Hop_Scotch

I have been sleeved!!!!!!!!!!!!! I just got back from the hospital. I was there for 3 days.

Hi Everyone,
I was sleeved 5/3/18 about 5PM. I want to share my experiences so far, both pre and post op.
PRE OP:
Pre surgery I went through what (I think) pretty much everyone else goes through...anxiety. I worked so hard to get insured and then approved and was focused on that and the need to get the surgery done. Once I was approved and it was really going to happen, it finally occurred to me that I was going to have surgery for the first time in my life (I'm 65) and I got VERY scared. I wrote about it many times here. It was actually a roller coaster for me cuz I kept fluctuating between "This is going to happen." and "I don't have to go through with this." My husband, God Bless him, told me he was ok with whatever my final decision was. The day of surgery when he left me with the nurse he said "I have my phone, all you have to do is call and we're out of here." His attitude definitely helped me deal with this. Many people on this forum kept reassuring me that the risks for the surgery are very low. I researched this and it's true. I have a specific medical condition that had me particularly concerned. I had to advocate for myself and not give up and be a pain in the axx until I got my questions answered to my satisfaction. I kept saying "This is something I know I need to do, but I'm doing to so I have better quality of life and longer life, the last thing I want is to die on the table." There were times I was in a panic. I was afraid of general anesthesia as much as the surgery. The truth is, there's actually an extremely low risk of death from this surgery. Ultimately, I had my wonderful husband's support, either way, and I made the decision to ask God to watch over me and keep me safe throughout my journey. I'm not religious, but consider myself spiritual. Meaning I pray everyday and I do trust and believe God loves me and cares about me and will take care of me. I was rolled into the operating room and I swear, I had no anxiety and hadn't been given any anxiety meds. Once in there, while everyone was gathering in the room and setting up, I said loudly "Can I please have everyone's attention?" they stopped and looked at me in surprise and I said " I know I probably won't ever see any of you again after this so I want to take this opportunity to thank you all for taking such good care of me." Everyone came to me at the table, very surprised, and each assured me they'd take good care of me. I felt completely at ease. Soon after the anesthesiologist asked me to breathe into a mask and the next thing I knew, I woke up in my hospital room.
POST OP IN HOSPITAL:
Husband was waiting in the room for me when I got there. I was out cold. He asked how I was & I told him it hurt but I just wanted to sleep and to go away. Nice, huh? After all his support? He stayed another 45 minutes until he realized all he could do was watch me sleep. Again, my surgery ended around 6:30-7PM, so it's now like 10:30PM. I slept through the night and have vague memories of people coming to take my vital signs, test blood, etc. throughout the night. I was VERY sleepy the next day. The call buttons in my room (2, me & roommate) were malfunctioning and kept going off without being pushed. The nurse would ask what we want and we'd say we didn't touch it. They'd have to come in to check on us anyway and were getting annoyed after a few hours that it kept happening. I'm thinking "You're annoyed???" I would just fall to sleep and one would go off again. I had been told it's possible to just stay one night and decided I needed to do whatever I had to do to get out of there and I thought it was just another barium swallow to check for leaks and started reminding them this needed to be done. I nagged and dozed until they brought be down for the test. I felt weak and wasn't even sure if I could stand, but had to. Good news, I didn't have to drink barium or a big quantity of anything. I was afraid I'd have to do exact same test as before surgery, nope. They gave me an 8-10 oz? cup, half filled with some clear liquid in it. I got it down and no leaks. YAY! Back upstairs I'm asking when I'll be released and was told I had to drink, and keep down, 4 cups of Water or crystal light before I could go. They were 10-12 oz. cups. I panicked. It was like 2:30 and I really just wanted to sleep. I remembered to SIP VERY SLOWLY. I was fine. I just paced myself. Slept a bit, more vitals, etc. Then was reminded I also had to be up and walking around by myself before I could be released. So I did that, making sure to walk by the nurses station so someone would see. Eventually (around 4:30?) I threw one of the cups of water into the toilet because I knew I couldn't do it fast enough. Talked my husband into drinking another 1/2 of the other cups, then he refused. He said "If you really need to do this before you're released, then you have to do it." He had a good point. If they'd told me earlier in the day it was a requirement and I had started earlier, it would have been easier to do. By 5:30 I had finished what was left at the same time my doctor came in to check on me and tell me I could go. YAY! Truth be told, if it weren't for the malfunctioning call buttons going off practically nonstop, I would have been very happy to stay and rest and spend another night. We live a couple hours from the hospital, so was home and in bed by 9PM by the time they got my release papers together, the wheelchair and me downstairs and plus, it was rush hour in Boston. Soon after I got home I did vomit. It's the Oxycontin. I took once before and the same thing happened. All that came up was clear liquid and what looked like shards of dried blood. Because I really wanted my tummy to heal, I chose to stop taking it that night and haven't vomited since.
POST OP AT HOME SO FAR:
I slept like a baby that night. Out cold. I remember feeling pain throughout the night but not enough to wake me up. 40 hours post op, I switched to Tylenol only 1000mg. 3 X a day. I had some nausea that day as I figured out what to drink and how much. Trial and error. I drank 2 sips and waited. Fine. So, 4 sips and after the third went down, the 4th was in my mouth but I knew it wouldn't go down. It sat in my mouth for a few minutes, then went down, but I could feel it in my esophagus. So I stayed with 2 sips at a time with 10 minutes in between for a couple of days. Then 3 sips, yesterday I got up to 4 at a time with no problem. The first day home, I did not get all 60 ounces of fluids down. Second day I got close, probably 45 oz. Third day I got the full 60 oz. down comfortably and have stayed that way. I want to be sure to allow my new stomach proper healing and not do anything to aggravate it. By Monday night, I actually forgot to take nightly Tylenol. Took just one dose yesterday and probably won't take any today or from here. As far as my pain goes, I would describe it more as tenderness on the skin where the incisions are and I've had some internal pain that I'd really describe as spasms or cramping. Everyday it gets better. I did rest a lot the first three days wanting to heal and because I was weak and tired. I noticed I couldn't take a deep breathe. Like my breathing was restricted and I posted about it on here. An Angel answered me and told me to use the Spirometer they sent me home from the hospital with. My husband did pack up everything that was on the table, which included this weird blue thing. I didn't remember anything about it or any instruction on it's use. Once I was told what it was and how to use it and how often, my breathing got better, my alertness and energy got better and I was up and walking around more. I can't emphasize enough how important the Spirometer is! It's made a bid difference in my general overall feelings of wellness. My husband was able to "walk me" (he's been walking our dogs, but now also walks me! LOL!) the day after first using Spirometer for 10 minutes with 2 rests. Next day 20 minute walk with one rest. We'll see what today brings. I still feel somewhat unsteady on my feet at times because I'm somewhat dizzy. I have a problem with dizziness even without surgery, but it's worse now. I hold onto railings, my husbands hand and other stationary objects to make sure I don't fall. I move slowly on purpose. Plus I'm still a little mentally foggy. That part comes and goes. Surgery last Thursday night, it's now noon the following Wednesday and I can say all my panic and anxiety has proven to be for nothing. Not in pain today, just sporadic, temporary internal spasms that are getting better and fewer. Likely no pain meds today or after. I was very afraid I'd be STARVED, but no. I haven't found that at all. My husband has been eating his dinners in a different room and they do smell good but, so far, I have no interest in eating anything. So far. This was a huge worry for me ahead of the surgery. I was really afraid I'd need to eat something and not be able to and I'd hurt myself or make myself sick. This hasn't happened. I'm still concentrating on getting my 60 oz. of liquids down. I have noticed a bit of gas. Is it I'm now lactose intolerant? Is it cuz I'm making my Protein drinks in a blender so they're like a milk shake with lots of air in them? Is this my intestines adjusting? Time will tell. I also didn't have a bowel movement 4 days post op and didn't think much of it until I was reading posts on here. I thought I hadn't actually eaten anything for 6 days so there was nothing to pass. Turns out there was. My doctor said to take 2 tablespoons of Milk of Magnesia and that worked within 2 hours and I haven't had a problem since. It's possible we all need something to get started.
Bottom Line at this point: No complications or problems up to 6 days out from surgery. A few minor aggravations or inconveniences. Feeling pretty good and better every day.

I wonder if it's him who is actually wanting 'an easy way out', using the WLS as a means to force a break up?
FutureSleevie read your own post back a couple of times, now what would you ask/tell or advise a close friend or family member after you've watched them struggle with weight gain and maintaining losses for a long time, struggling with obese related health issues, struggling with making what is one of their most important decisions in their life? I am guessing you wouldn't be telling them they are taking the easy way out and that you would be a hell of a lot more caring than that.

I am down 75lbs since surgery weight,, and over 100lbs from highest weight now. I am extremely happy and most of my health issues have gone down or totally away now. So thankful everyday for taking this journey!
Hw:277 Sw:244 Cw:169 Gw: 245

Would have been nice for one of them to cook while you are on liquid pre op.
Hummm some things to try: *evil laugh*
microwavable healthy choice meals. Give each person a frozen one and point to the microwave.
Toss a can of chilli, a can opener, a pack of hot dogs and Buns on the table..... point to the microwave.
Box of Cereal and milk on the table...walk away.

I'm a week post body lift/tummy tuck. I am feeling pretty good. The pain was intense for the first few days. I have four drains in and still fill them up with Fluid. I expect them to be in for a few weeks at least. The results so far are amazing, though. They took off 15 lbs of skin/fat. All insurance covered. I'll be looking at an arm lift in about 6-8 weeks.

I work with someone who had a sleeve about 15 months ago, she is 40 and has lost about 35kilos (77lb), she is out dating, she has mentioned that her partner(s) in that time have never mentioned her excess skin or scars.
If someone genuinely cares for you they won't care about some excess skin or scars, and if they sex on their mind I doubt they would even notice.

Highest weight: 274lbs
Surgery weight:232lbs
Current weight 150lbs
Made my goal..yay so proud of myself..went from a size 22 pants now i am a size 9 and medium in shirts...life has been great.           
Sent from my SM-S120VL using BariatricPal mobile app

Well done!

I work with someone who had a sleeve about 15 months ago, she is 40 and has lost about 35kilos (77lb), she is out dating, she has mentioned that her partner(s) in that time have never mentioned her excess skin or scars.
If someone genuinely cares for you they won't care about some excess skin or scars, and if they sex on their mind I doubt they would even notice.

1 year post op and finally met my goal of 115. Best decision I ever made for me. Stay with it girls, it is well worth it in the end
Sent from my SM-G955U using BariatricPal mobile app

My 78 year old aunt and I were discussing my upcoming surgery a couple of months ago and I was explaining what actually happens (removing 80% of my stomach through a hole in my abdomen). We talked for a bit and then she asked "soooo, what do they do when you are done losing the weight, put in back in through the same hole?" I was laughing so hard it was difficult to answer. Gotta love her!!

I'm no expert, but I would have thought that would depend on your type of surgery, for instance if a gastric bypass I believe processed foods that contain sugar (or perhaps high in sugar) are a no no as they are likely to cause dumping.

I can proudly say that I now fit into size 36 pants.
Before my sleeve surgery in November 2016 I wore size 60.
I am beyond ecstatic. Down 240 pounds so far.....

HW: 256
SW: 238(4/25/18)
CW: 228
GW: 165

Dlturn do you live in Thailand or was your surgery Medical Tourism? If medical tourism are you able to link up with a WLS dietician or nutritionist in your home country?

Key Points:
· Having your own food with you helps you stay on track with your nutrition.
· Foods that need to stay cool will need some type of cooler, insulated lunch bag or ice pack.
· Bringing leftovers may require heating, so look for containers that are safe for microwave cooking.
Lunch Bags
· The size of your lunch bag will depend on how many meals and Snacks you need for your day.
· Insulated lunch bags can keep food cold for longer periods of time if you don’t have a refrigerator available.
· You can buy reusable ice packs to put in your lunch bag.
· A reusable lunch bag is environmentally friendly and you can use this for years.
· The size will be determined by how many meals and snacks you need for the day.
· Neoprene lunch bags can be put in the washing machine and dryer.
Cooler
· Great to have when driving around for work or when traveling. Pack with ice, load with your Protein Drinks or other Protein foods.
· Coleman and Igloo are the classic brands, but others are available.
· Coolers now come in hard and soft side versions. There are coolers you can carry, sling over your shoulder, carry as a backpack or roll behind you.
Mini-Fridge
· If your workspace does not have a refrigerator that is convenient to get to, consider buying a mini-fridge to stash protein drinks, leftovers and snacks. Check with your employer for guidelines. Certain electrical outlets may limit the type of mini-fridge you can bring to work.
Plastic Containers
· Find plastic containers with lids to bring your food in measured quantities.
· Some plastic containers can also be microwaved.
· Look for 2 oz., 4 oz. (1/2 cup) and 8 oz. (1 cup) servings. This size you need depends on how far out you are from surgery.
· tupperware, Rubbermaid, Ziploc and Glad are available brands. Look at discount stores for smaller containers.
Bento Boxes
· Look for Bento box for kids on Amazon. These are boxes that are divided to separate food. You can measure your portion into the sections. The kid-size has Portion Control for bariatric patients. Bento boxes also available on The World According to Eggface blog.
Stackable Containers
· GoStak is a product the dietitians found at Obesity Week 2017. There are four containers that range from 2 to 5 ounces. They twist together to form a column. You can find it on www.blenderbottle.com. It is also on Amazon.
· Described on the website: “Durable jars secure tightly to carry powders, Vitamins, supplements, snacks and more.”
· They are BPA free and dishwasher safe.
Travel Cups/Mugs
· Designed to fit in cup holders in your vehicle. These usually have a small opening on the side to sip from. Helps to avoid straws.
· Grocery stores now carry disposable hot beverage cups with lids. This would be great way to sip warm broth or a high protein warm cocoa. Warm up a chocolate Protein Shake and hit the road.
Insulated Tumblers, Cups and Containers
· Insulated cups can keep your protein drinks cold or hot. Look for double-sided cups.
· Thermos is a brand that has been around for decades. There are Water bottles and other food storage items available.
· YETI is a brand that is popular. It is more expensive, but it is a double wall, heavy gauge, stainless steel product. You can find a 20 oz. tumbler with lid for $29.99 at Academy, Gander Mountain and Cabela’s. A less expensive brand is Ozark Mountain at Walmart. A 20 oz. Ozark Mountain metal tumbler is about $10.
· S’Well is another brand that comes in a lot of styles and colors. Prices around $35. Part of the money you pay helps S’Well help provide clean drinking water to children around the globe through the U. S. Fund of UNICEF.
· MyHydrate is a water bottle that has a built-in reminder to help you remember to sip your water. It’s $40.
· There are other insulated containers for hot foods like Soups and stews.
Serving Plates, Bowls and Utensils
· You can find a variety of styles.
Warmers
· Crock-Pot makes an electric lunch crock that has a 20 oz. capacity. Prices range from $20-$30. One reviewer recommends to turn it off about 45 minutes before your lunch, because even the low setting can be too hot. This would be great if splitting a meal with a co-worker or family member.

WLS was6/21/2016. Last time I had sweets junk food bread Pasta potatoes and soda was 5/23/2016! I don’t miss it at all. I lost 152 lbs and will never go back. Don’t focus on what you may never have again but focus on what you have gained good luck to you.

Never accept fear
Never doubt yourself
never believe there is time to,postpone things
Never resist,change in youself
Never forget this is all for you and you alone.
Never accept,negative,advice

A dream come true? Yes. Grateful? Absolutely. It's all becoming very real as I get my surgery date tomorrow. Yay!!! But now the "nevers" are creeping in. I had my first experience with the "nevers" over the weekend when I thought about the things that I enjoy that I might never enjoy again. A NY slice (NYers will understand the pain), Bagels, Ben & Jerry's, real coffee, (don't even mention decaf) and the list goes on and on.
Now don't get me wrong, I started the post with what a dream this is and how grateful I am. I realize that this is a life-changing journey. The rewards of that journey far outweigh the temporary gratification of my "never" food choices. So I've decided to look at my "nevers" like an ex--just not good for me, which is why they are exes in the first place, no?
Never give up
Never going back
Never lose sight of the finish line
Neverending story where I am my own Shero (what color is your cape?)
I mean, who needs bagels anyway, like really?

Good on you and,may you find it a perfect solution for your life. Keep us updated on your journey
2shea, I'm like you, I think,i look pretty good until a photo shocks me too!😮

A little poetry for all of us
Weight Loss Surgery, it's not the EASY way
You have to make a commitment each and every day
Your diet,is forever changed but then so is your body
All those "Nay-Sayers" they are just being snotty!
You wager your body, there will be some pain
But better health and fitness you will gain.
I'm changing my life and lifestyle, that is true
But with the❤and support of my Bariatric Pal friends
I know I'll make it through!
My weight loss surgery is a tool--- not a toy
But each pound I'm losing, that gives me great joy!
Will you join me on my journey towards renewed health?
To know I can now have a future- that is really wealth.
So I walk bravely forward, content with whatever tomorrow will bring
And for me. Frust8 lies ahead my happiness in a Bariatric Spring.
May 5 2018😝

I enjoyed the Fat Doctor and was disappointed there wasn't a fifth (?) season. Dr Shaw Somers came across as the most caring doctor. I don't have access to 600lb life.

I wanted to Celebrate Mother's day with my wife, and she has been concerned i may not ever be able to eat out again. I have been feeling out of sorts not eating with my family (or at least eating the same things) as I am still on the pureed stage. I did some research on a local restaurant that serves Mexican food, the wife's favorite. I told her we were going out and she again voiced concern I would just be watching her eat, but I had it planned out. She ordered her regular and I ordered a grilled chicken breast, minus rice and extra refried Beans. While waiting for the meals we had salsa and chips, or I should say I had salsa. Wife almost freaked out when she saw me grab a chip but relaxed when she saw I was just using it to scoop up salsa, which I would eat without eating the chip. I did try a little bit of queso but was still fearful it may be too rich so stopped at a taste.
Our dishes arrived and I slowly ate my refried beans over the course of 30 to 40 minutes and stopped when I started getting those "full" signals from my body. I got to go boxes and my wife asked me what I was going to do with the chicken breast, I just smiled and said chicken salad made with salsa instead of mayo. I still had enough beans to make up meals for the next two days.
I needed this, some normalcy to my life, where I felt I could be included in something as simple as taking my wife out. It was not completely the same, not drinking at meals still feels weird and of course I do miss the after dinner margarita

I was listening to Dr. V's youtube a few days ago and he said something that stuck with me. food is be used as energy to fuel your dreams. All the things you may have wanted to do can be done if you think of food in that way. Having a "cheat meal" all the time is only cheating yourself out of meeting your dreams or goals...🤔