Mum2Boys
New Member
Posts: 11
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: 8/18/14
Surgeon: Dr. Charlotte Hodges
|
Post by Mum2Boys on Sept 6, 2014 13:19:58 GMT -5
Thanks everyone.
One thing I think I have come to realize, which I never had before, is that I had a really strong emotional connection to food. I would never have said that food was my best friend or my comfort, but I am starting to begrudgingly realize that it may have been true.
The time span from my first consult to my surgery was five weeks. That is really fast. But I wanted it fast. The way I saw things, I couldn't live as unhealthy as I was before. My highest was 297.5 and I have lost 80lbs on my own by working out and once I had kids I got heavy again. But this time I was older and started having other health problems such as knee and back problems that made physical activity really difficult. I have a 2 and 5 year old who hated that I was so immobile. They are the reason I was willing to do this. The only reason basically. My 5 yr old calls this "flat surgery". So I can get "flat" like him and be more able to be up and doing fun stuff with him. So while I wanted it fast bc I felt I didn't have a choice and now that it's done I can't go back....I am in mourning I guess??
My surgeon is from Barker Bariatric. She's really amazing. I heard she was one of the best women in the country who do this surgery. And barker is very highly regarded in Texas. I chose the type after some research and they seemed to think that was the best choice for me. They called the DS "the closest thing to a cure". Dr. Hodges' husband had gastric bypass and she said they still have a normal life.....go our to eat, etc. and so I was comforted knowing I would be "normal".
When it comes right down to it.....I guess bc my eating was so emotional, I never weakly said no to any type of food. I could never eat a huge volume at once, but I grazed all day. If I ordered a pizza I could max eat two slices, but I drank dr. Pepper all day and night and as soon as I was hungry again I'd graze that pizza till it was gone. So not eating and being told stuff I'd out of the question is hitting me hard emotionally.....yet I have no choice. That's a good thing. Bc if it were up to me I'd be off to get a burger and fries right now!!! I guess I needed to be saved from myself.
My back story is this: I grew up in Dallas.....then after college I moved to Los Angeles and lost a bunch of weight. Went thru a depression and regained and moved to Maine and lost again. Then got married and had two kids. So we decided to move back to Dallas. The minute I got back I was screwed. I had a very unhappy childhood here and left for a reason and coming back brought all the bad feelings back....and the issues (alcoholic, abusive father geographically close again) and food was my outlet.
The other two times I lost weight was from physical activity. I still ate what I wanted but I didn't want to sabotage myself. It was just a very different scenario. Didn't feel the least bit restrictive or prohibitive.
Yesterday I went to get my hair done and on a whim got my brows done. Turns out the awesome esthetician had a close friend who had the DS a year ago. She had lots of knowledge abt it and it was the first person I got to speak to in person. I felt that was a God moment, bc I needed that.
Thanks again. All of your posts have been really awesome. Xxx, Marlo
|
|
Mum2Boys
New Member
Posts: 11
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: 8/18/14
Surgeon: Dr. Charlotte Hodges
|
Post by Mum2Boys on Sept 6, 2014 13:26:37 GMT -5
Forgot this question.....I don't think I have a copy of my surgical report. Would it be with the papers they gave me when they released me from hospital? Or do I need to ask the surgeons for it?
One last thing.....as I said I went to barker Bariatric. They tell us that no matter which one of them does the surgery, they are ALL considered our surgeons. So they really work in tandem that way.
|
|
|
Post by kittykatkris on Sept 6, 2014 20:00:50 GMT -5
Hey there I dont have any answers for you but I just wanted to say thank you for what you said. I am sitting here going thru the boards because I was second guessing myself and this surgery. I do not have a set date yet. But my seminar is the 9th. And then I can schedule a one on one with Dr Roslyn and I have a hunch its going to be quick (you know us ladies and our hunches) Well I had it my head ok so if I get this ds surgery I can what never eat PIZZA or Pasta or Sugar again!! Like what the crap! I have a papa johns pizza sitting on my counter right now(granted my man really was craving some papa johns but that didnt stop me from having two slices) But I have PCOS so carbs are not good for me. My body just does not handle or process them the way a normal persons body would. So I was just reading all these posts and actually getting a little skidish of the surgery. And was thinking of whether or not I should follow through.
But 90% of my depression, my quality of life, the reasons I dont want to go do things socially, or see family members or friends I havent in awhile, or go to church or whatever is because of my weight and the low self esteem and the way I view myself. Not to mention all the medical issues that have exploded on me recently.
So I just wanted to say thank you. Your last post just like reached out and shook me. It is exactly how I have been feeling and didnt even know it. It was a huge wake up call and I seriously just wanted to thank you.
I think this surgery will really help. I am not saying I do not have self control I do. But for the rest of my life? to never fall of the wagon? Be able to eat exactly the way I should with my fiance? And future kids? (for me when dieting or changing eat habits if I messed up or fell of the wagon once it was like a snowball affect I barely ever recover and get back on track til Ive gained 30 lbs again and its out of control)
I just dont see myself having the ability to stay on track without the surgery, without the factor of the surgery being there that you physically need to eat a certain way or suffer the consequences....plus with the benefits of the surgery being able to be seen more clearly. Like eating properly and working out and focusing with the surgery would reap way more results then me without the surgery and with pcos.
I hope all that makes sense. Either way I just wanted to say thank you. And if you need anything just ask. And honestly wanted to ask if I could keep in touch with you as well since you just recently went through surgery. Kitty
|
|
|
Post by jpcello on Sept 7, 2014 5:33:20 GMT -5
Forgot this question.....I don't think I have a copy of my surgical report. Would it be with the papers they gave me when they released me from hospital? Or do I need to ask the surgeons for it? You generally need to ask specifically for your surgical report. Recognizing that you are an emotional eater is a great first step. There's nothing wrong with talking to a professional if you feel you need that level of support.
|
|
|
Post by newyorkbitch on Sept 7, 2014 6:54:07 GMT -5
But what is the name of the surgeon who actually did your DS? I think the concern here is that you used a surgeon who does not do the DS or is inexperienced with the DS. That is why people are suggesting you get your surgical report.
|
|
|
Post by illinids2 on Sept 7, 2014 7:22:31 GMT -5
Regarding normal eating, you will be able to eat anything you want it will just take time to get there. Note: when I say eat anything you want you have to realize with food choices come consequences. ..that fact doesn't change with the ds, but things will affect you differently than before surgery. Two points:
1. Protein first and if you get 30 grams or so in a meal, then have some carbs if still hungry...is the rule...btw you won't do 3 meals anymore but will eat small meals every 1-2 hours. 2. By eating anything you want it is like life..must be in moderation. I eat pizza, crust and all, veggies, bread products (not a lot), potatoes, pasta and yes desserts....I am a year out and I eat more carbs than many vets would say I should, but I also eat at least 200 grams of protein daily.. I am watching closely the impact of my diet choices and I adjust as I see anything impacting negatively (cause stomach pain or if I see weight gain trend).
Also, some foods still cause problems but this is very individual. Tomatoes, raw, make me ill...cooked in a sauce they are fine. Somebody posted the other day about spinach killing them but I haven't had issue with it. Lot of trial and error and things continually chsnge.
You will eat normal foods again. Fear not, it will just take a while.
|
|
|
Post by Joanne on Sept 7, 2014 7:27:52 GMT -5
But what is the name of the surgeon who actually did your DS? I think the concern here is that you used a surgeon who does not do the DS or is inexperienced with the DS. That is why people are suggesting you get your surgical report. She has in her profile a Dr Hodges. I never heard of her as a DS surgeon. I have heard of Barker...none of it good. Mum - we're asking about your surgeon and a copy of your report because we're not familiar with your surgeon, and I doubt she has the DS experience you think she does. Please understand no one is saying this to make you feel bad, what's done is done - but it just makes us want to look a little deeper into what's going on, to be able to better help you.
|
|
|
Post by newyorkbitch on Sept 7, 2014 7:44:28 GMT -5
From what I can find, Dr. Hodges does not seem to be board certified.
|
|
|
Post by illinids2 on Sept 7, 2014 8:05:41 GMT -5
From what I can find, Dr. Hodges does not seem to be board certified. Barataria Surgeon certified or MD in general? How can somebody in the US do surgery if not certified?
|
|
|
Post by Joanne on Sept 7, 2014 8:08:11 GMT -5
From what I can find, Dr. Hodges does not seem to be board certified. Agree, I just looked up her license with the Texas medical board. She is not board certified. She hasn't been in practice that long.
|
|
|
Post by Joanne on Sept 7, 2014 8:10:31 GMT -5
From what I can find, Dr. Hodges does not seem to be board certified. Although, the head of the practice, Dr Wade Barker, has plenty of complaints and actions against him by the Texas Medical Board. You can search / find it here: reg.tmb.state.tx.us/OnLineVerif/Phys_ReportVerif_new.asp
|
|
|
Post by newyorkbitch on Sept 7, 2014 8:32:06 GMT -5
|
|
|
Post by newyorkbitch on Sept 7, 2014 8:44:19 GMT -5
Any licensed medical doctor can practice medicine in this country. You can be a licensed medical doctor without doing a residency for example. To be board certified, you need to do advanced training in a specialty (such as surgery) and then pass rigorous board exams to become board certified.
Dr. Hoges is not board certified in surgery. She may not be eligible yet (which means she is inexperienced) or she may have failed her board exams. Either way…I would never use a surgeon who is not board certified.
There is no board certification for bariatric surgery. There are some new associations which give certificates, such as the ABOM, but these are themselves too new to be of much use, and in the case of the ABOM, there is only ONE surgeon on their board. It is not an organization that deals with bariatric surgery, rather bariatric medicine.
There are associations of bariatric surgeons, but these are not certifications. Perhaps eventually bariatric surgery will have its own board certification - for example reproductive endocrinology did not have its own board until fairly recently, but the specialty grew and grew and eventually it became necessary. Prior to that, reproductive endocrinologist were either gynecologists or endocrinologists.
But in any case…the first step for a surgeon is board certification in surgery. And then for bariatrics, a whole lot of training and experience - which Dr. Hodges doesn't have. The website even says she is "Barker trained."
I don't say these things to upset her patient - I want people to be really informed and aware so that they choose a surgeon very, very carefully.
|
|
|
Post by Joanne on Sept 7, 2014 8:48:28 GMT -5
Any licensed medical doctor can practice medicine in this country. You can be a licensed medical doctor without doing a residency for example. To be board certified, you need to do advanced training in a specialty (such as surgery) and then pass rigorous board exams to become board certified. Dr. Hoges is not board certified in surgery. She may not be eligible yet (which means she is inexperienced) or she may have failed her board exams. Either way…I would never use a surgeon who is not board certified. There is no board certification for bariatric surgery. There are some new associations which give certificates, such as the ABOM, but these are themselves too new to be of much use, and in the case of the ABOM, there is only ONE surgeon on their board. It is not an organization that deals with bariatric surgery, rather bariatric medicine. There are associations of bariatric surgeons, but these are not certifications. Perhaps eventually bariatric surgery will have its own board certification - for example reproductive endocrinology did not have its own board until fairly recently, but the specialty grew and grew and eventually it became necessary. Prior to that, reproductive endocrinologist were either gynecologists or endocrinologists. But in any case…the first step for a surgeon is board certification in surgery. And then for bariatrics, a whole lot of training and experience - which Dr. Hodges doesn't have. The website even says she is "Barker trained." I don't say these things to upset her patient - I want people to be really informed and aware so that they choose a surgeon very, very carefully. Agree. The link you shared above also has Barker's board certification listed as revoked. Not sure about Hodges scenario, but in my experience typically those that are lacking a certain amount of experience say "Board Eligible", meaning they are working on the required hours and waiting to sit for the next boards. I dont see her listed as that, but not sure if anything can be concluded in that regard. Like you, I look for board certified physicians for any of my healthcare needs.
|
|
|
Post by illinids2 on Sept 7, 2014 9:03:14 GMT -5
I guess I have never gone to a PHysician of any kind that wasn't board certified so I don't fathom the concept of doing so...or how that person would have any kind of practice.
|
|
|
Post by Joanne on Sept 7, 2014 10:30:34 GMT -5
I guess I have never gone to a PHysician of any kind that wasn't board certified so I don't fathom the concept of doing so...or how that person would have any kind of practice. Because board certification isrnt required to practice medicine, and I think lots of people don't know what it means or how to check. Here is an explanation from the ABMA Medical specialty certification in the United States is a voluntary process. While medical licensure sets the minimum competency requirements to diagnose and treat patients, it is not specialty specific. Board certification—and the Gold Star—demonstrate a physician’s exceptional expertise in a particular specialty and/or subspecialty of medical practice. The Gold Star signals a board certified physician’s commitment and expertise in consistently achieving superior clinical outcomes in a responsive, patient-focused setting. Patients, physicians, healthcare providers, insurers and quality organizations look for the Gold Star as the best measure of a physician’s knowledge, experience and skills to provide quality healthcare within a given specialty. www.abms.org/about_board_certification/means.aspx
|
|
|
Post by meq815 on Sept 7, 2014 11:09:11 GMT -5
I get it. I had to do a five day liquid diet preop, and felt I had lost a best friend. I mourned food from that day on. That, and the trauma of surgery, buyers remorse, etc, make depression very real. It gets better. I promise.
|
|
|
Post by illinids2 on Sept 7, 2014 11:15:00 GMT -5
I guess I have never gone to a PHysician of any kind that wasn't board certified so I don't fathom the concept of doing so...or how that person would have any kind of practice. Because board certification isrnt required to practice medicine, and I think lots of people don't know what it means or how to check. Here is an explanation from the ABMA Medical specialty certification in the United States is a voluntary process. While medical licensure sets the minimum competency requirements to diagnose and treat patients, it is not specialty specific. Board certification—and the Gold Star—demonstrate a physician’s exceptional expertise in a particular specialty and/or subspecialty of medical practice. The Gold Star signals a board certified physician’s commitment and expertise in consistently achieving superior clinical outcomes in a responsive, patient-focused setting. Patients, physicians, healthcare providers, insurers and quality organizations look for the Gold Star as the best measure of a physician’s knowledge, experience and skills to provide quality healthcare within a given specialty. www.abms.org/about_board_certification/means.aspI fully understand the requirements...I guess I am just spoiled as I live in an area where we have an excellent medical system and people just don't practice without certification...at least none that I have seen. We have choices and people around here won't go to people that aren't board certified
|
|
|
Post by Girlrocker on Sept 7, 2014 11:49:58 GMT -5
Hi, first, please know the surgeon discussion is definitely meant to help and support you the best way possible,because people here really care. And, by posting your experience look at yield of information, you'll never know how many others you might help in the future! As for the emotional connection with food...that resonates for me, and many others dealing with morbid obesity. I post a lot about nutrition and behavior modification, because it is a battle I have waged most of my lifetime, and I became determined to re-write old patterns, really learn what that meant. It's possible, but it didn't happen for me overnight either, it doesn't for any of us dealing with these issues. So you're not alone here at all, and it's also one of the reasons I went to therapy. That in the end has been best for me, after trying every diet on the planet, a nutritionist, reading scores of books on the biology of eating, Overeater's Anonymous, assorted self-help therapies. I actually learned a LOT from all of this but it was therapy that helped me dig to the root my issues, what was under the fat and driving me to food as a way to cope. Because the comfort part of it was long gone, I was morbidly obese and miserable but didn't know how to change it. Food is something we have to live with, unlike alcohol or drugs that require abstention to control. This is what is so exciting about the DS - the focus on protein, making carbs present but secondary, helps a great deal in learning how to truly eat a way for life, not just some diet, constant deprivation. You're looking at a future of really fun, diverse, interesting and delicious food, with your treats in moderation. These are changes we need to make anyway, with or without surgical intervention - the surgery can take us not only to the finish line, but to keep us there and beyond.
|
|
|
Post by goodkel on Sept 7, 2014 12:51:12 GMT -5
Forgot this question.....I don't think I have a copy of my surgical report. Would it be with the papers they gave me when they released me from hospital? Or do I need to ask the surgeons for it? One last thing.....as I said I went to barker Bariatric. They tell us that no matter which one of them does the surgery, they are ALL considered our surgeons. So they really work in tandem that way. They usually give you a summary, not the actual report. You would get the surgical report from the hospital where you had your surgery. The records department can usually mail you a copy. You will need this going forward to show any new care providers. Plus it is always good to know the exact details of what was done to your anatomy. I keep a binder with plastic sleeves that hold all recent labs, scans, med lists , and surgical reports. I carry it with me to every appointment and it has come in very handy. Just this past week I had an appointment with a new endocrinologist. He said he need this scan and that lab to move forward. Viola'! I pulled recent ones out of my binder and handed them to him. He was able to cut to the chase and start something new.
|
|
Mum2Boys
New Member
Posts: 11
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: 8/18/14
Surgeon: Dr. Charlotte Hodges
|
Post by Mum2Boys on Sept 7, 2014 12:52:19 GMT -5
Hey there I dont have any answers for you but I just wanted to say thank you for what you said. I am sitting here going thru the boards because I was second guessing myself and this surgery. I do not have a set date yet. But my seminar is the 9th. And then I can schedule a one on one with Dr Roslyn and I have a hunch its going to be quick (you know us ladies and our hunches) Well I had it my head ok so if I get this ds surgery I can what never eat PIZZA or Pasta or Sugar again!! Like what the crap! I have a papa johns pizza sitting on my counter right now(granted my man really was craving some papa johns but that didnt stop me from having two slices) But I have PCOS so carbs are not good for me. My body just does not handle or process them the way a normal persons body would. So I was just reading all these posts and actually getting a little skidish of the surgery. And was thinking of whether or not I should follow through. But 90% of my depression, my quality of life, the reasons I dont want to go do things socially, or see family members or friends I havent in awhile, or go to church or whatever is because of my weight and the low self esteem and the way I view myself. Not to mention all the medical issues that have exploded on me recently. So I just wanted to say thank you. Your last post just like reached out and shook me. It is exactly how I have been feeling and didnt even know it. It was a huge wake up call and I seriously just wanted to thank you. I think this surgery will really help. I am not saying I do not have self control I do. But for the rest of my life? to never fall of the wagon? Be able to eat exactly the way I should with my fiance? And future kids? (for me when dieting or changing eat habits if I messed up or fell of the wagon once it was like a snowball affect I barely ever recover and get back on track til Ive gained 30 lbs again and its out of control) I just dont see myself having the ability to stay on track without the surgery, without the factor of the surgery being there that you physically need to eat a certain way or suffer the consequences....plus with the benefits of the surgery being able to be seen more clearly. Like eating properly and working out and focusing with the surgery would reap way more results then me without the surgery and with pcos. I hope all that makes sense. Either way I just wanted to say thank you. And if you need anything just ask. And honestly wanted to ask if I could keep in touch with you as well since you just recently went through surgery. Kitty That'd be really nice. I'd love to keep in touch. Xo, marlo
|
|
|
Post by Joanne on Sept 7, 2014 13:09:57 GMT -5
Hi, first, please know the surgeon discussion is definitely meant to help and support you the best way possible,because people here really care. And, by posting your experience look at yield of information, you'll never know how many others you might help in the future! . Sharyl, Thanks for reminding us all of that. Mum, I hope you don't think anyone's intention is to make you feel bad. The first thought many of us have when we see someone have an issue is to first validate that their surgeon is known to us, and known to be experienced with the DS. We keep a list of such surgeons. That doesn't mean that if a surgeon isn't on the list that his or her patients are automatically doomed....it just means that we might look a little more carefully at things. A copy of your surgical report is a good place to start, and we can help you understand it. It's not given to you when you're discharged, you have to specifically request it. You can get it from your surgeon's office or from the hospital directly. They should not charge you for it. And it is a good idea to have and keep, so as you see different doctors in the future they can reference what was done with your DS.
|
|
Mum2Boys
New Member
Posts: 11
Surgery Type: DS
Surgery Date: 8/18/14
Surgeon: Dr. Charlotte Hodges
|
Post by Mum2Boys on Sept 7, 2014 13:18:32 GMT -5
Hi, first, please know the surgeon discussion is definitely meant to help and support you the best way possible,because people here really care. And, by posting your experience look at yield of information, you'll never know how many others you might help in the future! As for the emotional connection with food...that resonates for me, and many others dealing with morbid obesity. I post a lot about nutrition and behavior modification, because it is a battle I have waged most of my lifetime, and I became determined to re-write old patterns, really learn what that meant. It's possible, but it didn't happen for me overnight either, it doesn't for any of us dealing with these issues. So you're not alone here at all, and it's also one of the reasons I went to therapy. That in the end has been best for me, after trying every diet on the planet, a nutritionist, reading scores of books on the biology of eating, Overeater's Anonymous, assorted self-help therapies. I actually learned a LOT from all of this but it was therapy that helped me dig to the root my issues, what was under the fat and driving me to food as a way to cope. Because the comfort part of it was long gone, I was morbidly obese and miserable but didn't know how to change it. Food is something we have to live with, unlike alcohol or drugs that require abstention to control. This is what is so exciting about the DS - the focus on protein, making carbs present but secondary, helps a great deal in learning how to truly eat a way for life, not just some diet, constant deprivation. You're looking at a future of really fun, diverse, interesting and delicious food, with your treats in moderation. These are changes we need to make anyway, with or without surgical intervention - the surgery can take us not only to the finish line, but to keep us there and beyond. I have had many many years of therapy and probably will go again in the future. I have known the root of my issues since I was very young, actually. Unfortunately it did not make my issues easier to handle just bc I knew what they were. Just because I realized WHY I felt worthless and unlovable as a person did not help me to feel better, even though intellectually I realize what was done to me as a child was not my fault. I'm still a work in progress. Im also going to a program at my church called "Celebrate Recovery" It's a twelve step program for emotional hurts and many churches have this program. I figured it would be great to work on the inside as well as the outside. Unfortunately I have missed the past three weeks due to my surgery. And haven't even felt like speaking to friends, yet. The other day my condescending acquaintance told me she will go to my surgeon now that she sees I lived through my surgery, bc she feels it's so dangerous. I came to this board for support bc I am struggling. Regardless of the intentions, it doesn't feel great to be told I was basically an idiot for using a surgeon who none of you vets would be caught dead using. I know no one called me an idiot, but hearing all of those reactions on the person I picked, while I'm still recovering and crying every day....I can't imagine anyone expects that to feel good to hear? i have am acquaintance who had gastric bypass 20 years ago and now wants a ds. She has been VERY condescending and patronizing towards me every time I've reached out to her. The other day she told me that she will go to my surgeon now that she sees I lived through my surgery, bc she feels it's so dangerous. So I tried these boards as a way to get some heartfelt support. Im glad knowing I used a bad surgeon will help someone else down the line, but honestly, right now I'm fighting for MY life. Not the people who may come after me. I used who my regular doctor recommended and I did some research and felt comfortable. I had someone else recommended several years ago and read some things that made me decide to wait until I found someone I felt more comfortable with. Barker Bariatric was really good to me and I felt very comfortable every step of the way. I even love their after surgery dr who takes care of me now. I never knew how to look up board certifications or complaints, to be honest. I'm also not sure what good that all does me now? As most of you have said what I'm going through is normal. I have no problems with the physical aspects of the surgery. With that said, I will get a copy of my surgical report (How will that show if she did a good job or not?) and i I really like the binder idea, and I will do that as well. I appreciate everyone taking time to respond, I'm just still feeling very fragile and am trying to feel better not worse.
|
|
|
Post by newyorkbitch on Sept 7, 2014 13:27:40 GMT -5
What is important for you now is to get your surgical report - you can then compare it to other DS surgical reports to see if what was done inside you is comparable to others who have had DS's with experienced DS surgeons.
What is also important, now that you know the practice you are using might have issues, is to be very careful your aftercare is appropriate. For that you have this board.
And if (hopefully not) your surgical report shows something that looks not completely okay, you will be aware of it and be better prepared to deal with any issues that arise.
And for other folks here, using this as an example so that it helps other people choose their surgeons more wisely, is one of the best things about this board.
|
|
|
Post by Girlrocker on Sept 7, 2014 13:46:38 GMT -5
The big difference between a support forum and in person is, we can't sit with you, place our hands on, arms around your shoulders while we give guidance. It's harder to just read it one posting after another. But also very valuable, print it out so it can help you keep track. The people here aren't just vets, we are all people who have lived through this surgery, some for 10-14 years, some with surgery complications we have overcome, eating disorders, co-morbidities the whole range. Do your best to let go of feeling patronized, embrace the information and the next steps to do what is needed. We understand that you are also fearful for your health, we are worried with you. It's brave to talk about your issues openly, and the unfortunate reality is it sounds like your surgeon is both inexperienced and associated with a questionable practice. Your aftercare and health are our number one concern. You're going through a lot, it's an emotional roller coast time in the best of circumstances, and you're also in the right direction with your your internal self, the program, support you are seeking. Keep it all up, keep coming here, we will help see you through this.
|
|
|
Post by Joanne on Sept 7, 2014 14:16:12 GMT -5
Hi, first, please know the surgeon discussion is definitely meant to help and support you the best way possible,because people here really care. And, by posting your experience look at yield of information, you'll never know how many others you might help in the future! As for the emotional connection with food...that resonates for me, and many others dealing with morbid obesity. I post a lot about nutrition and behavior modification, because it is a battle I have waged most of my lifetime, and I became determined to re-write old patterns, really learn what that meant. It's possible, but it didn't happen for me overnight either, it doesn't for any of us dealing with these issues. So you're not alone here at all, and it's also one of the reasons I went to therapy. That in the end has been best for me, after trying every diet on the planet, a nutritionist, reading scores of books on the biology of eating, Overeater's Anonymous, assorted self-help therapies. I actually learned a LOT from all of this but it was therapy that helped me dig to the root my issues, what was under the fat and driving me to food as a way to cope. Because the comfort part of it was long gone, I was morbidly obese and miserable but didn't know how to change it. Food is something we have to live with, unlike alcohol or drugs that require abstention to control. This is what is so exciting about the DS - the focus on protein, making carbs present but secondary, helps a great deal in learning how to truly eat a way for life, not just some diet, constant deprivation. You're looking at a future of really fun, diverse, interesting and delicious food, with your treats in moderation. These are changes we need to make anyway, with or without surgical intervention - the surgery can take us not only to the finish line, but to keep us there and beyond. I have had many many years of therapy and probably will go again in the future. I have known the root of my issues since I was very young, actually. Unfortunately it did not make my issues easier to handle just bc I knew what they were. Just because I realized WHY I felt worthless and unlovable as a person did not help me to feel better, even though intellectually I realize what was done to me as a child was not my fault. I'm still a work in progress. Im also going to a program at my church called "Celebrate Recovery" It's a twelve step program for emotional hurts and many churches have this program. I figured it would be great to work on the inside as well as the outside. Unfortunately I have missed the past three weeks due to my surgery. And haven't even felt like speaking to friends, yet. The other day my condescending acquaintance told me she will go to my surgeon now that she sees I lived through my surgery, bc she feels it's so dangerous. I came to this board for support bc I am struggling. Regardless of the intentions, it doesn't feel great to be told I was basically an idiot for using a surgeon who none of you vets would be caught dead using. I know no one called me an idiot, but hearing all of those reactions on the person I picked, while I'm still recovering and crying every day....I can't imagine anyone expects that to feel good to hear? i have am acquaintance who had gastric bypass 20 years ago and now wants a ds. She has been VERY condescending and patronizing towards me every time I've reached out to her. The other day she told me that she will go to my surgeon now that she sees I lived through my surgery, bc she feels it's so dangerous. So I tried these boards as a way to get some heartfelt support. Im glad knowing I used a bad surgeon will help someone else down the line, but honestly, right now I'm fighting for MY life. Not the people who may come after me. I used who my regular doctor recommended and I did some research and felt comfortable. I had someone else recommended several years ago and read some things that made me decide to wait until I found someone I felt more comfortable with. Barker Bariatric was really good to me and I felt very comfortable every step of the way. I even love their after surgery dr who takes care of me now. I never knew how to look up board certifications or complaints, to be honest. I'm also not sure what good that all does me now? As most of you have said what I'm going through is normal. I have no problems with the physical aspects of the surgery. With that said, I will get a copy of my surgical report (How will that show if she did a good job or not?) and i I really like the binder idea, and I will do that as well. I appreciate everyone taking time to respond, I'm just still feeling very fragile and am trying to feel better not worse. You're jumping so far ahead! You didnt read anyone calling you stupid, because no one is saying that. Yes, I think you could have chosen your surgeon a little more carefully, but there's no point in looking back now because it doesn't change anything. Not everyone who uses an unvetted surgeon has issues, and not everyone who uses a vetted surgeon sails through to goal without any complications. It's just that using a vetted surgeon gives you the best chances reducing complications and having the best outcome, and using a non-vetted surgeon puts you at an increased risk. But there are no absolutes one way or another. No one is bashing your surgeon. I think the biggest issue with her is experience. That doesnt make her some kind of hack, it just means 1) you should really get that report so we can compare what was done, and make sure it is a standard DS. If it's not, we can help guide you on what you might need to do. For example if your common channel is much shorter than usual you may need to supplement more. If your common channel is much longer, you might need to be more diligent with food choices. There are other considerations that can help guide you, so we really need the report. 2) If you do start having what looks like a complication, it would just cause me to advise you to do something about it sooner. For example, if a someone went to a trusted DS surgeon and was iffy about not feeling well, they might try some things at home and give it a day. With you, I would act sooner at the first chance something didn't look right. 3) As NYB said, I wouldn't rely on that practice for advice or aftercare. I dont know your surgeon. She may be a great person, with the best of intentions - but Dr Barker - the guy who owns / runs the practice - I would have nothing to do with him. The good news is after you are recovered you really don't need them (most of us rely on our PCP's, internists, and/or hematologist for aftercare). I haven't had an appointment with my own surgeon in years. I know it feels like your choices are being attacked. Please understand that you aren't the first person, by a long shot, that has been in this situation. It doesn't mean that you are doomed. It just means that I really, very strongly suggest you stick around, get that report, and let's take it from there.
|
|
Deleted
Deleted Member
Posts: 0
|
Post by Deleted on Sept 7, 2014 14:59:20 GMT -5
Mum…are you getting physically getting better every day? You should be almost at the point in time in your recovery where you should know if your healing OK, no leaks etc? If so, then the surgery was probably done ok, but as everyone is saying, the report will help all these vets with a little detective analysis. You seem like a real sweet young lady and I am in your corner, but so is everyone else here. I read your post 3-4 times a day and though it may seem a little harsh, the Vets mean nothing but the best. Yes, the past is the past and it is what it is regarding your surgeon selection, let’s just move forward…..I agree, BUT, please also understand that every reply does not just benefit you and is not necessarily directed towards just only you. It benefits all of us to learn, including someone as myself whom still surgeon shopping. So, though some of the responses may seem a tiny bit harsh and may not benefit you directly, they are also benefiting other newbies still learning. These Vets on here are the best of the best as best as I can tell from reading 3-4 other forums and they mean nothing personal, it’s just information sharing and sometimes it’s not always what we want to hear….SO….Lets all move forward, let’s get you all feeling good INSIDE and OUT…because every day will be better for you!
|
|
PeteA
Full Member
Posts: 221
Surgery Date: 4/15/13
Surgeon: Dr. Phillip Schauer
|
Post by PeteA on Sept 8, 2014 9:57:30 GMT -5
Egg salad, tuna salad, cottage cheese with tuna. Just some of my go to's early on. How early on did you start with these? Hi, Sorry I missed your question. I was a little over 2 weeks when I started soft foods. I did the first 10 days liquid and then moved through the stages a little faster than my Doc outlined in his post-op instructions. Pete
|
|
PeteA
Full Member
Posts: 221
Surgery Date: 4/15/13
Surgeon: Dr. Phillip Schauer
|
Post by PeteA on Sept 8, 2014 10:10:40 GMT -5
HI,
I had to apply at the hospital directly for my surgical report. I think every Doctor might be different but the Doctor's office will be able to point you in the right direction.
I saw some questions about diet long term. Short term, things like mashed potato's and other stuff isn't so bad. Anything that you can tolerate right after surgery. Long term most of us find it better to try and low carb to maximize weight loss during the so-called "grace" period that lasts anywhere from 1 - 2 years.
Yes, during this period the DS is at it's most effective and many people lose no matter their diet but two things push people to low carb early on. The first is that there is rarely room for the first 6 months or so for much besides protein (people vary but a tiny tummy is a tiny tummy).
Second, it is a good time to look at your diet and see what adjustments you need to make. For me, a mostly protein diet, keeps me losing and I'm pretty happy with it. When I let too many carbs sneak in I tend to stall for a while. I found that a lot of my eating patterns pre-op just were not as important to me post-op. This was not an issue immediately post-op but the closer I get to goal weight the more my body can fluctuate based on my diet and my general health.
Pete
|
|
|
Post by goodkel on Sept 8, 2014 18:57:36 GMT -5
We also malabsorb protein at a rate of about 50%.
When your body doesn't get enough protein it uses what's available in your muscles, including your heart and lungs.
Not getting in enough protein can be life threatening.
|
|