Bariatric Surgery & Weight Loss: Meet others & Share

@snc1989
Welcome to Mayo Connect, you have come to right place to connect with others who have faced decision if and what type of surgery.

I had RYN over 10 years ago, and lost over 100 lbs (some before surgery, most after). Prior to surgery, I had tried every diet program out there with some success, but always gained weight back. After surgery, I have had my up and downs, but never big weight gains. When weight starts to go up, just have to get back to basics. It is no magic cure, it is still hard work.

What is your next step? Most programs require classes prior to surgery to prepare you for lifestyle changes needed.

I tried ozempic and trulicity and ended up with gastroparesis and was extremely ill. After watching some short videos I was leaning towards RNY or sleeve.

I meet with the surgeon early February. To discuss options and next steps. But yes I believe there are many classes and appointments that come into play.

@snc1989
A moderator just reminded me about article for people considering surgery that might be helpful:
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/thinking-about-weight-loss-surgery

Hello there!
I just had bariatric surgery one week ago due to two large hernias that needed to be meshed & could not lose the weight! I was diagnosed with/Lynch syndrome & had an ooferectamy laparoscopically which created the larger hernia. It was recommended I have bariatric surgery to give me my life back!
I’m not sure what side affects you are speaking of.
I lost 14lbs prior to surgery (yes!) & 17 since the surgery.
I would say you really need to follow w/meds, portion control, & water intake to avoid constipation.
Exercising is right up there with nutrition & water!
I have had no dumping (so far) & walked around my block this morning!

I am so happy for you. Thank you for sharing, it lifted my spirits. I have not been scheduled yet for my surgery but learned so much from the nutrition classes and getting prepared.

Hi,

I'm Anita and I live in Wisconsin. I am just beginning the process to potentially have a gastric sleave. At my highest I was 435lbs. And am currently about 350lbs after trying to lose with medication, diet, and exercise over the last two years. While I have had some success it has been hard fought and as I have a lot of arthritis and mobility issues a more direct, rapid approach to weight loss seems to be the logical step. I would appreciate anyone who has had this procedure done sharing with me how they have felt after surgery and any struggles they have had. Thanks

@spkgrl
Welcome to Mayo Connect. Congratulations on the weight you have lost so far. I had RNY over 10 years ago so do not have as much experience with sleeve.

You may want to look at the following two discussion that are similar to what you're asking.

Considering Gastric Sleeve: Would you do it again? Risks?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/gastric-sleeve-risk/
Eendoscopic sleeve gastroplasty: Is it the right option for me?
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/endoscopic-sleeve-gastroplasty/
Two Mayo Health System in Wi offer weight-loss programs:
https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/services-and-treatments/weight-management
Have you discussed with your provider?

How do you get through all of the complications?
Wendy

I had Ru-en-Y 6 weeks ago tomorrow (Jan 6). Go through the pre-surgery program. Mayo has a great program. You can't just go in and say, "Where do I sign up for surgery?" I had to meet with the several members of the bariatric team, I don't remember how many visits I had with the psychologist, twice with PT, 2 or 3 visits with the dietician, the nurse at least twice, the surgeon twice, plus my primary care. Plus labs and other specialists. This was all Prior to the surgery. It was over several months. You will be prepared and knowledgeable. Also, you can change your mind at any time. I did. I was probably a couple months out and had an injury and decided to postpone for over a year.
How am I doing now? I honestly thought I would lose weight faster, but the nurse says I'm doing "remarkably well" I am having nausea and vomiting since probably the 4th or 5th week. I was doing some research and think I am advancing my diet too quickly. I can still only eat about 1/2 - 3/4 cup at a time and if I go 1 bite too much I end up vomiting. It isn't dumping syndrome, I don't mind keeping the portions small at all. Honestly, the hardest part for me has been dealing with my medications and the new supplements. I hate swallowing pills and now, because some of my prior meds were large I have to use the pill cutter, so I have a hand full of pills, and my stomach can only hold so much water. Once I get that figured out I think I'll be going strong, I really think the surgery will be worth it for me in the long run. I always told myself I would Never have bariatric surgery. That it was for weak people.... Finally I realized that I had been trying to lose weight on my own for over 30 years and yes I lost weight, a lot actually, a couple times but it didn't stay off. I feel like I wasted 1/2 my life sitting on the sidelines because I couldn't control my weight. I'm 60! years old and I truly believe the next decade is going to be my best. You'll make the right decision for you. Follow your gut... (pun intended!)