Surgery??

Question

Spoke to my doctor today and she suggested bariatric surgery to help me lose weight. Has anyone had it? Howd it go? Did it work? Really nervous and would love to hear some success stories 🙏

Answer

I have two stories, one positive, and one negative. My great aunt had raging type 2 diabetes that she was struggling to control, even while eating healthy. She is a very disciplined person, and when she got her surgery, she maintained the healthy way of eating all the way through. She has lost a lot of weight, and her diabetes has completely reversed. It has taken just as much discipline because it does change your way of eating forever, just like a major lifestyle change. My aunt has had this suggestion, also, but she can barely stick to any kind of lifestyle change for more than a week. If it’s not immediate gratification, she quits. If she hits a plateau, she quits. She refuses to quit smoking or give up soda, even though the doctor has told her that’s part of the problem. She also has uncontrolled type 2 diabetes. I don’t think surgery would work for her, because it’s still a lifelong change that she would have to stick to, or she’d regain the weight. My point is that it’s about self-discipline. The surgery itself isn’t so scary to me, but the repercussions if people don’t follow it correctly can be great, so that’s something to heavily consider. I am not saying not to do it, though. I would get all the information you can, do the trial diet, and be really open and honest with your doctor about your concerns. Good luck!

Answer

I had VSG (the sleeve) April 2017. I lost 92 lbs, recently gained about 15 back in the last year because I lost both grandparents and had hip surgery so gym time isn’t an option right now and I find it hard to get out of bed most days because I’m still Grieving; however, it was by far the best decision I’ve ever made and I plan on getting back on track as soon as I’m cleared to do so. I’ve also sought help from a physiatrist. 
My advice to you, would be to look at all the different types of surgery’s and create a list of questions. Also, take into consideration the long term life style changes this will have on you. It’s more mental than it is physical- keep that in mind. Having a support system really helps.  Look in to going to a meeting and talk to some people who have had it. Research surgeons in your area. It wouldn’t hurt to be prepared. Until then, change your eating habits slowly and start going for walks. The process for insurance can be long so start a food journal, and log your exercises now.

I was 305 on the left (310 lbs was my highest recorded weight)
On the right I was about 217. My lowest was 213 and I’m about 225. I plan on changing that though. I would do it all over again. It’s changed my life.

Answer

I am starting the process of surgery this week after many failed attempts at losing weight. Only do it if it is the best option for you. If you can diet and exercise on your own then go for it but if you’ve failed surgery is a great tool.

Answer

I had the gastric sleeve 2 years ago and I love it. I lost 90 pounds in one year and kept it off this last year. I had no complications and have had a positive experience. Here’s one of my before and after surgery pictures:

Answer

I know I'm late to the post...but have you tried the pharmacological agents yet? That's usually the first step before surgery. 
Then...if surgery is something you want to consider...do your research and attend the classes...See if it's what you want for the rest of your life...it's not just surgery...it's vitamins for life, potentially a lifetime of malabsorption ..it might also mean a body that is less at risk for chronic disease like diabetes or high blood pressure.

Surgery??

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