I had bariatric surgery… AGAIN

For many of us who embarked on the incredible journey of Gastric Sleeve (VSG) surgery, the initial results can feel life-changing. I certainly felt that way! But as time goes on, sometimes our bodies, or our weight loss journey, take unexpected turns. That's exactly what led me to consider a BARIATRIC VSG TO SADI-S SURGERY revision five years and eight months after my initial procedure. It's a common story among VSG women: after a fantastic start, the weight loss might stall, or some regain occurs, or perhaps other health concerns arise that a VSG alone can no longer fully address. For me, it wasn’t just about the numbers on the scale; it was about feeling like I needed an extra tool in my toolkit to truly embrace that 'healthier me' I envisioned. The decision to undergo a second major surgery, a SADI-S, wasn't taken lightly. It involved extensive research, consultations with my medical team, and deep introspection about my health goals. The SADI-S (Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy) procedure is a relatively newer type of bariatric surgery that combines elements of a sleeve gastrectomy with a bypass, offering both restrictive and malabsorptive benefits. For someone like me, who already had a VSG, it meant leveraging that initial sleeve while adding the malabsorptive component to further aid with weight loss and metabolic improvements. It felt like the right next step for my specific needs, offering a more powerful metabolic reset. My pre-operative journey involved numerous tests, nutritional counseling, and psychological evaluations – all crucial steps to ensure I was physically and mentally prepared. The day of the surgery, as captured in that hospital bed photo, was a mix of nerves and profound hope. Waking up from anesthesia, I remember the immediate relief, even with the expected post-operative discomfort. The medical team was amazing, ensuring I was comfortable and well-monitored. It’s truly a testament to modern medicine that I could be smiling, albeit a little groggily, just hours after a BARIATRIC VSG TO SADI-S SURGERY. The immediate recovery period was challenging, as any bariatric surgery recovery is. The IV in my arm, the medical tubing – these were all part of the initial phase. But knowing this was my 'road to recovery' fueled my determination. Slowly, I transitioned from liquids to purees, and then soft foods, meticulously following my surgeon's and dietitian's instructions. Hydration became my absolute priority, and learning to listen to my new body was paramount. Every small step forward, whether it was walking a bit further or tolerating a new food, felt like a victory. Now, as I continue on this path, my focus is not just on weight loss but on holistic wellness. This revision has given me a renewed sense of control and optimism. For any other VSG woman out there contemplating a revision, or simply navigating the long-term journey of bariatric surgery, remember that it's okay for your path to evolve. It's okay to seek further help if your initial surgery isn't meeting your long-term needs. This journey is deeply personal, and prioritizing your health and well-being should always be at the forefront. My SADI-S revision is not just a surgery; it’s a commitment to a healthier, happier future, and I’m excited to share more of this evolving adventure with you all.