PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A

Hello! Just wondering I got my consultation for august 31st in Canada and I’m wondering how quickly did some of you Canadians get approved after their consultation and also what did they have to do in order to get approved in BC Canada or in Canada :) thanks so much everyone!! I’m so excited I can’t wait to finally get this done :)

Hi All! I’m a 58 year old female . My bypass is scheduled this month, and I’m beyond petrified. I’ve cancelled my surgery 3 times in the past 15 years ( mostly because my mom always scared me out of doing it)… I’ve since lost her and I feel I can no longer carry all this weight. I have so much inflammation / pain everywhere in my body ( ie joints) … But my surgeon does not require weight loss beforehand or at least the liver shrinking diet pre-op ( and I planned on starting it this week on my own, but didn’t! ! I don’t trust myself to be able to do what it takes to be successful ! I don’t feel I have the support to go through with it ! I’m afraid of rerouting my dig…

I am wondering how long it took everyone from the time you initially talked to your doctor about wanting to get the surgery to how long you had to wait. I started this journey at the beginning of the year. My first conversation with the surgeon was on January 5th. I did not like her, as she was pretentious and rude. She kept saying, "Someone of your size" cannot get the gastric bypass, so I debated just not doing any of the procedures. I tried to explain to her (as we were doing this as a telehealth visit) that she was misjudging my size by only looking at the numbers. I hold my weight way too well. In high school, I outweighed girls my height and clothing size by …

Hey! I just scheduled my surgery date and I got to schedule it the day I was hoping! February 21st. Anyone else have a February surgery date?? Maybe we can help each other!

Hello! Newbie here?? I finished my first official day of being on an all liquid diet and honestly I’m hangry, I’m a bit irritated, and I just want to eat! Lol but I’m hoping after about day 3 or 4 I don’t feel the need to eat like I used to. Any tips on how to curve the craving for food in general?? Surgery date is August 7th?‍?

Hi!!!! I’m on day 4 of liquids and it gets a little better everyday. That being said I’m still struggling. I’ve been having some strained soups per my surgeons list, and have been picking at a few pieces of chicken/veg. How bad is it that I’m technically cheating? Any other tips to make this better lol? And does it get better post op? I have two more weeks of liquids after surgery (RNY on 8/7)

For reference, I have a complicated medical history including several co-morbidities, an autoimmune disease that has affected my gut, eyes, and spine, with a history of small bowel ulcerations, and a history of iron deficiency and vitamin D deficiency that only respond to high dose pills (Vitamin D) and regular iron infusions. A while back I saw my first bariatric surgeon and had an awful experience. The guy was dismissive of my concerns, brushed off my questions, and was in the room less than 5 minutes and told me the DS was my only option and anything else would fail. His nurse was rude and took my blood pressure with the wrong cuff and when it came out at 175/112 …

I have PCOS so I was blessed with hair everywhere (including my stomach). I generally shave/use hair removal cream during the summer (for my own sanity, not that anyone sees it) and I was wondering if I should shave pre surgery. I kinda don't want people seeing my stomach looking like that (although I know the doctors most likely saw worse) but I'm worried about ingrown hair when they close the slits. Anyone in the same boat/have any ideas?

Hi! I'm at the very beginning of the process. I keep trying to stick to any diet so I can lose weight before the surgery and I have been struggling. I'm just always hungry. It's so hard to not just walk in my kitchen and eat something. I've never struggled so hard to just get started. Anyone else? What did you do? Thanks!!

Hi, I'm new here. It's been 13 months since I had my first consult with the surgeon. I just got psychologically cleared, which was a hassle. I meet with the surgeon next week, and hopefully everything will then be submitted to insurance. I'm hoping to have surgery in early October.

My surgery is on Monday (less than 48 hours!). My instructions are to fast starting at midnight before surgery. I was told to drink 10 oz Gatorade 3 hours before surgery. Does fasting include water or can I drink water in the morning? I can’t believe I didn’t ask my doc this question! Thank you!

Has anyone had cancer before surgery? Chemo and/or radiation? Particularly colon or abdomen. I'm 10 years out from colon cancer. I went through all the medical clearances and I'm scheduled for September sleeve surgery. Just curious if anyone had any negative effects.

Hey everyone going through Kaiser Richmond!! Where are you in the process?

I am a fulltime college student, living on campus. Im currently on winter break. I have my very first consultation on Jan 10th. I was wondering if there are others here that have gone through with the gastric sleeve surgery & how the pre-op stage & post op went while in college?

Am I the only one that wants just one last hurrah before my guts get all switched up. Like a last supper if you will? My cravings during this liver reduction diet is killing me. I miss fried food already and I haven’t had the surgery yet. Btw surgery day is 7/24/23

Hello everyone, My name is Zee. I’m from the Philadelphia area, 36 yr old wife and mother of 4 (1 going off to college next month). Had my first appointment with my surgeon Dr. Soans on 5/6/23. Did all my lab test, EKG, Pulmonologist appt, 2 out of 3 of the required Nutrition classes, 2 follow up 1 on 1 with nutritionist and found out I have sleep apnea. Have a cpap machine now and have been cleared by the pulmonologist. Have a follow up with surgeon on 7/6/23. Have been following what I am to do strictly so I’m hoping that goes well. I know I have to see a psychologist but don’t know when yet. I have Keystone First health insurance so I made sure to call them first …

Hi all, my name is Carrielee. I’m 32, from TN. I’ve been overweight/obese since childhood and the weight keeps piling on as well as the co-morbid diagnoses. I was finally referred to Bariatric surgery earlier this year after an Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension diagnosis and just finally scheduled my initial consult. I’m scared and anxious and overwhelmed and questioning things but also don’t want to die early and that’s where I’m headed with things as they are so it’s time for a change. At 5’1”, I currently weigh 298 pounds, putting me at a BMI of 56.3. I currently have Hypertension refractory to medications, Type II Diabetes, angina, high choleste…

Well there I was hoping tp gret this surgery in the butt better than my sister when Bang! It kicked me instead. i experirnced severe nausea and the most horrible dryheaving dtarting July 4th. I was admitted to the ER o th3 11th and released yesterday noe feeling more awake and ready to est sctually food. Just be careful and drink those fluids my friends!

Hey guys I want to ask, you who are doing the pre op liquid diet. So you get drained being in the sun? I get dizzy and a little delirious. Anyone else experience anything like this?

I was approved for RNY no surgery date yet but I was told it could be as soon as Sept October. I was also told I could not lift anything over 10lbs for 6 to 8 weeks. I have a girlfriend that will help me for a week or 2 and my daughter will be around 20 months at the time of surgery. Is there anyone in the same position as me? How did you cope after surgery with taking care of your child. Thanks

Hey everyone! I'm brand new! I'm 5 days into my pre op diet (5 protein shakes a day, 2 cups of clear broth, 64 oz water, 1 cup sugar free Jello) and I am sooo freaking dizzy. Did anyone else have this dizziness? Any tips to help? I'm on track with water/etc and following all instructions exactly.

Hi there. I’ve been watching a few videos on the 2 week pre-diet and was wondering… I am on the lower end of qualifying BMI, only qualifying with my insurance company because of other health complications. Can the weight loss of the pre surgery diet present a problem or is the insurance process already sealed before the diet begins? I yo yo between a BMI of 37 and 42, have been more diet conscious since starting with the nutritionist and am dropping a few pounds a week. With a minimum of 2 more months to go before the pre op diet, I’m worried I’ll be pushing the margin (though know I’ll never see a healthy weight without this surgery)

How much did you have to spend out of pocket up until the day of your surgery? I didn't expect this to be so costly, but I know it'll be more than worth it.

After healing from your surgery did anyone still was able to smoke THC?

Well, today is the day. SURGERY DAY. It's more complicated than when I had the gastric sleeve because not only are they doing a revision from sleeve to bypass, they are removing my entire lower and mid stomach (the part that is bypassed) because that's where all my polyps develop. It's a 2 hour surgery, and I was told I'll be in recovery for about an hour after. It's like having 2 bariatric surgeries in 1, so the recovery/healing/down time will be worse than my original surgery. I'll be in the hospital for 2 nights, so I'll be home sometime on Friday the 30th. That sucks, and is really annoying (I hate hospitals) but I know it's necessary and will be worth it. …

Ok guys. I have been doing pretty good. I am into daynumer13. I have until July 3, but I am noticing my breathing is changing I am just aware of. I have dizziness and feeling as if I am going to faint.The back of my neck is hurting which is also draining me. My breathing when paying attention is shallow, deep and I am holding my breath.- i can not see what I am writing so I hope this post makes sense. Have anyone experience this.

I am finally considering weight loss surgery. I just had a wonderful small ice cream cone out on my deck on a perfect summer evening. It was really delicious and I wondered if I’d be able to have such a treat after surgery. Without any judgement regarding equating food with happiness etc, can any experienced bariatric patients tell me if I’ll be able to enjoy a small cone post surgery? It’s probably not a deal-breaker, just trying to wrap my head around expectations.

Wondering which you chose, if you had a choice, and why? I have the choice and would prefer the out patient facility because they are solely there for what I need however it's not convenient at all. Is it better to go where I will be released in 5 hours or where they may keep me over night? I'm not sure what the surgeon who is close and works out of the hospital requires until I go next week for my consult. Also, realistically, how often will I need to get fills or see the surgeon? I have four children so being close to home is very important, especially if I have to be there weekly. I know it's ultimately my comfort level with the doctor and staff.

ok I have founfd that sugar free cinnamon trident gum is very helpful wiyh helping my nausea.

I have taken two of my three classes and I think I have more questions than answers. My first thought sitting through these classes is "If I could comply with all of these nutrition requirements and restrictions, I don't think I would need surgery". I am scared that I am going to make my life miserable by altering my digestive tract and then not being able to stick to the diet and causing all sorts of problems. My other issue is that I do not have an office job. I am outdoors, mobile, and never know which direction I will need to go. The other day it occurred to me that I drove 4 different vehicles before lunch. I don't know how I would be able to keep up with vitam…

I'm already annoyed and sick of it lol I'm HUNGRY!!! And I'm already tired of drinking everything. I want actual food. BUT.... I know this is for the greater good. It's only for a week, and the first 3 days are always the worst. Thank goodness this is for my revision, so I already know what to expect with this since I've done it before. Just not having ANY fun with it. At all. Nope. Already ready to be done lol

I had surgery 6/15 and for a few days my dairy based protein shakes making my tummy upset. Is this really common?

Hello, My surgery date is approaching, and I am excited about it. My surgery date is approaching, and I am excited about it. I am feeling nervous but also confident that I will get the results I am hoping for. I am grateful for the support of my family and friends, and I am looking forward to starting a new chapter of my life. I'm currently eating exclusively Premier Protein shakes and unlimited non-starch vegetables. I'll keep updating!

Just getting started. Still trying to decide if this is for me Looking for others just getting started too Any advice from others would be appreciate

I have read several times that using a microwave is a post-op no-no. Does anyone know why?

The surgery went very well, and drink apparently I had a hernia that was repaired. Handsome bone broth for dinner and trying o drink my water. My doctor has his patients drink 2oz of juice diluted with 2 oz of water Luckily I don't have much pain or cramping. And I learned my sister scheduled our summer vacation justintime for me to eat more decent foods,

I’m scheduled for surgery July 3rd,(2023). I am excited and nerves at the same time. I’m on a two week liquid diet to detoxify they tell me.

Hello Evang! I am scheduled to see my doctor tomorrow for follow ups before surgery. I need some encouragement. I am straddling the fence.

So here we are again lol My revision from sleeve to bypass is on the 28th, and my pre-op diet (all liquids) starts on the 22nd. The first 3 days are ALWAYS the worst. Day 4 isn't too bad, and days 5-7 aren't bad at all. Those are actually pretty easy. But getting through the first 3 days...omg. That's the really hard part lol Not excited in the least about that. BUT...I'm beyond excited to get the revision and get back to my life. I miss being pain free. I miss working out (weight training, cardio, strength/core training). I miss bike riding and taking long walks. I'm so ready to get my GERD, gastritis, and esophagitis under control (GONE!! ) so I can finally hit my goal …

It's day 2 of my pre-op liver shrinking diet and I'm already dragging. My eyes can barely stay open...

Hi I have a VSG scheduled on Monday 06/19. I am required to be on 2 days of Liquid Diet. instruction says I am allowed zero-calorie liquids in between Protein shakes it includes sugar-free popsicles. However they are 15 cal each and has 6 g sugar alcohols. I am confused. Can I have them or not?

Any one set for June

hey everyone. im almost to weeks into my 4 week liquid diet and im struggleing. i stayed with in the same cals i would have drinking just shakes and eatting 4 cups of veggies. im back on track now. but im worried it messed up my weight loss

Hello fellow Bari-people! I have had a fear of anesthesia ever since I can remember (I think I got it from my mother, as she has the same fear). Of course I will have to face that fear come surgery day (06/21)... I know that's probably the last thing I should be worried about in this process, but I'd be lying if I said the thought of being put under doesn't keep me up at night LOL. I was wondering if anyone is open to sharing their stories with anesthesia and what that was like (in regards to bariatric surgery OR any other kind of surgery). I'm hoping some strong people can help me feel a little bit stronger, too. Thank you in advance!

So I'm currently a freshman in college (19 years old) and in the early steps of the GB program - have a date for my first group meeting, making my consultation soon. Anyway, obviously I do not have my own insurance and will be going through my mother's plan. How did you guys introduce the topic of surgery for the first time and get approval? I'm away at school (a little over an hour) so I'm not home much. I want to finally bring it up to her this weekend. I will also discuss with my dad since he had it 10 yrs ago. I think my mom might be reluctant and judgemental, but we will see when we get there. (he was 400 lbs and 6'. I'm not there yet --- BUT I DON'T WANT TO BE. EVER…

My question is can I have a protein bar? I ask because it's slid and I want to be sure. I also found a choc chip protein cookie that tastes good and I want to be sure that's ok.

Hello all! I'm pre-surgery. waiting on a surgery date - I have been approved by insurance but will be out of the country for two weeks in July and told them I'd like to wait until back. I have lots of questions but two of them are below. I'm hopeful someone can wrap their brain around what I'm asking because I have struggled to find anyone who is able to really answer it for me. It's not that they are telling me what I don't want to hear, it's just not addressing the crux of the question. I'm hopeful this will make sense: Once you have WLS, in the first couple of months post op - what is your mind doing? I know people struggle to hit their protein and water goals a l…

I’ve been trying to do my home work on WLS and my first appointment is Monday I’m 5-7 like 263 I’m reading a lot of complications post op losing hair, nausea throwing up foam !? I’m questioning if it’s worth it ? I want to be healthy but I don’t want to mess my insides up ? Please advise

Hi everyone, I'm 53. Standard yoyo dieting over the last 30 years...each time I gain, it's more than I lost. I have a lot to live for, so I'm getting the RNY gastric bypass. I don't have a surgery date yet, but it's looking like it will be in August. I live with my son, dil, and 2 grandkids. I want to live a long time to be a part of the family for years to come. The only weight related diagnoses I have (shockingly, with a BMI of 59!) are high blood pressure and sleep apnea. My labs are great: Cholesterol is 176 with an HDL of 57, Triglycerides are 114, A1c is 5. We attribute that to having good genes, and boy, am I grateful for them! I have chronic, …

I had my consultation. No real diet plan but I’ve been trying on my own. Not working. My insurance company didn’t require weight loss before surgery but I’m not allowed to gain. Well I am up 15 lbs. help!!! I’m trying to diet and exercise. Can’t do much exercising because of back and leg pain issues. Retaining water. They ordered lasix. It’s not doing much. And just got done with steroids for the back and leg pain. I’m exhausted by the time I get home. I did go swimming last night and did aqua exercises. Just worried I can’t get this extra weight off. No surgery date yet. Have an endoscopy scheduled for July 11th and that’s my last requirement. Just nervou…