So I am now only 5 days away! I am super excited and starting to get really nervous. I feel like I am doing well with my preop diet. I only started it 9 days ago and I am down 3 lbs. I know other people lose more, but for some reason my doctors plan is not as strict as a lot of other surgeons preop diets. I must admit I feel a bit lonely, as if I am going through this alone. It's crazy talk, I know, I have a really supportive family, but at the same time no one I know has ever had WLS. Anyway, I am keeping my head up and trying not to give in to my anxiety. If anyone has any advice, words of wisdom, or things I should expect/ look out for after surgery, please let me know. I love hearing from you guys. Thanks!????

I'm scheduled for 6/3 and feeling all kinds of mixed emotions this week. Can't next week just get here already?!?!?!

Hi there, I had my VSG surgery on April 30. From reading these boards, it seems the experience is different for everyone! Since I'm only about a month out, I share some of my experiences. I had very little pain... the worst was the drain, and even that was mostly just a dull ache. The catheter (you might not have one) sucked--it makes you feel like you have to pee all the time. But that's just overnight, then it's out and you're on your way home. In the hospital, be careful with the ice chips... you'll want them, but don't take in too much or too fast or you might dry heave. Do just a tiny bit at a time to wet your whistle. Don't hesitate to use your pain pump if you need it--don't try to be a hero! The nursing staff will wake you up every few hours through the night to check your drain and your catheter, and check your vitals. Be as active as you can but don't overdo right after coming home--you might feel really good (especially if you're taking pain meds) BUT you also may tire easily. Overall, I had very few problems with the procedure itself and the immediate aftermath at home. A little constipation, but it wasn't bad--just know that it can happen.

As for the weight loss, the biggest thing I've had to learn in my short time since having surgery is not to compare myself to anyone else. My body will lose at its own rate, just as it gained at its own rate. I'm learning to have faith that as long as I'm following the program, it'll come off over time. I've also learned NOT to weigh every day---my body gains one, loses two, gains a half pound, loses one, gains two--you get the drill, I'm sure. Instead, I weigh weekly, and that gives me a truer picture of what's coming off over time. That said, I've lost about 20 pounds since day of surgery and about 30 since my all-time high at my presurgical appointment. I'm happy with that; it's going in the right direction!

Best wishes to you and good luck. You will be fine!

You are definitely not alone! Just see all the positive people cheering us on in this forum. I had a lapband removed and a sleeve yesterday. Waiting was definitely worse than the surgery! I am happy with the decision and will never regret. I lost 80 pounds on the band but I could not keep solid food down. It just stopped working. The sleeve is a better option in my opinion. I lost 22 pounds before the surgery doing Zumba and Mixxed fit classes. I recommend that it is soooo much fun. Congrats on your decision and we can't wait to see the new healthier you!!