Georgia_girl81 13 Posted January 27, 2015 Hello Bariatric Pals, I have been lurking the message boards for quite some time now, but finally I want to share my experience so far with my weight loss journey. I have always been overweight (5'5 290), and tried many methods to lose weight, and have been very unsuccessful. I looked into weight-loss surgery a couple of years ago, but wasn't too sure about it until now. I have United Healthcare Choice Plus insurance through my employer and the only requirements, is to provide proof that you have a BMI 40 or greater for 5 years. No dietitian or psychological evaluation required. I interviewed two surgeons in mid January, and I decided to choose Dr. Michael Williams in Alpharetta, GA to perform the gastric bypass. He's very informative, and I've heard great things about him and his work. I submitted my 5 year weight history today, and now it's the waiting game... Hopefully I will be approved soon. I know that some people mention that it could take some time for approval, and others have gotten their approval really quick. Either way I'm glad I've taken first steps for my weight loss journey. I am very excited!!, this is going to be a major lifestyle change and I am prepared for the challenges. I will keep you all posted through this journey and will answer any questions that you have. I live in the metro Atlanta area. Thank you everyone who has posted on bariatric pals and on other online websites, it helps a lot with people like myself who want to know more information, or who just wants the support and encouragement from others. T. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Djmohr 6,965 Posted January 27, 2015 Congratulations on starting your new life. It is a very exciting time as you make the decision and start the process. It is even more exciting as you take your life back! Welcome to the boards, I have learned a lot from talking to folks on this site. Good luck on your approval and keep us posted! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ab123. 90 Posted January 27, 2015 Hello Bariatric Pals, I have been lurking the message boards for quite some time now, but finally I want to share my experience so far with my weight loss journey. I have always been overweight (5'5 290), and tried many methods to lose weight, and have been very unsuccessful. I looked into weight-loss surgery a couple of years ago, but wasn't too sure about it until now. I have United Healthcare Choice Plus insurance through my employer and the only requirements, is to provide proof that you have a BMI 40 or greater for 5 years. No dietitian or psychological evaluation required. I interviewed two surgeons in mid January, and I decided to choose Dr. Michael Williams in Alpharetta, GA to perform the gastric bypass. He's very informative, and I've heard great things about him and his work. I submitted my 5 year weight history today, and now it's the waiting game... Hopefully I will be approved soon. I know that some people mention that it could take some time for approval, and others have gotten their approval really quick. Either way I'm glad I've taken first steps for my weight loss journey. I am very excited!!, this is going to be a major lifestyle change and I am prepared for the challenges. I will keep you all posted through this journey and will answer any questions that you have. I live in the metro Atlanta area. Thank you everyone who has posted on bariatric pals and on other online websites, it helps a lot with people like myself who want to know more information, or who just wants the support and encouragement from others. T. Hi Georgia_girl81, I am brand new also but even further back in my journey. My first consultation is tomorrow! I have Medicare and I know you have to have a BMI over 30 and 2 comorbidities, see a nutritionist at least 2 sessions but that's all I know. I have been sick with bronchitis so I have actually lost 5 pounds this week, probably not the best time to do it. I hope this is not a long process. I have finally made up my mind and I need this for my health and this is the FIRST time I've had insurance that would pay for it!!I hope you get positive news soon!! Please keep us posted as you say. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Airplaneskinny 19 Posted February 16, 2015 (edited) I am in the North Atlanta region and found a surgeon in the Gwinnett Medical Center location. I love him and have my surgery date scheduled on 2/25/15. I think it is important to do lots of research, buy success foods and plan for how I will take my shakes work discretely. My surgeon said I'm one of the few patients who actually read and research.....maybe a little too much as I even asked him how many patients have died on his watch and what type of Vitamins should I take now. Maybe I'm scared I will fail? I do not like suprises and do not want to go into things with my eyes shut. I started at 401. Now at day 6 of my pre-op, I am 13 pounds down and not hungry. I've fixed my children regular meals and not cheated once. I have craved an egg and cheese a couple of times but I'm holding strong. To me, this is easier than dieting because I HAVE to do do this. Mentally, I am forced to do this. So I guess I've tricked my mind into not having so many cravings. Also...I just think about how awesome it's going to be getting onto those 6 flags rides this summer without doubting if I am too big for them. Edited February 16, 2015 by Airplaneskinny Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Georgia_girl81 13 Posted February 16, 2015 Aiplaneskinny, You are absolutely right! Research Research Research! I was approved on 02/05, and I chose Dr. Michael Williams. I had my surgery on 02/12. I posted my experience on a different forum, but will post it again so can and others can read it: I had my gastric bypass surgery on 02/12 and I stayed overnight at the hospital (Emory at John's Creek, GA). The procedure took about 2 hours, then I was in recovery, then eventually taken to my room. I was told by my doctor (Michael D. Williams, MD, who is very awesome!!!!) that this procedure could be outpatient and I could go home the same day, but knowing how I felt after the surgery. I elected to stay overnight and I'm glad I did... Within hours, I was told that I needed to walk around, and that would help with the gas pain. I was given liquids to drink, but I just didn't have the appetite. The IV will keep you hydrated, and you will be using the restroom a lot. Most of the night was spent sleeping in my hospital bed and occasionally walking if I felt up to it. The next morning, I was discharged from the hospital. I was given a flu shot, a B12 injection shot (which lasts for 1 month), and a injection in my stomach to help with the nausea. I'm still recovering, but so far things have been good. I haven't had any nausea or any throwing up. I take in about 2 ounces of Fluid every 15 minutes as told by the nurse. It's hard to get in at least 3 Protein shakes a day (60-80 grams), but I make sure I come close to it. I was also told to drink at least 64 ounces of Water a day if I can. Since Thursday, I have lost a total of 12 pounds and I am very excited!! If I continue to follow the stage 1 (liquids- 2 weeks), 2 (soft foods-2/4 weeks), and 3 (permanent) diets and monitor what I eat, I will have a very successful weight loss without any complications. The doctor says that I can start going to the gym in about three weeks, but for the time being I'm doing small things like lifting 2 pound weights and walking around for at least 30 minutes (if I don't get tired). If you have any questions, please feel free to ask, that's what this site is for, we want to help each other out. I can also be reached at tawana_williams@hotmail.com Again, I appreciate everyone's comments and telling us about your weight loss journeys, it helps a lot. ****** I'm in the exact boat that you're in. I have 2 small kids, and I have to prepare their meals everyday, and the temptation for food was there. Once you have the surgery, those thoughts will be minimal. Good luck to you, and please keep us updated. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Airplaneskinny 19 Posted February 16, 2015 Wow. Just wow. Thanks for the testimony. I love hearing about success stories. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
blashlee 509 Posted February 20, 2015 Congrats on your surgery and glad to hear it went well! I'll be relocating to Georgia in about two years (hopefully to Atlanta) and one of the things on my list is to make sure I find a good bariatric surgeon to see there in case I need to. I'm having my bypass april 6. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
