Fear leading up to surgery

[goblue9280 481]

Surgery is Thursday, and I'll be honest, I'm scared. I've never had a major medical procedure before. Other than the endoscopy, the only other time I've had anesthesia was for my wisdom teeth. I know the risks are very low, but I'm still having trouble getting over it. I know this is the best thing for me (diabetes, HBP, high cholesterol at only 35) in the long run and I want to be there for my four kids down the road. My family is very supportive, but I don't want to scare them so I've been keeping it to myself. I'm just thinking about the surgery all day/night long. I'm trying hard to maximize sleep, but it has been tough and I've only gotten 6 hrs a night the past few nights. Sorry, just needed to get all of that out... just so worried that I will either wake up during the procedure, or have serious complications.

[catwoman7 10,969]

I felt the exact same way - but I have no regrets at all that I did it.

it's become pretty much a routine surgery these days. There have been a lot of advances in knowledge and technique over the years. The mortality rate is super low - I was told 0.3% for bypass, even less for sleeve. That's about the same risk as having your gall bladder out - and much less than a hip replacement surgery.

Once I came to the conclusion that continuing to weigh over 300 lbs was way more risky than having the surgery, I felt a lot more confident about it.

I'm sure you'll do absolutely fine!!!

[catwoman7 10,969]

p.s. serious complications are rare - and the anesthesiologist will be monitoring you the whole time so you won't wake up.

[The Candidate 3,215]

My RNY was also my very first surgery, and very first time under anesthesia. And at 54 I had managed to dodge that bullet for quite awhile.

I can't promise you the same outcome of course, but I had zero complications and at nearly nine weeks out, a worry free recovery as well. It was so much easier than I ever expected.

Apprehensions are normal, but try and focus on the results you are seeking - a healthy life. I was very calm going in and I think that helped with the overall experience I had. Hang in there, and best of luck!

[Cervidae 2,389]

I had the same fears. They are completely normal. We're all here to support you! You'll do just fine, and soon all this hard work will be paying off for you. I had my RNY 6 weeks ago today, and I regret nothing and feel great, and I'm down about 25 pounds. Feel free to friend/message me anytime.

[SookieLei 47]

Oh my am I glad I seen this post! My surgery is Friday, I know without a doubt it's what I want and need.. But I'm also growing really worried about the what ifs, I haven't told this to anyone because I don't need anyone trying to influence my decision anymore. For the past few nights all I dream about is anesthesia , surgery, Protein Shakes, etc... I have had a gulbladder removal years ago and all of my children were born from ceseran section, so I know I can do this. But lately I find myself looking at my kids and worrying so much about what if something were to happen to me!

[goblue9280 481]

Thanks everyone for the support. It's definitely comforting reading your thoughtful responses! I know I'm doing the right thing, but my mind is running a million miles per hour.

Sookie, funny you mention c-section as all 4 of our kids were born via c-section. When I mentioned I was having some trouble sleeping the other night, my wife brought that up. She did great through all 4... but she's a trooper and I'm a baby, lol.

[Djmohr 6,965]

The nervous feeling you all are having is perfectly normal. You need to try to focus on the positives and what the end result will be.

As another poster said, this surgery is low risk. I have had so many many surgeries in my life and it is always a bit scary but they take excellent care of you to make sure you feel nothing and more importantly that you wake up. They also do a great job of controlling pain.

The best thing you can do for yourself this week in preparation is remain positive. Distract yourself from thinking about the worst because it is not going to happen anyway.

Every time I have had surgery and trust me, I have had several big scary ones I take time for myself to get in the right frame of mind. I try hard to relax myself by taking a long hot bath, listening to calming music, reading a book. Anything that will take my mind off the worry. I try to visualize the improvement in my life that is coming.

I got myself to a point with this surgery that I was way more excited than scared and I knew everything was going to go great. Guess what, it did and I am now 12 months post op and down 121lbs, 25 away from my goal.

Good luck to you guys this week! You are soon to join the losers club!

[TMG1980TMG 136]

My surgery is tomorrow-- It's weird, but I am not really scared or nervous. I feel like I should be more nervous- maybe tomorrow on the way to the hospital?

My husband on the other had is a basket case.

He think everything that can go wrong During and after surgery will!

Edited September 28, 2015 by TMG1980TMG