Hi I had my bypass 18 years ago. I never regretted it. Fortunately I didn’t have any problems, which I thank my surgeon for. My first appt. Included a consultation. I was told that I needed to lose 20 pounds before surgery. (To see if youre dedicated). I had to meet with a Psychiatrist, Nutritionist, and a Cardiologist before surgery. I continued to follow up with the surgeon post surgery as well as a continuing relationship with a Nutritionist. The most important thing that you HAVE TO DO, is be religious about taking your vitamins and supplements FOREVER , or you’ll regret it. I currently take 2 multivitamins/daily; 50,000 U of Vitamin D/weekly; 1,000 ml shot of B12 monthly. As well as Iron, Magnesium, potassium and most important of all Calcium Citrate, 1500 mg/daily. I am now experiencing Osteoporosis since I wasn’t diligent about taking everything required especially the Calcium. When you don’t you can become anemic, and your other levels can dangerously drop. You must be diligent in your water intake also. If you eat something that you shouldn’t (excessive foods w/sugar or sugary drinks you’ll get dumping syndrome. Once you experience it, you’ll never put yourself in that position again. (I thought I was going to die). That’s the learning curve about keeping the weight off. There is a constant reminder of Dumping (make sure that you don’t drink water with a meal. Drink about 30 minutes after, not prior. Make sure you keep track of your protein intake. Very important). It sounds strict but it becomes 2nd nature. Yes, you’ll be able to increase your food selections eventually, and even have a drink. (A couple sips of wine or alcohol I’m buzzed, but, it leaves me quickly). Last but not least, chew, chew, chew slowly and completely or it’s going to come back up. The surgery was laparoscopic. Up the same day. No problems or stitches. Relatively pain free. Just pamper yourself and be patient and the weight loss will happen. (Down 120# for 18 years). Good luck. (Make sure that you find a really good surgeon if he doesn’t require all the prep work before and after surgery, move on,