Ms. Brightside

Best wishes for a speedy recovery!

Yes, I received one at my pre-op appointment today. However, I have never had a problem ordering off of the kid's menu in the past. Most restaurants do not seem to mind. The only exception that comes to mind as a potential problem would be a fancy high end restaurant. Even then, you could always get a to-go container or order a couple of appetizers.

I haven't ever had this brand, but I really do like these vegan bouillon cubes: https://www.iherb.com/pr/Edward-Sons-Not-Chick-n-Natural-Bouillon-Cubes-8-Cubes-9-g-Each/32711?gclid=CjwKEAjwxurIBRDnt7P7rODiq0USJADwjt5DAIbCjJfyRaWU2vimTIosuwoFh69rQ-jzDyZH7t93VhoCf7bw_wcB I have found them at Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Kroger, so just another option for you! I've been plant-based for a long time now, so I don't know the answer to this, but...does animal-based broth have protein in it? My first three days post-op are clear liquids only and that is what my surgeon wants me to focus on. Protein starts on day 4.

The cash option (vs insurance) is always going to be less expensive. Most surgeons in my area will perform a VSG for around $10-12K, but the insurance rate is easily three-four times that amount.

Bravo!

I received the estimate from my hospital last week (surgery is next week). $32-36K for the hospital only. This does not include the fees for the surgeon, surgeon's assistant, or anesthesiologist. This is for the sleeve and is not a revision.

I had my pre-op at the hospital last week. That consisted of testing (upper GI & EKG; would also normally include blood work, but I had that done previously), pre-registration (with the expectation of payment (or a down payment) for the hospital's services), and a mini-appointment with a pre-op nurse to go over my medical history, etc. There was no hospital tour, nor did I ask for one (what's important to me is the hospital's ratings, not what the room I'll be spending one or two nights in looks like. And, of course, I had already researched that info online). I have my pre-op with my surgeon this week. I have been told that he will review my test results with me and I will be given the chance to ask any additional questions before surgery next week.

I"m 5'6" and I have to scrunch down to take a bath, but the Lush bath bombs and bubble bars are so worth it!

Well, 5 weeks of full liquids. Basically, anything that can be blended and/or put through a strainer: yogurt, pudding, soup, protein shakes, even liquidy oatmeal or cream of wheat.

Best wishes for a speedy recovery!

Congrats!

Surgeons are all so different in their recommendations. I would venture to guess that it has something to do with their education and/or experience in the field. Both my pre- and post-op diets are quite different than most others. Pre-op: low-fat/low-calorie diet for 2 weeks (no "liquids only" phase) - veggies & salads with low-fat dressing strongly encouraged! Post-op: 3 days of clear liquids only, then FIVE WEEKS of full liquids only Pre-op's not been so bad for me, but I know post-op is going to be a different story!

Bravo!

Some people will never notice or say anything for a variety of reasons. They may be too wrapped up in their own lives to care or notice or they may be fearful of offending you.

Another distraction: pampering time. My favorite for pampering at home is Lush, but it is somewhat pricey. I buy my favorites and to make them last longer, use other products in between. A brand called Enfusia is my second favorite. It is more budget-friendly and more readily available (Lush is available at Lush stores or through their website only; Enfusia is available in my area at Whole Foods and Central Market). After my pre-op testing last week, I stopped into the Lush store (which just happens to be about a mile from my surgeon/hospital) and treated myself to some goodies, instead of indulging in food (a typical post-medical appointment activity in my previous life).