MsJai28

I was banded on May 9, 2008 and I thought that by now I would be feeling much better. I'm having breathing problems (which did not occur until after the surgery) and my surgeon and therapist tell me that it's all in my head. Yeah, me feeling like I'm being smothered at night is a fabulous feeling. Whatever! Sorry everyone but I had to vent!!! Either way, the band MUST be removed!! Thanks

It has been a couple of months since I've logged in and I am doing MUCH better!!! I have been working with a personal trainer and have been slowly losing weight, but most importantly, toning up!! I am so happy I removed the band!! MsJai28

Hey all, I just wanted to update you guys and let you know that I had my band removed yesterday!!!! I am already beginning to feel much better!! No more esophageal spasms and chest pains (well besides the slight pain from the air they blow in your abdomen during surgery)!!! I have found a WHOLE new appreciation for food and myself and I am fully determined to lose the weight thru a trainer and sensible diet. I picked up some good habits during my two months of the bandid-o life :tt2: that I am certain will help me longterm! Anyway, I will keep you all updated and thanks again for all the support (even though my surgeon doesn't seem to be....whole other story). MsJai28

Not sure if the last comment was for me, but my band is coming out next week. The last time I was in the hospital, the physician said that I would, at least, need to have the band surgically repositioned....

Yes, my insurance is paying for the removal (Thank God), but I planned to pay for it out of pocket if I was denied. As for YOUR situation, I can't say whether this surgery is really worth it or not because there are many people who have no complications and adjust very well. But no matter what I or a happily banded person says, just remember, DO WHAT'S BEST FOR YOU!!! I truly hope you get thru this okay! Keep us posted!

Debby, I am so sorry to hear that you are going thru this, I DEFINITELY know how you feel. I hope that you feel better soon. Even though I've had my complications, are you certain you want to have a removal? FYI--My removal surgery is in two weeks.

Yes, marking the days! :biggrin2: Thanks!!

My insurance approval came thru today (thank goodness). My removal is scheduled for June 27th. I have TRULY learned alot about my weight loss and what I will need to do after removal. I will be so happy when this is behind me.

Thanks Brian.

I've been in the hospital twice and my blood count has been normal each time.

Sammie, I am so very sorry that your mom AND you are going thru this terrible time. Please tell your mother to get to the ER as soon as possible and get help!!! I understand her concern on what the cost may be to get the band removed (if needed), but her LIFE is more important. I will keep your family in my prayers!

Yes it is scary, but I try to stay calm. I plan to have it removed soon. I'm waiting on my insurance, but if need be, I will pay cash for removal.

The physician said that he has seen this condition in other patients who have had their band placed incorrectly. The esophagus spasms throughout the day and worsens when food is consumed. The chest pains/cramps are also a sign of this, but the shortness of breath is still not FULLY explained. He didn't want to assume that it was related to the band, but he also didn't want to exclude it.

That I am not sure of that, but you can call (should have toll free number on website) to confirm. I hope you find a surgeon soon!

UPDATE I was just discharged from the hospital. I was admitted yesterday because my chest pains became constant and shortness of breath was not getting better. Anyway, I was evaluated (scans and x-rays done) and there were no pulmonary embolisms, but said the physicians said I will need to get the band repositioned (or possibly removed).

FaithStep, I'm not sure where you are located, but here in Dallas there is a WLS surgeon that charge around $5000 to remove the band. His name is Wade Barker, MD. He's easy to find online and one of the best in the DFW metroplex.

I haven't been on the prescribed meds for about a week and still no change. Although I plan to get my lungs checked this week, I still plan to get the band removed.

Thank you all for your comments. I plan to look into everyone's suggestions.

Now I'm having another issue with my band. Every time I attempt to eat (or think about eating) I nearly vomit. I've read enough about slippage caused by vomiting, so I try my best not to "let" myself do so. :sad:

Browneyez, I hope you get better soon and you will be in my prayers!

Thank you for your help. I plan to have my lungs completely evaluated. Jai

Hastings, thanks for your post. No, I haven't fainted, but one of the reasons I was hospitalized last week was for difficulty breathing. And yes, I've seen several doctors, but because my oxygen levels are satisfactory by medical standards, they dismiss it as being mental. I've had constant chest pressure (not from the gas they used during surgery--had that sensation and it passed) and I get "winded" by performing the smallest tasks--talking on the phone, working at my desk, bathing--none of which were ever a problem prior to surgery!! As for the cold, blue fingertips, yes that is an issue BUT I've always had that issue even as a child. Either way, something is not right.

Thanks for the comment. I already sleep sitting up.

Thanks for your concern! My surgeon has run tests and come up with no reason for my symptoms to "link to the band" then he's telling me it's all in my head. They even sent me back to the psychiatrist (saw during pre-op) and she's also convinced it's all in my head!!! I'm saddened that no one believes me, even when I was hospitalized (for dehydration and the breathing) after the surgery, I tried to discuss it with the staff at the hospital and I go the same answer--you'll get over it. I'm now waiting on my insurance to review my case to see if they will pay for removal, if not, I will have to pay.