Thinking about having weight loss surgery? Read what our patient had to say about their experience and then give us a call to find out more about how we can help you.
We spoke to Mrs Moss, who had a gastric band fitted in November 2009 with Mr Christopher Pring.
"I have absolutely no regrets"
Mrs J Moss, Uckfield, East Sussex
When did you first start to have problems with weight?
I have always considered myself to have a weight problem; however I did not find it made me unhappy or uncomfortable until I gave up smoking. This caused me to put on a lot more additional weight.
How did the problem affect your day to day life?
I was lacking of confidence, had very low self esteem, no energy and generally felt miserable. Looking back, I hated photos or shopping for clothes, anything that drew attention to my weight, one of the most embarrassing things was that I was only just able to do the seat belt up on planes! I was also very aware approaching 50 if I did not do something about my weight now, it would lead to health problems in the future and as we had plans for our retirement I did not want to be infirm and unable to enjoy life to the full.
How did you go about seeking medical advice?
I visited my GP to see that if required he was happy to refer me to a specialist
How did you choose your specialist?
I had information sent to me from various hospitals and came along to open evening at the Gatwick Spire and was introduced to Kay Wheeler and Mr Pring
What were the treatment options offered to you?
As I have a savoury tooth the gastric band was considered the best option for me
What made you decide to go ahead with surgery?
I finally saw that it was possible for me to lose the weight and give myself the best opportunity for a healthy and happy future.
When did you have the operation?
19th November 2009
What was your opinion of the care you received at Spire Gatwick Park Hospital?
Excellent! There was someone with me the whole time giving support and not only to me but also to my husband as he was obviously worried about the whole process
What did the recovery process involve?
I had my surgery early in the morning and was in the High Dependency Unit (this is normal) for the rest of that day, then back in my room overnight and discharged the following morning.
I was off work for a total of three weeks, to recover slowly at home. I would have been back to work after two weeks, but I developed an infection, not in any way related to the surgery so my GP signed me off for an additional week. I was on a liquid diet for the first week and then slowly introduced more food but puréed.
What impact has the surgery had on your life?
It has given me more confidence and freedom as well as finally being able to feel that I do not stand out in a crowd for the wrong reasons! More people speak to me and make eye contact and I have far more energy. I even completed the 5k Race for Life in June, which is something I would not have even considered this time last year.
What advice would you give to another patient in a similar position to you?
To make sure you have the support of family and friends, as it makes it much easier if they understand your needs. Also make sure you are fully aware that it is a lifelong commitment and that it will bring very dramatic changes to your life.
Any other comments on the whole experience?
I have absolutely no regrets that I made the decision to go ahead with my surgery and am very pleased with my choice of consultant, Mr Pring, who at all times made me fully aware of the process. I also cannot thank Kay Wheeler enough for being there at the end of the phone every time I had any concerns or even for me to share good news with.
Mrs J Moss, Uckfield, East Sussex
Spire Gatwick Park Hospital would like to thank Mrs Moss for her interview.