suzi

As for durability, I know one person who has had their band 9 years and still VERY happy with it. I don't know of anyone whose band has just "worn out."

I was banded March 2007. For many months now I develop pain around my port site at night -- especially when I have been sitting a lot. If I stand or exercise the pain is relieved. Attending to my sitting posture provides a modicum of relief (if I am on deadline and have no option but to be seated). And it is relieved when I lie down, so I enjoy many nights early-to-bed. It's not excruciating pain -- more like tugging than sharp or electric pain -- but I surely don't enjoy it. Again, I believe it is associated with the port being attached to the abdominal muscles. I wish I knew a way to permanently alleviate this without losing my band, but if I have to choose -- I'll keep the band.

Check with your plastic surgeon about being a skin donor. The skin is one of the most important organs of the body and skin is badly needed all the time for grafts. I saw this suggestion smewhere on the web while I was researching weight loss surgery, though I can't find it again, of course. However, it's worth asking about. Possible answers are yes, no, and maybe.

When I was first considering weight loss surgery, Dr. Patel was highly recommended to me as someone who does a lot of lap-bands, which is a major consideration when choosing a surgeon. That is the extent of my knowledge.

I'm planning to enjoy this day before I begin my pre-op diet. No, not going to eat everything in sight. Going to eat with discretion, but focusing on a few things I really enjoy. Gingerbread waffles with cactus preserves this morning. A big salad later today. Feeling very positive. A little overwhelmed. With everything I do I can think of ways it will be better when my body is better...and my health is improved.

I'm planning to enjoy this day before I begin my pre-op diet. No, not going to eat everything in sight. Going to eat with discretion, but focusing on a few things I really enjoy. Gingerbread waffles with cactus preserves this morning. A big salad later today. Feeling very positive. A little overwhelmed. With everything I do I can think of ways it will be better when my body is better...and my health is improved.