Not doing well emotionally post-op-HELP PLEASE!

[BetsyB 9]

I think a lot of us, in our post-op delight with our bands and losses, tend to "forget" the discomforts associated with surgery. It is a "piece of cake" compared to many procedures, but there is discomfort---for many, quite a bit of pain.

Thankfully, it is short-lived. And like new parents, we are so thrilled with our new "babies," we forget that pain. It kind of does a disservice to those who are facing surgery, because they are given a false expectation.

I'm glad you're feeling better today. You will, each day, until you're good as new.

The emotional swings are REALLY normal--things like meds and anesthesia and Fluid retention really do affect mood and emotion, and that, too, will resolve a bit each day.

Another thing that can come into play is a little bit of grief--we all plan for surgery day, but don't think much about what we will face after. For many, the loss of food = loss of comfort. With time you will find new ways to self-soothe. You will miss food less and less. But it's a process.

Be gentle with yourself--things are progressing normally. It will take a bit of time, but soon you will be another happy bandster who's forgotten about the pain and emotional rollercoaster

[honk 780]

I'm sorry to hear that you've had a hard time. I am a little suprised that you're doctor has you on Clear Liquids for 14 days. I was on broth (and Jello which I refuse to eat) for 7 days and then could move on to smooth yogurt and smooth Soups (tomato). While I was'nt necessarily hungry by the end of the first week I was definately tired of broth; and actually enjoyed drinking something different. Also what are you having for Protein right now? My doctor required up to 60 grams per day even at the beginning and I was using Protein Shakes.< /p>

[onthego317 4]

I am starting to feel a bit better now that you are all sharing and giving me support...plus the 60 mg. of diazepam I took has helped too! Yes, I did have it does laprascopically, but I do have five incisions, some tiny and a couple a that about about 2 inches. It's the port area that hurts the most; though now it is just quite tender and not so much painful like the first day. I really, honestly felt as though I was being stabbed to death. They must have really roughed me up in that area during surgery I think. I very much can't wait for the gas bloating to go. I look as if I am going to have a baby! As I was holding my tender site on my tummy, it reminded me of when I was pregnant! I was just waiting for someone to ask me when I was due! Yup, almost 50 and looking nine months pregnant! This all is really more scary that I thought. I expected to be jumping for joy right now that I finally had my surgery. I never expected to feel panic and anxiety!

I sympathize with you completely. I was banded 8/16 and still have port pain. I also find myself "holding" that incision. I went to the Dr for a 2 wk check-up and he assured me this was normal. I was in terrible pain fo the 1st 10 days then things started improving. I had serious "buyers remorse" that first week! I could not believe I had done this to myself. I promise it will get better! Keep your chin up and remember why you did this in the first place. Best wishes!!

[tylee72198 10]

I hurt, and I cried for a bout 3 or 4 days after surgery. I wondered what in the world I had done. 4 weeks out though, and I wouldn't change a thing. I'm feeling wonderful, and I'm so glad that I did it.

[salma 0]

Even if you aren't ready, take one day at a time. You will feel better soon, the first few day were also the worst for me. I also thought i had made the wrong decision but little by little when i began to see the changes it motivated me to eat the right things and believe me once you get on soft foods you will feel great! give it time and keep a possitive attitude. Don't worry about how they treated you at the hospital. You and only you you have the power to make this change in your life. You wont regret it. Good luck and take it easy.