Hi Everyone,
I'm new here, found it after my LBL surgery and decided I'd post about my LBL. I think education is everyone's best friend, especially to the people who haven't made a decision about reconstructive surgery yet.
I had my band done in Tijiana by Dr. Kuri in 8/2003. I never did reach goal, but did decide late last year that I've lost about all that I will and went ahead with the LBL. AngelNurse, I believe, posted that the LapBand was a mosquito bite and the LBL a alligator bite according to her doctor, and a shark bite according to her. I can wholeheartedly agree! I'm three and one half weeks out and have always sprung up from surgeries in the past. This one has been very tough. I'm 45 years old and I guess just don't bounce back the way that I did. That being said I believe it will be totally worth it! I went back to do some work at one week (stupid decision) and have been working and then taking a day off periodically for the last two weeks as well. I'm in a commission only job, so it's tough not to work!
My PS did use an epideral pain pump and I thank my lucky stars for that! By the time I was out of the hospital I had had very minimal pain and the third day Vicodin controlled it very well. My PS doesn't weigh the results either but said that it was likely around 6 lbs. I'm already down 7 lbs as it was tough to eat after the LBL and I'm about ready to order a smaller compression garment as it isn't supporting as much as I'd like.
I've had one complication and that is an infection on my left hip. I'm on antiboitics and had to have the stitches opened up so it can drain. That was at two weeks and it will have to heal for at least another two weeks. Other than that the scars are settling down to a fine line. I think he did an awesome job as you can tell in areas that it will be like someone drew around me with a pencil, not the 1/2" scars I've seen on some pics.
Hope to make some LapBand and LBL friends here!
Chris
I'm not sure of the format BUT
Weight before surgery: 242
Lowest Weight: 178
Weight at LBL: 205
Current Weight: 198