body as an acute trauma so you have holding on of fluids and inflammation that adds to that weight gain. Give it 3 days and the normal surgery weight gain will go away.

Thanks for this post. I am two days out and thought I was having complications. I can barley drink, without feeling it. Thank you for your response, now I see it’s a normal response.

I can’t respond to anyone individually on here 😡 Thank you all so much for the kind words. It has helped immensely. I am eating 1-2 oz a meal, so probably getting about 4 oz a day of food total. I am going to talk to the nutritionist and get a counselor that specializes in WLS. I definitely am frustrated with my surgeon and need more support. I basically fasted for a month, but it didn’t feel doable right not, so I think I’ll ignore that advice too. I had never heard anyone else saying they should eat once until that comment above. I have a counselor, but I need a new one. So I’m going to have to get more Swiss about my supports. I may have pushed too hard as well. I had a lot of complications with the surgery. I got an infected incision and had a lot of issues with dizziness and weakness for the first 4 weeks after surgery. I started working out at about 2 months. Thank you all so much for the support. I feel much better 🤗🤗🤗

My husband is 71 and had gastric bypass surgery last Fri. No complications and he is doing really well. Sipping and following puréed food diet.

So what Med School did your partner graduate from that informed him on how fast you should heal? Some of us are back at our normal activities in a week or so while others take months to get back. It really depends on a lot of things like your starting weight/BMI, your physical condition before surgery, your nutrition, the complications of the surgery, any other conditions you have etc, etc. Even totally healthy people after surgery have different healing rates.

I struggled with the pre-surgery diet and the liquid phase. For me, the week prior to the surgery was much tougher than the week after the surgery (I had no major complications, so take that for what it is worth). And it is a struggle for the reasons that you mentioned -- you are completely changing your life. You are not just changing how much you eat, you are changing what you can eat and you are changing your emotional coping mechanisms. I had my little plan for how I was going to eat right and eat light for the few weeks before the surgery and then my emotions and fears blew that plan to pieces. My mind was terrified of what was to come -- I had some terrible eating binges about 10 days before surgery. But remember why you ever stepped into the surgeon's office to begin with. For me, it was the realization that I had been telling myself for 20 years that the "next diet" would work. Some of the "next diets" worked for a while, but none of them kept the weight off. Everyone says surgery is a tool for weight loss. Agreed. But I needed an extreme tool to lose an extreme amount of weight. It was now or never and I didn't consider never to be an acceptable answer. So I buckled down, made it through the liquid liver phase (it gets better after about day 3) and got through to surgery. And it has been worth it. I'm 2 months out and do not regret it.

First of all, I'm so sorry you're experiencing so many difficulties. I can't even imagine how frustrating and scary this must be. This is not the norm, and as such, I STRONGLY recommend you contact your surgeon ASAP. If they can't get you in go to the ER. This much pain and regression in eating a month out is super unusual and could be indicative of a complication. Go get seen! As for your partner, if they are frustrated by your pain then that is a problem with them. Someone who loves you should be empathetic, caring, and more concerned about your well being than their comfort. If you have to lie or hide your pain to keep them from being inconvenienced, then you might want to reevaluate that relationship. All that being said, take care of YOURSELF. This procedure is a tool and only works as well as we learn to use it which includes advocating for your needs and getting help when you need it. You do not need to suffer and should not be, please reach out to your team...