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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. Hi all, I'm getting my surgery on 09/21/2016 and I have a question about Vitamins. I've tried so many chewable, liquid and dissolvable vitamins over the past 7 months and they all upset my stomach (like - sprint to the bathroom stomach issues!) So I've just switched back to regular vitamins in a tablet form but I know I won't be able to take these whole after the surgery. I have to take the Multivitamin and Calcium citrate and I've started crushing and dissolving them in Powerade Zero in the hopes that I can continue to take them this was post surgery. My question is has anyone else had trouble with the chewables etc and ended up just crushing regular vitamins? I…

  2. Hi Guys! I am finding myself wanting to go on a rant about my surgeon and just curious if anyone has had similar experience. I saw my surgeon yesterday for my final pre-op weigh in and consult. The first time I met with him I thought he was kind, knowledgeable and I know he has a great reputation. Fast forward to today ......... I first met with his NP, who gave me my instructions for the few days before surgery. She told me that they found an abnormality in my bloodwork, and that I tested positive for a Lupus Anticoagulant. Has this every happened to any of you? While I have heard of Lupus, I have never really heard of it this specific abnormality (it's not a d…

  3. Hello, I'm feeling kind of panicked and hope someone can help. I finished my last preop appointment 3 weeks ago and the office said they would submit my paperwork for approval. Well they called today to say that the surgeon wants to meet today to discuss doing a bypass instead of the sleeve, based on my GI scan (which I had months ago!). At that scan they said I had reflux, though I've never noticed any symptoms. They said they haven't submitted anything to insurance yet because they don't know which surgery they are doing... I really don't want bypass. It seems too extreme for me (i'm worried about malnutrition, taking supplements for life, and rerouting my digest…

  4. Started by loca_lette813,

    So im in day 2of the pre op liquid diet and i had not even an ounce of chicken.... Is that ok??? Its like these shakes are curbing my appetite... Im freaking out! Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G930A using the BariatricPal App

  5. Guest

    So, I'm a medi-cal patient but I also bought a small private insurance because medi-cal doesn't pay for everything. But what I want to know can't I just get the WLS under medi-cal? Also how do I go about doing this? What is the process and what do I do to get them to understand that I REALLY need weight loss surgery? Right now I cannot get a job because I'm so unhealthy and sick all the time if I could get weight loss surgery then I could live life again and get a job along with being less sluggish and obese. How do I get through to my doctor and medi-cal that this is medically necessary and I need it done to survive and get a job?

    • 1 reply
    • 991 views
  6. Started by jtellechea001,

    Hi Everyone! So I've been in this process since June, gotten all my blood work done for the sleeve, had my psych evaluation, met the surgeon, had my one nutrition visit and up to now I was so sure I wanted the sleeve! I'm an RN, and I'm doing my surgery in my hospital system just another hospital! I happen to speak to the Bariatric Coordinator at my hospital and she told me DO THE BYPASS! If you're going to have he surgery done, get it done right the first time! She was explaining to me that she's seen the results with the sleeve and they're not as great as the bypass! She also mentioned that the long term results are much better with the bypass! So me as a nurse, I'm …

    • 18 replies
    • 1.4k views
  7. Guest
    Started by Guest,

    I'm concerned that everyone else stays in the hospital over night but Dr. Kim's is an out patient procedure. Any thoughts? Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

    • 26 replies
    • 2.4k views
  8. Started by BreannaW,

    Hello All, I received my approval letter last week and I am scheduled to see the surgeon on Friday. I noticed on my approval letter that it stated my surgery date was 09/16/2016. I called the surgeons office to confirm since i will need to let my employer know. The informed me that this date is what they call a dummy date, just a date given to insurance. However, as the lady and I were talking, she also informed me that the surgeon I was approved for only does surgery once a month at the place i was approved for... The only way to have my surgery this month would be if I start my pre-op diet on Labor day, along with him still having openings for that date, if not my s…

    • 10 replies
    • 881 views
  9. Started by halima02,

    New reply to I did it B BariatricPal [image] halima02, MommaMia13 has just posted a reply to a topic that you have subscribed to titled "I did it". The topic can be found here: http://... Carlyon Elaamri I'm sorry let me clear it up I had to loose 12 pds before I get my surgery date so I go Thursday morning to see the doctor so I will post pics late... M Mail Delivery Subsystem to me 0 minutes agoDetails Delivery to the following recipient failed permanently: no-reply@bariatricpal.com Technical details of permanent failure: Google tried to deliver your message, but it was rejected by the server for the recipient domain bariatricpal.com by aspmx.l.go…

    • 0 replies
    • 430 views
  10. Started by halima02,

    I met my goal weight this morning I am so happy I was feeling bad because it seemed so hard then I call my friend and told her she sent me a motivational picture and i got to smiling and I want to say to her thank u and all of yall for keeping me in good spirit Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

    • 2 replies
    • 544 views
  11. Started by beccaslosinit,

    I am on my very last month of my diet. How long after insurance approval was your surgery date? I work retail I just was hoping I would be back before the holiday rush? Sent from my iPhone

    • 12 replies
    • 798 views
  12. Started by bellalulu,

    Hello all, so my surgery is set for Sept 12th. I have my pre op on Sept 7th. I'm wondering why some people before surgery only have to do a 24hr clear liquid diet, some have a three day or two week liquid diet. I have no weight loss mandate but yet I had a three week liquid diet that's way too much and too long if you ask me. I can't even get in all those shakes and all those Fiber supplements plus Water. I have been doing it and that's fine but what's with all the different diets? I think a three day fast and cleanse plus all clear liquids would be enough though. What are you guys doing for your pre op? And how are you making it through so far?? Sent from my iPhone us…

    • 13 replies
    • 1.1k views
  13. Started by goldy54,

    I had that moment of realization this afternoon that I'm only 2.5 weeks away from my surgery. I went from being extremely excited to now being nervous as hell! Most of the nerves revolve around the surgery itself. I've never have had a operation before. I'm always the one that likes to have control of a situation and with this surgery, you are putting your life in the control of the hospital staff. I have complete confidence in the Dr. And the team/program but the unknowns are what making me nervous as hell! I'm sure these are normal pre-op jitters. How did you all overcome these? Sent from my SCH-I545 using the BariatricPal App

    • 3 replies
    • 612 views
  14. Looking to be sleeved, live in Toronto Ontario, was refereed to the Ontario Bariatric Network. Was just wondering what others wait times were like. (a more updated list). they haven't received the referral from my doctor yet errr (not happy about that) but the girl at Toronto Western was nice and said they are booking for their Nov orientation, she cant do anything till i come though their system. I have seen only one option to self pay about $13,000 in Montreal. thoughts feelings

    • 2 replies
    • 1.6k views
  15. Started by singerbabe,

    Hi everyone, I have surgery on Thursday (September 8th) and for probably the past week I've been feeling scared, not of the life change and diet afterwards but of dying on the table, during surgery. I'm 29 and fairly healthy considering, but all I see is my husband and family and friends crying because I passed during surgery. Is this normal or am I being silly? My husband is incredibly supportive and just keeps reminding me why I'm doing this in the first place, and I know its the right things for me, just can't get past this fear. Thank you all btw, reading posts here has helped me a lot during this journey.

  16. Started by NOVAMOM348,

    No not my surgery....my very first meet with my PCM to let her know I want to have gastric bypass. I have NO idea how this is gonna go. Super nervous yet excited. I feel like this is the first major speed bump to get over. Just want to get the whole process started and find out more info. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

  17. Started by losing.it.lulu,

    January 7th is coming up... I am ready for my life changes. I've been doing great on my pre-op diet... anyone else having theirs on the 7th?

  18. Started by mlaramie,

    Hey Everyone! I've been cleared for surgery by my Dr and have my follow upsnwoth the dietician and social worker in a few week. IF I'm cleared at that point, how long before I'll meet a surgeon? I'm in Windsor ON if that helps! Sent from my LG-H831 using the BariatricPal App

    • 0 replies
    • 582 views
  19. Started by WhitneyMc,

    My final consultation with my surgeon is today and I have a few questions but I was wondering if anybody else has anything that they're concerned about I could ask and the post later and response. Sent from my LGMS631 using the BariatricPal App

  20. I just got my thyroid lab back, which was tested twice bc the first time the results were "higher than they've ever seen before" and the second lab result said the same thing. It's supposed to be in between a 0-4, and I was 59 and 56. So the anesthesiologist won't put me under. I have been taking my thyroid medication for months ... Last time it was maybe 24 ....I've been feeling so much better since I started taking my medicine (used to sleep 18 hrs a day) so I don't see how my numbers could be possible! Now I have to wait for my thyroid to get back to normal which could take an infinite amount of time! The medicine usually takes up to 6 weeks to even change anythin…

  21. Started by billywilly,

    I am looking to talk to anyone having surgery in Sept or Oct in the area I am nervous and need support Sent from my Nexus 6 using the BariatricPal App

  22. Started by ML573663,

    Hi all! So I'm supposed to get sleeved in December and I have been postponing losing that pre-surgery weight although I KNOW I am capable of doing it. I just feel lost about where to start especially when it comes to exercising. My surgeon told me that I should put more emphasis on lifting weights because that will be helpful post op, meanwhile everyone else says to focus on cardio because that will help you when you have a large amount of weight to lose (which I obviously do) So I guess I'm trying to get an idea of what everyone has been doing, or did pre-op. I have been walking on the treadmill at different inclines and speeds (not a runner by any means) and then do…

  23. Started by ByeByeLbs77,

    I am so happy !!! I just got a call from my surgeon's office, NWWLS, saying that I have been approved they wanted to do my surgery October 12th however since of work restrictions I opted to have its December 21st. I'm so excited.... I have to do my sleep study, psych evaluation and endoscopy still...but im super happy this is becoming a reality!! ByeByeLbs

  24. Started by Desiree24,

    I'm so excited I been waiting for this time to come for a while and its finally her! Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G925A using the BariatricPal App

    • 7 replies
    • 724 views
  25. Started by achappex3,

    Nothing but the class to go!! Coming October 5th!! So so so ready! Lost another 5 pounds I'm so ready!! Okay I'm done now. Lol Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

    • 2 replies
    • 427 views
  26. Started by paul12677,

    My insurance company wants me to lose 5-10% of my weight for them to fully approve the surgery... Anyone facing the same difficulty staying regimented? Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

  27. Started by determined1LD,

    I have real bad knee pain and need to kick start this weight loss but I'm in constant pain because of my knees. I want to exercise but it hurts to bad. Any ideas? My hospital I'm going with wants to get me in Water aerobics. But I want some more things I can do. I have to lose 20lbs on my own. I want to show that I'm determined. I need help. determined1LD

  28. Started by CVanPelt,

    I have not looked at the details of what qualifies for sick leave for my company, but I also have 22 vacation days accrued... I would rather not use my vacation days because my job drives me nuts sometimes so it is nice to ha e the option to get away. I am hoping to only need a week off since I have a desk/traveling job. Do most people use sick leave for WLS? Sent from my SM-G925V using the BariatricPal App

    • 9 replies
    • 3.8k views
  29. Started by missvee,

    How did you all decide on what Protein powder was best for you? Was it merely taste, price, or actually looking at protein grams? I've been researching and looking at labels for the past week and I'm starting to become very overwhelmed and stressed out! Surgery is scheduled for 9/26, I only have to do a 2 day clear liquid diet but I want to start 1 week before on a liquid diet Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

    • 19 replies
    • 1.5k views
  30. Started by alemapsept15,

    I'm having the bypass surgery on Sept 15th and have been having some anxiety over everything. From the pre Ops appointments, to the pre op diet, to which Protein drinks to drink, to insurance stuff, to time off for work stuff, and then everyday life things. All of it together is getting me feeling overwhelmed, so much that I'm having trouble sleeping (which is unusual for me). It just seems to all be happening so fast all of a sudden. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

  31. Started by CVanPelt,

    I had my psych evaluation 3 weeks ago which was the last thing I needed to get my paperwork sent to insurance. I thought the psychologist I saw was going to send my eval to my bariatric team ASAP but 3 weeks later and they just notified me that they received it!!! Hopefully Blue Cross Blue Shield doesn't decide to be as slow as her! I think the pony express could have delivered it faster ???? Of the 4 women in my office (including me), 2 of them are going on maternity leave this fall/winter and I really wanted to get my sleeve before the first lady went on leave... And during this deductible year since I'm down to only owing $1700 out of pocket instead of $2,500. The an…

  32. Started by halima02,

    I am supposed to lose 12pds I have lost 9pds it is so hard I want to scream but instead I want to talk to you all and see if u can give me some advice pls help Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

    • 2 replies
    • 473 views
  33. Guest
    Started by Guest,

    Honestly, the idea of having surgery was always in the back of my mind. At least since my mother had her Gastric Bypass in 2004. I honestly never thought I'd be anywhere near this weight (currently 285) and it terrifies me. It's a weird thing. You live your busy life every single day and you don't really feel any different from day to day. Then one day something happens, either a special event or an "unapproved" photo is posted by your kids or even just that the roller coaster seat is a tighter fit than you remember. Then you look in the mirror and you realize that "a little overweight" went out the door a long time ago. I'm scared to have this surgery, but if I'm bein…

  34. Started by jtellechea001,

    Anyone else this excited? My pre op diet is still not for another 2 weeks!!! Hahaha Yay! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

  35. Started by kimberb,

    Hi everybody I'm the gal who only had the 39 bmi. Then with a little help became 41 bmi. Recently I was told that may have to carry a bmi of 40 or greater for at least a month to be reconsidered if surgeon denies me. I have a phone consult with the surgeon this month (he's the one that took out my gallbladder 2 yrs ago and told me then I need gastric bypass). I have high cholesterol. But I've also been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. On no meds for it. But it's in my chart for ongoing conditions. Could this be something that could help me qualify for the surgery? Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-T337A using the BariatricPal App

  36. Started by big_ceas,

    Good luck to everyone thats has there date for surgery this app is so cool i started my liquid diet on saturday make sure to take your Protein its a lil tuff but im so ready for my new healthy life style im going to live for the rest of my life and also thanks to my wife she has been there for me thru all the support grupes also to my parents Sent from my SM-T817T using the BariatricPal App

    • 0 replies
    • 303 views
  37. Started by Purplelife,

    I have been trying to get gastric bypass surgery 6 years. I finally got approval for a surgeon to do the surgery I originally wanted gastric bypass but the doctor wants to do this leave and I'll be happy at this point to get anything. I had first started trying to get the surgery 6 years ago and then we discovered that I had endometrial cancer. So with any malignancy you're automatically disqualified. However my oncologist and I finally got a surgeon to understand that I can't have a hysterectomy because of my weight but if I can get the weight loss surgery and lose some weight ; I will be able to get the hysterectomy. This has been a very long road but finally seeing lig…

  38. Started by Pinkberry2,

    Ive done all the pre op testing got approved by insurance and all of a sudden i got this huge wave of doubt. Everything moved so fast i dont think i really took the time to analyze my situation and if this really is THE BEST option. After doing some soul searching i know this isnt for me. Ive lost over 80lbs on my own before. For me its 110% mental and surgery doesnt wont fix my brain. So im going au natural. Its going to be the hardest thing ive ever done in my life but i know i'll be a better person because of it. Good luck to everyone this is a life long battel for most of us whatever it takes for you to be happy just do it! Little tia Cw :348 5'4 Gw healthy (17…

    • 46 replies
    • 4.4k views
  39. Hello and thanks for reading. I had a sleep study done last week, and I have been diagnosed with sleep apnea. After speaking with the Lung, Asthma, and Sleep people it turns out that I will not receive "clearance for surgery" for at least 5 weeks. I was planning on visiting family (primarily my 7 yr old daughter) at the end of July 1,500 miles away and was hoping I was to get the surgery beforehand. Reality check ... Not gonna happen. So, I will now anticipate surgery date in September. I am bummed. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

  40. Started by okcbaby,

    My consult was 7/1. I have to lose 28 lbs before surgery. So far I'm doing alright lost 7lbs so far. My biggest hurdle will be financing. I have insurance that will absolutely under no circumstances cover WLS. I don't have good credit either. I have a huge support system and they are going to try and help me raise some funds through a garage sale but I really need to get some financing somehow as well. Any one in my same boat have any tips? Thanks in advance! ChelsiCurrently

  41. Started by sarajeano,

    I have surgery one week from today, and I kind of went crazy this weekend..not only because of the holiday, but I just wanted to get in some of my faves before surgery. I know I can drop some lbs before the surgery, but am afraid I won't get down to what they got me at my last weigh in. Anyone go through this? I don't have liquid diet until next weekend, and I'm afraid they would postpone my surgery or something. I feel so stupid, because this means so much to me. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

  42. Started by olliesoda,

    So today is my first day of pre-op. Being in the UK it's bedtime soon so I've had my day and all has gone well! I'm not really an eater so the lack of intake is ok with me. Water, Protein shake, water, water and 3oz of roast beef with a good salad. I'm sure it will get 'tense' as I head towards the op on September 13th (thankfully not a Friday!) I had a great party this weekend where I drank for to much as I said goodbye to Alcohol.... For now. So I'm starting my journey at 358lbs. Apprehensive, nervous not knowing what you don't know BUT double exited. A lot of you guys have inspired me to get this done and if I get anywhere near your successes. I will be delig…

  43. Started by Autumn Riley Arnold,

    Tomorrow I go on the 3 day, clear liquid diet, before my Surgery on Wednesday. Man, the nerves are REALLY kicking in! Every time I think about it, I get butterflies. Can you guys please just give me a little support and encouragement that I can wake up to tomorrow morning? Maybe it won't be so bad if I can look at the things you've said from time to time when it gets hard.

  44. Guest

    Hello all - I would ultimately like to meet with somebody who has had sleeve surgery prior to going ahead with mine. I think it would be very beneficial. I'm hoping that the clinic I'm going through is able to provide this. Did any of you have this opportunity? If so, did it help you with your decision?

    • 39 replies
    • 4.7k views
  45. Started by mommabear2311,

    Has anyone used any of the fit miss products? ~Sandy~

  46. Started by mommabear2311,

    OMG! I'm becoming so impatient! I'm waiting for my insurance to approve and my surgery to be scheduled. I know it takes time and I haven't been waiting that long but.... come on and hurry before I eat a cookie or something! Lol ~Sandy~

  47. Started by Webapprentice,

    Hello, First I want to say how wonderful it is this forum exist. I am 49 years old and have been fighting weight loss all my life as most of have. I am currently 5'11 395. The story is too long but i am just beginning to look at gastric sleeve with my first appointment next week. I currently weight lift every other day for 1 1/2 hours. I lift heavy but still do a lot reps except for my max. My max bench is 415 and I am not saying this to brag because I do not have much to brag about just to indicating the level of lifting that i am doing. I do chest press with dumbbells, biceps curls, triceps pulls, leg press and few more exercise pushed on whoever happens to be …

  48. Started by ilydc,

    Hello all, Very excited like most of you all finally received my surgery date 09/21/2016 in San Antonio TX. I'm trying to detox before my prep-class and diet on 09/07/2016. The reason I am starting now is because I am insulin dependent. If anyone knows of a great cleanse please let me know. I am drinking tons of Water with some Essential oils (slim and sassy) which work awesome. I literally feel my kidneys working! I do have SOME permanent kidney damage from going into DKA (diabetic ketoacidosis) yes I'm super young well 33 but my body shut down. Im going to get activated charcoal and looking for something for my lungs to avoid any pneumonia like symptoms. Diabeti…

    • 7 replies
    • 600 views
  49. Started by klmmom,

    I start my pre op diet on Wednesday, surgery is scheduled for the 22. Does anyone have any words of wisdom they wish they were told prior to surgery? Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

    • 2 replies
    • 649 views
  50. I'm just making sure, it IS ok to have unflavored protein powder mixed into my clear liquids, right?

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