altagirl

So sorry to hear this - when I was at OCC I was the first one in. I had a complete melt down going into the OR. I can't imagine having to wait so long. I find it annoying that no one has popped in to give you at least a "hello and sorry you have to wait" update. However, I think when you meet Dr Ortiz and Martinez your mind will be at ease. They are both excellent doctors and it would be my guess that they will accomodate any request to postpone a day. Sending good thoughts your way - please let us know how it is going.

Good luck to you all - and if/when you have surgery be sure to let us know how you are. I had surgery in Sept with Dr Ortiz and had a great experience. One thing I will recommend is pack light - very light. The hotel has shampoo etc so no need to bring those kinds of things. However, I know there are some of you who, no matter what, will bring everything plus some "just in case!" My mother is that way - but honestly you are not there very long, and no one cares if you are wearing the same shirt as the day before. On another thread I posted a picture of my suitcase which was a mini rolling carry on - about half the size of what most people use. I went alone but quickly met other people having surgery on the same day as me. Wishing you all the best - and a speedy, non-eventful recovery!!

I had surgery in Mexico with Dr Ortiz. I admit I had some reservations but, now, don't hesitate to recommend it as a great alternative. Lucky you that your insurance will pay for a tummy tuck! I have just starting investigating those prices - I really want a flat stomach!

Before I had the surgery I could not imagine not feeling hungry - It is great. For a few months I had to set my alarm to remind myself to eat. I did not have that "head hunger" struggle that some people have. The only time I have had problems with eating was at nights and weekends - if I am bored. I tend to want to snack and have to work on my self control. Three weeks ago, I started a hand piece quilting class. It has made a HUGE difference. Now I have something to do - it is tedious and I am surprised by how much I have enjoyed having a project.

I had surgery on 9/10/12 and feel like my loss has slowed down considerably. I need to re-focus and make sure I am logging everything I eat. I also would like to exercise more. I would love to be told to gain weight !! I can't imagine!

Your stats are close to mine when I had surgery. One of the best parts of the surgery for me is that I am not hungry - I do not focus on food. This was a great decision for me at the lower BMI before I was so obese that it caused more problems.

People thought I was too small too. It was a good decision for me. I have been very happy with my decision.

I am finally out of my stall - the only one I have had so far but it lasted 6 weeks. I got on the scale today and dropped 2 pounds. I am only 16 pounds from my goal. My intention is to up my protein and cut carbs. I suppose I will start that tomorrow since I had a cookie already today! I cannot say enough times how happy I am that I had this surgery.

Wow - great job! You look fantastic.

Take them back. Also, before I lost weight I had to have my boots stretched and all of the had a zippers. Nordstroms stretched them for me (no charge). However, now they are too big and look sloppy. My advice is to wait until next year to get boots when your weight is more stabilized.

I was self pay and also felt guilty about spending so much money on myself. I have to tell you that it was the best decision for me. Some days I would like to have those student loans paid off (not that the 6k woud have done that!!) but I feel great and am so much happier. Go for it if , like others have said, your bills will be manageable after the surgery.

Looking great! Congratulations

I think the side by side picture comparison is a great idea. I can relate to this feeling. It really wasn't until people started commenting on how thin I looked did I "feel" skinny. This was about 3 weeks ago

Congratulations! That is great news!

You look beautiful! Congratulations on your success. I am glad that you found the perfect surgeon for you! It helps a lot when you connect with them.

Yes, I had surgery on 9/10/12 and I am freezing all the time. I just ordered an electric blanket because my daughter said she can't sleep anymore since I have the heat so high at night.

Are you making a poster for staff education or conference? I decided on WLS because I am shaped just like my mother (apple) and could see my future. I was pre-diabetic, with a lower BMI (still obese) when I had surgery on 9/10. I couldn't be happier with my decision - even tonight when I ate too fast and felt like crying because I was so uncomfortable!

This is very hard for me to post but found others pictures so motivating... the before Christmas 2011 - I weighed 192 lbs the after Christmas 2012 - I weighed 140 lbs I am 138 today and hope to get down to 120-125. I am 5'3" I had surgery on 9/10/12

Thank you sleeve 4 me and Renea77!

I forgot to add - that I too have trouble with the Fluid intake. Some days it works out perfectly and some days not. I try not to obsess. I am a nurse and very busy so it is a struggle to remember to drink constantly. In the beginning I would measure out my 64 oz every morning and set timers throughout the day to remind myself to drink. Now, it is a habit and usually get my fluids in. I konw it is hard with school and a split shift of work but do your best and just try to improve everyday.

I don't have much advise, other than it gets better. I remember crying one day thinking that I could not live the rest of my life not being able to eat. Today, I don't feel anywhere near that I had surgery on 9/10). For example, yesterday I went to a local place for brunch. I ordered eggs benedict and was able to eat maybe half of it - I had a piece of chicken breast for dinner. I will repeat, it really will get better. The best part of this surgery for me is that I am not hungry and I don't have that consant urge to eat. While sometimes I want to eat because I am bored/upset/nervous/happy (you get it, I am an emotional eater!) - I have this tool to help me. Good luck - and congratulations on your progress so far.

Thank you, Ms Skinniness - this has been a process. I still sometimes wonder if I deserve to get all the attention I get now. It is kind of sad that I am now realizing how much my weight affected people's perception of me - and my perception of myself.

Like you, I had an easy surgery and then recovery. Once I moved to solid foods I really felt the restriction. When you start doubting or slipping into a old bad habit - just post here.

I'm not sure - I am a complete apple. My legs are like toothpicks now. I can't seem to drop that belly.

I don't drink with my meals - 30 mins before and wait 30 mins after - BUT if I need a sip of water I take it, I just don't gulp it down!