My sleeve story

[attitudefree 2]

Several of you have requested more details to my surgery experience- so here ya go.

Pre-op - all they did here was get me ready. Start an IV. I met with the Dr, anesthesia team and nurses from the OR.

OR- I vaguely remember going into the OR. They had given me a little versed (sedation medicine in pre-op)

Recovery- the only thing I remember about the recovery was the nurses telling me my room was ready.

The Floor- my surgery was at 2:30 in the afternoon and I was in my room by 6pm that night (I think) I woke up feeling fine. I was a little thirsty but no pain to speak of. I couldn't have anything to drink the first night post op, the only thing I could have were these green sponge sticks that I could soak in Water. I was glad I had brought some chap stick - it helped with my dry lips. I had a foley catheter, an IV, and a JP (jackson pratt) drain- small drain coming out from my stomach. My husband was in the room and I felt great. We watched TV a little but I doozing in and out. By 10 pm that night I was walking the halls and did fine.

First day post op- I was able to drink one medicine cup (little plastic 1 oz thing) of water or ice every hour. And that was it!! I had a PCA (patient control pain medication) for pain. Just push the button if I was hurting. I may have pushed it a total of six times the whole time I was there. The only time I had pain was when I laughed or coughed. I do suggest having a small pillow handy to use to splint your incision when you are coughing, laughing or getting out of bed. I walked the halls several times

Second post op day- I could drink what ever amount of water or Protein punch that I wanted. It went down fine and I knew to just sip throughout the day. In the early evening I did feel a fullness and I think it is a combination of air in my stomach and the liquids I have been drinking. I was told to walk more....so I did.

Late in the evening on my second post op day the surgeon said I could go home. He pulled the JP drain- it didn't hurt coming out but definitely is a wierd feeling.

Third post op day- I am home and doing really well I think. It's almost 10 am and I have walked twice in the neighbourhood, visited with a girlfriend that stopped by, made a pot of spaghetti for hubby and the kids dinner tonight. I have gotten in 20 oz of Fluid so far and am pleased with that. I am not really having any pain. Not really hungry but know it is important to drink my fluids to stay hydrated. I am off to go shower- it will feel sooooo good to shower. First shower I have had since Monday morning.

I will be glad to answer any questions about the surgical experience. To me it was smooth sailing and a great start for my journey to a healthier me!

Take Care All

[*susan* 1,709]

Thanks for sharing your story. I really do think it helps people to feel more at ease, especially when they are using the same doctor as you. It looks like everything went very smoothly for you, that is great!

[Chancie 65]

I'm so happy for you! And glad everything went so well for you too!!

I saw your message so knew you were home, just had to find your post!:001_tt2:

Don't over do it, but it sounds like you're doing wonderful! I didn't have as smooth a ride as you, but it's all a thing of the past, and just a blur....

Sounds like you are heading in the right direction and such a great start! I'm really happy things are good!

Keep us updated!

[Kikiphiasmom 44]

I'm so glad you posted. I am one of the people who wanted you to. I will be sleeved on 10/09/09 and feel very anxious about this surgery. The only surgery I have had were my 2 c-sections. My surgeon said that the sleeve surgery is alot easier than a c-section (i'm praying he is right). I had no issue with my c-sections. But I was also in my twenites and about 40 lbs thinner. I will put myself in gods hands and hope for the best. I am so glad that you are having such an easy time. CONGRATS again!! :001_smile:

[DownInSocal 12]

Oh I forgot I used an extra pillow to put over my stomach and hold when I coughed. That is a good thing to remember for people having surgery.

That first shower is so wonderful!