When I was banded- I only told a FEW close friends and associates. I am not close with much family and didnt want any scrutiny or swaying out of my decision. When I succeeded with the band and everyone saw my weight loss (because it was gradual) I basically told them when asked that I dieted and exercised. No one suspected anything. I don't feel like I lied to them I just don't think it is everyone's business.

Now that I need to have the band removed and am getting the sleeve- and will be in the hospital 2-3 days AND off work for at least 10 days... I can't keep that too much on the down-low- I have already shared my issues and such with the people that already knew and of course they are supportive but I worry about the what-if's... what if something happens during surgery- would they be madder I didnt say anything and they found out the hard way or would they be more mad I took this journey without their support/criticism (as i see it)... Did anyone else struggle with to tell or not to tell?? On the Lap Band forum there were mixed reviews and I'm curious other's opinions on this subject.

PS. I have a extremely supportive inner circle (hubby, inlaws, friends etc.) didnt want anyone to think I'm at this alone because that i COULD not do...

I have told very few people about my sleeve; I'm having surgery in November; traveling to Mexico and calling it a "vacation". Just told everyone I will be incommunicado for the timeframe, but didn't even tell them where I was going. I feel it is my own personal decision and I'm very protective of it, so I don't want anyone discouraging me!

I told family and close coworkers and I got some negative responses. It was frustrating because they didn't understand what I was going through. Now, I get 99% positive feedback since it is obvious the sleeve works. The only negativity post op came from a acquantance I have that is a personal trainer. She thinks WLS is cheating. I always remind anyone who is planning to keep their surgery a secret that people WILL ASK you how you are losing the weight. If you don't want to tell them about your surgery, just be prepared with an answer. Good luck! The sleeved life is awesome!

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My work and husband knew, my mom and family did not know. I told my mom about 1 year later because she was coming to visit. I still haven't told my family after 2 years but i'm sure my mom has. She can't keep her yap shut (hehehe) but my family hasn't asked me about it ever.

I told my family and my close friends. If I see someone who needs to know (they are overweight too) I will also tell them. For the most part though I don't want everyone thinking of me as a previous fat person. Shoot when I was fat I didn't think of myself as fat and I don't want the stigma now. I don't want people looking at everything I eat which they tend to do or their stupid comments. I do not deny but if it is someone I see from just passing where I don't have time to explain when they say, "How have you lost so much weight?" I will say, "Long story but I eat low carb." If I have more than 2 minutes I will tell them the story unless I think they are just asking for gossip's sake.