hello...a couple questions for all you nice people! - Page 2 - ThinnerTimes - Gastric Bypass Forum, Lap Band Forum, and Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Forum

shereeks · 08-18-2007, 03:03 PM

Hey, welcome to the forum. Congrats on your decision to have this life changing surgery!

I had my surgery lap and have very little scarring but I honestly wouldn't have minded which way I had it - like Lisa said you'll probably have scars if you decided to have a tt later anyway. And, the most important thing is that your surgeon is great at what he does and it sounds like he is.

I didn't have an epidural and did absolutely fine and yet I have a low pain threshold. I've had worse pain so I wouldn't worry about that side of things.

Anyways, welcome and feel free to ask away!

devin · 08-18-2007, 05:17 PM

Thanks for the advice Shareeks!

I am not worried about the pain. I have a high tolerance for pain. I am more worried about anesthesia. I chose to stay awake through my tubal ligation surgery. That is why they did a spinal. It was a bad move on my part. This time I'm choosing the anesthesia. I can't have the gas form because of malignant hyperthermia. There is sooo much to think about, but I can't wait.

How long after the surgery do you have to worry about splitting the pouch open? Sorry if that is a stupid question, but you know how people are after you tell them you're having surgery. Somebody told me that if you eat to much your pouch will burst. Trust me I plan on following doctors restrictions, but is it true about being able to split it open? Does it eventually heal so you don't have to worry about that?

Boy do I sound like a rookie!!! You all are great!

LyndasRoom · 08-18-2007, 11:47 PM

Hi Devin,
Every doctor has his or her own preferences, so most of our experiences are different. It is important to talk your concerns over with the surgeon who will be performing your procedure. Be sure your doctor is aware of all your concerns. That way you will have the best possible result for you. As we are all individuals, so are our experiences. Welcome! Let us know what you find out!

Hunnyblonde · 08-19-2007, 12:27 AM

Welcome! I was lap RNY and was completely comfortable with that decision as my surgeon teaches advance lap procedures at UCSD. As far as epidurals for the surgery...I don't think I've ever heard of anyone being awake for their procedure, open or lap. I'm pretty sure everyone is knocked out completely. If you use the search function at the top and do a search for epidural you might come up with some more info.

Congratulations on your decision and good luck on your journey!

Gwen · 08-20-2007, 01:53 AM

Hi there and welcome to the family!

I am also a newbie - only joined in July 2007 and still pre-opp.

As I know how intimidating this forum can be when you first start exploring it I thought I'd give all the newbies a few pointers as to the threads that made an impression on me:

Best Advice for Pre-Op - written and compiled by LisaM

Pouch Rules for Dummies - posted by Baron Patrick

Best Advice for Post-Op - written and compiled by LisaM

Best Food, Best Protein, etc. for Post-Op - compiled by LisaM

What Supplements are you on? - started by Jerrod24

The things people wish they had known beforehand - compiled by LisaM

I have also been asked to add the book "Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies" to this list, I have not read it myself but plan on ordering it via Amazon today - full review to follow shortly

Have a great time and I look forward to following your journey!

PS: If any of the "oldies" have any other threads to bring to our attention please let me know and I will add it to my list.

Hugs