Pookie,
Sometimes within the WLS world terms are used interchangably, perhaps when they shouldn't be. It can definitely be confusing.
One way to find out exactly what you had done is to request a copy of your operative report from the hospital where you had your procedure performed. I am not sure how hard this would be to read if you don't have a medical background (I don't know whether you do or not), but the lengths should be listed in there.
Another suggestion is to make a list of questions before your next appointment. Let the doctor know when he walks into the room that you have a list of questions, and ask them all, no matter how inpatient he/she may seem. It is your body, your life, and it is their job to give you the information you need to do your part! Some physicians have a better "bedside manner" than others, but in the end it is your health - you can push if you need to.
The surgeon I used changed the way he performed the DS procedure a while after I had it done. I was consumed by concern, for awhile, that the new way would work better and that my result would not be as good. I finally had to come to grips with the fact that what was done was done, and I would simply make the best of what I had been given. I don't think they have stats yet about the change, but they are forever tweaking these surgeries, refining them to give people the best result - greatest weight loss with fewest negative health consequences.
I have seen a lot of individual variation in people who had the "exact same" surgery performed by the same surgeon. I've seen people who don't do what the doctor ordered have better weight loss and health than those who do, on occasion. That is frustrating. Sort of like those naturally thin people who seemingly can eat whatever they want and never gain weight! I've also seen the reverse, people who don't do what we all know we are supposed to do, and pay huge health consequences.
You are so smart, and so motivated. You know things, at this early stage, that it took me years to figure out. Honestly. You went into this with a real knowledge of what it would take to succeed. I've seen you make adjustments along the way, based on your knowledge and your body. You are really so much ahead of the game. You are going to do great!
So I guess I am saying, get the information. Information can never hurt. Read up on what it means. Then use it to your advantage. But always understand that you are an individual, and that your knowledge, motivation and compliance are going to be huge factors, as well.
Dawna
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an old member coming back
