Surgery date 1/21/05

Hi everyone. Well, I saw my doctor for the consultation and I am scheduled in two weeks! I am on a roller coaster ride now. I feel so excited, scared, sometimes wonder if this is the right decision, hopeful. Seems like every other minute I am excited and the next I am scared about being able to change all my habits. I really feel this is the only way I will ever get this problem under control. The doctor said I don't have to be on a liquid diet before surgery, it will be after surgery, six weeks of liquid/soft foods. I am really scared about this part of the plan. I can't even make it a day without food, let alone six weeks with soft or liquidy stuff? How did you get through this period of time or was it easier than I think because of how the band makes you feel fuller? I guess I have all these thoughts and "what iffs" in my head. Any feedback would be appreciated!

Mistybreezes

Misty - What you are feeling is natural, we have all had those feelings. You wouldn't be human if you didn't. It really isn't as bad as you think it is, the time goes by pretty fast. Not every doctor has you do liquids for that long, did your doctor tell you how long he wanted you to do liquids? Make sure you do research everything and make the decision. This is not an easy out for losing weight, but I love my band and wouldn't trade it. You are the only one that can make the decision.

Yeah, Misty! Learn as much as you can now. And take it one day at a time. The liquid, hungry stage is temporary. You'll make it and be so glad you did!

Thanks. I have been really researching everything. I am happy with the doctor I chose, he has done a lot of these surgeries and this is his main specialty. I will have to be on the liquids/protein shakes for 3 weeks and then proceed to soft mushy and soft protein bars, etc. for 3 weeks. I really feel this is a good choice for me but am just a little nervous about such a huge life changing event. I have read tons of posts from this site and various others and seems like not one person regrets having this done. Does anyone else wonder if Oprah had this done? I just wondered about her since she lost it slowly and hasn't gained it back this time. She looks fabulous. Also Ann Wilson of Heart had it done too and I read her story, as well. I feel this is a good choice for me and am excited to have it done. Gosh, since I got in so quickly to have this done (I am self pay), maybe I will be down a few sizes by summer, what a happy prospect!!

Mistybreezes

Misty, I am going for surgery on the 14th and am going thru the same thoughts and fears. My doctor says 1st week is a clear liquid 2nd puree 3rd soft and mushy 4th regular soft foods 5-6 reg. food but in small quantities and very well chewed. I can't imagine myself thinner. This summer I might actually go to the beach with my kids (I have never done that and my oldest is 14yrs. old) I don't understand the why we have to wait so long and I'm afraid I'll fail myself before my first fill. Does anyone have any suggestion for misty and me?

I am looking forward to having the surgery too. I was hoping to possibly be able to go to Maui in July and it would be fabulous to have lost some weight before that time, even 25 lbs would be better than nothing! I am just trying to keep the mindset about not worrying about that first fill, take it slow and follow my doctors instructions about the foods/liquids I need to eat (even though it will be rough emotionally). Emotionally, I am preparing for that roller coaster too of being attached to food and having to wean myself from being so dependent on it. I have started reading some of the posts on how to deal with that and am thinking of ways I will be busying myself without the use of food. I keep thinking that I really want to be able to enjoy outdoor activities more and if I keep eating myself to death, I will never get to do those things. That is one of the major things that keeps me motivated about this surgery and staying positive even if it is going to be tough, I think of the rewards I wll reap! Good luck on your surgery too!


Mistybreezes

Start planning those outdoor activities, because you will feel so much better, more energy, not overheated, able to move more freely, more confidence to get out there and try things that you've put off for so long!