Gastric Bypass Surgery Support Group
Gastric bypass (GBP) is any of a group of similar operative procedures used to treat morbid obesity, a condition which arises from severe accumulation of excess weight in the form of fatty tissue, and the health problems ("co-morbidities") which result. If you are considering gastric bypass or have had it, join the community where we share our experiences and find support.
Hello everyone, I am hoping that some of you can help me. I have multiple glandular issues and am extremely obese. I visited my doctor today. I only recently began seeing her, and she is proving to be a blessing. My last doctor was TERRIBLE and gave me no consideration or respect and NEVER acknowledged my glandular problems. Anyway, my new doctor is really trying to help me. She is wonderful and treats me with a lot of respect. Today, she asked me to go home, research and think seriously about maybe undergoing some kind of bariatric surgery. She feels that it is imperative that I get my weight down to a healthier level to take pressure off my joints and my heart. She is concerned about my heart health and is sending me to get a chest x-ray and an echo cardiogram. I think I will base my final decision on those results. In the mean time, I would be ever so grateful for any input you all could give me. How successful was the surgery for you? How long was the surgery? Were there any complications? How long was the recovery time? How have you dealt with malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies? Were your surgeries done laparoscopically or where you cut open? I appreciate ahead of time any help you can give me. Thank you so much!
Most people here, including me, will tell you that their only regret is they didn't do the surgery sooner.
I wish you all the best in any decisions you may make.
Shelley :o)
I was very concerned about surgery because of all the negative things I had heard from other people in the past...not one person that had actually had the surgery though. I heard that it was the "easy" way out (no it's not...not any more than a heart bypass for blockage), and I heard how dangerous it was in regards to vitamins and such.
I have a wonderful doctor, that I trust completely. I asked him about it and he endorsed it immediately. He said that the surgery has come a long way from how it was done many years ago.
I took the first step and met with the surgeon and was immediately sold. My surgeon is AMAZING and took the time to sit with my husband and I as we navigated through all the information.
I began my insurance journey in July and I weighed 318. I am about 3weeks out from surgery and last week I weighed 276!
I had mine done laparoscopically (six little incisions), and it did take me also about 2 weeks to regain my energy. At no time was I in bad "pain".
I had no complications so far, and even only 3 weeks out I have more energy and am feeling better than before surgery. You do have to be disciplined in taking your vits and protein, but I think that is a small aspect considering the benefits.
Any surgery is major, and you must find a surgeon that is right for you. Good luck as you move along your path!
lisa
I had RNY surgery... I have 7 small incisions... It took me almost exactly 4 weeks to get my energy back, but I have more energy now than I have had in years....
I did not have any complications from the surgery.... I do have trouble with constipation, but that is about it....
I don't eat a lot of different foods at this point, but I am trying new things each week.... Dairy and I don't get along really well, and I can't eat much more than 2 oz. of food at a time...
It took me awhile to find a protein drink I could tolerate, but I finally did and don't mind drinking it each day....
I hope you will have an easy time making your decision... I don't regret having the surgery at all....
I am still preop, won't have surgery till end of july, or first part of aug. This is a big decision to make and no one can make it but you! I did TONS of research! Started the process last December with an orientation at my local bariatric center of excellence.
My insurance requires a 6 month process and supervised diet program with a dietitian, so I am in the middle of that.
Coming here for advice and education is wonderful! I have leaned soooo much and met such wonderful people here!!
I would also suggest contacting your local center of excellence and attend one of their free (most have them) information sessions. This will help you decided and you'll learn about the different surgery options.
I am glad you are here!!
I am scared about it. However, I want my life back.
Best decision I've ever made for myself. I was at the point where it was either get a handicapped sticker and a scooter of have the surgery. I'm glad I decided to fight for my life.
No, it isn't the easy way out...but it is a way out.
Totally worth it!!
JJ
The surgery itself didn't take very long of course I was asleep so who cares! LOL! I was out and awake in a couple of hours. I had no pain in the hospital. I was a little stiff at home the 1st week but not enough to take pain meds. I never did need pain meds after they took me off the pain med pump the 1st day after surgery. I got 6 little scars that don't amount to anything.
I took a month off becasue I could. I think I could have returned to work sooner. Please listen to the docotor when they tell you a lift limit! I felt good the 2nd week and starting mechanicing in my garage. I was really sore for doing that!
Never had an issue with malnutrition or vitamin defiecencies, but the doctor gave me vitamins and a diet plan to cover that..
Never hungry! Wondeful! I ws always hungry before. I think I am hungry and sit down to eat and a few bites and I am full.
You will learn early on, IF you eat something you shouldn't or over eat, you will get sick. I have punished my self over and over.
Had no complications. If there was an issue it is that somethings I don't eat becasue I know they will make me sick and some days just about anything will make me sick. All in all it was the best thing I ever did for myself. I couldell RNY's door to door!
Like I said 4 months post surgery, 83 pounds lost and 1/2 way to goal. Monday I found out my diabetes is "Resloved"! I have not taken insulin in over 3 months. My diabetis doc says I can stop taking metformin pills soon.
LOL! I hope there is something in all this drivel that can help you.
Welocome to the site. Theres a lota good folks with a lot of information to share here. We discuss EVERYTHING!