Monday, August 1, 2011

Squelching Myths about WLS

Weight loss surgery is the easy way out...

Nothing angers a WLS patient more than hearing someone say they took the easy way out. There is nothing easy about it. Consider the following:

You ave to go through rigorous testing and psychological testing to ensure that you are an appropriate candidate for surgery.

Civilian sector may have to fight with their insurance company for coverage.

You may face complications from surgery.

You have to endure at least four weeks of liquids and then at least two weeks of pureed foods--let's face it, those protein shakes get old!

You have a whole new way of eating-- and there are consequences if you don't follow the rules. You may throw up, suffer from dumping syndrome, experience nausea, and get food stuck--and none of it feels good.

Nausea may be a real issue until you get used to your new pouch.

You may lose hair.

You have to take vitamin supplements for life.

You have lifetime follow up.

Many lose significant relationships.

You have major psychological adjustments, with a need to learn new ways of coping.

You have to spend extra money on new wardrobes.