Doctor suggested gastric bypass--freaking out!
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Just because your Dr recommended it doesn't mean you have to do it. Dr's are used to treating issues by medical intervention such as surgery or meds, it's usually their 1st line of defense for everything.
I'm of the opinion that if you can lose the weight on your own, which you've already proved you are, and your issue isn't eminently critical, which it apparently isnt, then you should just keep doing what's already working. At the very least, get a 2nd opinion.0 -
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colorfulmosaic wrote: »...I didn't think I was at such a bad point that surgery would be recommended. What do you guys think? Any feedback would be appreciated!
You're not
Losing a little over 30 lbs in the past 6 months is great! I'm a little taller than you, and about your weight, and the idea of me needing WLS is mind boggling. I wonder if your pulmonologist gets a kick back for referrals.0 -
Thanks so much for all of your posts, guys! They have been very helpful and reassuring! I did contact my PCP, and she said she doesn't see any need for the surgery at this point. The good news is, though, that she is linking me up with a weight loss program through our health system that has no cost and does not involve WLS. With my insurance, apparently I'd have to go through 6 months of preparatory work before being approved for the surgery anyway, and by six months from now I hope to no longer be obese.
Thanks again for all of the replies. I have calmed down a lot since earlier this afternoon thanks to your posts. I did wonder if maybe my pulmonologist gets some kind of kick-back for recommending the surgery because he spent a good while talking about how great the surgery is and how it's a "miracle" for many people. It just seems kind of weird that he was so persistent about the recommendation given that WLS is major surgery under general anesthesia and permanently alters your digestive system.0 -
I actually was is your same position. About a year and half ago my doctor mentioned WLS. It had never even crossed my mind. After a year of thinking and freaking out and going through all the insurance hoops I ended up having gastric sleeve in Aug. I just kept moving along in the process knowing I could change my mind. But to my surprise I was seeing more of the life long benefits. It has been a roller coaster journey and it is not for everyone, but for me it saved my life and gave me back my life. I was 100lbs overweight at least. I have no regrets but I also would not wish this on anyone.0
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colorfulmosaic wrote: »As for why the doctor didn't recommend a CPAP machine, I think it's because he said a positional device would keep me off my back, which is the only position where I had interrupted breathing, and the CPAP machine would be too drastic since it's noisy and uncomfortable, and I'm fine when I'm not on my back. I found it ironic that he considered the CPAP drastic and not the surgery, but I'm not the doctor...
It was just really hard, as a former anorexic, to hear that I'm at the point where weight loss surgery would be recommended. Honestly, most of my overeating came from not being able to manage cravings, and I don't see how the surgery will really help that--I mean, the cravings will still be there, right? Plus, selfishly, I'd like to be able to eat a Snickers bar once in awhile without "dumping".
What?? That can't be best or good or even meh practice! Holy moly! He's a doctor but he's not doing a great job of it. No, do not listen to him, get a CPAP for now, talk to your doc, keep doing the great work you're doing... if it were me, I'd write a letter to that office. That is just irresponsible!
And yeah, no kidding you'd prefer to not "dump" for life (!) than maybe be slightly uncomfortable during sleep for a couple of months! Yikes!0 -
I would suggest getting a second opinion from another doctor, and also explain your current life style change to that doctor.
Does your current DR know that you are currently losing weight?
my two cents would be to continue to lose weight the regular way without the need for surgery; however, I have no knowledge of your current situation or what the risks are if you do not have surgery.
This. Op your post made me so angry ( not at you ! At your doctor !) First of all, your not even that obese IMO. Secondly, your doing great on your own losing ! Third your history should've been taken in account when he recommended that.
I'm not a doctor. But I think you can do this on your own !
( BTW, I started at your size and am 135 lbs now and have been maintaining for 2+ years just by using portion control moderation, and counting calories ! You can do this too !!)0 -
I have known a clue of people to get gastric bypasses and it is a complete lifstyle change. I have also worked along side surgons to complete this surgery and unfortunately it is more common than people think. That being said This Is A Major Surgery and things can go wrong, not saying they will but they can. If you feel that you are making progress on your own that is the safest and healthiest option. A BMI of 30 or 35 is right at the minimum amount my doctor's used to justify this surgery. However BMI charts are made for the sole purpose of insurance. I personally would never recommend this surgery to anyone, but I am biased from seeing what can go wrong. Ultimetly it is your decision and if you don't want to do it then don't. This is not a quick fix surgery and often patients are left with other health problems, not to mention baggy skin from rapid weight loss. Do what is best for you.0
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Sounds like you are on the right track without seeking surgery. I admire you for taking things seriously and knowing it isn't just about putting food in your mouth - you are also getting the help through therapy you need as well. Find a lifestyle that works for you.
I supplement with a nutrient dense protein shake to get my macronutrients balanced (carbs, protein, fat). And I also found a cellular cleanse I love. Cleansing toxins out of your body not only helps with weight loss but also energy and mental clarity. Sustainable and not a quick fix is exactly what you should be doing. If it doesn't feel right in your gut (no pun intended0 -
As it is a highly invasive surgery I'd get a second opinion and even a third. Even if you met with a specialist about it they can't force you to actually get it done. One thing you must consider is the risk of the surgery itself and also the risk of secondary issues related to surgery. Surgery should never be taken lightly because it comes with risks.
Plus even if you wanted it it could take some time to get insurance approval. You'd probably be better off continuing as you have been.0 -
I would definitely try doing it on my own before resorting to surgery
http://www.salon.com/2015/11/02/weight_loss_surgery_was_easy_it_was_becoming_thin_that_drove_me_to_the_brink/0 -
Just one last thing ... with your eating disorder history, please stay healthy and don't go to extremes in your desire to lose weight. I'm not saying you will, but that behavioral tendency is always lurking. Honestly, that's the main reason I was aghast at the bypass recommendation (besides my layperson's opinion based on what you posted that you can lose the weight on your own). Let's give someone who's recovered from a history of anorexia a way to only consume minimal calories a day! What could go wrong?!
I'm sure you have your strategies and coping skills, just please promise to seek help immediately if you feel triggered back to those old behaviors on your path to losing weight.
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My opinion: gastric bypass isn't to be taken lightly. You will NEVER be able to eat the same again, even with foods that you actually enjoy in small amounts.
At your height and weight, you're not in dire need of GB. You really just need to commit to a weight loss program you can sustain and an eating lifestyle you can continue for life.
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I think it's a case of a specialist not being able to see past his nose. "Gotta fix the bad breathing! What'll fix the breathing? The weight, oh right, ok let's do a little chop chop and fix that right up and the breathing will be good".
What's that joke? You cured the disease, but killed the patient. Doctor's affliction. (Not that WLS is "killing the patient", but it's very serious and - I thought! - a last resort.)0 -
kimberlyseyboldt wrote: »Sounds like you are on the right track without seeking surgery. I admire you for taking things seriously and knowing it isn't just about putting food in your mouth - you are also getting the help through therapy you need as well. Find a lifestyle that works for you.
I supplement with a nutrient dense protein shake to get my macronutrients balanced (carbs, protein, fat). And I also found a cellular cleanse I love. Cleansing toxins out of your body not only helps with weight loss but also energy and mental clarity. Sustainable and not a quick fix is exactly what you should be doing. If it doesn't feel right in your gut (no pun intended
Cleanse? No no no.
God gave you kidneys and a liver. Let them do their jobs in peace.0 -
kimberlyseyboldt wrote: »Sounds like you are on the right track without seeking surgery. I admire you for taking things seriously and knowing it isn't just about putting food in your mouth - you are also getting the help through therapy you need as well. Find a lifestyle that works for you.
I supplement with a nutrient dense protein shake to get my macronutrients balanced (carbs, protein, fat). And I also found a cellular cleanse I love. Cleansing toxins out of your body not only helps with weight loss but also energy and mental clarity. Sustainable and not a quick fix is exactly what you should be doing. If it doesn't feel right in your gut (no pun intended
Cellular cleanse? Never heard that one before. Don't want to encourage cleanse talk, but I'm curious.0 -
PaulaWallaDingDong wrote: »kimberlyseyboldt wrote: »Sounds like you are on the right track without seeking surgery. I admire you for taking things seriously and knowing it isn't just about putting food in your mouth - you are also getting the help through therapy you need as well. Find a lifestyle that works for you.
I supplement with a nutrient dense protein shake to get my macronutrients balanced (carbs, protein, fat). And I also found a cellular cleanse I love. Cleansing toxins out of your body not only helps with weight loss but also energy and mental clarity. Sustainable and not a quick fix is exactly what you should be doing. If it doesn't feel right in your gut (no pun intended
Cellular cleanse? Never heard that one before. Don't want to encourage cleanse talk, but I'm curious.
Ya, I am curious too but maybe @kimberlyseyboldt should start a thread on this so as not to derail this one, and be prepared to spell out exactly what toxins are being cleansed, and the science behind this.0 -
colorfulmosaic wrote: »Hi guys,
do you think it's unreasonable of me to want to keep doing this on my own rather than via surgery?... I actually enjoy exercise and feel my appetite is under control--I mean, I'm eating at a deficit and losing weight
Long answer short, no. It's not unreasonable. Just because a doctor tells you, you have the option to do something doesn't mean you have to. They can prescribe pills, but you don't have to pick up the prescription. He can suggest surgery, but you don't have to. Especially if you aren't comfortable with it.
It sounds like you are on track to getting into a normal weight range. I say keep on keeping on without surgery. You're doing great, don't let this throw a wrench in it.0 -
One more vote for a second opinion! I'm not a doctor but you don't seem to be heavy enough for gastric bypass to be a front-burner solution. I'm wary of some doctors and their quick-fix plans... mine was going to put me on thyroid meds, but when I said no he immediately changed his tune to "well, your thyroid levels could be considered normal". Oh yeah? Then why try to put me on meds?? Geez. You have to advocate for yourself and don't just accept whatever the first MD tells you. Best of luck, and keep up the good (natural) weight-loss work!0
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if you are not looking for a quick fix then what is the "cellular cleanse" then? what toxins are you "cleansing" out of your body that your organs dont already get rid of? how does it help with weight loss,energy or mental clarity? inquiring minds want to knowkimberlyseyboldt wrote: »Sounds like you are on the right track without seeking surgery. I admire you for taking things seriously and knowing it isn't just about putting food in your mouth - you are also getting the help through therapy you need as well. Find a lifestyle that works for you.
I supplement with a nutrient dense protein shake to get my macronutrients balanced (carbs, protein, fat). And I also found a cellular cleanse I love. Cleansing toxins out of your body not only helps with weight loss but also energy and mental clarity. Sustainable and not a quick fix is exactly what you should be doing. If it doesn't feel right in your gut (no pun intended0 -
I second the idea of getting a second opinion! You're making progress, and you can get a cpap for your sleep apnea. Why take on the risks of surgery, and permanent discomfort? Plus, you've had eating issues, and taking your time might not hurt.0
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Thanks so much for the continued replies! I really appreciate the support! I just felt the whole encounter was ironic because I actually feel great now that I'm eating a balanced, healthy diet and am moving around more. It was jarring to hear the doctor suggest something so drastic when I am the best I've ever been as far as eating goes--neither starving nor binging. I feel that what I'm doing now is sustainable over the long term. I think the surgery would throw a huge wrench in everything. I'll keep on keeping on as many of you have suggested. It reassures me that my PCP doesn't agree with the pulmonologist because she knows the whole picture of my health and not just one piece.
Thanks again for all of the help! This is a wonderful site!0 -
kimberlyseyboldt wrote: »Sounds like you are on the right track without seeking surgery. I admire you for taking things seriously and knowing it isn't just about putting food in your mouth - you are also getting the help through therapy you need as well. Find a lifestyle that works for you.
I supplement with a nutrient dense protein shake to get my macronutrients balanced (carbs, protein, fat). And I also found a cellular cleanse I love. Cleansing toxins out of your body not only helps with weight loss but also energy and mental clarity. Sustainable and not a quick fix is exactly what you should be doing. If it doesn't feel right in your gut (no pun intended
Name one toxin you believe you are cleansing from your body. Hint-there are none.0 -
kimberlyseyboldt wrote: »Sounds like you are on the right track without seeking surgery. I admire you for taking things seriously and knowing it isn't just about putting food in your mouth - you are also getting the help through therapy you need as well. Find a lifestyle that works for you.
I supplement with a nutrient dense protein shake to get my macronutrients balanced (carbs, protein, fat). And I also found a cellular cleanse I love. Cleansing toxins out of your body not only helps with weight loss but also energy and mental clarity. Sustainable and not a quick fix is exactly what you should be doing. If it doesn't feel right in your gut (no pun intended
Name one toxin you believe you are cleansing from your body. Hint-there are none.
lol basically what I asked0 -
It bears noting that gastric bypass surgery is a highly profitable commercial product that many surgical centers now "specialize" in. If you're losing on your own, I'd get a different doctor.. in a different medical center, for that second opinion. And probably change doctors altogether.0
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Some doctors are knife happy. I had one just a few weeks ago on my first visit talk about taking out my gallbladder. You know what's best for your body.0
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I consulted a surgeon for a hiatal hernia and he suggested I consider bariatric surgery at the same time as I have the hernia repair. His process includes meeting with a nutritionist, getting clearance from a psychologist, attending support group meetings, and six months off weight loss on an appropriate plan. It's entirely possible to undo the benefits of surgery if you don't follow through afterwards with diet and exercise.
In other words, bariatric surgery is not a magic bullet, you still have to do the work. Of the four people I know who had some form of surgery, three didn't lose any weight.
I met with the surgeon in March, and since then I have lost 40 pounds.
That's when you start asking "do I really need the surgery, I'm doing well on my own."
I do need surgery, to repair the hernia. Not sure, though, if I'm going forward with the bariatric procedure.0 -
A little more than a year ago, I considered gb surgery. Went to a consultation with a doctor, and he went over everything involved. Everything.... He also talked about the long term success, acid reflux, and all the other nasty stuff that went along after surgery. I was horrified. Scared enough to actually start doing something myself. Go to the consultation, you will leave there and join a gym.. Good luck 0
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My pcp also suggested surgery for me. I changed Drs. Actually, like you, I am overweight. I have known more who have had the surgery and gained the weight back than were able to keep it off. It is not a cure all other than the big money maker it is for those who don't consider all the ramifications. If you are losing without it, and you have a success record keep doing what you are doing. You can honestly tell your pcp that you have thought about the surgery and at this time choose not to go that route if it is suggested again. As for the sleep apnea, when a few more lbs come off, you may find that also disappears. Stay the course and you will get there. Just because a procedure is suggested doesn't mean you have to go there.0
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