GLB1954

I had surgery in May of 2008. It has taken me that long to reach my goal. I lost an average of 20 pounds per year. In actuality, one year I gained and in the first year I lost 40 pounds, and 32 this last year. I lost a total of 115 pounds, going from a size 24 to a 12. I started going to the gym four years ago and go at least four times per week. I am hooked on Zumba and don't think I would have been as successful without it, I think losing the weight slowly is the best way, and it may also help me keep it off. I know we all want immediate results, but be patient and it will happen. And find some kind of exercise that you enjoy. I think that is the key. I was also a type 2 diabetic, and my doctor was ready to put me on insulin. I no longer have it and my doctor removed the diagnosis from my record. That was the catalyst for getting me to have the surgery, and the smaller clothes and positive attention I get from the weight loss are all extras.

Yes they should be able to answer your questions - they may even have the insurance information on-line. Ask for the benefits department - is it a large company he works for ?

Hi, Unless you're self insured rather than through an employer, it's a misconception that a particular insurance company sets the payments and co-pays; those decisions are made by the employer when they enter into a contract with the insurance companies, so that co-pay could be different for most people. My particular copay with REgence Blue Cross Blue Shield is 15% - but only up to a maximum of $1000 per year - again this was a decision made by the employer. If your insurance is through your employer, they should have a benefits book which would explain your particular insurance plan.

I have a friend in Idaho who was banded in Mexico and has had to come up to Oregon for fills so I sent her your message to see if that might work for her. GL

I love this website - I get questions answered without even asking them! I have been wondeing why my left shoulder hurts thinking also that it must have been the way they handled my arms during/after surgery! I knew the gas could cause some shoulder pain but had no idea that having a hernia repaired could also cause it! Thanks!

Hello, I just had my surgery on May 29 - so I'm a newbie - I'm sure you will hear from others - if not, read some of the other posts on this site - it's pretty good. I was on Clear liquids for a week and have graduated to things like yogurt, pudding and cream Soup. I don't feel hungry - you get full really quick - but I want to chew something - and my doctor doesn't have me on "real" foods for at least another 2 weeks. My next food group is cottage cheese, scrambled eggs - things likethat - I think this site calls them mushies. The surgery wasn't awful - but after a week, I'm still not 100% - I took about 8 work days off and plan to go back to work next Wed. Check into it and read everything you can get your hands on - my first appointment was almost a year ago so it's been a slow process. GL

I just had surgery last Thursday. I still have some pain and I am craving something to chew, but otherwise doing pretty well. I do have a couple of weird blisters near one of my incisions but have been told that sometimes happens with surgical tape and that they should be okay - I haven't seen a lot about that happening, but did get a response on this site from a nurse who said she'd seen those with other surgeries. This is a great website even for just reading what others are saying. People are great about responding as well.

Jbrod, My blood sugars were high as well- but this morning mine was lower than it's been in years! The surgeon said the high numbers were most likely from the stress the surgery puts on your body. I would think the pain is the incision but couldn't say for sure. I think I have figured out when I'm full - it's not like you used to feel before the band - it's more uncomfortable so don't overeat even with liquids! I don't know anything about the larger bands - people are really good to responding on this site - you might want to start a new thread so someone will see what you wrote.

Thank you for the quick reply! I appreciate it!

Did anyone have blisters near their incisions? I have 2 and the NP said they were from the tape and not to worry about them - keep them clean, etc. One looks clear while the other looks more like a blood blister. They don't hurt and the skin isn't warm but I would have been much happier without them GL

I was supposed to stay just overnight, but ended up hospitalized for 2 days - they found a hiatal hernia during surgery (which I was surprised the tests prior to surgery didn't show) - so that may be a reason for a slower recovery. I can't believe someone was home just hours after surgery - I don't think I could have done it. Can you tell how you feel when you have consumed more than you should? I am eating (well slurping) small amounts of Soups and other liquids, and it doesn't feel like it did when you overate without the band - can someone describe their symptoms? GL

Hi there - I'm new to this forum and saw your message. I have surgery scheduled for May 29. I am 5'8" and weigh 261 after losing 16 pounds (my insurance required a weight loss). I hope others who haved had success will reply to your post. It seems that most are happy and have been successful with the band. I live in Salem, OR.