PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A

Hi, Due to chronic pain and past opiate/painkiller abuse I am on Suboxone sublingual. The doctors have prescribed liquid hydrocodone post surgery and they know my history. Wondering when you did your pre op taper from Suboxone? For those unfamiliar Suboxone is used in treatment for opiate addiction or withdrawal also a pain reliever. Look it up for more information. Sort of scared of taking hydrocodone again. Hopefully, I will not need much. Figured, I cannot be the only one with prior non food addiction issues out there. Not certain of how many are on opiate pain RX's anyway prior to surgery. Not that I am asking to know. Just mainly the taper from Suboxone. Than…

Does anyone have experience getting cleared for surgery with a recent history of binge eating disorder? Or know what the official definition of remission is? My bariatric program reached out to my psychiatrist, who apparently said I'm not a candidate for WLS because of a history of BED that's in "partial remission". During our last meeting a few months ago, I was still having small binges about once a week. Since then, I binge less than once a week (a BED diagnosis requires binging at least once a week for at least 3 months) and my binges are getting smaller and smaller over time. I haven't received any notice from my bariatric program or my psychiatrist (I foun…

Ive been referred for wls at guys and st Thomas. Im a little confused. So thanks to covid thibgs have changed and i know its a long wait for the NHS. I did the online session with the dietitians and psychologist as group session. Got a f2f at the hospital recently were they did the bmi, bloods medical history and talk to the dietitian. They said i don't have to complete tier 3 as ive done tge equivalent before seeing them. My bmi is 57 so they said it would straight to surgical options. Got sent the copy of the letter they send to your gp with all the blood results and medical and Kings obesity score on and at the bottom it says Outcome - attended f2f, discharge, bar…

sigh.. I should not complain, but yep I am… I am in limbo and cannot get a date for surgery yet because I have two insurances; one that does not cover bariatric a at all and one that does. I just had to get my denial letter to the surgeon because they can’t seem to get a copy. Now it’s time to wait for approval in round two (the one with coverage). My surgeon had October 5/6 as surgery in the first request but with the (what should have been expected) delay it could be the end of october or november … It just is less than ideal timing for my work and everything else (tho being on alternative diet for holidays doesn’t bother me so far, because i will eat d…

I'm on vacation with family and struggling. I've lost nearly 100 pounds since my surgery in June. Meals are costing way too much on this trip!! The touristy areas will not accommodate my dietary needs. The portions are big and expensive and there leftovers are going to waste!!! I think I may start packing my lunch and dinner before we head out for the day? Thanks, I needed to talk through that.

Still pre-op but I am really worried about smelly gas and BM’s. I’ve heard it is a real problem. Maybe it is just my vanity but I don’t want to gross myself and everyone else out. Pretty sure I’d rather be fat. What is everyone’s experience with this and what are you doing, if anything, that helps

Hello. I am new to this forum but I am glad I found it. I just scheduled my preop visits which is making me nervous and happy all at the same time. I feel like I should lose some more weight before surgery but I get overwhelmed feeling like maybe I should enjoy it now because later I won't be able to have it. If anyone can share how they got through this if they experienced this I would really love the advice. Thanks

Hello everyone I'm new here!! I'm currently in the pre-op stage for undergoing VSG Surgery. My highest weight was 428lbs. At my last Dr appointment I weighed 421lbs. My surgeon Dr told me that I'm cleared for everything but when I come back on September 28th if I weigh under 400lbs I can have a Surgery Date. I weighed myself Saturday and was 394 !!! So I should receive my date on the 28th!![emoji16][emoji16][emoji847][emoji847] So my message here is keep going and pushing and don't give up!! I'm happy to be here!!

Hello, I’m currently on the pre op diet. At the start of the second week I began having severe back and neck pain that’s shoots up to the back of my head. Has anyone had this issue? I thought maybe it’s the lack of electrolytes. I have been drinking more than enough water. At this point I’m so disappointed because I had been exercising and losing that pre surgery weight. Now I’m almost immobile and I’m less than a week from surgery!

I have 9 days left till surgery, i have to quit smoking atleast 2 weeks. But it so hard. ? i vape like once a day since I start pre op. And now im scared. Pls dont judge me. Can anyone advice how did you stop on vaping, and if I will still be ok with my gastric sleeve if i stop vaping now. Pls be kind :(

Hello. I am having DS on November 9th. I have already changed my diet to make an easier transition after surgery. We went to a Chinese buffet tonight and I panicked. I need to do some research on options at different restaurants so I will be better prepared. Any advice? Let's Go Stl Blues[emoji170][emoji169]

I have my appointments with Psych, Internist and Surgeon on Jan. 11th at Pacific Bariatric. The surgeon I am assigned to is Janos Taller. I read that he is a pioneer in doing the sleeve but was wondering if anyone has met him and had him as a surgeon. Thanks in advance for your help. Kristi

Good morning, I’m so frustrated. I have 2 visits left for my 6 months of Dr advised weightloss. I’m actually up in weight. I’ve tried everything: increased exercise, more produce, no soda, no added sugar, increasing fiber, only eating white meats (chicken,turkey,fish), doing 2 shakes a day and 1 meal, meditation, and getting COVID. I lost 5 pounds then even with following everything my weight went right back up. I’m beyond frustrated and worried I’m going to not qualify. I see the surgeon in a few weeks for an appointment after the EGD. Anyone else have this happen?

Hi Everyone! i’m brand-new here I’m so glad to find a support group. I’m very excited that I will be getting my gastric sleeve surgery on September 19. Has anybody else gone to Tijuana for their procedure? Be slim bariatrics Is the medical group. I’m looking forward to joining conversations with everyone. I wish you all well in your journeys ☺️

Hello All, I am a heavy smoker and in the pre-OP phase for bypass surgery. I want to know if anyone used to be a smoker and how it feels after surgery. I've heard some people will lose their craving for smoke or do you have to quit?

Hello I am scheduled Wednesday the 31st for Sleeve. I am trying to get a basic list of what I will need when I get discharged. So far I have My protein powder and a few shakes Whey protein soups ,vitamins, measuring cups,4oz containers food scale, compression socks, a gripper to help be pick things up if they fall. Tylenol dissolve packs. Should I purchase the Clear protein drinks?

I hope I can communicate my question to you all. I am in a long waiting period for surgery like about a year. So I've been reading lots. My question pertains to people's tendency to regain. For those of you especially who are years out from surgery has your appetite come back as strong as it was prior to surgery? Do you have the desire to eat even more frequently to compensate for your smaller stomach or can you eat like you did before? I have dieted so very many times in my lifetime with soul searching and introspection. I've been sure this was it to never to regain my weight back, several times. However, its never worked for me. So am I unrealistic to think th…

Hey everyone. I’m new to the group… I am currently in pre op phase. I have completed all the required tests for insurance. So my surgeons PA and I discussed the procedures that is in my best interest. We decided to submit to insurance for the SADI-S first, and if for whatever reason they deny it. Then we will send in for RNY Gastric Bypass instead. I’m so nervous! I know things are getting closer and I’m excited about it but scared too. Right now it’s just a waiting game for insurance to respond. Then once I get an approval, I’ll meet with my surgeon to discuss what’s next leading to surgery. Oo boy! ??

I just started process. Met with doctor, have 2 diet appointments left and rest appointments are scheduled. I am struggling finding a drink mix without citric acid thst don't make me sick. What do yall use!?

My name is Michelle, I've been on this journey the past 13months. Been geared up for it before then just didn't realize it was an insurance possibility. I'm so excited that I'm finally going g to be able to enjoy life again without worry. My family is very supportive and that makes this so much easier. Been on pre op vitamin regimine for over a week now. I know this isn't going to be a snap but it feels like it will be

Hi everyone, I had my first appointment yesterday with the hospital and I will be having my pre op tests around December time, my surgery will be early next year ! Exciting! The only thing that worries me is loosing my hair! I know it grows back but I don't want to loose it full stop ! It terrifies me , my hair is the only thing I truly like about myself, are you more likely to loose hair with the bypass over the sleeve? Is there anyone who has been lucky and hasn't lost any hair ?

I am a week into my PreOP Diet and doing really well, 8 lbs. down so far... But I can't kick my coffee! ? I drink it black for the most part, sometimes I will put about a Tablespoon of my Protein shake in it, so no excess sugar. I don't have a sensitive stomach at all, so that is not an issue. has anyone else not give up the coffee?

Loose skin is something that many/most will have to deal with post op in one way or another. I know there is a point that surgical removal of loose skin is the only way to deal with it. But what can you do pre and post surgery, if anything, that can help minimize the excess skin issues???

I’m so torn right now. I meet with my surgeon next week to discuss things but thought I’d. one here first… should I go with the sleeve or the bypass?? I was set on sleeve but now I’m having second thoughts… I feel like my eating habits/cravings/pcos will just find a way around sleeve and bypass is going to make that more difficult. BUT bypass is more expensive, and I’m self pay. What would you guys suggest!? SN- I have NO issues with gerd or reflux.

Hello all, I started my wild journey back in 2019. I met with a surgeon, did 6 months of meetings with a dietician, psyc evaluation and was finally approved by my surgeon. Then when it came time to schedule the hospital put a pause on these surgeries due to Covid. Fast forward two years later and I still haven’t had the surgery. I just reached back out to the doc to get tha ball rolling again. I also reached out to insurance to see if I would have to start over and it looks like I have to mee the requirements (and I did) within 4 years of surgery. Has anyone else experienced a pause like this and what should I expect from the doc? Just curious what is next and timing.…

Hi everyone I am having my pre assessment tomorrow for my Gastric Sleeve surgery & I have so many questions. I've nearly pulled out twice as I've read that there are a lot of complications at my age (I am 68). Even the Liver shrinking is worrying me I never had to do that for my Gall bladder removal. I am so heavy my knees are suffering & I'm so self-conscious & miss out on doing things with my Grandchildren. I still work full time for the NHS but now even walking is difficult, Any advice would be so good as I'm really worried right now.

Did anyone get shingles a week before surgery? What did you take and what did you do? It's a mild case, but my surgery is in Mexico so I don't really want to reschedule. I starter valtrex the day it started with the faint looking bumps.

Tomorrow I start my 2 week pre-op diet. I’m excited and nervous for my Surgery. Will the cravings for sweets and carbs stop?

I'm having my last pre-surgery visit with my bariatric surgery team this week. Because that's how I roll, I have an extensive list questions so far. I'm curious if there are any questions you wish you'd asked your team, but didn't? What surprises did you encounter? What do you wish you'd known ahead of time about the surgical process, your recovery, or your weight loss? Thanks all!

I am cash pay. I went for the initial consult to the Beverly Hills board certified doc who explained his history and what he surgically does to prevent complications, why choose him with his excellent record. I was convinced. However, once I heard the price, $19k, I wondered whether it would be worth the risk to do this in Mexico. Where it is apparently much much less. But the risks. Patients aren't protected there by the threat of lawsuits etc. Is the extra $10k worth it to keep me safe? I have small children and I'm a single mom. What do you all think? I want to get sleeved in July. Thanks.

Hello! My name is Amanda. I'm 35 years old and I have a son who will be 13 at the end of this month. I live in Brunswick, Ohio. I've started my weight loss journey, and would love to make new friends! I'm working with Cleveland Clinic and considering baratric surgery. Feel free to reach out. Let's help each other! [emoji18][emoji171]

Hi! I'm just about to book gastric surgery in Turkey and I'm based in the UK. I was just wondering if anyone else has done this? I've battled with my weight for my entire life and I've finally decided enough is enough. I have tried everything else and I'm completely trapped in a binge/restrict cycle, ready to break free.

Can anyone describe their level of physical fitness before surgery? I’ve had a big knee injury and can do very little movement. With poor physical fitness, is recovery from WLS harder? I feel like my whole body is a such mess ( between knee and related issues) and my recovery will be harder and longer. Any reality to that thinking?

Has anyone else been given a script for injections of blood thinners for blood clots? Just had my 2 week appointment before my surgery and she said I need to give myself injections to help reduce the risks for blood clots postop and I am freaked out. I hate needles and now I have to stick myself for a month. My daughter already said no way in hell is she doing it for me.(she has a needle phobia too)

For those of you who already have your date or have had your surgery...... How much input did you have in choosing the date?? I am well aware that surgery has to be approved by insurance if not self-pay before date is confirmed. Little background.... My insurance doesn't require a set amount of nutrition or doc appointments. Basically just inititial consult, sych consult, EDG, 1 nutrition and 1 with the surgeon. I have had in order: initial consult, sych consult, appointment with surgeon to confirm that I want to do this, EDG, nutrition appointments so far. I have an appointment at the end of this month to see how I am doing with my adjusted nutrition intak…

Getting sleeved tomorrow 8/23/22! I'm so excited!!!!

i do not have a surgery date yet, but have been trending down my carb count to prepare for my 3 week low carb/keto diet (50 total carbs a day). Figure it will help me loose more weight before surgery and be more psychologically comfortable and ready for the whole process. i have finally got myself mostly down under 50 carbs a day (6/7 of the last days under 51) and am starting to feel the “keto flu”. I have had a lot of dreaming at night, which is unusual.. headaches the last few days and today general body aches. no fever or cough etc. anyone else experienced this with cutting carbs?? how long did this last?? did the keto actually help loose …

I just had my egd done as part of my pre surgery work up for gastric sleeve. Turns out I have eosinophilic esophagitis. I had no idea. Never had symptoms or reflux. Has anyone else had this diagnosis and still able to have the gastric sleeve surgery? I’m worried I won’t be a candidate.

Has anyone been told they will use a compression garment after Sleeve surgery? I asked my dr nurse and she said the dr would decide after my surgery.

Hi, I'm wondering if anyone has had their procedure done at this facility Bergen New Bridge Medical Center formerly known as Bergen Medical Center? How would you rate the care given here? My surgeon is Dr. Vadim Gritsus. As long as I've lived in NJ.. never heard of this place & it kinda makes me nervous cause I had my mind set on getting surgery at Holy Name Hospital in Teaneck cause I love it there (as much as one can actually love a hospital lol).

I have been on Steroid threrapy for almost a year and my suregry is coming up really soon has anyone else had this situation they are wening me off by cutting dosage day by day in three day intrevals I guess I want to know will this interfere with me having surgery once my suregry date is here I will be on 5mgs any thoughts or wisdom is greatly apreciated.

I have a surgery date October 4th this year.. I'm getting gastric sleeve but lately I have been feeling like I should get the bypass. Im Affraid I won't loose enough weight with the sleeve. I have been talking to a few friends and I have gotten different opinions.Has anyone ever changed there mind this late. What are your thoughts on bypass instead of sleeve?

my nerves are getting to me today! (8/17/2022) I have my cardiac clearance testing at my surgeons office today. Going to do an ultrasound on my heart and legs as well as a stress test on a bicycle. Very nervous about it. I had a couple of long bouts of atrial fibrillation before I got my bipap and know that I have seen occasional PVCs on my apple watch. My Dad has a complex cardiac history, so between that and my weight I think the worry is justified. will try to update for good or bad when I am done !

So I am new to the forum, planning to have gastric bypass. Finally have cleared all the hurdles Stress Test Psych Eval Sleep Study (started bi-pap two weeks ago) Colonoscopy (had hot had one even though I'm 58) Met with Dietician Met with the surgeon yesterday and he said everything is good to go, needs to get authorization from the insurance company and then schedule the surgery. Looking like sometime in October.

How do I get my ticker to appear on my posts?

Thanks for the info on getting my ticker to appear. I will give it another try.

Good afternoon! I just became a member today! I had a gastric band in June 2009 and had it removed June 2021. I am currently in the process of getting another WLS. I am interested in getting the gastric sleeve; but I have to make sure I don't have any esophageal damage from the band. I am excited and nervous at the same time. I haven't told many people because of the issues I had with the band and some the negativity I have heard and still hear regarding WLS. I welcome any advice or experiences that anyone is willing to share regarding revision surgery. Thank you!

Does anyone have a hard time getting 64 oz of fluids in during a day? I know this may sound odd but I rarely get that much fluid in each day. I am struggling with pre op fluids so Im actually worried about post op once I have surgery on May 3rd. As far back as I can remember I do not drink that much fluids. Ive really been watching it lately and keeping track, if I am lucky I may get about 50 ozs in sometimes 55 ozs. If I push it and drink the 64 oz amount I literally feel bloated and sick to my stomach. I started my pre op liver shrink diet today and since 530pm I have been bloated and feel horribly full. If Im like this pre op how the heck will I be post op.....??

My name is Shannon, I live in Oregon but will be having surgery in Nampa Idaho. Anyone else??? I am 56 and want to feel better for the rest of my life. I don't want BP, Cholesterol, bad knees, sleep apnea, and other issues to stop me from living a full life. At least another 15 or so years! I have been working towards this surgery a few months. I am currently at the point where they are submitting my papers to insurance this coming week. I am so excited! Stopped smoking now 48 days, has to be 60 days for surgery. I am thinking late September, but probably October for surgery after all is said and done. Who knows lol. I have a couple concerns and would interested…

Anyone mind sharing what vitamins/ multivitamin they take? What kind are best?