Christie G.
April 19, 2004 - I have been thinking about this surgery for years now. In the past, I would look around on the internet and then decide it was too drastic and risky. Well, now I need to do something. In January 2004 my blood pressure was high for the first time ever. And my weight was getting harder to control. I told myself it had to end, "no more can I be this way, it's ruining my life".
So, I re-started the research for this surgery once again. It took months to build the courage to ask for the referral from my PCM. When I finally did, I was given the referral rather easily. I kind of wish I had had to convince him. Anyway, after the appointment I cried all the way home. I felt no relief what-so-ever. I felt like a failure and a quiter.
I received authorization for the consult 2 days later. I couldn't believe it. Maybe this is meant to be for me? I asked God to show me the way. Is this it??
Anyway, I have scheduled the orientation class for May 13th. I am very nervous. I still don't know if this is the right decision; I am very scared of dying and leaving my family. I hope I can come to terms with that, and allow myself the use of this tool.
May 14, 2004 - I attended the new patient class yesterday and would like to thank DeeDee for a great class. She was great with the information, answering questions, and sharing her opinions. I also, would like to thank Vicki for seeking me out and
reassuring me. Her own testimony was wonderful.
May 19, 2004 - Tanya called today from Dr. LePorts office and told me my surgery was approved. I was really shocked. It happened so fast. I just turned in the paper work on May 14th. I really thought I had a long wait ahead of me. My surgery date
is August 16th. Three months away (my choice). I am a bundle of nerves. I feel this is the right thing but, I am someone who is afraid of the unknown.
June 3, 2004 - Attended the Dr.s Talk tonight. I thought it would be Dr. Ali giving the talk as he is the surgeon I picked but, it was Dr. Whyte instead. Dr. Whyte gave a good presentation. He really went over the risk rates and exactly what will happen during the surgery. I'm even more scared now but, I am proceeding.
After the talk, my husband and I attended the Fountain Valley support group. The information you get there is awesome. I'm going to try and go weekly.
June 11, 2004 - 65 more days till surgery!! It seems as if it will never come. I am not a very good, "hurry up and wait" kind of person.
July 9, 2004 - Still waiting! :) Only 38 more days!!
July 18, 2004 - It's a small world. Today at a swim meet where it was so incredibly HOT. I was talking with one of the moms. Our sons have been friends for a few months. Anyway, while I am complaining about the heat she asks if I have ever heard of Gastric Bypass? Can you believe it??? It turns out she had it done a year ago. Her before and after pictures were great. I hope I get to know her better. She seems to have a wealth of information and is even a member here.
July 19, 2004 - The surgery is exactly 4 weeks away today. I am really starting to think about this 24/7. Good thoughts and bad. The bad are really bad. For example, my husband and I drove past a cemetary the other day and, I couldn't help but
wonder where he would bury me if I died in surgery. So I asked. Poor thing never saw it coming. When I pushed him on it he said he thought back home in New Mexico. OK, there's family there. But, then I asked are you sure you are going to retire there? Are you going to buy 2 plots or 3? Why 3 he asks? I reply, "So you could be buried by me and then your next wife on the other side". Anyway after much conversation it ended on a funny note. That is one of the things I love best about my husband. He
can always make me laugh and feel better. He is the best security blanket in the world.
The crying at this point is alot. When I think of the kids, I almost instantly burst into tears. I know I am doing this for them and me but, if it goes wrong will they hate me? Will they be OK without the mother who loves them more than anything?
July 21, 2004 - Today I had my pysch. evaluation. That was very easy. I thought it would be different. Basically, she ran the test I had taken and, then asked me a few questions about my co-morbids and then had me explain the surgery to her. It took
about 25 minutes. She said, I was cleared and wished me good luck.
Later, I had my nutrition class. It was helpful. I had imagined a diet totally different though. Thank goodness I was wrong. I do however wish it had been a little more extensive. More foods listed, especially for the first stage. I know the point is, so we learn how to do it but, it would help my husband alot if he just had a list to go by for the first stage.
July 22, 2004 - I am feeling so much better about my decision to have this surgery. I feel peaceful now when I think about it and, I am no longer so panicky. I'm also getting really excited. I can't wait for my new life to start. It is going to be wonderful to do things with my family that I couldn't do before. I'm not sure what changed but, I am so thankful it did.
July 23, 2004 - Today I had the One-on-One with Dr. Ali. He was very nice and didn't seem to mind any of the questions we asked. We were with him for 45 minutes and never felt rushed.
July 27, 2004 - I went for my Upper GI today. The white stuff you have to drink is horrible. It smells like bananas and strawberries and then you drink it and yuck. It's just thick and chalky, with no real flavor. Gross!!! I also had my Galbladder ultrasound today as well. That was fine. A little painful when they push down, but bearable. All the pre-op testing is done now. Next, I will meet with my PCP for the final medical clearance after she looks at all the results of the pre-op testing.
August 1, 2004 - Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, it's August. I can't believe it's finally here. Only 15 more days and I'll be a loser!! I am very excited. However, I did have a panic attack in my dream this morning. I dreamt I was checking in for surgery, and there were so many people in line ahead of me that I was going to be late. I just knew they were going to cancel my surgery if they didn't hurry up. I remember being so mad I was stomping my feet. I woke up to the bed moving. Anxiety here I come!
August 7, 2004 - I'm in the single digits now, 9 days till surgery. Still surprisingly calm. I'm afraid my calmness has come at a price though. Now, it is my husband who is showing signs of stress and being nervous. I know there is stuff going through his mind he doesn't want to talk about or even think about happening. I know the day of surgery will be the hardest. I feel for him. I would go nuts in the waiting room, waiting to hear from the Dr. on how the surgery went. Please think good thoughts for him. He is a great guy!!
August 9, 2004 - Today has been stressful. This morning I called to make sure the clinic on base had sent all my tests to Lite Dimensions and it turns out the base forgot to run one. Now I have to wait and see what Dr. Ali says. I am praying I won't
have to reschedule my surgery. I have family coming in to take care of the kids. I don't know if they can adjust their plans. And of course this is the day I decide to stop caffeine so I don't have to deal with the headaches after surgery. Stress and horrible headaches not good either. Pray everything goes ahead as planned.
August 13,2004 - Well, the base pulled it together and got the test done in time. I called this afternoon and my surgery is at 7:30 am with a 5:00 am show time. I am so glad it is almost over. My parents and younger brother arrived today. Then on
Sunday my mother and father in-law will arrive. I'm glad to have such a great support system.
I have been pretty calm. Every once and a while I will get a little nervous but then something distracts me and I'm fine. My husband is showing huge signs of stress. I really feel for him. I can't imagine being in his shoes. Poor guy!
August 15, 2004 - Well, it is time to leave for the hotel. Then surgery in the morning. Starting to get a little nervous. Hands are a little shaky as I type this. I am keeping a postive attitude and believe everything will be fine.
This bowel prep--is for the birds. 2oz. of Milk of Magnesia tastes horrible. Yuck!!! It also made me sick to my stomach. And now 6 hours later I know why you need vaseline around. The burn has begun.
Next time I update I will be a Loser!!! :-)
August 16, 2004 - MONDAY DAY OF SURGERY--Woke up early, at 3 am. I had a 5 am show time but just couldn't sleep. Sat with my husband and just talked. I was still really calm. Finally, it was time to go to the hospital. After waiting in the check-in
area for 30 minutes (very nerve racking) I was lead back to admissions. From there I was shown to my room where I changed into my gown, went over some paper work with the nurse, and had some last minute blood tests drawn. Let me just say the blood gas test really, really hurts.
From there I was wheeled into the surgery holding area. Here is where the panic set in. At one point before receiving my happy drugs I thought about getting up and running. I was telling myself maybe I should diet one more time. Then the happy drugs arrived. Thank goodness!! They calmed me right down and I don't really remember much after that other than scooting onto the operating table and having the nurses tell me to have a good sleep.
I woke up in recovery and asked for pain meds. My left side was hurting. I asked twice for pain meds. and got them both times. Ahhh, drugs make everything bearable. Then the next thing I knew I was being wheeled into my room and I saw my husbands smiling face. I remember he looked so proud! What a great guy!!
The first day is kind of a blur but my husband wrote down some of the funny stuff I said. I still chuckle when he reads them. The rest of the day was spent sleeping and I remember walking to the end of the hall twice.
August 17, 2004 - Slept most of today. I did get up and walk 5 times though. These times I made it around the hall loop. No pain thank goodness.
August 18, 2004 - Feeling pretty good. The nurses say I am a model patient. Liquids started today. I am pretty dry mouthed. The liquids thing went well. Tomorrow I get some yogurt and jello. I also got my IV removed today. What a great feeling!!!
August 19, 2004 - Dr. says I'm going home today. Everything looks great!!!! My own bed here I come.
August 20, 2004 - First day home. I feel really good. Hard to believe I had major surgery. Walking, sipping, walking, sipping! Went to my daughters end of season BBq for swimming. I stayed about an hour. Felt great but was getting a little tired.
August 21, 2004 - Feel really great! I have stopped all pain meds. even during the night. I feel pretty much normal except for 6 small holes in my stomach and the amount I eat. I have also stopped napping and am walking about 1 to 1 1/2 miles spread out over three trips a day.
August 24, 2004 - Weight loss has stalled! This is very frustrating. 4 days now with no loss. I am going to go to weighing once a week like the board recommended.
August 28, 2004 - Still feel amazing! It's almost like I didn't have surgery. My walking is about 2 to 3 miles a day now spread out over 3 trips.
August 30, 2004 - Finally, the scale has moved! Thank goodness!! On another note, I am experiencing hunger. Head hunger, not the real thing. It seems to be showing up about evey 3 hours. Very weird feeling.
September 6, 2004 - The feeling of head hunger went away. Thank goodness. Today is the first day of puree foods. I can hardly wait. I am still feeling great! It's hard to
believe I ever had surgery. Gotta go, I'm going to go try a scrambled egg.
YUMMMM.
September 16, 2004 - Today is one month since surgery, I can't believe it!! I feel great and a few people have started to notice the weight loss and are commenting. I am down one clothing size already!!
Food so far is going pretty well. I have a hard time with eggs, though. Now, instead of scrambling them I eat them over-easy or mixed up like egg salad(I got this tip from the California board)they seem to go down OK, still uncertain about eggs though. All other foods seem to be OK so far.
September 18, 2004 - No more eggs!! I had eggs over-easy this morning and, spent 2 hours in horrible pain and throwing up off and on. I'm going to pass on eggs for a very long while. It was so bad I called the Dr. for advice.
September 19, 2004 - I feel amazing! I have lost 33 lbs. now and my energy level keeps going up. Today, I played tennis with my husband. We had soooo much fun. He couldn't believe how long I played. He said he was really tired but, there was no way he was going to quit before me. I can only imagine how much fun is ahead
of us!!!!
October 22, 2004 - Wow, I'm a little behind on my updating. I am 9 1/2 weeks out from surgery now and have lost 47 lbs. so far. I feel amazing!!! I have so much more energy and am excited to get out of bed everyday. My everyday chores don't even
bother me, I just fly right through them without getting all sweaty and exhausted for the rest of the day. Another thing I have noticed, I am always on the cold side now. This is a first!! I was always too hot before.
The eating is going good. So, far I can eat anything I have tried except eggs (they sit like a ton of bricks in my stomach now but, atleast I can keep them down). I still haven't tried anything with sugar and for now have no plans too. I don't care to find out what dumping feels like.
I can see the physical change in my body when I look at pictures. However, the reflection in the mirror has not changed. I still see myself as big as I was. I hope some day this changes.
November 4, 2004 - Things are going good. I am down 56 lbs. I feel really good. Except for I had two fainting spells about a week and a half ago but, so far nothing more has come of that. Lots of energy and love to go to the gym. That sounds so sick to say, I love the gym. Again, I thank the Dr. for the lobotomy. :-)
I have noticed that this month PMS is really bad. I never had it before surgery but this whole week has been really tense. My husband even commented, wanting to know who had pissed me off so bad. I hope this is a temporary thing and that the hormones will level out soon.
November 16, 2004 - Today is 3 months since surgery. I had set a goal to hopefully lose 60 lbs. but I didn't make it, I am 2 lbs. short. I am a little disappointed that I didn't make it. Oh well, I am still very happy about the surgery and would still do it again in a heart beat. I love the energy and confidence I have gained, even if I didn't meet my goal.
November 29, 2004 - Wow, today I have a total loss of 70 lbs. and my BMI is below 40 for the first time in 18 years, meaning I am no longer morbidly obese, I am severely obese. Also, with the loss today, I now have less than a hundred pounds to
lose. I never thought this would happen. I am soooooo happy. This is an
amazing tool.
December 13, 2004 - I am stuck at the same weight again this week. That makes 3 weeks now. I have upped my water intake, upped my protein, and changed and upped my exercise routine. I know this is a plateau and they happen but I have this little voice that keeps saying, "see thats it, this isn't going to work for you either." I'm trying soooooo hard to be rational but am scared to death. I can't stay at this weight for the rest of my life. I still have 98 lbs. to lose. Yes I feel better, have a better quality of life, look better but its not enough.
December 16, 2004 - The plateau has finally broke, thank goodness!!! I lost 5 lbs. this morning when I stepped on the scale, for a total loss so far of 75 lbs. I made the 4 month goal I set!!! Plateaus are very hard and I wish them on no one...
January 5, 2005 - I had a wonderful holiday. This is the first year ever I haven't gained weight over the holidays. I felt in control for the first time. Not only that but, there was no New Years Resolution to lose weight and exercise, as I am already doing both.
We went home for the holidays. Our families hadn't seen me since surgery. Most of the reactions were great and you could tell they were happy for me. There were a few reactions, however, I didn't see coming. Some of the family wouldn't look at me, talk to me, hug me hello, or even acknowledge I was there. I learned first hand that when you are no longer the fattest one in the family, those who are seem to hate you.
The best statement about my weight loss came from a friends daughter who is 7 years old. 7 year olds don't exaggerate, they tell it how they see it, so it really touched me.--One night at dinner she leaned over to her older sister and said, "have noticed Ms. Christie doesn't look like Ms. Christie anymore?" It was so sweet...
January 24, 2005 - Today is the day before Becky P's surgery. She is a very dear friend and I am hoping all goes well with her. I am her angel and am trying very hard to do a good job. I am getting a little nervous as her time comes closer. She will
have the same surgeon as me, Dr. Ali, but her's will be done Open. Mine was Lap. I am hoping her recovery is as smooth as mine. If you are reading this today or tomorrow please say a prayer for a surgery free of complications and painless recovery for Becky. Thanks!!
February 11, 2004 - I made it to the Century Club today. I have now lost a total of 101 lbs. I can't believe it. I am so happy and just feel amazing. I now wear an xl shirt and a size 18 pants. That is down from a 3x shirt and a 26 pant. I have 67 lbs. to goal and for the first time ever I know I will make it. It is no longer that out of reach. I love my new life!!
On a side note, my sweet husband bought me an MP3 player for the gym for the 100 lb. loss. He said I needed one since I am there so much and have been so devoted to exercise. He has just been so great through this whole process. He is one of my greatest blessings.
February 16, 2005 - I can't believe it has been 6 months already. Time seems to have flown by. I feel wonderful with lots of energy and I'm not lazy like I used to be. Maybe I wasn't really lazy, just burdened down with so much weight it was a huge
task to do anything. I feel as if I have gained back some of the life I thought was gone and fading at a fast rate. I actually feel my age, instead of 10 years older for the first time in years. I feel almost normal, like I fit in in society now.
February 28, 2005 - My plateau has broken. Thankgoodness!! However, I will add that I didn't get as bent out of shape over this one. On a side note, my BMI has gone from 49.9 to 34.6 as of today. That means I have gone from Morbidly Obese to just Obese. This is so very exciting!!
March 11, 2005 - Today, I had a cloud nine moment. I was at Starbuck's with my husband. We were ordering coffees. I said I wanted a NF, SF, Decaf Vanilla latte. Then my husband orders a White Choc. Mocha. The guy making the coffees asks if he wants his SF, NF also. I replied for my husband who was paying and said "no, he's normal." They guy said "well, you look pretty normal yourself." I could of hugged
him. He completely made my day.
Can it be?? Am I really normal to others now??? I am so happy others
see me this way. Now, I can't wait until I see myself as normal.
March 18, 2005 - I had to call 911 this morning. I was driving and got a severe pain in my back that came around to the front and was making it impossible to breathe or move. After being taken to the hospital via ambulance and being given pain meds.
for 12 hours. I was diagnosed with gall stones. Too many to count! I am going to see my PCM next week and start the process to have my gall bladder removed as recommended by the ER doctor.
March 19, 2005 - Another horrible attack last night. I don't know what is causing them as I have been on liquids all day and had not had anything for hours when the attack occurred. Thank goodness for Vicodin. It took the edge off.
March 20, 2005 - Admitted to hospital today with very severe gall bladder attack that Vicodin did nothing for. I am here until they can removed it. My gall bladder has become infected and I am scheduled to have emergency surgery on Tuesday. They
want 36 hours of antibiotics before operating. This is the pits!
March 23, 2005 - I am home. I'm tired and very sore. They were however able to do it Lapriscopic and also Dr. Ali performed the surgery. He is a great guy. He re-used two of my incisions from the RNY to cut down on the number of scars I had. Gotta
go rest!
March 27, 2005 - Re-admitted to hospital with complications from gall bladder surgery.
March 29, 2005 - Home once again from the hospital. Hope all stays well. I am looking forward to returning to a normal life. The surgery and illness really speed up weight loss this last two weeks. I lost 12 lbs. in ten days. This rapid loss has
really taken a toll on my skin.
April 11, 2005 - Back in the hospital. The re-occuring pain has now been figured out. It appears some stones passed out of the gall bladder before surgery and were left behind. I atleast am passing the stones on my own for now. I hope there aren't
anymore or I might have to have surgery again to get any remaining
stones.
April 16, 2005 - 8 month anniversary. I have now lost a total of 125 lbs. I can't believe it. I am shocked by the image I see of myself in photos. I am still waiting for the reflection in the mirror to catch up.
I am feeling better and hoping to return to normal life after my recent
gall bladder surgery.
June 2, 2005 - Wow, it sure has been awhile since I updated. Things are going great. I don't seem to have any more problems concerning my gall bladder. Thank goodness that was getting old.
This has been a milestone week for me. First, I am now considered a WLS success as I have lost 80% of my excess body weight. Yahoooo!! And second, my BMI is now in the just over weight category. I AM NO LONGER OBESE!!!!!! I am so happy I will never see that word in any combination in my medical records from here on out again.
June 14, 2005 - I was looking back over my profile and realized I haven't been putting any of the frustrating things in here. So, here we go. I can now tolerate eggs. However, ice cream even sugar free makes me barf. Also, onions are a huge no-no
for me. Oh my gosh, do they make me sick!! One other thing which I can't figure out is hamburger patties. If a pattie is pre-formed (i.e. McDonalds or store bought) they seem to get stuck in the pouch and I end up barfing, no matter how much chewing I do before swallowing. Now if I make a hamburger pattie from ground beef everything is fine. Goes down no problem??? These few quirks are still worth it.
On a much more difficult note. I am having self image problems. The excess skin is really bringing me down. I try so hard to see it as progress but I keep thinking what an idiot I was for gaining the weight in the first place. The weight gain ruined my skin and now I feel like I can never have a chance at normal. When I see myself naked I come to tears. I am also having a hard time allowing my husband to see me without
clothes or if I am naked, I really want the lights off. I just think he must be so repulsed at the site of all that saggy, old lady skin. He says, "he's not." I want so bad to believe. Well, there you have some of the good, bad, and ugly. Ask me if I would do this surgery again?? The answer is--in a heart beat. I wish I had done this before having my kids. The energy would have made me a different parent!! Not necessarily a better parent, just one who was more fun!
June 15, 2005 - Yay, the onederfuls!!! I made it! It actually happened yesterday but I wanted to wait to make sure. I officially weigh 199.5. No more two hundreds for me!!
Next milestone is goal--29.5 lbs. to go!!! I still can't believe it....
July 3, 2005 - I'm having such a bad day. I keep trying to shake it but I can't.
Yesterday, my daughter told me her little friend asked what was wrong with my arms? She wanted to know what had happened to them? Now I can't seem to get it out of my mind that I'm not fooling anyone. I feel like a freak show that everyone is probably looking at and wondering the same thing. My husband has been so good about listening but he just doesn't get it. He keeps telling me not to think about it or to think what my arms used to be like. I don't care what they used to look like, I care about what they look like now. Do I go to shamefully hiding in 3/4 sleeves, no matter how hot it is outside? Doesn't that make me a freak again? Will I ever not be a side show? It's either big flabs of hanging skin or Frankenstein scars, right? Both is going to make people talk, right?
Can you imagine if a 12 year old is asking what happened? What are the adults saying?
July 4, 2005 - Still not over the excess skin blues but am trying. I bought a swimsuit today so I can take the kids to the pool. It's a size 12. Can you believe that?? I still
hate my arms and legs, but what am I to do?? I did briefly contemplate wearing a wetsuit, but thought that would really draw the stares. Hahahaha!!! Oh well, I'm trying to be upbeat.
July 16, 2005 - 11 months out today! I can hardly believe how fast time has flown. Other than skin issues, all is great. I feel wonderful and am amazed at all that I can do almost effortlessly. For example, this week a friend and I took the kids to the beach. It was so easy to haul everything through the sand. Last summer I about had a heart attack doing the same thing.
August 13, 2005 - This week was not so good. I was admitted to the hospital with Acute Pancreas Titus. This was the worst thing I have experienced thus far in my life. I am so grateful it is over and hope to never experience it again. I am still very weak and tired. I pray to never have another attack again.The days I spent in the hospital were very enlightening and left me with much reflection time. You think you know who your friends are. But, it takes something like this, something serious to really show who cares.
August 16, 2005 - It's my Re-birthday, oh yeah!!!
I can't believe a year ago I was starting on such an amazing, life altering journey. I thought I knew how the year would go but I really had no idea at all. It has been amazing. I feel like I have gained years of life. I am more active than I had hoped or even dreamed I could ever be again. People treat me so different than when I was fat. They smile, chat, and go out of their way for me! Just crazy!! I am down 158 lbs. with 10 to go to goal. I am thrilled with these results! I do have a ton of excess skin but am coping for now. When I get to goal I will start the plastic surgery process.
September 16, 2005 - 13 month anniversary. I am either at a plateau or my weight has stabalized. I'm not sure which but for now am happy. I still have 9.5 lbs. to go to get to goal. I am wearing size 12 and very happy with this size. Now if only I didn't have the hanging skin. My arms bother me the most as those are the most noticed by others. I catch people staring and a few of my daughters' friends have asked her what happened to me. I will get those fixed as soon as I know for sure my weight has stabalized. Well, hanging in there for now. No pun intended!!
September 19, 2005 - Today I was selected as SYSK (Someone you should know) from the CA board. Here is what Darlene posted......
Now I would like you to meet the person I chose for our first sysk. She has posted here a few times and has an incredibile journey. She is quite the inspiration. I wish I was as diligent with keeping my profile updated as she has been.
So with that, please get to know Christie G.
I am so honored and can't believe I was selected. Everyone has been so great, I am overwhelmed.
September 26, 2005 - What a great week! I finally broke my 6 week plateau with a 2.5 lb. loss. Maybe it was all the good vibes coming from all the support of being SYSK??
October 16, 2005 - 14 months out now and only 4 pounds from goal. I am sooo happy I had this surgery.
November 1, 2005 - Things have been rough lately. I have been in and out of the hospital many times in the past 2 months. It seems a stone was left behind when my gall bladder was taken out. It is causing all kinds of problems and horrible pain. My
GI team has referred me to Dr. Lo at Cedars. He is one of only a few Dr's that can do and have a scope long enough to do an ERCP on gastric bypass patients. I am schedule for Nov. 7th. I really hope all goes well and he can reach where he needs to be. I am not too excited about the other methods of retrieving the stone. Cross your fingers for me!!
November 10, 2005 - The ERCP was unsuccessful on Monday. On Tuesday, I was re-admitted to the hospital with horrible pain. Came home Wednesday and now today was re-admitted.
November 13, 2005 - I am home from the hospital. I am now on TPN. That basically means I am eating nothing by mouth. I am getting all nutrition through an IV. We are resting my pancreas in hopes it will heal and I won't need surgery. At least out of
this horrible experience I made goal and am even below it. I am 6 lbs. below and hope to not lose anymore weight until my excess skin is removed. I now have no idea when my PS will be as I need to recover completely from this first.
November 16, 2005 - I am 15 months out now. I am 6 lbs. below my Dr's goal. I believe once I am better and start eating again I will maintain this or even gain a little back.
December 4, 2005 - My family and I took family pictures for the first time ever. I have always hated the way I looked before so I would avoid them at all costs.
December 7th, 2005 - Today I had my Plastic Surgery Consult. I saw Dr. Ronald Rosso in Torrance, California. I chose him, as a friend of mine used him for Tummy, Arms, and Legs. He did a super job on her. And then he did Breast and Tummy on another friend and those were super as well. The consult went well. He agreed my arms and legs were in need. I have chose to do these first as they are the most visible to everyone else and bug me the most. Then maybe down the road I will apply to my insurance for a Tummy Tuck and Breast Lift.
Here is a break down of my costs if you are interested.
I am having a Bilateral Medial Thigh Lift and Arm Lift.
Dr.s Fee ---$5000
Facility Fee ---$1680
Anesthesia Fee ---$1500
Overnight Care Facility ---$400
Grand Total ---$8580
My surgery is scheduled for January 3rd, 2006. I am already thinking about it almost all the time. I am really ready for my arms to be done but am wavering on my legs. I am so scared of the pain I have read about that comes with them. What if it is more than I can handle? I didn't really have any pain with my GBP and when my gallbladder came out it really wasn't that bad either. Those were both Lapriscopic and this is real
cutting. I'll keep you posted if I chicken out on the thighs or not.
January 2, 2006 - Well, tomorrow is my first round of plastic surgery (arms and thighs). I can't believe how fast it got here. I have before pics on my website if you are interested. I will try and keep them current so others can see and learn from
the process. I am still nervous about the procedures but have calmed down some. I'm sure tomorrow will be a different story. Taking the before pics really helped to put things into prospective for me. I was convinced of the arms all along but waivered on the legs. Now after studing the leg pictures constantly almost since they were taken I feel better about doing them. Wish me luck!!!
January 7, 2006 - I made it and I did it. I had thighs and arms done on Tuesday, Jan 3rd. It wasn't near as bad as I had prepared myself for. I can move around on my own, get up and down by myself, and really haven't been that uncomfortable except with the toilet. The drains came out on Friday and I also stopped using
the Vicodin on Friday as well after just 3 days. I am just using regular tylenol as needed now. I think my arms looks so much better. I had hoped for more on the legs but we will see what happens and what the surgeon says when I see him again on Thursday.
January 9, 2006 - I have had one of the incisions open up just a tiny bit. It is at the top of the T in the left leg (about a 1/2 inch). I believe it opened from stress there and also so maybe some extra fluid could drain out. It seems to be seeping a little. Even though this happened, everyday just gets better and better. I only needed tylenol twice yesterday and not at all so far today. Sleeping is fine. I can sleep pretty normal just have to use caution when turning so both legs move together. No problems with arms either (knock on wood).
January 11, 2006 - Well, after seeing the side by side legs pictures, I realize a revision is most definitely in my future. I believe the only way to get rid of that extra skin on the legs is going to be taking the incision line down to the knees. I had hoped to avoid this but there doesn't seem to be a way. I would much rather deal with the scar than the extra skin I have now. I am not looking forward to another leg surgery at all. It has not been too bad but the trapped in the house thing is really starting to get to me. I do have to say though, Thank God for friends. I don't know where I would be without them (Becky and Michelle). My friends are forced to talk for
hours on the phone to me to keep me company and give encouragement through this disappointment.
I see Dr. Rosso tomorrow afternoon and we will see what he says when he sees my legs. I know by the visit last week he is going to be completely shocked that it doesn't look a ton better. I'll update after that appointment.
Feb. 7, 2006 - Ok, so I've been terrible about updating. It has been a hell of a month and recovery from this surgery.
I did talk with the Dr. about the legs and a revision. He said this is only phase one of two on the legs. I guess I was thinking the butt was more optional as opposed to a must to finish everything off. I am doing OK for now on how they look. They are better but no where near what I was hoping for. I will see what happens when all the surgeries are done.
My recovery from the thighs has been hell. On day 10 the incisions opened up in the panty line area. Then about a week later my body started rejecting all the stitches in the panty line area. No where else, just the panty line. The Dr. had to remove them. Oh my gosh this really hurt!!! We then gave it 2 weeks to heal and no budging. the panty line area is really fighting it. So the Dr. had to put in 17 normal, undisolvable
stitches. After about 2 days this really made a difference. Before the stitches, I was stuck in bed with minimal movement and lots of pain. I feel really bad for my family as they had to wait on me hand and foot. But they did and were great about it!!! Not to mention I was going crazy with cabin fever and regret over having the surgery in the first place. Lots of second guessing occurred during this time. It's weird because before gastric bypass lying in bed or on the couch watching TV all day would have been great. Now, it just sucked and really wore me down. I don't believe I have ever been that depressed before.
It is now a little more than a week since the stitches were put in and I feel almost normal. Things in the panty line are finally healing and I can get out of bed and am having very little discomfort. I just have to make sure I don't zig when I should zag. I have even been able to drive and go to a few stores this week. Matter of fact, today I went to Sam's and Costco really quick with Becky. Well, technically not too quick, as I am still moving kinda slow. It was great to be out and doing things we used to do before I did my arms and legs. And I must say here, Thank God for Becky or I don't know what insane asylum I would be in. She came by many times and spent the day with me visiting. And then there are the hours she amused me on the phone almost daily sometimes for 7 hours straight. Becky is a true blessing in my life. I don't know if I could have made it through all I have had to without her. Ok, that is tearing me up so i'll move on.
On a side note, the arms are great and I am very pleased with them. I'll have to go now. The chair at the computer isn't the greatest and is killing my butt. I'll try and be better about updating.
February 21, 2006 - Today was the best. I really felt normal today. Becky and I had a whole day of shopping just like the old days before I started plastics. It was great, I
bought my first two piece swimming suit since I was like 11. I am so excited for my tummy tuck and breast lift so I can stay put in the suit. No floating devices if you know what I mean. :-) The most exciting part of the suits is the tops are 4/6 and the bottom is 8/10. I can't believe my body fits in those sizes. It completely is mind boggling. On another happy note, I also shopped in the juniors dept. today and not for my daughter but for me. I bought two pairs of juniors capris size 11. Just Crazy!!! And if it couldn't get any better, I got to share all this with Becky. She also bought a two piece suit and shopped in juniors with me.
The next surgery for me is the tummy tuck. It will be done on March 29th by Dr. Rosso, of course. I just love him, he has the best bedside manner ever and never seems put out by pages or tons of questions! Wish me luck this surgery is easier than the thigh lift!!!!
April 4, 2006 - The tummy tuck went well. I am 6 days out. Not having any pain but still have the pesky drains. I can't wait for those to come out. I love the new tummy. I can't believe I can see my belly button and the shape of my tummy is great. I am so pleased! I have pics up on picturetrail if interested.
April 7, 2006 - My drains came out yesterday. What a relief! They weren't painful, just a nuisance, always in the way it seemed.
Today I saw pictures of the skin removed from the tummy tuck. I was completely shocked. There was enough there to feed a family of 10, no joking. The skin was next to a 6 inch ruler which looked very, very small. I can't believe there was that much extra and how much damage I have done to my body. What was I thinking and why did I think it was OK to ruin my body like that???? Why did I keep eating and keep letting myself gain? I wish when I was a teenager someone could have shown me what I was doing to my body and the hell I would go through to try and fix it(kind of a Christmas present and future kind of thing). I can't believe I stupidly chose food over self image and happiness. The ironic thing is I thought food was making me happy. Instead it was stealing my chance at normal. I know now, I will never be normal in any definition. Just think about it....we gave up our chances at normal for food. Food is good but is it really that good?
April 14, 2006- I am two weeks and two days out from the tummy tuck. I am feeling great and doing very well. So far no complications with this surgery. I have been off pain meds since day 8.
For anyone looking into a tummy tuck I recommend it highly. The difference is drastic and the results are almost instant. Every day when I take the binder off I am impressed with how much the swelling has gone down. I can't wait until I am 6 months or even 12 months out. If I am pleased now I can only imagine how pleased I will be then.
On a side note, I have submitted for my breasts and am hoping to hear that they were approved soon. After them I am taking a plastic surgery break. The surgeon says I will need a butt lift to finish the thighs but I need a break from surgeries and time to save, in case insurance won't pay for it.
April 26, 2006 - Triwest has asked for more information on the breast reduction I have submitted for. They want documentation from my PCM about the rashes, what was used to treat them, and that they are recurring. They also want the plastic surgeon to re-do the pictures he took to include my shoulders so they can see
the grooving from my bra. I have appointments Monday and Tuesday of next
week to gather all that info. I wish Triwest didn't make us jump through so many hoops. I have a friend who says when they approve GBP, it should come with a blanket approval for plastic surgery since most of us need it after losing so much weight. I agree of course!!!
April 29, 2006 - I am one month out of my tummy tuck today. I am very happy so far but can tell already as the swelling goes down that I will need revisions. I know that is normal with the amount of skin that was removed. I can't wait until I am
through all the surgeries and I can just get used to looking semi normal.
May 1, 2006 - Got bad news today from one of my best friends. She had submitted for a breast reduction about a week after me and Triwest flat out denied her. She didn't get the second request for information like I did. I feel really bad. She is
very angry at Triwest of course, and it seemed at me also. I am questioning whether our friendship will be changed by this? I hope it survives unchanged as she is very important to me.
May 2, 2006 - I saw my surgeon today. He did the new pictures that Triwest had requested. And looked over the documentation from my medical records that my PCM sent for him to give to Triwest. He says he doesn't see anyway they can deny the breast reduction but I am still holding my breath and keeping my fingers crossed. The staff said they would mail everything in the morning and then we should hear back in about two weeks. I had originally hoped to be having the reduction in about two weeks. Oh well!
Now onto a WOW moment. While in my surgeons office he asked to see my before GBP pics. I showed him and he was blown away. He even asked for copies for his own records. While I was taking them out of the holder for him, his assistant saw a picture of my daughter. They both went on and on about how beautiful she is. I smiled and said thank goodness she doesn't take after me. None of my genes in her. My surgeon looked me right in the eye and his voice changed a little and he said, are you kidding me? She completely takes after her mother. Then he smiled, winked
and was out the door. It wasn't until later that I realized he was saying I was beautiful like my daughter. Me pretty??? How weird it is to hear said, let alone think of people thinking that about me. Just to make sure I understood. I ran it by my husband who of course agreed. He has always been the biggest flier of my flag. I love you Ed!!!
May 18, 2006 - I have this silly ritual that I do almost every day. It seems that on the days I don't make my bed, I end up having a horrible day. So you would think I would make the bed daily, right? Well, yesterday I was lazy and I only straightened the bed. Boy did I pay for that!!!
It started with a call from the plastic surgeons office saying my insurance company, Triwest has again asked for more information on my breast reduction. This is the 3rd request and none of this info. was requested on the previous requests. They seem to be stalling in hopes of me giving up or PCSing. Bad news but not too horrible right? Just stressful and annoying.
Well, then I go to the Dr. for my yearly Pap and she finds a lump in my right breast. At first and for several hours after it didn't really impact me, as I was still so pissed about Triwest and the run around. Then last night it hit me! I might possibly have cancer. It seems so ironic to have gone through everything I have and then to maybe have to face something like cancer. Will I be fighting Triwest for something other than a breast reduction soon? I know God doesn't give you more than you can handle but I don't think I can handle much more. I feel as if I am at a breaking point. I'm trying really hard not to panic and think positive. I have an ultrasound scheduled for next week. And then the following week I follow-up with my Dr. to go over the results. So maybe in two weeks I will know something. As you know, if you have read my profile,
I don't do well with the hurry up and wait aspect of life. If you are reading this, please send positive thoughts and prayers my way. Thanks!
May 21, 2006 - I was cleaning out my closet today and came across a pair of capri's that I wore before surgery. I thought at first they were bed sheets. How sad, huh???
May 23, 2006 - Today I go for the ultrasound of the lump that was found in my breast last Wednesday. I am feeling a little panicked. Worst is knowing I won't get any results until next week sometime. I hate the waiting! I just keep telling myself it
is probably just a swollen lympnoid from my arm lift surgery in January. The good thing is I lost all that weight. I'm sure the Dr. would have never found it 177 lbs. ago.
On a side note, I took a letter my PCM wrote to my surgeon yesterday. This is the response to the latest request for more info. from Triwest regarding my breast reduction. We (the surgeon and I) believe my PCM covered everything in this letter. We will see what happens now. I know the letter was faxed in yesterday. So, we will see how long it takes Triwest to come back with an answer this time. I'm guessing two weeks as that has been the standard so far. I am hoping to know something by June
5th. We'll see....
May 29, 2006 - Two months out from the tummy tuck. Here is a before and after in my swimming suit. Very happy with the difference!
June 12, 2006 - My mom arrived yesterday. She has decided to have a gastric bypass also. She will be using Dr. Ali. Her surgery is scheduled for June 15th. I hope all goes as well for her as it has for me.
Today, I also found out that Triwest denied my breast reduction. The denial letter doesn't give a reason though so we are having to go through another office to see why it was denied. Very weird. My Dr. thinks it is a stalling technique. I am very disappointed.
June 15, 2006 - My mom came through surgery great. She is now on the losing side!!!
June 19, 2006 - My mom seems upset with me. She seems to be blaming me for her having surgery. She and my Dad say I misrepresented how much pain there was and how hard the whole ordeal is. Hopefully, this will pass.
June 21, 2006 - The breast ultrasound didn't show anything. My PCM is sending me to a breast specialist as she can still feel the lump.
Today is a very sad day for me. My best friend leaves for her new duty station. I am going to miss her so much....
We leave for vacation tomorrow. I am so in need of one with everything going on. I feel like I am going to snap mentally at any point.
July 27, 2006 - I saw the breast specialist yesterday. He ordered a mammogram and that was done this morning. Everything came out OK, Thank goodness!!!There wasn't any sign of cancer he said. We are going to follow up again in 4 months and see if
there is any new developements.
August 15, 2006 - I just came home from a 4 day stay at the hospital. Pancreatitus again. I really hoped it was gone, since I hadn't had an attack in 9 months. It sure seems I am going to hell in a hand basket lately. Is it just me or is it drama,
drama, and more drama with me?
August 16, 2006 - Wow today is my 2 year surgery anniversary. I can't believe it is here already while at the same time I can't believe how far I have come and all I have had to over come in such a short time. What a journey. The easy way out my
ass. Let's kill the next news report and person who tells us that. As you can tell by reading my profile it hasn't all been easy and am sure that won't change. I will say I am a little nervous going into this 3rd year. I have heard this is when about 10-20 pounds are gained back. I just don't want that to happen and I will try my darndest to make sure of that. I know if I stick to the program I should be fine. I do find myself
cheating every once and awhile and there aren't consequences like before. This scares me a little. I just keep telling myself not to let old habits back into my life and to stay the course.
I want to make a note here about the two rocks that got me through to this far and I'm sure beyond!! First....My husband, he has always believed in me no matter what. I would not be where I am today without his love and much needed support. When I would get down or discouraged with this journey, he always picked me up and pushed me forward.
Second....Becky. She has been there through thick and thin, literally. Always listening, offering advice, and being super supportive. I would be really lost and lonely without her. A true blessing of a best friend. (Also Becky, thanks for remembering my anniversary and thanks for the beautiful flowers!)
November 29, 2006 - Everything is going good with me. There have been many ups and downs but I am hanging tough. This is not the easy life. But then, is any life the easy life???
If you are reading my profile and considering gastric by-pass please feel free to email me. I will tell you the truth, or in other words the down and dirty. This not a quick fix that will fix everything in your life. You have to fight to stay thin and healthy. If only I could have been this committed before surgery, I wouldn't have had to have surgery!!!
Starting BMI--49.9
Day of surgery--338 lbs.
Week 1----------318.5 -19.5
Week 2----------316 -22
Week 3----------312.5 -25.5
Week 4----------310 -28
1 month---------307.5 -30.5
Week 5----------305 -33
Week 6----------303.5 -34.5
Week 7----------301 -37
Week 8----------296 -42 (Ahhh, the 200's.)
2 month---------294 -44
Week 9----------292.5 -45.5
Week 10---------288 -50
Week 11---------284.5 -53.5
Week 12---------282 -56
3 month---------280 -58
Week 14---------274 -64
Week 15---------268 -70
Week 16---------268 -70 (1st plateau--bummer)
Week 17---------268 -70
4 month---------263 -75
Week 18---------261 -77
Week 19---------Christmas Vacation
Week 20---------257.5 -80.5
Week 21---------254 -84
5 month---------254 -84 (Oh no, not another plateau)
Week 23---------248.5 -89.5
Week 24---------245 -93
Week 25---------242 -96
Week 26---------237 -101 CENTURY CLUB--YAHOOOO!!!
6 month---------237 -101
Week 27---------237.5 -100.5 (1st gain--what's up with this?)
Week 28---------234.5 -103.5
Week 29---------231 -107
Week 30---------229 -109
Week 31---------In hospital--Emergency Gall bladder surgery
Week 32---------In hospital--Complications from surgery
Week 33---------217 -121
Week 34---------213.5 -124.5
8 month---------213 -125
Week 35---------213 -125
Week 36---------211 -127
Week 37---------211 -127
Week 38---------208 -130
9 month---------210 -128 (Ugghhhhh!!! a gain-oh,no)
Week 40---------205 -133
Week 41---------204 -134
Week 42---------202.5 -135.5
Week 43---------200 -138
10 month--------199.5 -138.5 The onederfuls!!!!
Week 44---------198 -140
Week 45---------196 -142
Week 46---------196 -142
Week 47---------193.5 -144.5
11 month--------193.5 -144.5
Week 48---------191.5 -146.5
Week 49---------190 -148
Week 50---------189 -149
Week 51---------185.5 -152.5
Week 52---------180 -158
12 month--------180 -158
13 month--------179.5 -158.5
14 month--------174 -164
15 month--------164 -174
16 month--------161.5 -176.5
17 month--------163.5 -174.5 (not bad for after surgery)
18 month--------163.5 -174
19 month--------168 -170
20 month--------164 -174
21 month--------167 -171
22 month--------168 -170
23 month--------165.5 -172.5
24 month--------164 -174
