What things to know before you get surgery - ThinnerTimes

aperre9014 · 01-25-2008, 06:19 PM

I had gastric bypass in 2004. I went from 260 to 146. I thought people need to know the things that can go wrong with the surgery and problems that can arise. I had bypass and a week later my stomach busted open. I was hooked up to a machine for eight weeks because my incision would not heal. It had to heal from the inside out. For two months I was in and out of the hospital with dehideration and low potassium. The doctor said, he didn't know why I was so sick but other people that I talked with had the same problem. It just stopped on its own. I then developed three blood clots because I was in bed so much. The doctors found out that I had a blood clotting discorder so now I am on blood thinners for the rest of my life. That's why it is so important to walk right after the surgery and try to not stay in bed. I was in and out of the hospital for the first two years but I have been great since. Alot of people I talked with didn't have any of the problems I did but I think everyone should now about problems that can occur. I still don't eat sugar but other people I know started eating sugar again and have gained weight. I am still small but that is because I still watch what I eat. The surgery is not just a quick fix it is a life change. Since I couldn't eat anymore I found that I could at least drink and not get sick. I ended drinking a lot and had to go to detox and out patient drug center for a year. You hear about this kind of thing but I didn't think it would happen to me but it did. I don't drink anymore and I have still kept my weight off but I watch everything I eat to this day. I don't have high blood pressure or cholesteral anymore and I'm not going to get other related health problems due to being overweight. There are good things about the surgery and I'm glad I did it but no one told me or stressed the point of what could go wrong and I think everyone should now. If anyone wants any help or advise about the surgery or problems they are having after the surgery I would be more than happy to help. I didn't really have anyone to talk to about the problems I had because the people I know didn't have any problems just me. aperre9014@aol.com

katzz87 · 01-25-2008, 07:18 PM

Sorry you had such a hard time with this surgery. But glad that all is well now! I agree people should be aware of the pros and cons of any surgery they decide upon. As a general rule, you are the an exception to the rule. You experienced terrible...side effects (?)..of the surgery, but I really feel the majority of surgeries work out pretty well, possible with a few issues.

Just glad you're on the mend..

Cathy

lward76 · 01-25-2008, 09:22 PM

Hi, sorry for all your problems!! I am 1 week out of reversal today!! Best thing i ever did!! My problems were so different then yours though!! Alot of people do not go into this wide eyed open and they need too!! Good luck to you!!

Vim&Vigour · 01-26-2008, 01:46 AM

thanks for sharing Aperre! Your entry should definitely be posted to the Newbie Welcome Pack set up by Gwen. I am glad that things have turned favourably for you now. thanks also for the warning about drinking - I can now understand how easy it must be to slip into that way of life. Strong of you to get out of it!
Welcome to the Forum - a great family here!
Cheers,
Vim