Greetings,

how long before surgery did you inform other people of your plans t get gastric sleeve surgery? I am currently looking at a flurry of doctors appointments leading up to a surgery in October. I work in a small office so my absences are seen. Getting the surgery isn’t a shameful thing, but I see it as private for now. I don’t know how much closer to time I should wait.

I am concerned about other people’s reaction. I know there will be judgements and gossip. (I know they already are!) Once I tell, I want to be open and honest because I hope the results will be noticeable. I just don’t look forward to dealing with the people. Getting the surgery is a huge positive step to allow me to live life to its fullest and have a healthier life. I don’t have doubts about it, but I know how people are.

When did you tell people before surgery?

what kind of reactions did you get ?

Oh I love reading this thread - we all have different approaches and they're all valid.

I told my husband and children, my work manager because I needed time off and couldn't lie, and nobody else, and am not going to. I do get the occasional twinge of guilt when family and friends comment on my weight loss but as far as they are concerned I am 'strictly calorie counting' (which technically speaking isn't a lie). I would rather live with that occasional guilt than deal with/respond to their reactions, whether supportive or critical. I don't like a fuss. That's just me though.

To each their own Good luck whatever you decide.

Edited July 29, 20223 yr by Spinoza

3 minutes ago, Spinoza said:

Oh I love reading this thread - we all have different approaches and they're all valid.

To each their own Good luck whatever you decide.

Exactly! I love to hear experiences and understanding the thought process of others because we are on similar but very individual journeys. The only right answer is the one for you!

an update for me: I have let some family know and, well, I can’t say they are being supportive or not because it was almost a whatever response. Kinda disappointed because I hoped for some encouragement but at least haven’t gotten discouragement! Still have not told anyone else. Endoscopy is scheduled and surgeon says may be September instead of October, so it’s getting close. I still know I will be open about it, but I am not ready yet.

I have lost about 50 lbs already, but unfortunately I have lost a bit all over so it’s not really noticeable on me (I fit better place and some clothes fit more comfortably). I am entering my next phase of self preparation before surgery so it may become more evident soon.

I'm pretty open about my life so I told my husband and in-laws first, my close friends, my immediate family, my mother (she's judgmental AF so I waited until I was approved before saying anything), my boss (just that I would be out for three days for surgery but not what kind), and then my co-workers as the need arose. With my co-workers, I would tell them when we were at lunch events or at things with foods I'm not able to eat. I think my twitter friends knew before most people I know offline though.

I told no one except my husband. I didnt tell anyone because I felt it was a decision I made for my health and a better me. I have witnessed others derogatory comments/statements of others. I feel bad enough on my own accord that I allowed myself to become this big that I didnt want to hear what other ppl thought too good or bad.

INo one has said anything to me about the 50+ lbs I lost already except for my boss. She said she could definitely tell but no one else including my own family has not said a word. LOL I am beginning to wonder how much I need to lose before others says something. I have lost and gained weight before so maybe they are waiting for that to happen again who knows lol.

When my boss asked me about it I just said the truth, I am drinking more water and taking in higher amounts of protein while reducing my carb intake. She was satisified with my answer...it was a Win, Win.

This is my first post so I hope I’m doing it right. I haven’t told anyone at work either. My boss knows that I have some “health issues” and my medical providers have decided that the best resolution is surgical. It has allowed me to explain my need to come in late or leave early for appointments. I may open up more about it at some point but for right now I’m good. I have a few close friends that know and are very supportive but it is definitely not something I want to “go public” about. I am happy with my decision to have WLS. I know it’s the right thing, I’m just not interested in hearing others opinions about my decision.

I only told my immediate family that I was considering it. I didn’t need anyone else’s (uninformed) opinion & it’s really not anyone’s business. It’s been over a year, and when people say I look great, I just tell them thanks. If someone asks how I did it, I’m honest, briefly share my reasons & experience (under 600 cal/day for ~6mo, under 1200 now). Now that I’m post op, I’ve only gotten positive reactions, I feel like I’m actually educating folks (reducing fat/VSG prejudices) & have yet to hear any dieting advice nonsense. But, In general don’t think it’s anyone else’s business, just like any other medical surgery or issue.