Are you open or private about surgery and why?

[MazadiB 18]

I'm not sure my friends agree with my decision but none of them know anything about this surgery and I've done loads of research, frequent this site, and understand the benefits for my life. Even if they talk about me, I don't care, since they could already be talking about my weight, my ass the size of Dallas or crazy hair. People talk, it's just the way things are, and they don't have to agree with me. I'll just work hard at this "easy way out" and let the results speak for me!

yesssss!!!!!

[getnhealthyintx 281]

I have only told my Mom, none of my friends or coworkes. They all think i am just havng a hernia opp.

[lessstomachmoreme 6]

I am an open book and have told everybody and anybody that I was having weight loss surgery and have asked for support.

I feel like honesty is the best policy - everyone who knows me knows what you see is what you get. I do have a few pat answers when anyone says something negative. I say: "I really need support, not negativity" and that shuts them up every time.

One bright spot of being open - as a get well gift, lots of my coworkers got me a gift card bouquet with gift cards for me to use when I am losing weight and need to buy new clothes! Ended up being over $300 worth of cards to places like Kohl's and Maurice's. So sweet!

I guess I would say that you would be surprised at the support you can get when you reach out for it. This surgery can be difficult at times. I need all the encouragement I can get. (I'm also surprised at how many people at work have had weight loss surgery and did not share it with anyone until I opened up about it.)

If you're hesitant to share with people around you, think about attending a post op support group. It's a great way to feel comfortable and normal and you can be around other people who truly understand what you are going through. At my group, we trade recipes, offer suggestions when others are struggling, and even have a clothes swap once a month. It's made a big difference for me to be prepared for the surgery, ask questions about my concerns, and get some solutions to common struggles.