The Decision to have Gastric Bypass Surgery

By Allyson Lipchak
VCU InSight Associate Producer

I recently got the opportunity to speak with Suzanne Robertson-Mummert. About two years ago she had gastric bypass surgery at VCU Health Systems.

How did you first find out about bariatric surgery, and what were your initial impressions of it?

I heard about the surgery a few years ago from a co-worker who had it done. She lost about 200 pounds and had very few complications. I finally decided to go through with it when I got on the scales and I had gained all the weight back that I had recently lost.

How did you decide which procedure to have?

I first decided I wanted a laproscopic procedure and then I searched out a surgeon in my area that did laproscopic bypass. I lucked out in the fact that he is so notable in his field. My surgeon only discussed the RNY with me, as that is his specialty. I did not consider other procedures.

What was your stay in the hospital like? How long where you there?

My stay in the hospital was wonderful. I had to be in a different unit than the regular bypass patients as there was no room available. I was in the unit with neuro and orthopedic patients. The nurses there had 3 prior bypass patients and were not real familiar with the procedure. However, they were the best nurses I have ever had (other than 4 years ago when I was in the same unit for back surgery!) I had a private room. Just lucky, I guess. I was in the hospital 3 days and 2 nights. I had virtually no abdominal pain but my back hurt like crazy. Lying on a surgical table for 5 hours is a killer on an already bad back.

What fears did you have about having complications or even dying from the surgery, and what would you tell other people having the same fears now?

I did not have fears of dying until about 2 weeks pre-op. Then I faced those fears and made an appointment with an attorney to update my Will, Power of Attorney and Living Will. I figured that if I were going to lose sleep over the fear of dying I would address it and deal with it. I never considered backing out of surgery. I think those fears are real and should not be dismissed. The possibility is there just like with any other surgical procedure. You have to know in your heart that this is the right decision for you.

To learn more about gastric bypass surgery at VCU Health System visit: www.vcu.edu/lesspainsurgery/obesity/meador.htm

To read more about Suzanne Robertson visit her profile on www.obesityhelp.com