sashley8

The last fill I got caused acid reflux, so I have gone in a couple of times for the surgeon to take some saline out, and the problem is going away. But, he said that since it has been so long, he wants to do an EGD. I am not sure this is necessary at this point, I'm ok, have only had some not too bad acid relux at night (when laying flat-and not every night-like I said this is going away since my band has been loosened). The procedure will cost me $525. I have had the lapband for 6 years and lost 105 pounds (240 down to 135-I want to get down to 120). I had a 4 year delay since I was living in Europe, but stayed in management (I eat healthy and slow anyway), so I came back, got a small fill and lost the additional 45 pounds for my initial goal. So, I am quite small and swimming and exercising on a regular basis. Do y'all think this is necessary? Thanks, Susie

I got my lapband in Nov. 2008, in the first 6 months I lost 70 pounds, but then I got a neck injury and things changed, after it got better I then moved to Germany for work, so I never got back on track. The band seems to be in place and does limit my portions, but towards the end of my time in Europe 10 pounds crept on. Then I lost it since I've been back but it keeps creeping back on! So, now I am wondering if getting a refill again will help me, so that I can get rid of the remianing 50 pounds; I have really tried to get back into a better eating routine, although it is not making a difference-I stopped eating the foods and chocolate from Europe. When I had the surgery, afterwards I had no problem with following all nutritional guidelines and even had NO craving for sweets or carbs! Do you think that would happen again? I have an appointment with my lapband surgeon in a couple of weeks, I just hope it will make a difference.

One other important thing to remember is to not eat unless your stomach is growling and you are really hungry, the hardest part for me is not giving into psychological 'boredom' eating in the evenings, I try to stay busy though.

Hi Angie, Just remember what you've heard about the Lapband meaning a lifestyle change for some people, it is a 'tool' for losing weight, but if you do not follow consistent healthy dietary habits and not drink 30 minutes prior and 1 hour afterwards (this is what I go by), then you will defeat it. I had mine done almost 8 months ago and have lost 60 pounds so far (55 to go by the end of the year), but I have always been pretty health conscience and actually like to exercise (I have a new home, so this may mean my many projects (painting and yard) in addition to some swimming and weights). I have a pretty low pain tolerance, and the only time I felt any pain was when I woke up after surgery, but the medical personnel gave me medication right away, so within a minute or so it was alleviated. God Bless, Susie