Galaxy_Gal

Did you get banded? How are things going? 50 lbs is totally doable. I am at about 40 lbs 1 year our and want to lose another 5-10. I lost, then stalled and things have really been clicking for me that past 4 months.

I weighed a bit less, and considered off-off label. Decided to go forward and self pay because I too have lost 40 lbs 4-5 times over the past 25 years. Tried WW (lifetime member),WL drugs like phentermine multiple cycles, and followed diet and exercise...but it always crept back on. I looked at my parent's and sister's weight problems, and the yo-yo pattern for the past decades and knew that it was time for something else. I researched on my own and decided to go forward, my mom had her lap band done about a month later ( she did have 100+ to lose), and my sister just had a sleeve plication (probably about 50 to lose) procedure done last week. I am a year out and very glad that I went through with this. I am sure there were many that would say it was too extreme and that I just needed to exercise and have more will power. But my will power was terrible and I was ALWAYS hungry. It would be nice if insurance lowered their criteria to a lower BMI so more people that are genetically inclined to be overweight or have other health issues could qualify. If you have done your research and you think that this is the right thing for you, then go for it! Good luck!

I am only 1 month post op, but am on the treadmill for 30 minutes and have been on one 30 minute bike ride. I would assume that if you were pretty active that after a couple of months post-op, you will be right back in your old groove. good luck!

I was banded on 12/28 and have a lot more energy than those first few days. BUT, you have to relax and rest while you have the chance. Remember to get your Protein in every day, it is crucial for you to heal. What others said about pain meds and keeping hydrated...all very important to healing and recovery. I know it is easy for my to say not to think about the other problems, but try not to dwell on the negative things going on, just think about YOU! You deserve to take care of yourself while on the road to recovery.

I would tell the doc. You don't want to have a horrible cough right after surgery...that is NO fun! I hope that you feel better!

I like the the Protein powders from Next Level Nutrition: http://www.nlnutrition.net/lean-pro-matrix.html 34 grams of protein, 160 cal. 2 carbs I have tried the chocolate, vanilla, Strawberries & Bananas.

Glad to have found this group! My surgery is scheduled for the 28th. I have another pre-op visit tomorrow am to check blood work again, as well as my lungs because I had pnuemonia last month. The doc will check my lungs again and (hopefully) give me the clear. I think that I am nervous to get the news either way: that everything is okay or I have to wait. I have been on a clear diet for the past 3 days of broth, crystal lite, sugar free Jello, sugar free popcicles.. I am making my post-op shopping list and to do list, there is so much to do tomorrow. Excited and nervous! Good luck to those being banded tomorrow, as well as everyone else this week!

I have my pre-op on 12/15 and surgery scheduled for 12/28. I was so excited but now terribly disappointed as I was diagnosed with pnuemonia a week ago and still not over it. I really wanted to get this done prior to the new year but now have no idea how long a delay being sick will cause. Doctor's office still wants me to come in to discuss and re-schedule. So bummed!

That is exactly what I am thinking. And so true on your other points in your post. Thanks for the feedback.

When I first started looking into this, i thought my only option would be going to Mexico or AZ. I *think* anything under 35 is considered "off-label", but a physician can decide if you fit the profile. And, of course, being self-pay is another factor. When I consulted with my surgeon I had about 15 years of weight history that I had tracked over the years (gaining and losing 65 lbs 3X). That, coupled with my family history of obesity and heart disease, (and being self-pay) and he gave me the go ahead. Good luck in your search!

Thanks for the quick responses and the pics. You both look great! Another question that I have is: do you feel that the port sticking out is worth having the lap band procedure? I am leaning toward that it is worth it.

Similar to me, too. Thought about Mexico, but then decided locally. If I decide to do this, my surgery date will be Tuesday 12/28. I was planning on taking the rest of the week off, but then working from home the following week. I hope that if that is all the time that you can take off that it is enough for you. Will you be able to add extra days if you need them?

This is something I am curious about too. I am considering the lap band have already consulted with a surgeon. My BMI is right at 30 and I have had a tummy tuck and the port sticking out is the one issue that the Dr. said he thought I might not be happy about as it may stick out farther than I might expect. I hadn't even thought about that and am glad that he brought it up and told me to do more research and check out that aspect prior to making my decision. So he was very upfront about it. I have felt a port through someones clothes, but haven't seen how much they stick out. Is it more of a bump or a protrusion that is REALLY noticeable?