I can't decide when / if to tell others about my surgery. I have told most of my family but have told none of my co-workers. The atmosphere here is full of gossipy people and I prefer to keep my business to myself.

Do I need to tell my co-workers why I'm out for a week or why I'm losing weight?

I just can't decide if it is best to be open about the procedure or keep my personal life out of the office.

Any suggestions?

I do not intend to tell my co-workers. I have told my mom, sister and husband as well as my two closest friends that I am considering the surgery. My mom and sister have struggled with their own weight issues so they get it. I've shared the details of my life with my two closest friends for more than 30 years. Kind of hard to stop now. And as for my husband... that's a given.

I work with a close-knit group (about 12 of us) and I let them know about it far in advance. They knew when I was first looking into it and going to seminars. I have a terrific boss and a great group of coworkers that are extremely supportive and are great motivators. One even had the surgery a week before me. We're able to go through this together and share experiences. I know not everyone has the same kind of work environment, but I'm glad I told them. Its made this a lot easier for me. At first they asked every other day how much the 2 of us have lost - but since the weight loss has slowed way down, they dont ask nearly as much...but thats ok!

I can't decide when / if to tell others about my surgery. I have told most of my family but have told none of my co-workers. The atmosphere here is full of gossipy people and I prefer to keep my business to myself.

Do I need to tell my co-workers why I'm out for a week or why I'm losing weight?

I just can't decide if it is best to be open about the procedure or keep my personal life out of the office.

Any suggestions?

If someone asks me how I am loosing weight I tell them about the band. There is nothing to hide, or be ashamed of...at least not for me. Its a decision for my health. And so far it has been a great decision. I dont walk into the Friday staff meeting and say "IVE BEEN BANDED", but I would never lie to someone if they asked me. First of all, for me...lying always comes back and bites me in the ass. I also think its my duty to be proud of my choice, show others it's okay, and maybe inspire others to look into the possibility of the band. Me being banded doesnt make me any less professional, or negate my work in way. Of course, I a pretty much an open book...ask and I will probably tell...not just about the band. :thumbup:

I agree about not lying about it, but I just dont feel the need to share it with everyone either. I told my boss I had to have a small surgery and would be out for a few days, she did not ask what it was for. As for others, I am sure I will cross that bridge when I come to it but I dont want it talked about in advance so that is why I have said nothing so far.