Considering Gastric Sleeve Surgery

[lmitchell40* 5]

Did anyone have complications from the surgery?

Are there in Jersey City Groups I would love to speak to someone from Jersey City who has had the surgery to give me advice, so I could ask questions on what to expect before and after the surgery recovery time.

My doctor told me to take 1 week off but in reading some of the information on the blog most people here took 3 weeks off?

[Pennie 66]

Recovery time varies tremendously. I'd say the majority are able to go back to desk jobs after a week, but some people need more time. Unfortunately, without a crystal ball, there is no way to know how much time you'll need. I think it's a good idea to plan for a week off, and hopefully they will understand if you aren't ready to come back full time when your week is up. (Be sure you know how many days - paid or unpaid - you are "allowed" to take off ahead of time, just in case you need them.)

I didn't have any complications, but one of the more common complications with this surgery is a leak. This typically happens within the first week or two after surgery (most commonly, closer the the surgery day). You can ask your surgeon what his leak rate is. More experience surgeons tend to have lower leak rates. The chances of a leak are still pretty low - probably just 2-3% (again, ask your surgeon for his/her leak rate) but if you want to know about possible complications from the sleeve, that is a good one to read up on. It can be anything from a realtively easy fix to a life-threatening situation - and everything in between.

Good luck!

[topgun 63]

I think you would be well advised to arrange for 3 weeks off of work (if you have a sedentary occupation) and then return earlier if you feel up to it. Going back too early does your employer no good or you, either. I was devoid of energy for at least the first 2 weeks and still not up to par for another week after that. This was at least partially due to my becoming dehydrated which mean I had to go in for Fluid infusions twice. I went back to work after 2 weeks because I'm self-employed and just couldn't say away longer. If I could have, I would have.

The third week was a major milestone for me. After that I really felt good, as I do now, and feeling like I can take on the world. I feel so much better now than I did before the surgery and better than I've felt in many years.

Surgical complication rates are very low so I wouldn't fret too much about that. Deal with things as they actually occur, not as you fear they will occur. There is enough pre-op stress as it is!

Best wishes for your new life!

[lmitchell40* 5]

Thank you Topgun for the advice I am driving myself crazy with worry "what if" situation. I am trying to take it one day at a time. This is such a big decision especially for a person who hates going under the knife. But I am going to stay positive and push forward with my decision to have the surgery.

You continue to get better/stronger and loose that weight!

[Mews 37]

I would recommend three to four weeks off as well. What's the worst that can happen? You feel better and go back to work early. I only took ten days and regretted it as I've had a rough recovery. I ended up taking additional sick days here and there because I was so weak.

As for complications, I developed a blood clot in my leg. I do have a predisposition for them but I was surprised that it happened. Luckily I caught it in time. Just make sure you remain somewhat active in the weeks following surgery but if you get a weird leg pain (calve and hamstring area) call your doctor ASAP.

[Mews 37]

Oh and there is a New Jersey group on these forums. As for specific support groups, the only one I know of is in Hackensack. Who is doing your surgery?

[beautifulnewme2012 164]

Lmitchell, I "what if" everything to death so I know exactly what you are going through!! I fight with myself all the time not to worry about everything so much...having this site has been an awesome help to my nerves. Read up, try to avoid the negative stuff. I mean, educate yourself about the risks and complications but don't overdue it. Read the success stories...read what people are saying one year plus post-op. That will help lots!! Stay in touch!

[lmitchell40* 5]

Hello everyone,

Thanks so much for the information and encouraging words. I have been approved for my surgery the schedule date is 6/20/2012 I may try to schedule surgery for an earlier date (so I will not lose my nerve). I will keep everyone posted.

[Queen of Crop 1,103]

Congratulations on your decision and your surgery date!!! I hope you continue to stay positive and even get excited about this life changing event. Do keep us posted; there are so few people who are not thrilled with the outcome of this surgery. The honest truth is the first month is a bit surreal and like any surgery you have new territory to navigate, but this forum is very helpful if you have any questions! You may want to take a look at my posts from Oct / Nov to give you an idea of what to expect (the link to my blog is below). Just think how much better you are going to feel and look in a few months! Good for you!!! Do keep us updated.