DorothyGale

Thank you, Beth! I hope you are doing well!

Hi Friends - Just found out that I have to have back surgery next week. I am 3 months post op from the sleeve and have been doing very well. Have lost 45 pounds, blood work/nutrient levels perfect, and I feel great other than the nerve pinch in my lower back that is causing major pain. I have had back surgery before, so I know what to expect... But wonder if anyone has any advice since this is coming so close on the heels of my sleeve surgery. I can eat about 2.5 oz at a time. Plan to have my family ensure that I have the high Protein foods I need at the hospital. Anything else I should consider? Thanks in advance. Always great to know that I have a virtual support crew via this board!

My doctor had me on pain meds in pill form before I was even discharged from the hospital. The first week or so, it felt strange to swallow pills as I could literally feel them hit my stomach, which was a new and odd sensation, but that quickly subsided. I think you will probably find that you will do fine with them after the first few weeks.

I agree. Ask away! Any doctor who would not have been receptive to answering my questions would not have operated on me! Mine was great about telling me anything I wanted to know and I asked the same types of things you did. Good luck!

Thanks everyone!

Headed to a Whole Foods this weekend. I am 6 weeks post op and on regular diet. For anyone who shops at WF, are there any must-get items for sleevers?

Glad to hear of your good news! I will pray for smooth sailing for you! I know how nerve wracking it can be.

Do it now. Mine was abnormal 2 weeks pre op and it was a very stressful rush to get all of the follow up tests that showed all was normal. Just my 2 cents as I have been there!

I ordered a large flat ice pack from Amazon and it really helped for the first week or so. Helped me get off the nasty pain meds after about 2 days. OXO makes a very nice set of 2 oz containers with lids and a tray for freezing. I've loved those. Good luck!

Yes, I miss salads so much, too! And strawberries!

Hi! I'm 4 weeks out. Do you think I could try a bit of mild, finely diced salsa? Really missing fresh veggies.

Be sure to follow your doctor's nutritional guidelines and call when you have questions. Puréed chicken is relatively heavy... I did not start on that until the third week. Very early on, liquids are the way to go. You need to stay hydrated first and get Protein second. There are many Liquid Protein sources and you can add unflavored Protein powder to many other things (jello, Soups, etc.). I am not surprised that you are unable to drink your shake after eating chicken. I probably could not do that now and my surgery was 4 weeks ago. There is lots of good advice and support here so please ask questions and search for threads that can help you. The first week or so is very challenging but follow your plan and know that it gets better every day. Hang in there!

I have become a huge fan of Skim Plus milk. 8 oz. is 11 g of protein and it is a good snack for me.

Good luck, Kim! I will be thinking of you this morning!

I am 18 days post - op. I think it would be a great idea to have someone with you for a couple of days. They can help you make sure you are getting your fluids/protein in (not let you sleep too long, etc.) and will be a good support and distraction. You'll do well. Jitters are normal, but don't let them stand in the way of forward progress!