ok so im a chicken.

i started this process last year and chickened out.

the public will definitely scare you.i've heard so many stories of success but also those with complications so im scared of things like blood clots, tears, etc

i've also seen people with bariatric surgery go through surgery, loose a bunch of weight and gain it back.

what have been your experiences? how do you deal with the loose skin? do you start preparing your skin ahead of time or adopting a workout routine? how do people treat you afterwards? how long before you can go back to eating right? how grueiling is only being able to sip liquids? im just scared but i know i want this procedure.

i've also seen people with bariatric surgery go through surgery, loose a bunch of weight and gain it back.

The key is discipline, I'm still in the early stages, but I hope to continue eating healthy.

what have been your experiences?

how do you deal with the loose skin? Not at that level yet, but when that happens, I'll go to a good Plastic surgeon.

do you start preparing your skin ahead of time or adopting a workout routine? I didn't. But have adopted a workout regimen after surgery and will soon start back with my personal trainer.

how do people treat you afterwards? The same. I have amazing family, friends and co-workers, so I didn't expect anything else except love and support. I'm a very direct person and I have and never will allow anyone to treat me badly or talk disrespectfully to me.

how long before you can go back to eating right? You start out eating right, or making the right choices immediatley. It is important to create a healthy environment.

how grueiling is only being able to sip liquids? It was hard in the beginning then it becomes second nature.

im just scared but i know i want this procedure. Don't be scared....it's not that hard.

We were all scared. But really, for me it was one of the easiest things I've ever done. I made up my mind to do it and do it right. The weight just fell off. Done.

Granted, not everyone has such an easy time and no complications. And most folks hit a stall or two along the way. But I bet the vast majority of them tell you it was worth the wait and worry and fear.

Just gotta DECIDE TO DO IT, then DO IT LIKE YOU DECIDED.

Its not the easiest thing you will ever do, nor is it the hardest. You have to work at it after surgery. The weight isn't going to magically fall away. As far as "eating right", I am eating right now, making the right choices about food and portions that I should have made years ago. The surgery will change your perspective on food and how you eat. To some, they can't overcome that, and will be miserable (why can't I eat what I want to?). Some understand that for any amount of significant weight-loss is going to take a change in lifestyle. You have to be prepared for that. If you don't then you can expect that the weight will most likely return. That's not to say you can't go out and enjoy life and have great time, but that doesn't have to revolve around food and eating. Things like loose skin and such are minor hurdles compared to what could happen if we stay the way we are. Education and research are the keys to making sure that your surgery and your recovery go smoothly. Ask all the questions you can to your Dr. and your nutritionist. Go to the support groups and meet people that have had the surgery. While you will find a lot of info on the internet, I urge you take that with a grain of salt. This surgery isn't risk free, so you do have to do your homework. If you approach the situation with a totally honest and open attitude, about yourself and your life, you should do just fine. Hang in there.

ok thanks. this is what im not understandingabout the surgery, myself, and others who have or are considering having the surgery (my mom had gastric bypass by the way) why do i need to have surgery in order for me to eat well? i think this is the part im struggling with about myself....i dont understand that. the surgery isn't successful if you dont change your eating habits. im looking at the post up nutriition plan and its more grueling than any ive ever seen.

ok thanks. this is what im not understandingabout the surgery' date=' myself, and others who have or are considering having the surgery (my mom had gastric bypass by the way) why do i need to have surgery in order for me to eat well? i think this is the part im struggling with about myself....i dont understand that. the surgery isn't successful if you dont change your eating habits. im looking at the post up nutriition plan and its more grueling than any ive ever seen.[/quote']

Maybe some counseling would help? Ive been treated for my food issues for several years now and only just feel like I am ready to do this. I had to dealneith those demons and accept that I need help.eating the right foods/portions. If it was just as easy as changing what and how much we eat, most of us probably wouldn't be here.

youre absolutely right. im an emotional eater. ive been struggling with not eating my emotions.