I am seriously considering the gastric sleeve surgery but I have a few questions about the recovery. I have 2 small children, an almost 2 year old and a 7 month old, and I am constantly having to carry them. Do you guys think I should wait until they are older to start the process? How is the recovery process? I know it will take quite a bit to get approved but even when/if I do get approved my kids will still be very young and it's physically demanding

I would suggest waiting until the 7 month old can walk and no longer wants to be picked up constantly because surgeons would not recommend carrying anything more than 10 lbs for a while.

However if you start the process now that may be the case anyway since your insurance may dictate a 3-6 month waiting period.

Having a strong support system is key when you have young children because you will have to focus on yourself for a bit.

Go at the pace you are completely comfortable with.

TBH life will become more enjoyable (barring complications ) and you will be glad you didn't wait forever.

My kids were 3 and almost 2 when I did it. Not lifting was tough, so you need someone else willing to lift them. My oldest can climb wherever, but my youngest was tough. You can still hold them while sitting or lay on the floor with them, so the physical contact piece isn’t missing. I did lift my youngest a couple times in emergencies (fire alarm, throwing up) and was fine. Not sure how heavy the 7 month old is, but you may get away with that one (drs say from 10-20 lbs depending on who you ask)

Thanks everyone!