[Butterfly312]

After 5 long months of waiting, I finally get to see my surgeon next month for my pre-op appt. During that time I've read alot of success stories along with some problems some people have encountered after surgery, I've also seen many motivational before and after pics, and done a lot of mental changes.

Now that the time is getting so close I do have a major concern....I'm sure after surgery the doctor doesn't dismiss you into the world without some guidance and direction...right?

I'm afraid I won't know what to eat, how to eat, and even when to eat. Do they give you a list of do's and don'ts? Do they give you a list of acceptable foods and foods that are a no-no? Will I know how to mix my shakes or recipes that will go with it?

I know these are stupid questions and I do apologize. I've seen so many of you be so successful I just want to succeed as well and not mess up. Am I being silly? Will I be taught and told all these things before hand? I'm sorry for my ignorance, but I just need some reassurance...please.

[Nell]

They are NOT stupid questions at all. My surgeon's office gave me a book of instructions when I was approved, we had to learn it cover to cover just about and a little test was done right before surgery to make sure we knew what we were supposed to be doing. I still have it and refer to it often.

So yes your doctor should be giving you some instructions and guidance before and after your hospital stay.

I was given a list of foods I could eat at what stage and it even included a few recipes.
The nutritionist gave me a paper with their recommendations of protein to use and what to look for if we weren't going to use the ones suggested.

I can't wait to hear how it goes when you go for your pre-op stuff next month, I know you are so ready!!

[lpully]

My surgeon gave me 3 different books. One was on exercising and what could be done right after surgery and info on what I could/should do after healing. Another book was on what I could eat and when. It gave shopping lists ideas and sample menus, as well as, a sample eating schedule. The third book was on the procedure itself. It described what I would go through and what supplies I would need at home after the surgery, etc.

[Butterfly312]

Aw man that's awesome. Thank you guys so much. I was so worried. I'm good now. I knew I could count on my new WL family. Most definitely I'll let you know about my expected date. Thanks again.

[judst]

Butterfly, I think you're going to do great! My surgeon says the only stupid question is the one that isn't asked. Everything can get a little overwhelming especially right before surgery. If you don't have one already get a book and write down all of your questions and concerns to go over when you meet with your surgeon. That way everything just doesn't fly out the door the minute you meet.
I too was given a handbook and went to a class that we covered everything in it. I refer to it often. I'm sure your surgeons office will have something similar.
Hang in there friend and your day will be here before you know it!
Hugs

[Tricia Igo]

those are all excellent questions! my surgeon gave me a list of the post-surgical phases at my last appt with him. It's also available on his website.

I was hoping to ask him a question tonight about how to handle my meds immediately after surgery, but my husband was too agitated to stay for the support group meeting. I'll have to email him I guess

[Perfesser]

By hanging around here with such a successful bunch of losers, you have already been taught and told all these things. You know far more already than probably 85-90% of your surgeon's patients will ever learn. You just have to trust yourself to do the right things.

You've been changing your thought processes and mental focus so that you should be able to figure out how any situation you face lines up with the rules, and you have time to refine that focus even more before you are tested on it. Trust your instincts. Not the ones that had you lined up at the trough in your earlier life just like the rest of us once were. The true instincts that you've been developing by asking questions, reading in the archives and being part of the family over the last four months.

There is a lot to learn and do in the first few weeks post-op, but I doubt that there will be any surprises caused by you not knowing what to do. The surprises you will experience will be your reactions to the whole ordeal. The kind of surprises that you read about most often in the WOW Moments forum!

Your life is about to get so much better, you just cannot now imagine ...



CT

[Carol Jo B.]

If we can do it, you can do it. If you get confused about anything, just ask. We are here for each other and for you.

[pretty woman]

I was assigned to be part of a program run by the hospital (I paid.)
I had nutriton classes and individual sessions, behavorial session (psych)
food classes, general knowledge classes etc. We were given notebooks it had all the info in it and I still read mine.
Each class was started with a support group. So we got to meet others who hd surgery or who were preparing for it then we stayed for whatever topic was offered. We were also given free 3 month gym memberships. We could join later if we wanted. It was too far for me, so I joined a gym very close to my home. My surgeon stayed with me the whole way. He "follows" me for 2 years I think... after surgery. I call his office whenever I have a question...or the bariatric nurse at the hospital. I was most fortunate to be a part of it and made new WLS friends. Good luck.

[Butterfly312]

Thank you. You guys are so awesome and sweet. I guess I'm just nervous since the day is coming soon. I know everything will be alright. I'm gonna write down all my questions so I wont forget anything. Thanks again everyone. You guys are the best!