I had Gastric Sleeve surgery a little over a month ago and it is a learning process. It's a brand new stomach and you have to learn how it works all over again. Here are some things you should know before the surgery.
The Pre-Op Diet is HARD
For two weeks before surgery you have to do a liquid diet to shrink your liver. It sucks so bad but if you don't do it right you won't get the surgery.
Taste Buds change.
I used to love vanilla flavored yogurt, after surgery it's just disgusting.
Vitamins are vital
If you don't have the vitamins daily you tend to crave food that is bad for you.
Gas pain after surgery is very painful
During the surgery they have to fill the abdomen with gas so they can move around inside easier. It hurts. Burps and passing gas is a welcomed action.
The gas after getting the surgery is hysterical
Depending on the protein you have for the day, gas can be a literal pain in the ass. Makes me feel like an old person some days. Lucky for me most of those days have happened while at home.
Oily Hair
I have noticed that since the surgery my hair is even more oily than before. Which means it has to be washed everyday if I don't want to look like a homeless person.
Dry Skin
It's unreal how dry my skin has gotten. Regular lotion just doesn't cut it. Extra moisturizing and lotions that contain Shea butter or Cocoa butter is best.
Lack of appetite
I can go for most of the day and not feel hungry at all. But you're expected to get at least 60- 80 grams of protein a day so eating is important.
Portions of food change
After surgery the least bit of overeating can be excruciating. If feels almost as if you are going to have a heart attack. There is a pressure on your chest and you feel like you have to vomit.
Doctor's appointments are a must
For the rest of your life you will be seeing the doctor that performed your surgery, so be ready for the life long commitment.
Support groups help
My doctor has organised monthly support groups for people that have had the surgery. They help A LOT. You get to explain your frustrations and listen to others that are having the same problems.
The process to get surgery is long
It took me 11 months to jump through all the metaphorical hoops that are required before getting the surgery.
See the pulmonologist FIRST
You get a list of things and doctors to see. See the pulmonologist first. They take the longest. You have to complete a sleep study, possibly two, then you have to wait for results.
Skin looks great
My skin has never been this clear. I don't have breakouts and its smoother than before, at least on my face.
Weight loss happens quick
I have lost over 36 pounds since the surgery and it's only been a little over a month. You can lose anywhere from 2-6 pounds a week.
Protein, Protein, Protein
Meats like chicken, turkey, beef, fish, and lean pork are the basis of what you will be eating. Other proteins include cottage cheese, yogurt and nuts. This is what your diet will become.
Upkeep after diet is costly
Between joining a gym, buying protein shakes and vitamins it can be pretty expensive. Check with your hospital pharmacy to see if they have a rewards program. After you spend x amount you get a discount. It can really help offset the cost of vitamins and shake mix.
Say Bye-Bye soda
Soda is not allowed on the diet because the carbonation can cause your new small stomach to stretch and that's not a good thing.
New wardrobe is needed
You'll be changing clothes every few weeks but don't buy anything extravagant because you won't wear it for long. Bargain clothes shopping from places like Goodwill or Savers will save you some money on wardrobe.
Body changes
Things start to change. Stomach shrinks, breast reduce in size, thighs get smaller. It gradually happens. Even at 36 pounds lost I can tell a big difference in these things.
I may have some sagging skin after it's all over with but for me, the weight loss journey is so worth it. I feel a difference already in my joints and I'm no longer winded after short walks. I can go grocery shopping without feeling like I want to die.
I would not change a thing about having the surgery. It really saved my life.
