I'm struggling with the decision to have weight loss surgery. For reference, I'm 38, 5'6", with a BMI of 37.5. I've struggled with my weight for my entire adult life, and after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes last year, I decided to take steps towards weight loss surgery.

I've been attending pre-surgery appointments for about six months now, and I hope to get a date soon.

Here's the rub. I've lost over 30 pounds in the last 1.5 years. Very slowly, but continuously, and I feel like I'm making changes in my life that could might make this loss more permanent than other diets I've done. I've been at a bit of a stall the last few months, but I keep trying to make positive changes, and I'm not discouraged. I've brought my sugar levels to a point where I'm now considered pre-diabetic (A1C from a 9.6 to 6.1) and I'm still losing weight, but very slowly. I have about 40 pounds to lose before I would (likely) be rid of my diabetes diagnosis.

For those of you who've had surgery, are you truly happy you did it? I'm wondering if I should go as far as I can on my own, even if it takes years, or if surgery is the right tool. My mom is a nurse and tells me a million horror stories, and that is making this decision really hard!

Thank you for any advice!

Well it did Sound Good, a shame it didn't work out That Way. Sometimes Life doesn't work out like the promo, but I guess real life isn't like the Movie Trailer.
Hopefully you have run out of things to break down for a while and get on with the Business of Living, you've been diverted long enough.
P.S.Another Endoscopy within a Month, I figure one or two more and I will be able to do them to myself! Oh Que Sera, Sera!

I don’t really have a lot to add. But if you want time to think about it and see how your weight loss continues, ask your insurance how long your approval is valid. I was having doubts, and I found out that my approval was valid for 2 years. That way, I could finish my pre-reqs, get approved, and think about it without having to start the 6 month program over.

Thank you all for sharing your experiences, whether they were good or bad. I went on phentermine, and was able to lose a little more weight on my own. My BMI is down to 36, and I was cleared for surgery last week. I haven’t gotten the call from the surgeon yet to schedule a date, but I anticipate getting the call soon. I’m still not sure what I’m going to do, but for now I’m planning on proceeding with the surgery. While I “only” need to lose 30 or so pounds to (potentially) clear up some of my medical issues, I’m still 80 pounds overweight. I’m so nervous and indecisive.
I hope you are all doing well. I really appreciate everyone’s helpful opinions!

For me I decided to do it to make the loss permanent. And most likely you will be able to eat everything again, just in smaller portions. It stopped my triggers dead into their tracks. I could eat 4 slices of pizza pre-surgery and now I can eat one skinny slice or one slice without the end crust. And that makes me so happy to order whatever I want and just eat a tiny bit of it and be satisfied. I've lost and gained 50lbs more times than I can count. After surgery it is a slow downward slide for me and an end to the huge yoyo dieting disasters.

I was very excited to have the surgery (rny 6/24/19). Took many years to finally get the courage to go forward with it. I can say emotionally the first 2 weeks were so hard for me. I had regret but I realized after the 2nd week my regrets were stemming from my food addiction. I started thinking of all the foods I can’t eat, the poor me feelings came out as they had with every diet before. But now with this tool I am limited by how much I can eat at one time. It is still up to me not to snack or nibble all day. It’s not hard though because I’m not that hungry. I do have head hunger but I don’t give in to it. I only want food that will keep me healthy so the cravings although still there do not outweigh my desire to be healthy. That is the main reason for my surgery. I am 3 weeks 2 days post op and I am down 16 lbs. I have more energy and feel so much better in my clothes. After getting past the 2 -3 week hump I no longer have regrets. I still miss the food I used to eat at times but that is something I have to work on on the inside. The surgery will not “fix” that. 

 It’s an individual decision and with the right research you will make the best decision for you. Good luck on your journey!

After 6 years of type 2, Hypertension and high cholesterol I made a conscious decision to have gastric sleeve surgery. A short 2 months later and 87 pounds lighter I no longer am on any medication! Fasting glucose average has been 92, my BP is 110/70 and I feel great! Im exercising and have added a few years to my life. Whats to think about? I had no complications, no pain, no throwing up, nothing!
If your serious about gaining control of your health and your life, this surgery is your opportunity to make lasting changes and get off the Yo-yo dieting.
Your mother loves you and is concerned but you are hurting yourself if you continue to be obese.

Just wanted to share with everyone that I had the surgery on 7/22! The first couple days were rough, but feeling pretty good a few days post op :-)

There are some people out there that are able to do it all on their own..yes it takes a ton of will and determination but it's not impossible.

Others need a little extra motivation and a little head start with surgery.

Just wanted to share with everyone that I had the surgery on 7/22! The first couple days were rough, but feeling pretty good a few days post op :-)

Hi hun, that's great I had mine on 7/2. I remember seeing your post. I was wondering if you did. How are you finding it? Xxx