The WLS Surgery

There are many different types of Weight Loss Surgeries. If you want to know more about types go to my favorite links and check out Obesity Help, they have lots of information and more links there. For my purpose I am only going to talk about the type of surgery that I am having, which is the RNY Gastric Bypass. I am not a doctor, nor do I claim to be. I am just stating the information as I understand it and all medical questions should be directed to your physician. These are my opinions, views and preception of the surgery. Basically they make a new "pouch" at the top of your stomach that is about the size of your thumb. They do this by dividing your stomach into 2 pieces (90%/10%). The 10% part is going to be the new stomach. The will then go down the small intestine about 100cm and cut it, bring up the bottom portion (that is connected to the large intestine) to the new "pouch" and connect it. Then they take the top portion of the small intestine (still connected to the old stomach) and connect it to the bottom portion of the small intestine, a specific distance down from the other connection. They will not be REMOVING any on the intestine. The old stomach still makes acid and dumps it into the small intestine further down at that new connection between the intestines. With this new anatomy, I will be eating MUCH less. In the beginning I will be on a liquid diet only until my new stomach has a chance to heal. From there I go to soft mushy stuff and so forth as long as long as my body is adjusting well. I will be drinking protein supplements for quite awhile. I need to intake mainly protein (about 75%) for the rest of my life. Some (if not most) of my hair will fall out, but that is due to the shock to my system and I am prepared to deal with that. Like I said it isn't going to be easy but I am prepared and determined to have a new lease on life. There are many risks involved with this surgery, just as any other surgery. I am willing to take my chances at giving myself the chance to have a longer life. The risk of me dying is greater if I do not have the surgery than if I do.

**This is my interpertation of the surgery.  I am not a medical doctor, nor do I claim to be.  Please call your physcian regarding any questions you may have regarding this procedure.

This is a breakdown of what the BMI (Body Mass Index) numbers mean:

Range:      Meaning: under 18    underweight 18.5-24.9    normal 25-29.9       overweight 30-34.9       obese 35-39.9       severely obese 40-50          morbidly obese over 50      super obese

Most insurances will cover WLS for those with a BMI over 40 or with a BMI between 35-40 with 2 co-morbid conditions.  For more information contact your physician or health care insurance comany.

Here is a picture of Dr. Rumsey and I at my 6 month check-up.  He was very pleased with y 95 pound loss in that 6 months.  He said to keep up the great work and to come see him at one year post-op.  I really owe him big time for giving me my life back...not to mention my mom who made it possible financially...thank you both!!

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