Introducing myself...

[BHealthy70 11]

I have been given my RNY surgery date, it's 1/11/17. I had my pre-op appointment this week. EKG, General physical, health history review, medication review, blood work.

So I am getting more anxious the closer I get. I am excited to gain control over my weight loss, weight and live a more healthy, active lifestyle. I have a supportive, loving husband who is my biggest "cheerleader." I have shared my decision with my mom and sister as well.

I did a ton of reading, research and decided the center based on many factors, including reputation of their program, surgeons, medical team, outcomes, successes, etc. So why would I be anxious?

I had one of the surgeons in the group remove my appendix several years ago and he was great, start to finish. I did not choose him, I decided to choose the "lead" surgeon in the group. His credentials are solid, stellar actually. When I had my 1on1 appointment with him he was not very personable. Almost anti social. So it caught me off guard and I became flustered, and therefore I didn't ask many questions at all. So I have been trying to focus on the positives, like He gets consistent high ratings, reviews for his surgical procedures, is renowned in the Bariatric field, etc. Hopefully his bedside manor will be decent.

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[SharBear617 146]

Unfortunately his bedside manner most likely won't be any different than what you've already experienced. But...when it comes to surgeons, while it's great if they're the "total package" of great skill and interaction....I'll take great skill any day of the week and twice on Sundays. Now, if we're talking therapists, or primary care doc, then good bedside manner is a bit more important to most.

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[Allie Smith 9]

Sorry. I work in the medical field- I never can understand how surgeons can be such a@@holes- I pick a skilled, accessible, friendly surgeon over any surgeon with a bad bedside manner. They make enough money to be able to force being friendly to the patients that are paying the mortgage on their million dollar home, paying for the stupid expensive car, and their hair plugs!!!!! . Find another one just as good that you won't be intimidated by if you have any questions in the future.

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[Theotherkels 14]

Are you able to change to a different surgeon in the group? Personally I want to be comfortable with my surgeon, both with their skill level and with my ability to talk to them about any concerns etc. that I have. This is someone who is going to be part of my support-team not just before/during surgery, but afterwards as well.

[Allie Smith 9]

Normally isn't s problem.

[BHealthy70 11]

Are you able to change to a different surgeon in the group? Personally I want to be comfortable with my surgeon, both with their skill level and with my ability to talk to them about any concerns etc. that I have. This is someone who is going to be part of my support-team not just before/during surgery, but afterwards as well.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, wisdom.

I am not able to change. I am going to make sure that I advocate for myself, throughout. If there is an issue with him, then I am going to have to speak up.

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[James Marusek 5,244]

Good luck on your upcoming surgery. It is common to feel fear prior to surgery. Maybe I am old fashion but I look at doctors similar to auto mechanics. When I take my car in to be repaired, I want the auto mechanic to fix my car. That is first and foremost. If he has good bedside manners but doesn't fix my car, I am unhappy.

At your stage I would recommend you do three things.

1. Take a good before photograph of yourself, so that you have something to compare to after surgery. Many times we are blind to our obesity. We do not see ourselves. Therefore when the weight begins to drop off rather dramatically, we question if this is really happening. Photographs are a good visualization of our success. Many people carry a before and after photo with them, just to remind themselves of their success.

2. Walk 30 minutes each day, every day until surgery (or equivalent exercise). Walking helps the recovery process go smoothly and minimized the pain levels from surgery.

3. Wean yourself from caffeine and carbonated beverages now. After I gave up my 6 diet coke a day habit, I suffered from a week of severe withdrawal syndrome consisting of severe headaches and body aches. I was miserable. You don't want to combine the effects of caffeine withdrawal with the effects of surgery.