I had the initial consultation with the bariatric surgeon today and it went well. I spent more than a half-hour talking to her and asking questions, then she did a brief exam. I now have a 3-ring binder listing everything I have to do before surgery. She wants me to do a 6-month supervised weight loss program at their Institute even though I’ve been under my doctor’s supervision trying to lose weight. She wants me to lose as much as possible before having the surgery. While I’m doing the 6-month program, I’ll have to go for a cardiac workup, a pulmonary workup, a psychiatric workup, and of course sessions with a dietician. It’s a long road, but I’m glad that I’ve finally begun the process toward better health.
We spent quite a bit of time talking about my hiatal hernia and Barrrett’s Esophagus. For the gastric bypass procedure, they may or may not repair the hiatal hernia at the time of surgery depending on how large it is. She said that some people have had their Barrett’s Esophagus rescinded as a result of bypass. That does not happen with lap band surgery; in fact, the lap band could actually worsen the Barrett’s. Although she didn’t push one procedure over the other, I am definitely leaning more towards the full bypass because of the Barrett’s. But, I have 6 months (at least) to make that decision.
I haven’t had any relief yet from the epidural injection, but the doctor said it would take up to a week for it to take effect.
Below is my food log for today -
Way to go my man. One day at a time. You just have to promise me that when you get to your desired weight you won’t try to move in on my stable of fillies!
Stable? Stable? Doesn’t the word stable connotate a large number?!?
I think he meant to say “stable of Phillies”
Looks like you’re doing great with calories. Losing weight beforehand decreases the risk of complications. Once you are up to it, start walking. It’s difficult at first (especially with your back and hip problems), but that also decreases complications.
It’s about time that doctors realize the importance of an educated patient. I got a 3 ring binder after my surgery, full of info. An educated patient definitely fares better.
NO – I meant STABLE OF FILLIES…. I guess you are right Mr. P, you can’t really count 22 as that large of an amount….
To jeffsher,
I totally agree on the education. I got a 3-ring binder at my appt. yesterday (the surgeon called it my “walking papers”) outlining all the steps I have to go through prior to surgery. I’m going to try and start walking this weekend.
To nukemshootemall,
22! Where’d you dream up that number?!?
To Nuke:
Just kidding (busting balls used to be a specialty of mine).