PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A

So I'm a bit nervous. My insurance (BCBS VA) requires a 7 month diet before they will approve weight loss surgery. I'm on month 2 and just feeling a bit uneasy. What if I do all the testing, ultra sounds, psych visits and basically jump through all the hoops and get declined at the end? My bmi is 40, and I have high blood pressure but that's it. Anyone else with similar feelings or stats? I need this so badly but the uncertainty is bothering me.

Hi. I have my first appt tomorrow with my surgeon since I've been sleeved. I was just wondering, is a 14lb loss good for 2 weeks post op? I just want to be prepared if I'm below where I "should" be. Sent from my SM-G930T using BariatricPal mobile app

I told my doctor about how big my tonsils are. She looked in my mouth and said, holly Molly! I had arhorscpic knee surgery before and they must have shoved the breathing tube down my mouth. I woke up sore, couldn't breath or speak. I hope the anthesologist doesn't have a hard time with me in surgery. Big tonsils might account for sleep apnea. Anyone else with these issues? Sent from my SM-J700T using BariatricPal mobile app

anyone having the surgery later this month and worried about the food and alcoholic beverages all around you?

Just had my last appointment with my surgeon and I will be having my surgery on July 27th. It all just got really real. I'm very nervous and excited at the same time. Anyone else have the same date or one close to it? Sent from my SM-G935T using BariatricPal mobile app

I'm in the very beginning of the process. I was wondering if anyone had tattoos before their surgery and if the weight loss effected any of then? Sent from my LG-H831 using BariatricPal mobile app

Hi. I was just wondering when everyone started protein bars. I have been on soft meats for a week now, and sometimes I just feel like having a little something at lunch, not a "meal" or a bar for breakfast. I have been fine with eggs, chicken, beef, yogurt, cheese. I am starting with a new dietitian on Saturday. Sent from my SM-G930T using BariatricPal mobile app

Hello I'm new year (and scared lol) I've been thinking about getting VSG and while doing all my research I pulled out all my insurance papers and it says it won't cover insurance won't cover "bariatric surgery unless medically necessary". I'm 350+ lbs and I know my BP is high so I do think it would be considered medically necesssay but I'm just wondering if I'm just getting my hopes up. I haven't been to a doctor in years so diabetes may also be something I've developed, I have really bad sciatica and PCOS. I guess my question is has anyone got their WLS approved with it's not covered but medically necesssay? I know zero about insurance stuff so idk how this …

I was supposed to start a week ago but I just went cold turkey today. I hope I didn't mess up my chances to have my surgery on the 11th!

Okay so I have been seeing alot of people saying they had to have a nicotine test prior to surgery. I was a heavy smoker for years stopped due to pregnancy then I started back up about 2 months ago then stopped but this weekend ended up smoking. I'm afraid I just self sabatoged myself. My doctor doesnt know I smoke. He knew I was a smoker but I choose not to tell him because I was trying to quit yet again. I'm afraid that if they do a test he will cancel my surgery. It's on 7-17-17. So I guess my question is will it be out of my system by then? Also is that a standard test they do? Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G935A using BariatricPal mobile app

I was so excited, I wanted this! Now the day is tomorrow and I'm extremely nervous. Not sure why, but I'm having lots of weird emotions. Any advice?

I've got a short week to get the vitamins necessary for post-op. Can anyone tell me where they're the cheapest? Online or in store both work. [emoji4] Thanks in advance. BTW I'm so nervous already! Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G870A using BariatricPal mobile app

Hi everyone! I am looking to meet cool new people across the nation but would like to meet a Philadelphian for surgery buddy, my date is 7/25/2017. Looking forward to meeting all you wonderful brave souls.

Super nervous and excited! Been waiting anxiously all day to hear from the hospital about what time my surgery will be... wish me luck!

So I have only chosen a select few family members and friends to share this journey with. Out of that select few, only one gave me a hard time. What are you saying to the nay-Sayers and what do you plan to say to those who don't know but are asking questions about your sudden weight loss?

I am new here. Can someone explain what all the abbreviations are (what they mean) when someone is giving their stats. I hope this isn't a stupid question lol Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G935A using BariatricPal mobile app

Anyone going through the process? I could do with a buddy, to go for walks etc. New to the area! Sent from my SM-G930T using BariatricPal mobile app

hey, I have been on here for a couple weeks, researching the surgery, I am not a 100% sure if this is route I want to take. At this point I am about 70%..lol This is a big decision to make because I have never had any procedures done and I am pretty much blessed to be healthy as far as no major issues, but of course I am morbidly obese. According to the doctor I will have to lose 96 pounds. I am struggling with this decision because my family is not on board for support because they say i can lose the weight on my own. I have been on every diet in America and its a gain, lose, plateau type of situation and i am tired of it. This might be a good jump start to g…

Hi All, I am new here and this is my post my surgery July 2nd in Cairo, Egypt. Very nervous about the surgery and very afraid of the post pain. Any mentor or supporter out there? Any surgery day or post surgery tips? Sent from my SM-N920C using BariatricPal mobile app

Hi everyone! My Name is Luisa I'm 33 years old, mother of two (times 2 .. they three and two , that age) I'm planning on getting the gastric surgery, already went to the seminar at Bellevue Hospital in NY. I weight right now 280 [emoji21] , I'm 5'7. I'm glad I found this place and found you guys, I have been stalking all threads to learn. Honestly I'm excited and so nervous. Already thank you for the support, because Indirectly i have learn so much from you guys. Have a great day!!

I went into my nutritionist office through my dr, and she doesn't recommend the sleeve for me. How did you choose? I have an appointment with the bariatric team, and see what they say. She said for long term gastric is the way to go. Sent from my SM-G955U using BariatricPal mobile app

Is it normal at 16 days post op (sleeve) to just NOT want to eat? If I do eat something, I stop the second I feel ANYTHING change in my stomach, but 5 minutes later, the nausea starts. It lasts 15-20 min then goes away. I'm worried because I'm NOT getting much protein in and my dr said he doesn't care if I don't eat, as long as I'm drinking. (NO protein shakes) did tbis happen to anyone else? When/will it go away????? Sent from my SM-G930T using BariatricPal mobile app

I'm about halfway through my appts for VSG surgery at Richmond Kaiser with Dr. Albert Im. He seems like a wonderful Surgeon. Im just curious if theres anyone else on here who is going through the process at the same location as me. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using the BariatricPal App

I was suppose to lose 5 more pounds to get to my goal weight so that I can get my surgery now I have to lose 15 pounds! I dont even know how that happend! Smh.. I need sone encouragement and some tips please! I want to get this surgery DONE.. I am ready to move on with my life and leave this weight behind... ANY suggestions will help!!! Sent from my SM-N920T using BariatricPal mobile app

Does anyone know if I can take liquid children's benedryl while on the 2 week liquid diet? My stomachs is cramping and growling so bad, I can't sleep and benedryl helps me sleep Sent from my SM-J700T using BariatricPal mobile app

Hi all. I have a friend that has a genetic kidney disease waiting on a living donor. I haven't been tested to see if I am a match yet. I've never had surgery in my 41 years so the sleeve on 7/31 already has me a little freaked (can't stand the thought of an IV). Is there anyone out there that has had the sleeve that was a kidney donor either before or after? I feel terrible that I haven't been tested but I'm also not telling people about the surgery for now. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

Most likely I will ultimately end up being a cash payer. But I have a BMI of 34 and OSA. My surgeon requires you to meet the minimum NIH requirements to do surgery (35 + comorbidity) What am I supposed to do? I haven't gone for my first weigh in yet and officially start the process (although I've met with and talked with the surgeon several times in regards to WLS as I know him personally) Am I expected to gorge myself and intentionally get heavier to hit the threshold, or are there any other suggestions? Would greatly appreciate any help

I am 3 weeks away from my final nutritionist appointment. My insurance requires 6 months of a supervised diet with a nutritionist. I have yet to meet my surgeon. I chose a surgeon with the head nurse in charge of my case back in February. My nutritionist told me my last appointment will consist of a final weigh in, urine sample for nicotine cessation and a visit with the psychologist for a behavioral evaluation. But no mention of meeting the surgeon yet. When can I expect to at the very least get a glimpse of the surgeon?

Have you ever experienced any dental issues that began post-surgery? I feel like my teeth/gums have become more sensitive, but it may just be in my head.

Hi, I have been lurking in the forum for a while. So like many of you I'm in the process ( month 2 of 6 for Insurance pre qualification) of getting the sleeve. I want to try to set myself up for success by on the right path before I get the surgery. My ultimate down fall is my insatiable sweet tooth. Is anyone else working on this? Has anyone had success in beating this? KK

Anyone in Maryland that has gone through the program with Kaiser??? Help! I have so many questions.

I am 3 weeks away from my final nutritionist appointment. My insurance requires 6 months of a supervised diet with a nutritionist. She(NUT) told me my last appointment will consist of a final weigh in, urine sample for nicotine cessation and a visit with the psychologist for a behavioral evaluation. I have already had two insurance required appointments with the psychologist at the beginning of this process. I was under the impression that once I finished both appointments I'd be done with the psychologist aspect of the requirements. what is this 3rd appointment with the psychologist for? What is a "Behavioral evaluation"?

Hi. I have 2 questions, First, I have been on food (soft meats) for over a week, and suddenly, I just don't feel like eating anymore. Is that normal? My surgery was June 14. And 2, I have been drinking Fairlife fat free milk, but since I am having trouble getting much food in, should I switch to the whole or low fat instead of fat free? For calories. I see the surgeon on Thurs and a dietition on Sat. Thank you. Sent from my SM-G930T using BariatricPal mobile app

I'm assuming the scheduler submits everything to the insurance she's on vacation until next Wednesday! [emoji849] however I'm so excited I'm getting close to the finish line!

Well, after years of research, I finally did it! As of June 23 I am a member of the Sleeve Family! The first night after surgery was rough, not going to lie. The gas is the worst part. At this point, I'm three days out and I feel fairly close to normal. As far as incision pain goes, it's rare and minimal. All I can say is, WALK. Walk more than you want to and more than you think you should. You're going to want to lay there or sleep the whole time. Walking is one of the only ways to get the gas moving and out of your system. If possible, try to have a good support system to walk with you. My dad went with me and I'm so grateful for a familiar and loving face. My gas pain …

Did anyone have a set amount of weight that they had to lose prior to being scheduled for surgery? I have to lose 24lbs. Any tips or pointers that may help me out?

Hi all, Sorry, totally new to this, but very hopeful for information. I've been struggling with my weight my entire life. I am a very successful dieter- losing 45-50 pounds relatively quickly and then gaining it back just as quickly. As an aside, I was never 'thin' even after losing that sum of weight- I was just never able to continue to keep losing or even maintain that lifestyle. In the last 3 years I've had two children and since then I cannot seem to shake the weight. I lost some after my first, but was never able to get back down to pre-baby weight. During my second pregnancy, I didn't gain much weight as I was unwell, but my daughter is now one and I weigh the…

Hello Everyone, I'm new to this but I'm nervous for my first consultation with the doctor tomorrow. I'm also very excited at the same time! Anyone else experience a rollercoaster of emotions? Anybody have any advice or questions I should ask the doctor tomorrow? Thank you in advance! Best Wishes, Pinkie

Has anyone's insurance company approved protein drinks from them?

Hey, I'm in pre op process and I'm just curious what everyone's experience with pain was? I had an iud that was supposed to be a punch and damn near killed me- so I'm nervous.

Just going through the 2 week liguid diet. Only allowed 4 protein drinks and water. Getting through it. As of today down to 229 from 240 in 8 days. It's been rough the last 2 with being hungry. Switched my drinks to strawberry and chocolate and made it with my bullet with ice to make it like a shake. It's very good and helps to make it slower to drink. Fighting the allergies with being tired and soar throat, just took tylenol allergy for it. Need to get some energy back. Going to get the vitamins Monday before surgery on Wednesday. Legs and feet are starting to feel less swollen from the weight loss Wich is good for me, I retain water alot. My everyday and thoughts revol…

I'm 1 week into my 2 week liquid diet and I'M STARVING!! I don't get it?!? I've done the same thing for the last week and did ok but today my stomach keeps growling... anyone else in the same boat?

Hi all, I started this journey back in January with a seminar and had my first visit with the surgeon in Feb. My surgeon's program requires a long process before surgery. I have to do 6 months with dietitian ( only first and last are one on one .. the rest in between are in a group setting , a psychiatric evaluation , blood work and tests and finally visit 3 support groups before you get final surgeon visit. I am half way finished with my program and need to go to the first support group . I have bad social anxiety and always stress myself out before having to do anything new. Google doesn't help me with preparing for support group. Do they weigh you in first li…

My PCP did not have a five year history of me being overweight . Well let me first say he is a tough cookie & I did NOT think he would even fill out the form. I've only been seeing him since '15. So I'm going to my last two dr's and sign release paperwork to have my records sent over. Will this help me get approved for the sleeve ? Or will I have to start over .

Curious about if people's significant others or hospital buddy's stayed in the room with them? what did your spouses do the nights you stayed in the hospital? not sure what to plan lol the hospital is a bit of a commute hour and a halfish Sent from my XT1635-02 using BariatricPal mobile app

What are the main sizes of portion containers that I will need for after? I cannot remember what my NUT said?

Hello Everyone I just received my surgery date and i am super exited im getting surgery on 7/17/17 Sent from my SM-G930P using BariatricPal mobile app

Anyone doing this WLS surgery in NYC Sent from my SM-G930P using BariatricPal mobile app

Just got the call! Have to be in at 5:30 am extremely nervous, but also excited. Not sure how many friends and family I have that are actually in support of this and it's taken me many years to come to this decision along with this past year of getting clearances! All my drs can agree on seem to be this procedure! I truly hope I have no complication and that I am making the right choice. Thank you to this support groups for at least giving a safe place to voice my journey !

Any suggestion on what I should start or do before seeing the dr on the 26th of June just starting Sent from my LGMS210 using BariatricPal mobile app