Venturing Forth

[Bearup]

Two weeks to go and feeling anxious.
Although I've done my research, there's nothing like reading personal experiences.

Concern about the site and the procedure: I don't see many men and even fewer senior citizens.

[samstein]

I work in a hospital that does many bariatric surgeries, and often see both men and senior citizens (men, probably about half of surgeries; senior citizens probably about 1/4 of surgeries). There doesn't seem to be a huge difference in immediate recovery post-op compared to women/younger patients. "Returners" as we call them (people who have lots of complications weeks to months down the road) usually come back as a result of not following the directions given by their surgeon for nutrition and exercise requirements.

Good luck! I'm sure you will do fine!

[RehabNurse]

One of our more prolific, frequent posters (Ann2) was 68 or 69 years of age when she was sleeved in 2014. She had an uneventful recovery, enjoyed wonderful results and has been able to maintain a 100-pound weight loss.

Hopefully she'll see this thread and chime in with her sage advice.

[Bearup]

Thanks so much, Samantha. Those are stats that no one seemed to know at my hospital even though it is a teaching hospital that is constantly doing studies.

I now feel a little less anxious and pray that I do not become a "returner." I'll be the model of an obedient patient.

[Christie13]

As an active member of this site I can tell you there are plenty of men and seniors on here. They're just as successful as any other member. Our success depends on our vigilance to following our guidelines set forth by our surgeon. Good luck and welcome !

[Ann2]

Yo, bearup. Yes, I'm an oldie ... now 71. And about as healthy and happy and hot as a 71-year old broad can be. My modesty, however, has suffered as a result of losing 100 pounds and maintaining at 135 pounds for the last 2 years.

I seriously believe that we oldsters have an easier time with WLS. We've learned a lot from life and are very committed at this point. WLS truly was the last thing we could think of to solve our obesity burden, so we're determined to succeed.

I think you'll do great. All you ever have to do is what you're supposed to do today.

BTW, I was 68.5 years old when I was sleeved. I had it very easy ... no complications and an easy recovery.

[Luv49ers19]

Yep just follow the instructions to a T and you'll do fine. Remember you have a lot of support on this site. Blessings!

[ghost_ryder]

Welcome. Not senior yet, but us guys here do contribute a bunch. Don't hassle the concern, it is a relatively great experience once you get past the first two days.