Questions?

[hawk1989 (RNY)]

Good Morning, smileycup

I just met with Dr. Allam last week to discuss another problem I have when he mentioned this surgery. I have been looking into it for about a year now. I have a couple of questions for anybody who will answer them. 1) What did you do to prepare for the surgery (ie diet, exercise, counseling, support groups, etc)? 2) About how long were you in the hospital, I know everyone is different but I am just trying to figure things out? 3) How long did it take before you could drive again? Thank you everyone for your assistance.

Christine

occo2

[Angelina]

congrats on taking your 1st step !!
i had the surgery almost 6 months ago, and lost 92 pounds so far! It was not that easy... but DEFINATLY worth it!!!!

2 weeks before the surgery, i had a protein shake or bar for breakfast.... then another for lunch... and then i had what ever i wanted for dinner.... it really helped me... i lost 10 pounds before the surgery and kinda like detoxed myself which is really a good idea.
I was in the hospital for almost 2 weeks... however that is not the norm. it is usually 2-3 days . I had a few complications so it took me longer to do some important healing. I will give you my number, and if you would like to call me i will give you the details.
I started to drive after i was home about a week. Again... some people can do it more quickly ... we are all different.
Please feel free to call me ANYTIME!! I would be happy to answer any questions you may have, if i am not around please leave me a message, and i will get back to you ASAP! I would love to help you!
All the best!!
Angelina 631-514-4648

[elaine]

:) Hi Christine :)

Welcome to the first stages of your life long journey........My name is Elaine and I had my surgery on Oct 7th, 2004. I have lost 57 lbs and have gained a world of self confidence back. yay

As for preperation........I ate everything I could. :eek: Every meal was a last supper for me. I enjoyed it all. I did however give up coffee, I did not want to do it after surgery, because giving up caffine can give you really bad headaches (and it did). I tried all types of protien shakes, drinks, supplements etc, to see which ones I liked so I could be prepared afterwards. I stocked my shelves with broth, baby food, unsweet applesauce, cream of wheat....you get the idea.

I also started attending the support group meetings, for the pros and cons. These meetings are a must for aftercare as well, we all need to be with people who have walked in our shoes, or are about to. When you start going, you will not believe the warm open reception.........we're a family. grouphug
I went on message boards like this around the clock.......the more informed you are, the better you will be prepared for this life change.

My surgery, thank God and Dr. Allam, went textbook perfect. I did not have any complications and returned home on the 3rd day. I did not drive for one week (the day my staples came out). I believe we should not be driving with the staples in, but Dr. Allam will fill you in on all of that.

My experience of course is not the same as all others, everyones body is different. If you need to talk, or just to vent, feel free to ask anything....I check the boards a couple of times a day, so just post or send me an email through the site and I will get right back to you........good luck and God Bless......

~`elaine

[Esa]

Well congrats on taking the first step. I went to all the Dr.s required by Dr. Allam to have the surgery. I followed the diet provided by Pat for pre-op. I detoxed my self off of coffee a month prior to surgery. I usually drink 1 cup a day now in the morning. I starting walking to help with my muscle tone, and to help with the recovery. I am now 15 months out -140 lbs.. I weigh 125 lbs now and I am going for a TT tomorrow. It is not "easy" but as long as you follow exactly what Dr. Allam and Pat tell you it wont be that difficult. The hardest part I think is learning to eat slow, and having healthy foods available with you at all times. For example, I have been shopping allot in the mall, there is really nothing healthy to get at the mall, so I always have cut up cheese cubes with me (cold enough to stay in the car), so when I am done I can snack on something quick.
I also want to suggest going to the meetings. It is very encouraging talking to other people that have had the surgery as well as "newbies". If there are any further questions that you may have dont hesitate to ask me. I know this is a very big choice you are trying to make. My opinion is that the work that you have to go through is worth it in the long run. Good Luck..

esa0819@msn.com

Esa