Hi All,

I am having conversion surgery (band to bypass) next week in the UK and I am so nervous. Can anyone tell me how the recovery differed between the two surgeries? Also what was the pain like? I am a new Mum and think this is making me panic as I was not like this with my 2 previous band surgeries. Thanks xx

Good luck with your conversion.

I had my band removed and at the same time I had the gastric bypass surgery 28 days ago.

I am down 20 pounds.

So far so good ...

My surgery was laparoscopic.

I had 2 band surgeries prior.

So I have 7 sort of stab wounds.

I had zero pain except for a little gas in my jaw. I was up and walking immediately after surgery and only needed one night in the hospital.

They gave me a scrip for Oxy but I only needed one Tylenol for the 90 minute car ride home.

The incisions were a 1 on the pain scale. Lower belly ache about a 2.5.

Best of all I can swallow pills with water and have no blockage!

No burping or spitting no heartburn or reflux.

I am now eating fruits and veggies which the band did not allow.

Best wishes,

Terry

Wow well done you, thats great progress!! I really hope my op goes the same way. I am due to spend 2 nights (I think that is standard for this hospital). I have child care organised for about a week after the op (my son is only 5 months) but can sort out more if need be. Would be lovely if I can enjoy a mini Christmas dinner with my family as opposed to a shake lol. Did you find this recovery and introducing food easier this time round? xx

I was on liquid for a few days

Then soft food like yogurt and cream soups.

Day 8 I had cheese and apples and my life is great.

I can eat protein bars and ground turkey.

I am supposed to get 60-85 grams of protein and 60 oz minimum water daily but I'm never hungry so it's a challenge.

I drink a protein shake in the morning with my vitamins and meds.

I don't miss anything I am committed to getting healthy and living a more active lifestyle.

You are so fortunate to be having this surgery in time to raise your family in a health conscious way.

You need to be careful and no heavy lifting for the first 2 weeks.

I wish you the best.

It is wonderful NOT to be hungry.

Did you know the lap band actually increases hunger? Wicked huh?

With the lap band I am always thinking about food!What I am always trying to figure out what I can or cannot eat.Cravings...miserable.

How many days post surgery does one need to recover before returning to work...

I'm probably not the best person to answer this. I work for myself and I just work all the time.

I am working online mostly but I would feel weak and stop.

My husband made me go lie down and the heating pad would put me to sleep for just the first few days.

I am not a fitness buff but I wanted to walk so we would go to the beach and at first I set my timer for 10 minutes and walk then when the timer buzzed I would turn around.

So 20 minutes was a huge deal for me but now (1 month tomorrow I am about 35/40 minutes a day.

I am going to Florida this winter and the rental has a private pool and I cannot wait to soak and float ...

Hi there -

I'm right behind you, having my band revised to bypass on 12/7, can't wait. I currently have constant, annoying pain in my port area and the dreaded GERD has returned (have had the band for 8 years). Please keep us posted on your surgery and your progress, I will be excited to hear how you did. Try not to worry - I'm sure it will go smoothly and you will be up and around in no time with your baby!

Best of luck,

Kelly

Congratulations on your surgery! I the same as you will have surgery on dec 18 this year!!! Yeah hug

What is the typical time needed before one can go back to work after surgery?

All my pre op tests were done today so all ready for thurs. I am no longer as worried about the surgery and just really looking forward to a nee chapter in life. Good luck to every one

I'm not too sure about when you can return to work as I am currently on maternity leave so was not one of the questions I asked but from research I saw it was approx 2 weeks xx

How are you??

Hi,

Im doing really well thanks for asking ???? I have a post op appointment today so will know more then but generally well. I am only now taking paracetamol when required and I am moving normally. I have been eating soft foods (mash potato, soft cheese, soup) for a few days now and all going well. Also now 9lb down ???? How ru? xx

9 pounds!!!!!yay!You must be feeling fantastic !

Went to the required meeting ...very informative...I was the skinniest of the group! :-)Got a tour of the bariatric ward.Q& A with the coordinator who is an ex bariatric patient...

Well done and wishing you a speedy recovery.

Can i ask where you had your op? I am in the UK too.

Thanks