Ah, gastric sleeve surgery–you surprising little devil, you.
Even though I was told what to expect, you still managed to come up with some plot twists that I never saw coming.
Sure, the pre-surgery went as planned. I changed my diet according, packed a hospital bag complete with loose-fitting clothes and was mentally prepared.
The surgery went as expected, too. It took about an hour-and-a-half. I woke up in recovery, feeling tired and sore but optimistic. I spent a few days in the hospital, drinking lots of fluid and slowly getting back on my feet.
And then I went home, and that's when the surprises started.
The first week or so after my surgery, I was on a liquid diet; and not the "good" kind of liquid diet that involves margaritas and lite beer.
I "ate" fruit sauces, yogurt and protein shakes. Never in my life did I want a Big Mac so bad. I craved it like a fish on a hook craves water. I mean, I could taste the secret sauce in my sleep.
It was rough, but after a few weeks the cravings subsided. Today, the thought of pulling into a drive-through window and ordering fast food makes me sick.
Initially, I was tired, sore and just plain crabby after my gastric sleeve surgery. But then my metabolism kicked in and, wahla, I had more energy than I've had in years. I've even gone swimming a couple of times.
Surprise Number Three: The average weight loss for gastric sleeve surgery is pretty darn accurate.
So they tell you that the average weight loss after gastric sleeve surgery is about 60 percent of your excess weight. For me, that would be about 114 pounds. Today, I've lost 115 pounds. I didn't really believe it, but it's true.
Surprise Number Four: Food can be and is enjoyable in moderation.
Who knew you didn't have to wolf down your food? You know what? It actually tastes better when you sit back, chew it thoroughly and enjoy it! Even in moderation.
Surprise Number Five: I'm attractive–and I have proof!
Now when I walk down the street, people look at me like, "Wow … nice body." Yes, I'm attractive!
