determined2lose

I appreciate all of the feedback. I heard back from my doctor's office today and they confirmed I do not need to have my band unfilled for a vaginal hysterectomy. What a relief! I've finally gotten the right fill amount so I hate to have to go backwards.

I'm relieved to hear that. I didn't have any problems with the anesthesia from the lap band surgery (they gave me anti-nausea medicine before and after surgery).

I am scheduled to have a hysterectomy on 8/11/08 (vaginal). Does anyone know if I will have to have my band unfilled in order to have anesthesia? I have called my doctor and I'm waiting to hear back from him.

The cost can vary. It is definitely more expensive if you fit into the category of having to stay overnight in the hospital. I was same day surgery and it was $13,500.00. I thought the figure for staying overnight was around $18,000.00 but I am not 100% sure on that. Their prices include all of your follow up visits and fills for one year. It also includes an insurance policy for a company Richmond Surgical has contracted with to cover the cost of major complications. I had no problems with not being kept in the hospital overnight. In fact, I was glad I did not have to stay overnight. At the time of my surgery I weighed 227 1lb (5'5 1/2") and have high blood pressure. I highly recommend Richmond Surgical Group and Dr. Brengman. The only thing you might want to consider when choosing a surgeon not in your local area is having to travel for all of your follow up appointments and fills. I work about 1 hr 15 minutes from Richmond so I always have to schedule to take time off to go to my appointments. I've had three fills and three follow up appointments since my surgery on 10/22/07 so it does start to eat away at your sick/vacation time.

:cursing:Dr. Brengman did my surgery on 10/22/07. I have gone on the same emotional rollercoaster as you. I have at many times been very discouraged and been at a complete stand still at losing weight. I have read people's posts on this website and felt like a complete failure when they tell of their success and how they stick to their 4 ozs etc... so strictly. I am happy to say that I got my third fill on 2/29/08 and I finally got restriction and could feel the rewards of having the band. I go back Monday 3/17 to see Dr. Brengman and am happy to say I will have lost weight this time!! When I have seen him in the past and not lost any weight, he has never been judgemental and does a really good job of putting you at ease and giving you a pep talk. It makes a world of difference when you finally get enough fluid in your band to feel restriction! Hang in there.