Half~of~Bri

I think nerves are normal, especially with a life changing surgery such as this. I haven't had my VSG surgery yet, but I've been considering it for a year and a half and finally committed to the process. The main thing holding me back? I was TERRIFIED of anesthesia. I would cry, shake uncontrollably and picture myself not making it through the surgery at the thought. In February, I had to have surgery on my foot - there was no choice. I had never been put under anesthesia before and I felt like my worst nightmare was coming true by feeling like I had to do this when I was so scared. I made myself sick with worry for the two weeks prior to surgery. I considered backing out even though I knew this surgery HAD to happen. Once surgery day came, it was like the blink of an eye and it was all over. I woke up in recovery wondering why I was ever afraid in the first place, feeling proud of myself and kind of ridiculous for worrying, too. My FIRST thought was, "oh my gosh, this was so easy...I'm going to have my VSG!!!" and as soon as I recovered, I began the VSG process. Personally, I feel there is a HUGE difference in being afraid of the actual surgery it's self and not being committed to the process afterwards. If you're doubting your ability to live the lifestyle post-op, I would definitely postpone the surgery until you are absolutely positive this is what you want for your life. If it's just a fear of the unknown, fear of the pain involved, or fear of the anesthesia, please don't worry. I know that it's so much easier said than done, and I understand that fear is a very real thing, but just think of how proud of yourself you'll be when you wake up and are able to start your new life! If you need to talk, we're all here for you to support you. You're gonna do great!!

I had surgery on my foot (on the side near my big toe) in February and got a pedicure the day of surgery - hey a girl's gotta look cute They didn't say anything about the polish nor did they remove it. I plan on getting one prior to my VSG as well, unless I'm told I can't of course!

My doctor requires that I see the nutritionist once prior to surgery, 2 weeks post op, then once a month for a year after surgery. I was a little annoyed at first about that, but now I'm happy and can't wait to share my progress with her each time I go in. None of the nutritionist's fees are accepted by insurance so I have to pay out of pocket ($550 covers the year), but it already seems like it's worth it. Good luck at your group meeting. You never know, you might like it and meet some interesting people. I was not thrilled about the nutritionist, either. Hopefully it turns out well for you! Let us know how it goes!

....is awesome! I was so so so nervous...after all, going to a nutritionist was like my worst nightmare. I pictured being scolded for a decade of poor choices, failed diets and lack of enough exercise. I was afraid I would just be looked at as lazy for not losing the weight on my own. It was beyond the exact opposite of what I'd envisioned. She was sweet, caring, understanding, and encouraging. We wrote down my goals, and she said she can see me losing my first 100 pounds in the first year after surgery! She seemed to know exactly how to explain how my quality of life will change after surgery as it applied to ME (being able to ride roller coasters, keeping up with my daughter, fitting into a theater seat comfortably, etc.) She brought me to tears with her words of hope and her faith in me. I know this isn't going to be easy, but I am now more convinced than ever that it will be worth it. I am SO excited for this journey to begin!!!

If you have children, how did you explain your weight loss surgery to them? I have a nine year old daughter who's very curious and inquisitive. Any suggestions on how I should explain to her in an age appropriate way that I'm having VSG and why? I want to keep her informed without telling her too much and making her worry. Thanks

Good luck! Thoughts and prayers for a smooth recovery!!

Good luck! Sending prayers!

I'm getting ready to leave in about 45 minutes to have my physical and hopefully get cleared for surgery!! I'm a little nervous, but mostly just excited to get this show on the road! Thoughts and prayers appreciated

How much weight did your doctor want you to lose before surgery? Mine didn't specify and I realized after I left that I forgot to ask!