smash83

A leak is a seam that during surgery didn't quite close the stomach pouch and digestive juices can "leak"/ get into the rest of the body cavity causing "septic shock" (poisoning) and can be fatal. I had such a leak and nearly died. It is extremely urgent to consult with your doctor if you suspect you have one.

I believe the hair loss happens with most people. I am a hairstylist so I was already familiar with the Nioxin products. Not only did I lose hair but my scalp "hurt" and itched after surgery. The Nioxin helped so much with the loss, itch and uncomfortable feel. Be sure to follow with the Scalp Therapy (second step) and leave on for a few minuets, rinsing with cool water. After the loss slows down, you can alternate with Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Shampoo (also comes in Lavender) and NO you can't use Sally Beauty Supply version of "tea tree" if you know a professional stylist maybe they will give you break on the price.

Are you taking a multivitamin everyday? My doctor stressed to me the importance of doing that for the rest of your life and getting 90 grams of protein every day

Wow, I just shared my story on another complication thread. I'm so so sorry for what had happened to you. I had a very bad leak and 6 months of hell. I would consult another doctor. Are you near a large city with a bariatric board certified doctor? In in FL and know of some good ones in Orlando or cities close by. My thoughts, prayers and sympathy go out to you. I regretted having done the surgery too until I was able to have the leak fixed

I had the sleeve done in June 2011, was 59 and wore the insulin pump at the time. The good news is it's January 6th 2016 and I am still alive and relatively good health. I had an awesome surgeon. I never felt "good" after surgery and initially had no leaks. Within 3 weeks I had a leak, had a stent put in and not realizing it until I was very sick, the stent had moved and I was horribly sick again. My doctor was out of state on vacation so my daughter took me to the local hospital where I was stabilized until my bariatric surgeon was notified. He had me transferred to a larger hospital where a fellow bariatric surgeon could care for me. He operated to remove the stent and put a larger one in, and when he couldn't get it out he put the larger one in behind it. At that point I could hardly swallow. I ended up in the hospital w/a picc line and could have nothing but ice chips for 3 months. 7 surgeries later, my original Doctor got one of the stents out (the other is still in) and fixed my leak so I finally was on the road to recovery. I tell you this not to scare you but let you know I did make it, my 29 yr old daughter had the sleeve by the same Doctor and had no adverse reactions. The sleeve surgery has greatly improved and the doctor said most people who have leaks are over 55 and are diabetics. The sleeve Surgery is no longer in its infancy. YOU will be fine. I thought I was going to die and was only given a 35% chance of recovery and that was going to be on a feeding tube. I thought I'd never work again, see my grandchildren grow up. I'm 64 now and still work. Keep your chin up sweetheart. Sending prayers and love your way.