Newbie with a question

[mvasey]

Hi there,

I am seeing the shrink today as I speed towards my sleeve surgery. My biggest fear is the reflux and feeling sick after surgery. I am committed to changing my life style but feeling sick all the time after the surgery, even 6 months after, sounds bad.

Can you give me any words of wisdom? I am not a great pill taker.

Thanks everyone,

Michelle

[AnnieG]

Michelle, I totally hear you! I have always had a "touchy" stomach because that's where I carry my stress. And history of bulemia/anorexia when I was young.

That said, I had no nausea after surgery (IV meds were pre ordered) and have not needed anything since, as long as I eat slowly. We raised 6 kids, so mom-dash food habit. But really, I feel better than I have in the last 15 years.

Most people have no issues that I've read about, but then again I wasn't specifically looking. It's the best decision I have made in many years, and I only have one regret -- that I would have done it sooner! Welcome to a great group.

[mvasey]

Thanks for your quick response! I am terrified and excited. Many people around me are very negative about getting surgery and tell me to start walking instead. Really? If that had worked over the last 20 years, I would not be 60 lbs overweight.

The fact my medical team is telling me I will never be able to have a glass of wine, a chocolate truffle or a toast point with truffle mouse is horrifying!! Yes, food addiction is in full rebellion.

Where are you located?

[Devin]

Michelle, welcome first of all, I think everyone has their concerns regarding the surgery, I know I sure do. I have found that reading some of the journeys on here has definitely solidified my decision to move forward. Also make sure to communicate your thoughts/fears/anxieties to your therapist, that's what they're there for. Also speak with your doctors, I'm sure there's a way to make your journey as smooth as possible. Best of luck to you,
Devin

[Stacey03]

Michelle, you will be able to eat those things eventually but you might not want to :-)
It is unlikely that you will feel like you want to vomit all the time too or have reflux. Sometimes people have these things but generally as one offs or very short term so I wouldn't give that too much concern. Focus on what you would want to get out of this surgery and how things will change for you. Maybe chat to a therapist re; food addiction stuff, its worth setting yourself up well for success. Good luck to you :-)

[Aussie Girl]

All perfectly normal and common feelings, we were all terrified and excited in equal parts pre op

Don't listen to the nay sayers. This is for you, a great (and brave) step towards claiming your life back! - no one else's business no matter who they are. My partner was quite insensitive when I told him of my surgery plans, he couldn't understand why I wouldn't just eat better and exercise. Just this morning he was admiring me as I was doing my morning weight-in, lets just say I love seeing the way he now looks at me

You will get meds for acid (I haven't had issue with so far) and nausea (I was nauseous for the first week at its worse the first 3 days), ask for small pills.

As for food funerals, normal feeling, but Edie's right - you will be able to eat most food again. The great thing about this surgery is that its easy - eat protein first then vege and then the other stuff if you have room - which you rarely do - research says it takes 6 month retrain your brain to eat better - so its a great tool.

Weighing up short term mild discomfort for a a new thinner life was so worth it!! Go for it!! Good luck

[Christie13]

Welcome Michelle. Ultimately only you can decide if the sleeve is right for you. Nausea was not a super big issue for me. I hate feeling sick , too. I really only felt it a lot week one. After that it was only from eating too fast or too much. You learn real quickly to adjust your habits. Also, I have not had any foods I could not eat post op. Some people can have difficulty with certain foods. I personally did not.

[mvasey]

Hi Christie,
Thanks for all your kind words and inspiration. I am scared but excited.
Michelle