I just got my approval letter today. Woo Hoo!! I've been at this for a year and a half now! I have several local friends that have had some type of wls, everything from banding to bypass. For all of you that have been there already, IF YOU COULD GIVE ONLY ONE PIECE OF ADVICE FOR THE JOURNEY AHEAD, WHAT WOULD IT BE???

Be prepared for any and everything. Everyone experience is so different there is no one method to use or go by. Even the pain strength, recovery time and actual weight loss is different.

Walk your butt off post-op!!!

Research,Reserch,Reserch got any questions just ask. This Fourm is full off people that have been though it and will answer any question you got. They will give you moral support a shoulder to lean on and a ear to bend.Just Ask

Good luck on your new Journey

Everything above I totally agree with as well as experiment and try LOTS of Protein powders/shakes and other items you'll be able to eat after your surgery. Make sure you have a few options in shakes because your tastebuds change and shakes can be a Godsend in reaching your protein levels.

Make sure your surgeon gives you a list of acceptable foods and the stages to eat them in etc.

As mentioned everyone is different...don't compare yourself to others and their progress because all of our journeys are very different. It's not a race, it's a life time journey...journey of your own

Sip sip sip your water. Have it by you at all times and sip sip sip. Also walk walk walk it will be a number of weeks before you can really exercise, but walking really will be your beat friend well that and water:-) good luck on your new journey.

Be Patient and Forgiving with yourself....oh find a good support buddy who will support you if possible (e.g exercise with you, cheer you on, etc.) besides all of us on here.

Stay focused on following the protocol as close to the letter as possible, stay active, and stay away from the scales - weigh once a week, every two weeks would be even better! You're gonna love the new you!!

Meet your daily nutrition goals! Your body will thank you!

Follow the rules set forth by your surgeon and nutritionist. And Never drink while eating!

Follow the rules set forth by your surgeon and nutritionist. And Never drink while eating!

I agree fluids are for me a half hr before/after meal. Also if you vomit a lot in a short time frame call Dr asap! Good luck!

Thanks everyone!!! It's so encouraging to have support on here.

Once you can start eating...chew...chew...chew and eat SLOW! I've learned the hard way. Best of luck!!!

Start exercising ASAP! Including weights!