Hello all! I'm getting my surgery done this July (sleeve) and I am looking for any tips to prepare myself the best I can. I feel educated and prepared for my lifestyle change but I'm looking for the "I wish someone would have told me that" advice. Either something you didn't expect or something that would have made your recovery easier physically/mentally. Thanks!

Great job in making this decision!! I'm almost 2 months post-op and I feel great!!

Some things I did to prepare me for life after sleeve and I think , for me, contributed to my success. I had 4 months from the time I decided to have surgery until surgery date.

• Gave up soda ( i did this gradually - no cold turkey) and get used to Water
• Gave up alcohol
• Stopped drinking at meals (this was the hardest)
• Found a work out program that I liked and started it
• Didn't go all out and eat a bunch of things I knew I wouldn't have in a long time.
• Added more veggies and fruits to my diet
• Cleaned out my pantry and frig
• Made a list of all the things I was excited about once I got to my goal weight. I still look at this list today and often add to it.
• After your second week post-op have someone hide your scale - have them get it out for you once a week - or once a month, no daily weighing.
• Don't compare your journey to everyone else on this site. Some lose fast, some lose slow - but we all lose. Your body is in control - let it do its job.
• Download this book - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0054RXXS0/ref=oh_d__o03_details_o03__i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 It is a wonderful addition to your sleeve and how to deal with the emotional eating.

Best of luck to you!!!

I could tell you so many things but the one thing that I really want you to think about: Is whether you can except anything that might happen because of this new tool. Can you take it if you have issues like a possible leak?..Are you willing to go through it all for your goals? Many think that they are ready and educated and then they have complications and they can't handle it at all.

There are risks with all surgeries. Make sure you know what yours might be and whether your willing to go through the possible hoops for this!

Edited May 6, 201412 yr by RJ'S/beginning