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Getting plastics tomorrow!
DaisyAndSunshine replied to DaisyAndSunshine's topic in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Week 2 of recovery - Gotta say, recovery for plastics is no joke. Bariatric recovery seemed like a breeze compared to this one. Still hanging in there, pain is a bit tolerable but it'll take at least 8 weeks or so to go back to feeling normal per se. Anyone thinking of plastics, please bear in mind week 1 and even 2 will be a little difficult in terms of recovery! But can't wait to see in a month or 2, how I feel and look in the mirror! -
JUNE SURGERY BUDDIES
DonnaMarie Hanby replied to Mira88's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Hi there, first post and my surgery day is June 29th!!! Going through the Mount Carmel Bariatric program in Grove City, Ohio. I am excited and anxious. Had my pre op surgeon visit this morning and we are all good to go. I turn 43 the day before, great way to start my next journey around the sun. -
First, congratulations on your weight loss. It’s a fabulous achievement - please remember that. The hard truth is not everyone gets to their goal weight. Your goal weight is a number you chose for various reasons significant to you but your body has it’s own goal weight - its set point. This is the weight your body is happiest at. It is a weight that’s easiest to maintain & your body will keep pulling you back to. Your set point is what makes it hard to lose weight & easy to put back on any you did lose back. The surgery lowered your set point from what it was but you can’t control what the lower level will be. Be careful as you can increase your set point again by eating to excess & making poor food choices. Yes, increasing your physical activity & building muscle will increase your hunger. The trick is to balance the hunger with the calories your body needs. Check your basal metabolic rate to give you an idea if what calories your body may need to maintain. Seeking support from a therapist may help especially with your cravings & late night hunger. Many find therapy very beneficial to support their weight loss & manage their maintenance. Therapy will help you identify what’s behind your cravings & hunger & reflect on your relationship with food. Your surgeon or team should be able to refer you to a suitable therapist (one who specialises in disordered eating & is knowledgeable of bariatric surgery). All the best. PS - I found it helpful to get the ‘bad’ food out of my house. If it’s not there I can’t eat it. I know it’s not always possible especially if you have a family but even if you got rid of the your favourites would help. Try to pick a healthier option. Want sweet try some fruit. Want salty or crunchy try roasted fava beans or chick peas. Of course even ‘good’ food eaten to excess will lead to weight gain.
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Plateau for too long
Tomo replied to Miimii_Roci274's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I'm short, not young nor do I formally workout but if I ate 800 calories a day I would be dropping serious weight and I weigh 107 +/- 5 lbs and my maintenance calories is about 1450 to 1550 cal/day. So like others, I really think you should talk to your bariatric team to discuss why you already entered maintenence with so little calories and have a dietician check your food log. 800 calories a day is already extreme, and I think going down to 400 calories a day would be even more harmful to your body long-term. -
What sort of "good problems" you had after WLS
pintsizedmallrat replied to omrhsn's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
Here's the thing: the entire world outside of the bariatric community views our victories as bragging. They also don't understand some of the "problems" we have (An example I would give is that I am often uncomfortable about being able to feel so many of my bones sometimes, and I can tell you that people who have not experienced the metamorphosis of WLS do not understand how that can be an "issue"...becoming thin this quickly can lead to a lot of dysphoria about your body feeling foreign). The people in here understand it's important to celebrate our wins and successes and I took OP's "prompt" as a lighthearted way to do just that. -
Plateau for too long
catwoman7 replied to Miimii_Roci274's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I agree with the person above. Even at 800 cal/day people need to be under medical supervision (which technically we are the first few months after bariatric surgery). And five months is too long for a stall - you're in maintenance, whether intentional or not. How far are you from a normal BMI? The closer you get, the harder it is to lose weight, so that could be what's going on, too. Are you still tracking/logging your intake? -
So now, my loose skin is bothering me :(
catwoman7 replied to maintenanceman's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
Dra. Laura Carmina Cardenas in Tijuana has done a lot of bariatric patients (she herself is a bariatric patient). Her name comes up a lot for those of us who are looking for plastic surgery in Mexico, and she wouldn't be too far for you since you're in SoCal -
Bariatric surgery - long term
vpsdub replied to vpsdub's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
Thanks for your replies, very helpful, much appreciated! Here are my main concerns with surgery, just trying to achieve risk/benefit balance: 1) anesthesia - recently had minor dental surgery with local anesthesia (tooth extraction), for 3 days afterwards had more frequent than usual shortness of breath and chest tightness. Bariatric anesthesia will be much heavier - it would be good to hear from someone 60+ with pre-surgery cardio vascular issues 2) my friend post-surgery has to take loads of supplements and vitamins as necessary nutrients not absorbed properly after surgery causing fatigue. Also other surgeries might be needed - to fix stricture, excessive skin etc. It seems like a lot of risk taking into account my heart issues. Are supplements for life? Would prefer natural nutrients as any chemical/medication has side effects Another question - would appreciate views/experiences on non surgical ways. Tried diets - lost weight and gained back. Heard about microbiom changes, faecal transplanting - any experience of those? Thanks again -
Bariatric surgery - long term
catwoman7 replied to vpsdub's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
I had surgery eight years ago at age 55. No diabetes, though - just obesity. SUPER obesity. Also, borderline sleep apnea that I didn't know about until I did a sleep test for surgery. I lost 235 lbs and gained back about 20 lbs in year 3 post op (a 10-20 lb rebound weight gain after you hit your lowest weight is very common). Maintained ever since, but it's work. On the other hand, before I had surgery, the most I could lose was about 50-60 lbs, and every ounce of it would come back. Happened dozens of times. So yes - weight loss is sustainable after bariatric surgery as long as you monitor yourself. I had strictures at two months out and four months out. Very easy fix. The PA at our bariatric clinic told me it was the most common complication, and that they happen to 5% of gastric bypass patients (and if they're going to happen, it'll be during the first three months post-surgery - they're very rare after that). I personally wouldn't call something that happens to 5% of people "common", but that does give you an idea of how common complications are. Basically - they're not very common. about 30% of bypass patients have dumping syndrome. I've never had it and most of the people I know haven't had it, but some of us do. It's caused by eating too much sugar at one sitting (or for some, too much fat at one sitting seems to set it off). It's because food passes through to your small intestine much more quickly once you've had bypass, and your intestines go into overdrive trying to deal with the sugar (or...fat). It can be prevented by limiting the amount of sugar you eat at one sitting (which we should be doing regardless, even us non-dumpers). good luck in your decision. Honestly, I should have done it years ago. My only regret is that I waited that long to have it done. My life has changed dramatically for the good. I'd go back and have the surgery done every year if I had to - it's been terrific! -
Good afternoon Have diabetes 2 and obesity for many years, now endocrinologist consultant recommends bariatric surgery, most likely Gastric bypass. Since 2015 keeping balanced diet and portion control, doing walking, swimming, lost 20kg in 2018-2020 but unfortunately not much weight loss recently. It would be interesting to hear from people of similar age and health profile who had bariatric surgery 4-5 years ago - is weight loss sustainable in long term? Any side effects - short and long term? Male in early 60s with sleep apnea and high blood pressure. BMI 49. Angiogram found no cardiac blockages but chest tightness happens often especially in warm humid weather. Physical activity is mainly walking, average 5-6 K steps daily, also swimming, outdoor stretching and breathing exercises Thanks
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My doc gave me a restaurant discount card
BabySpoons replied to KathyLev's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
I have no qualms about using a bariatric card or a coupon (heaven forbid) in a restaurant. Do you know that the markup value of a meal is 300% or more? Then you are expected to tip at 20% on that overpriced meal? That's so the owner doesn't have to pay the waitress salary. They are making a killing on us so we can enjoy the ambiance and 2T of food. Believe me they are not losing any money on kid's meals or senior prices. And I could give a flip less who knows I had surgery. I was invisible to those strangers before. Now I guess they'll see me. 👀 -
I'm not sure how much you (or whomever) regained, but it's very common for us to gain 10-20 lbs in year 3. It's a rebound - and most clinics wouldn't even count that as a true regain - it's more your body settling in to its new set point. Above and beyond that, yes, it would be a regain. Some people lose it, but it's a challenge (and it would be regardless - the closer you are to a normal BMI, the harder it is to lose weight - and that's everyone - not just people who've had bariatric surgery). I'm on a forum with several long-time bariatric patients (some of us many years out), and most of us have struggled with regain - and losing it again. It can be done, but it's a challenge.
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Too close to the ER today (long post)
catwoman7 replied to BypassTheBS's topic in Gastric Bypass Surgery Forums
I'd agree with Arabesque that it's probably too much activity too soon after surgery. Your body's still healing, and you're not taking in enough calories to support strenuous activity yet. And low blood pressure/low blood sugar are issues with some of us the first few weeks. It was probably a combination of things. about alcohol (and I know you said you weren't drinking. but just because the other commenters addressed it...), we were told to wait a year. I waited more like three years. The first time I drank it slowly and in a "safe" place since I didn't know what kind of effect it would have on me. I remember getting really buzzed really quickly on just one glass of wine - although the feeling left more quickly than it would have pre-surgery. I do drink now (eight years out), but it mostly consists of a glass or two of wine (and usually only when I'm out with friends) about once a month. But then alcoholism runs on one side of my family (two uncles), and with my addictive personality and my re-arranged digestive system, plus the fact transfer addiction isn't uncommon among bariatric patients, I never wanted to risk it. -
JUNE SURGERY BUDDIES
mybariatric_journey replied to Mira88's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I'm one day away from transitioning from clear liquids to protein shakes and so far its a bit hard to get in my fluids with all of this gas pain. Otherwise, I've been researching bariatric friendly recipes on tiktok (which don't really help with the cravings 😂) -
My doc gave me a restaurant discount card
BigSue replied to KathyLev's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
You can buy a card like that from the Bariatric Pal store, but I would never use one (even if I got it for free). I have t even told my family that I got WLS, so I’m certainly not going to tell a server in a restaurant. I’m almost 3 years out now, so I can eat reasonable portions (especially meals that are mostly vegetables, like salads), and I can usually find something on the menu that works for me, and/or take home leftovers. I rarely have any desire to order from the children’s menu because they usually have unappealing and often not-very-healthy food, but I have done so on occasion — for example, I went to a BBQ restaurant and wanted ribs, but not a half rack, so I ordered the child’s plate with 2 ribs and and 2 small sides, which was the same food as the regular menu but a smaller portion (and much cheaper). I just asked nicely and they didn’t require an explanation or card or anything. -
My doc gave me a restaurant discount card
catwoman7 replied to KathyLev's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
we were offered them, but I didn't take one. Here, the card said you could order off the kids' menu since you'd had bariatric surgery. The thing is, most items on kids' menus are either awful or not bariatric-friendly (e.g., chicken nuggets, hotdogs, PB&J sandwiches). No thanks. When we went out (at least when I was fairly early out - I can eat most things now), I'd just order an appetizer (like shrimp cocktail) or a bowl of soup. Also, keep in mind that although some restaurants will honor the cards, others won't - and they're under no obligation to do so. -
I thought they were kidding when they told me they have a discount card for me. It's an actual card that says I'm a bariatric surgery patient ,and as a result of having a small stomach,I can only eat small quantities. Please let her adjust her portions and price it accordingly . We haven't gone out to eat in over 10 years , but I think I'd feel silly using it ! Have you gotten one ?
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I also had surgery in Mexico. All you need to do is to get a bariatric specialist on your health care to do follow-up. The bariatric facilities in Mexico should also be following up with you. What Mexican facilities did you use?
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You can get a card from your doctor, Amazon or Bariatric Pal that says that have to allow you to order from the kids menu, share with someone or order smaller portions.
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I used the grape liquacel. It's a bit funky. On bariatric pal, you can get samples of many different proteins before you commit to a large order. Maybe that is the way to go to find something she'll like. Is she strictly on liquids? There are other options for protein, like yogurt, soups with unflavored protein powder (genepro is good). I really like the bariatric pal protein shots in cran grape, pink lemonade, and apple. I hope you find something.
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Update about gastric sleeve complications
ChreeMiriah posted a topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
After being back in the ICU for 5 days we finally discovered what the issue was. The 3 surgeries had caused my cortisol to drop severely low and I had been in remission of adrenal insufficiency for 2 years. They pumped me full of steroids and now I’m on 100 mg a day feeling better. They discovered my stomach was twisted and they need to widen the sleeve mouth so I will be undergoing 4 dilations so I can keep down my food. I want to point out that I have read some medical journals that say adrenal insufficiency is a very rare side effect of Bariatric surgery so if you have had a history of your cortisol dropping please be cautious. On to some good news, My doc says I am 2 points away from a heathy bmi of 25 so maybe in the end it was all worth it. I want to thank all of you who read my story and offered your solutions and support when I felt like their was no hope. I will come back and post what happens after each dilation. If you are continuing to struggle don’t give up and be your own advocate by doing your own research. Hang in there everyone. -
Am I The Only One Percent?
ChreeMiriah replied to ChreeMiriah's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
After being back in the ICU for 5 days we finally discovered what the issue was. The 3 surgeries had caused my cortisol to drop severely low and I had been in remission of adrenal insufficiency for 2 years. They pumped me full of steroids and now I’m on 100 mg a day feeling better. They discovered my stomach was twisted and they need to widen the sleeve mouth so I will be undergoing 4 dilations so I can keep down my food. I want to point out that I have read some medical journals that say adrenal insufficiency is a very rare side effect of Bariatric surgery so if you have had a history of your cortisol dropping please be cautious. On to some good news, My doc says I am 2 points away from a heathy bmi of 25 so maybe in the end it was all worth it. I want to thank all of you who read my story and offered your solutions and support when I felt like their was no hope. I will come back and post what happens after each dilation. If you are continuing to struggle don’t give up and be your own advocate by doing your own research. Hang in there everyone. -
@LindsayT Hey! To answer your question: I am not planning on having more children. My insurance does cover the revision and the appointment went well. I will have an Upper GI Single w/contrast done to determine if there is any disruption in my pouch or fistulas formed throughout the path to the remnant stomach. I'm scheduled to go back to my bariatric surgeon in 2 wks. to review the results and go over the next steps. Btw Lindsay you are doing an AMAZING job!! 41 lbs down in 6 weeks out of surgery, that is commendable 🤩👏 You rock!!! Keep up the good work!!
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I had the roux-en-y gastric bypass surgery in 2018. My beginning weight was 290 and in less than a year I was down 100 lbs. I got pregnant at the end of 2019. I gained 30 lbs during that time and lost it all after 2 months of breast feeding. I breast fed until my son was 11 months and he was ON DEMAND. I had to increase my intake to produce more milk. I now have gained over 70 lbs since I stopped and tried intermittent fasting, Golo, high protein low carbs and nothing has worked. I go to my bariatric surgeon tomorrow and hope to get a green light on a revision as I know my pouch has increased in size as I can eat more than I used to. My energy level is at a 2 and I'm burnt out with my soon to be 3 yr old who is full of energy. I was on no medication after my surgery and now I'm taking 6 different prescriptions daily and its wearing me down mentally as well. My PCP and Psychiatrist are supportive as long as my bariatric surgeon is as well. I pray this goes well tomorrow. I hope to return with good news.
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Does this make sense? Q about insurance and my doctor.
New To This23 replied to Mercury.Belle's topic in Insurance & Financing
Did you get this straightened out? I can tell you that your PCP sends the form in. Then you set up 12 Dietician Visits, 6 weight, and BP checks with your PCP or nurse, a sleep study if you are not already using a CPAP, if you are not using a CPAP and they say you have sleep apnea, you are going to have to get set up with at and be compliant with it. When you get closer to finishing your Dietician appointments, you will schedule a psychosocial appointment. Once all of that is completed and you met the goal weight Molina has set for you then you will be referred to the Bariatric clinic. You will meet the surgeon and then do any assessments they have (this will vary from person to person). Then you will get your surgery date. The nice thing about Molina is you will get your own case manager, who will explain everything to you. You can call them anytime. They will let you know every step and piece of paperwork and who handles what and when. They will also periodically call you to check in on you. This case manager is so helpful, because PCP and dieticians do not seem to totally understand the process, and it's because Bariatric is not their specialty, not until you get to the clinic. So stage one, your PCP fills out the form and submits it to your insurance stage two you do all of the appointments and hit the goal weight Molina gives you (Your case manager will call and introduce themselves, plus you will get a letter in the mail. Your case manager is also a nurse and they will ask your weight so make sure the DR puts down an accurate weight, if not petition to have Molina change it) stage three you move on to the clinic and get surgery.
