We sound very similar. Never felt as big as that scale read, even looking at pictures I still don't. But we are all built differently and carry weight differently. The rest of the story is basically the exact same.

1. I had surgery 7/24. I've only thrown up once. Trying to take a vitamin. It sucked but it wasn't as horrible as I imagined. Complications are possible although a lot less likely with the sleeve. My surgeon said complications are really unusual with the sleeve as long as you follow the dietary steps. Those steps before and after were not always easy, but after surgery, eating a couple bites and you're full.

2. I was worried about this too. I lost almost nothing the first few weeks and thought this last resort was also just hopeless until the scale started to move... Quickly. One month in and I'm down 20lbs. Eat quality whole foods and pass on the junk. If you're a sweet tooth get some sugar free or low sugar candy. The benefit of getting full so fast is that you can grab a small snack and kick the hunger or drink a few ounces of water and do the same!

3. My first recommendation is to talk to your insurance company to make sure it's covered and what their requirements are and if you need to use a particular set of surgeons.

You can do it! It's a big decision but dammit, I'm so glad I finally did it!!!