Skip to content
View in the app

A better way to browse. Learn more.

BariatricPal

A full-screen app on your home screen with push notifications, badges and more.

To install this app on iOS and iPadOS
  1. Tap the Share icon in Safari
  2. Scroll the menu and tap Add to Home Screen.
  3. Tap Add in the top-right corner.
To install this app on Android
  1. Tap the 3-dot menu (⋮) in the top-right corner of the browser.
  2. Tap Add to Home screen or Install app.
  3. Confirm by tapping Install.

Join BariatricPal free

  • Ask your own questions
  • Reply and follow topics
  • Message other members
  • No cost, no spam

PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A

Questions before weight loss surgery. Compare procedures, get through insurance approval, prep for the pre-op diet, and find out what to expect.

  1. Started by kristina.avena,

    I'm getting more and more scared with each passing day. Trying to stay positive trying to stay busy. But I'm scared I'll back out the night before

  2. Started by LilEngine,

    Checking in in a few hours, nervous and excited. I am officially changing my relationship with food in 5, 4, 3, 2.....

    • 0 replies
    • 417 views
  3. Anyone have Low Vit D and/ or B12 prior to surgery? Did this affect insurance approval? I have been taking Prescription D for a year and numbers came up but not enough to clear the deficiency and recent blood-work added B12 deficiency. My current PCP is suggesting to just take otc supplements (which I have been doing) previous PCP gave RX Vitamin. Just wondering mainly if it will affect approval process. Also any supplement recommendations would be great. Thanks in Advance

    • 4 replies
    • 470 views
  4. Anyone have Low Vit D and/ or B12 prior to surgery? Did this affect insurance approval? I have been taking Prescription D for a year and numbers came up but not enough to clear the deficiency and recent blood-work added B12 deficiency. My current PCP is suggesting to just take otc supplements (which I have been doing) previous PCP gave RX Vitamin. Just wondering mainly if it will affect approval process. Also any supplement recommendations would be great. Thanks in Advance

    • 3 replies
    • 445 views
  5. Started by FAT TWO FABULOUS,

    Omg look at that lady

    • 2 replies
    • 679 views
  6. Started by anniebanana,

    Why does everyone that I share my WLS plans with feel the need to tell me about their friend/family member/co-worker/random person's horrible experience with the surgery? I can't imagine what they must be thinking to feel the need to mention that. As if it isn't nerve wracking already! Either that, or they decide to share a diet idea that worked for them. I haven't told many people, which makes it all the more frustrating, as these are people who I am close to. Does anyone else encounter this, and, if so, any suggestions on how you handle this situation?

    • 27 replies
    • 2.4k views
  7. Started by ashleey921,

    I'm new to this forum and just met with my surgeon today. Anyone use this insurance for their surgery?

    • 8 replies
    • 970 views
  8. Guest
    Started by Guest,

    My Psych Evaluation was yesterday, I have Kaiser insurance it was perfect it was a breeze for me she didn't ask me anything out of the ordinary she just asked me about my life and I had to explain about my eating habits what I eat now and it literally lasted about 25 minutes didn't have to fill out any questionnaire and she said everything was fine. So one more thing off my checklist.

    • 2 replies
    • 424 views
  9. So I'm considered a lightweight....yea....thats me LOL! At 32 BMI I'm technically lightweight. I have been at 35 BMI for the last several years or so and have actually managed to lose a bit on a low carb/high protein/mod fat/low cal/sugar free (paleo/primal) lifestyle, but am as usual having a very hard time keeping it off consistantly. It keeps creeping up. Was just wondering if there were anymore people on here with about 100lbs or less to lose, or otherwise considered lightweight comparatively. Any who've had the procedure? If you've had the procedure, how much have you been losing? What's your progress, and how're you feeling about the procedure so far? Thought I'…

    • 376 replies
    • 35.7k views
  10. Started by DP64,

    I started this journey in August (although thought about it for a year or so) with a seminar at the surgeon's office. Then had to do the 6 month supervised diet with the numerous consults and groups that many are familiar with here. Paperwork was submitted to EBCBS on Monday and now I wait. So sure about this decision, eager to get it done, tired of this weight and the box it has put me in. I want to embrace the spring and summer like I used to. Need this weight off of my knees and ankles, obesity is an awful disease that robs you of so much. Only 53 and feel like Im living the life of a much older person due to this weight. I come here everyday to remain inspir…

    • 27 replies
    • 2.2k views
  11. Started by Neonicus021,

    I've started my WLS journey, and no one in my home supports my decision. It's made me quite nervous about it all, and all I've managed to do lately is freak myself out over it. They keep trying to force me to eat foods I shouldn't/can't eat (either for my diet or something I'm allergic too). I don't know how to handle it and make them understand what I'm going through. Anyone have any advice?

    • 17 replies
    • 1.1k views
  12. Started by victoriak419,

    Hey everyone! I'm starting to get very nervous about the fact that I will need an upper GI within the next month. I meet with the surgeon on 3/31. My bariatrican and psychologist told me that he will be the one ordering this test. I have already been cleared for surgery from both, just waiting on surgeon and nutrition to clear me. Since its under light sedation, I am worried that I will feel the huge hose going down my throat. I have a horrible gag reflex :/ Has anyone felt it? Not felt it?

    • 6 replies
    • 633 views
  13. Started by laGata15,

    My surgery is April 17th. I ventured into the complications section of this website and it scared the hell out of me lol. Those leaks and lil pouches forming on top of the stomach seem to be a frequent complication. Now I am scared and having cold feet. Like maybe I shouldn't mess up my body and leave it just as God made it. This surgery got me feeling all types of ways lol.

  14. Started by Stephanielp,

    ?? progress starts in the mind

  15. Started by 4realaboutit!,

    surgery date is April 19th

  16. Started by LilEngine,

    Last day of my pre-op diet (tomorrow all liquids) it's getting close! 3/23....I was a bit nervous over the weekend, but now I'm like bring it on!!

  17. Started by FAT TWO FABULOUS,

    The count down has started

  18. Started by ericaseymore,

    Ready

  19. Did anyone use Dr. Macik at Northside hospital? Where you there for more than 24 hours or less? How was your experience? Were you in network or out of network for the facility?

  20. Started by FAT TWO FABULOUS,

    Looking for support thinking about backing out

  21. Started by carolynjackson,

    I just had my pre op appointment, took about 2 hours, blood work, EKG, physical, vital signs, and lots of paperwork, went over all my medications and when to stop certain medications. Surgery is April 4th, start pre op diet for 10 days March 24th. It's getting close and my nerves are up, scared, excited and anxious.

  22. Hello all. I am trying to find anyone who had or used Dr. Iqbal for their surgery. I have completed the packet of appointments and tests that needed to be completed after my initial appointment and I am not sure what happens now. If anyone who has had him would comment and explain how their timeline went I would appreciate it.

    • 1 reply
    • 1.1k views
  23. Guest
    Started by Guest,

    Hey Everybody, my name is Bethany and I am brand new to this site. I am about 17 days away from my surgery, and I start my pre-op diet tomorrow. I've bought my Protein shakes, and my Protein Bars according to my dietary recommendations, but I'm wondering if anybody has any recipes that they've used for their meals? Any advice would be appreciated!

  24. Started by ashleey921,

    Has anyone gone to Dr. Macik for their surgery?

    • 0 replies
    • 284 views
  25. Guest
    Started by Guest,

    I've lost a total of 25 pounds since I started Kaisers Options class I still need to lose 8 more pounds and I have about 7 more weeks of class. I also have been using the FitBit which I love so much it shows you so much that you do throughout the day. After my class I'm hoping I get an appointment with the surgeon right away and get to have my surgery within 2 to 3 weeks after that date.

    • 2 replies
    • 480 views
  26. Started by Ronnie0422,

    After going through so much I finally got approved. I'm excited and nervous at the same time. My surgery is scheduled for thursday. Not sure what I should take with me when I go but will soon figure it out

  27. Started by Mrs.G8181,

    Hello I am new to all of this I am currently looking into the Gastric Sleeve. I have UHC insurance. I am scheduled for a seminar in April. What should I expect? thanks you for your time..

    • 4 replies
    • 508 views
  28. [emoji123][emoji123][emoji123][emoji123][emoji123][emoji123][emoji123][emoji123][emoji123][emoji123][emoji123]

  29. Started by slimntrim,

    Surgery is scheduled for tomorrow at 1pm and I'm craving a chicken sandwich and some hot fries! I'm so hungry.

    • 4 replies
    • 502 views
  30. After my 6 months of nutritional​ eating and being weighted.I did lose some weight. All paper work in. Waiting and Waiting. Approved Surgery April 26!(excited) But I still have 5 more MUST appointments that need to done. But no clear liquid diet! Until after! I guess I thought it then would be boot camp and endoscopy and surgery. Im not excited about all the travel. But I am excited about the wealth of knowledge I will walk away with. Happy Spring[emoji255] everyone!

    • 2 replies
    • 570 views
  31. Started by 10stackzz,

    Heyyy Heyyy....It's been a loooong time coming but, I'm glad and appreciative for being at this point. I'm ready to evolve in everything I do from this point on. I'm going to LIVE LIFE ON PURPOSE! Good luck to all March sleevers. Let's do this!

    • 11 replies
    • 832 views
  32. Started by Kluhann89,

    I have received news that my insurance will cover surgery! I have struggled with my weight all my life and more so once I was no longer an athlete due to injuries. I am so very excited to start this journey and take back control, but I am nervous and scared at the same time. I am seeing my surgeon on April 4th for my first consultation!

    • 4 replies
    • 649 views
  33. Started by AstroGuy,

    Going down the RNY road and I was thinking about the changes that will occur after surgery. I am multiple pills and some of them will hopefully be removed from the rotation!! These would be cholesterol, BP (2x), and acid blocker. I do take one pill for anxiety that will never, ever be removed and it is a horse pill. What do I do about that one? It is a capsule so it could be opened and mixed with food but when it has gotten stuck in my thought in the past the taste is pretty nasty. Also what about other medications. I occasionaly take pain meds and some sleeping meds. How do those kinds of medicines effect you after bypass? Can you take them? Are they absorbe…

    • 2 replies
    • 515 views
  34. Started by Mariassleevejourney,

    My highest weight in 2008 was 282pds. Two years prior I did extensive research then decided to do the Lap-Band. The sleeve was not an option. Fast forward to 2015 my lowest weight was 182, but to get there I had to recur to adipex. That same year I had a hysterectomy, and something changed. I began gaining weight today I weigh 226pds. I am working with a surgeon to transition to a sleeve, but what a headache with insurance the company! I hope to update you all soon with a date and hope it will work for the best!

  35. Started by pvechiola,

    Anyone know how long it takes for Aetna to approve surgery once they get the papers.

    • 2 replies
    • 989 views
  36. Started by GMen88,

    Hey all, I received a fun phone call from the hospital where I'll be having my surgery. Finance department told me that my insurance covers 90% of my surgery, leaving me responsible for 10% or $2100. Cool. I knew that. What I didn't know was that I would have to make a deposit of half of the $2100 to the hospital that day I arrive, prior to my surgery. I was under the impression that I'd pay for it once I received my hospital bill AFTER surgery. It caught me off guard a bit but I have the money and can pay day of. Just curious as to the process for some of you in terms of when you were required to pay, etc thanks!

  37. Started by slimntrim,

    Well my surgery is set for Wednesday, March 22,2017 at 1:00pm. I'm so nervous. This liquid diet isn't going as planned. I'm tired of liquids! But from what i hear, I've only just begun!

    • 11 replies
    • 1.2k views
  38. I'm very new to this community having found out about BariatricPal at one of my monthly support groups, I have my final NUT appointment tomorrow and will get my pre and post op diet info. I'm so excited for this to be done but I'm nervous at the same time. I started my process Nov 29th last year and have already gotten insurance approval for the surgery. My question is has anyone found a way to get the insurance company to pay for vitamins and protein supplements? And what are some favorites besides premier protein?

  39. Started by Rise_Strong,

    Good morning, I am writing in hopes that someone might have some information/guidence on this process from Calgary, Alberta, Canada. I have just started taking the steps to go through the weight manangement program. This involves many courses, appointments with specialists, and hopefully surgery. They don't know how long it might take but at least a year to two years is what I have been told. My health is not good at all due to my weight. I have tried just about EVERYTHING to do this without surgery.

    • 5 replies
    • 1.2k views
  40. Started by shon74,

    First day pre op, OMG!!!!!

    • 6 replies
    • 404 views
  41. Started by jfcajr,

    A mixed bag of emotions but mainly I'm really excited and happy!

    • 5 replies
    • 445 views
  42. Started by Lynnford,

    Banded here in U.K. Nearly 3yrs ago & sadly still the same weight. So having it removed as well as my stomach in sleeve surgery. Extremely nervous, yet very excited. Counting down the days........

    • 8 replies
    • 620 views
  43. Started by 10stackzz,

    I'm rereading my preoperative instructions....for the 100th time. It reads: Do not wear any make up, nail polish, lotions, or jewelry to the hospital. .....Did any of you ladies that wear polish actually take your polish off? I get everything else ....no problem, if I have too...just asking!

  44. Started by LINZ62383,

    Hi all: I am wondering if there are any good websites or books out there for recipes for after RnY. If there is anything for pre-op recipes that would be great, too. Thanks! Lindsey

    • 0 replies
    • 361 views
  45. Started by jnj701,

    Just left my surgeons office, got my date of april 26th! I feel like its so far away haha but its nice to finally have my date. All i have to get done is my last few appointments with my program and and endoscopy/preop testing. I am scheduled for the sleeve but may change due to acid reflux/heartburn, if i show signs of damage from it he will change to by-pass. Im just so excited to start this journey!! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

    • 5 replies
    • 404 views
  46. Did you tell all of your friends and family that you were having the surgery or not? Not sure what to do! My husband knows and other than that I haven't told anyone.

    • 30 replies
    • 2.2k views
  47. Started by Renzster,

    Does everyone get an EKG before surgery? My sleeve is 3/21 and it hasn't even been mentioned. Does the nurse decide if you need one?

    • 11 replies
    • 950 views
  48. Started by ericaseymore,

    Sleeve surgery

  49. Started by Finally17,

    Im new to the program, having required appts, andon 1500 calorie diet. Ive read some entries about people having concerns about loose skin after considerable weight loss. Being 69, i dont forsee having plastic surgery at any time. Does it help to do weight training prior to surgery, like for arms, legs, etc.

    • 0 replies
    • 339 views
  50. Hi- I am brand new and considering WLS. I was scheduled for a seminar yesterday and didn't go because I am a little scared to start the process! Do most insurance plans make you go on medically supervised diet beforehand? My BMI is 43, what if I diet and no longer meet requirements?? Then why not just first and exercise in the first place (which obviously doesn't work in the long run) second question- I live in Arizona, I would like to start hiking again. I'm worried about whether after surgery, I'm thinking gastric bypass, I'd be able to enjoy hot outdoor activities and stay hydrated with a smaller stomach??

Forum Statistics

  • 417,017 Total Topics
  • 4,958,582 Total Posts

Member Statistics

Account

Navigation

Search

Search

Configure browser push notifications

Chrome (Android)
  1. Tap the lock icon next to the address bar.
  2. Tap Permissions → Notifications.
  3. Adjust your preference.
Chrome (Desktop)
  1. Click the padlock icon in the address bar.
  2. Select Site settings.
  3. Find Notifications and adjust your preference.