Open surgery verses laparoscopic

[Nancy E. 44]

If and when my insurance ever approves me, I've been told by the surgeon there is a STRONG probability I will end up with an open surgery for my gastric bypass. Reason? Scarring. I have had two hiatal hernia repairs and he feels there may be too much scarring to do laparoscopically. However, I won't know which is done until I wake up from surgery.

Surgeon told me probably a 6 to 8 inch scar, which, at this point, doesn't bother me..I'm past the days of wearing a bikini!

Has anyone else been "opened up" for the bypass and how was the healing process? Did you have any complications due to this form of surgery? How long of a hospital stay is needed? Does it take longer to start eating foods other than liquid? Any advice you could pass along?

Thank you in advance to anyone who can help with these questions.

[gymnastics junkie 4]

My surgeon only does the open type. I had my surgery in mid March and had no pain whatsoever. The last pain medication that I had was the day after surgery. I never filled the prescription because I didn't need it. The only issue I had was really bad acid reflux. I can't start the day with anything but Water. 2 months ago I added a Decaf soy latte after 16 oz of Water (I'm allergic to dairy). I have soy milk with extra Protein. That holds me over until after the gym. (Last month I added caffeine coffee but Illy is low acid coffee and I have a full cup of soy with a 1/4 cup coffee). After gym I have my shake. That's how I deal with the acid reflux--liquids first.

My surgeon has a very conservative eating plan after surgery and I followed it carefully because I didn't want any complications. I asked one of his assistants why he cuts us open and they said because he can see the organs and everything much better. That was fine with me. Part of the scar is fading now. I didn't need any help at home except for bending and picking up things. I sent my husband to buy that grip thing that old people use, with the long arm. It was great. Just remember you will have new plumbing and you need to allow it to heal. They also said the blod clot possibility can last for 6 months after surgery so keep moving. That scared the crap out of me. I was walking the hospital floor on day 2 and kept moving. My surgeon said no ab work foe 6 months so I'm starting that now. Follow your surgeon's orders and you will be fine. Don't be afraid. The weight loss is wonderful. I'm down 72 pounds. I like exercise so that helps. One feels better in the gym when one is lighter. Good luck.