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Thanks so much fluffy. I am sorry to hear about your best friend ... she was much too young to die. I totally understand how you are still missing her terribly. My therapist called me back and we talked for a bit. She gave me a couple of breathing exercises that have helped with stress in the past. I will see her Saturday morning. I must allow myself to mourn and grieve the loss of my friend. Eating will not ease my pain ... I must make that my mantra. I won't give up! Thank you again. Hugs ~Fran

Here's what I found ... Prolapse literally means "to fall out of place". Slippage - An unusual occurrence in which the lower part of the stomach may prolapse through the band causing an enlarged upper pouch. In severe instances this can cause an obstruction and require an urgent operation to fix. Hope this helps. ~fran

Well, here I am counting my carbs, eating 11 carbs for Breakfast and 5 carbs for lunch. My plan for dinner has less than 20 carbs. Then Murphy's Law comes into play. I am sitting at my desk and the phone rings ... wait .. a little back story: My bro and I went to visit our 90 yr old mom at the convalescent home yesterday. She wasn't well. The nurse said they had a call in to the doc to see what they should do. Her blood pressure had been extremely low and she was not herself. After not receiving any emergency calls in the night, I called to check on my mom this morning and was told she was doing better, that her pressure was back to normal. Two hours later I get a call telling me that they are taking her to the hospital because her pressure is too high, then too low, then too high ... etc. My mom has a bad heart (among other ailments). I am now a bit frantic. The hospital is not far from my job so I am giving them time to check her in and run some tests before going there. Rosie Posey (that's my mom's name) is a tough cookie (no pun intended) and will probably be back at the home tomorrow, but, in the meantime ... I'm just worried sick. Here's my problem ... all I can think about is a soft, sweet, sugar cookie! Geeeezzzz! WTH??!?!?!? I am worried about my mom and the closest thing to comfort for me is a sugar cookie. I'm not getting any work done here, but there's no point in leaving right now. This is the worst it's been since banding. Maybe I'll call my therapist. Any suggestions to keep me away from the sugar Cookies? Thanks. Wish me luck. ~Fran

It sounds like you know what you really want to do. Trust yourself. You can do this! We are all rooting for you! Bandsters unite! ~Fran

Dragonfly, While I would not begin to know what is right for "you", I do have a few suggestions. First, let me say that I chose the band because is was less invasive than other WLS. I have had a few surgeries in my lifetime and the most recent (and most difficult) was back surgery. The recovery was brutal! I shudder when I think about it. To top it off, without losing weight my back problems continued. So, for me the lapband was a no brainer. I would suggest that you do in depth research on both the lapband and gastric bypass. You can get lots of information here that will be helpful. I would also like to remind you that this is YOUR body and YOU are the one that will have to live with the choice you make. So, if you feel like having your insides rearranged is not something you can live with ... well, you'll have give that a lot of consideration. I guess what I'm really trying to say is that if you know what you are getting into with the band, then you will know what it will take to succeed. Do your homework! Lastly, I will tell you honestly that I have never worked so hard to lose weight as I have with the lapband. I have never exercised more, or given more thought to what I put in my mouth daily. I have also never been happier to exercise. And I now love to think of new meals to prepare. I am a slow loser compared to many on this forum, but I have never been happier with my weight. I started my journey on June 15, 2009. I was wearing a size 26; I now wear a size 14. I am thrilled! And I am still losing! I wish you the best, whatever you decide to do. ~Fran

Great post! Very thought provoking. I am a slow loser and sometimes (albeit not often) I get frustrated with my progress. I am going to put it on my wall and read it daily. Time for me to be conscious of every SINGLE pound I lose -- and be grateful. Thanks! ~Fran

May I suggest that while you are waiting this "year" that your insurance requires, you have your doc start a supervised weight loss plan or whatever else your insurance requires for the surgery. They make us jump through so many hoops before they do the right thing! It's just awful. But hang in there ... a year will go by faster than you think. Learn everything you can about the band during the wait too. Now, another thought .... do you think that maybe you can appeal the 3 year/100 lbs thing? You might give it a try. And, the suggestion for the sleep apnea study is really good too. Good luck to you! ~Fran

Temecula, I live in L.A. and I am insured by BCBS, and what you are being asked to pay sounds VERY wrong. Admittedly, I had to go from doc to doc to find one that would accept BCBS for lapband because BCBS does not pay them well -- not at all. But, once I found a surgeon I did not pay one penny for my hospital stay and (once my doc moved into his Beverly Hills offices) he no longer accepted my co-pay when I saw him for fills. (Personally I think something shady was going on in his previous office, especially since they only took cash.) If the money they are asking you to pay is not a problem for you and you don't want to postpone, by all means, do it. BUT, I would call not only BCBS, but also the benefits dept at my job to be sure that what they are doing is legal, ethical and necessary. There are so many programs for lapband and it's true, some are more expensive than others. But know this, not all of them charge the "extra" fees your doc is charging and, like others have said, some of that stuff you don't need (i.e., his specific "support group" -- there are all kinds of free support groups around). Good luck to you! I certainly understand that you don't want to postpone at this point. ~Fran

Thanks stateofzen. Your hugs are much appreciated.

Thanks to all for the suggestions. As it turns out, I had forgotten how tight my band gets when I am stressed. The result was that I couldn't even keep my dinner down, so even though Cookies tend to slide down, I was too stressed to even try. This morning I am so tight I could barely get my meds down. I am having the hardest time getting out of the house to go walking. I am just so sad and worried about my mom. I know that exercise will help with the stress, so I am going to the park. Fortunately, I told my employer that I would be in late today. I will probably do Protein shakes today; I know that once I see my mom, I won't be able to swallow anything. I just can't bare the idea that my mom is drifting farther and farther away from the person I knew. I continue to pray ... Thy will, not mine, be done. Thanks again to all. I really appreciate the people on this forum. ~Fran

Often friends and family "look out" for us without having done ANY real research. So, if you have done your homework and you are satisfied that this is the surgery for you, that should be enough. This is YOUR life and YOUR health. How many times have you tried to lose the weight, lost some, and put that weight and possibly more back on? It's a vicious cycle. For me the lapband stopped the cycle. You mentioned that they said there are "so many risks involved". Do you know how many risks were involved in the spinal surgery I had in 2004? I had TWO orthopedic surgeons -- one was a neuro-spinal specialist. Had I not been morbidly obese, I likely would not have needed the surgery. That surgery was a SERIOUS RISK -- one that was brought on by my weight. Think about the risks of being obese and what it does to you mentally, emotionally and physically. Are your friends thinking about that? My former sis-in-law said something to me about having a "foreign object" in my body ... how is wasn't natural. I said "you mean, like hip replacement or an artificial heart or an organ transplant?". We didn't speak for a year. Why? Because I DARED to tell her that she didn't know what she was talking about. If you think that I gave her ONE thought after she got mad at me for standing up for MY life ... you would be wrong. I saw her the other day (we work in the same high rise bldg, and rarely run into each other -- we use different elevator lobbies to get to our respective floors). She was all smiles and compliments on my weight loss. I am not moved by others and what they think "I" should do for MY health. "I" take care of ME. BTW, my sis-in-law is even bigger than she was when she made the "foreign object" remark. I, on the other hand, have gone from a size 26 to a size 14. Nuf said! Do your homework and decide what is right for you. This is YOUR LIFE. All the best to you on your journey. We are here for you! ~Fran

Melody, You are the best salesperson for low carb! I was checking out your 3 week low carb plan on another post and hope to start on Monday -- I have to write out my food plan and go grocery shopping. I have to admit that I am a little scared to eat fats ... but I KNOW that the low carb thing works. And, I would love to feel more energetic. Congratulations on your success! And thanks for all the useful info! ~Fran

I think that "willpower" means different things to different people because I do not credit "willpower" to one ounce of weight I have lost. But that's just ME. Personal opinion here ... not saying that anyone else is wrong. (Have to use a disclaimer about everything you say on this forum these days I do not now, and did not before, suffer from ravenous hunger. Ravenous head hunger, now that's a different story, and unfortunately mine. Unlike some others the band does actually restrict the amount of food I can consume in one sitting. And, for me, the fullness stays for hours. I have at times, eaten my dinner -Protein and veggies & starch - and promised myself that I could eat dessert in an hour (when "I thought" I would have room in my pouch), no luck. One bite and it's coming back up. So I wait longer, still no luck. Eventually I say "what the heck" and forget about it. Because the band limits the amount I can eat I cannot binge, not even on slider foods. I know that MOST bandsters have a different experience, but I can only tell you about mine. So eating as a result of emotional issues just doesn't work the same as before lapband. I also see a therapist, an obesity specialist. She has helped me retrain my mind about eating and to deal with head hunger in other ways. The very best thing for me is that when I have a bad food day I do not have to start from square one the next day, because I was unable to really overeat due to restriction. This dimishes my stress about my weight and allows me to get back on the wagon the very next meal -- not the next day, or the next week, or the next month -- as I did in the past. Have I lost weight fast? No. Do I exercise more than I ever have in my life? Yes. I was banded almost 21 months ago. I still don't like the numbers on the scale, but when I started this journey I was wearing a size 26 and the jeans I am wearing as I type this are a very comfortable size 14. It feels good, and I am still losing. I am very clear that I am not in a race to lose weight, so I work at a pace that I can handle; one that will get me to my goal weight. If you can do WW, lose the weight and keep it off, I'd say you are right ... you don't need the band. But for me, that just would not have happened. In my many years of dieting I was never able to keep it off. Now, I feel confident that I have a fighting chance - sans willpower. Whatever you decide to do, I wish you the best. ~Fran

YAY* Shirley! Glad to hear you are on your way to better health. Your attitude about being on liquids for the next 2 weeks is great. You have my best wishes for a successful journey! ~Fran *Yes, I meant to type in all caps. "YAY" is an exclamation and I wanted Shirley to get my message. I hope that I proofed my post to the satisfaction of others (not really , just being sarcastic -- in case you didn't get it.). I say again ... YAY! Shirley!

Melody, Melody, Melody ... I cut my carbs a couple of weeks ago, and the results were mixed: The good news is that I lost 6 lbs in one week. YAY! (And that was based on my doctor's scale -- had two appts a week apart). I was thrilled to see such great progress in my weight loss. The bad news is that I tied up my kids and put them in a closet because their music was too loud. They are big (20 and 22) so I had to let them out cuz they were kicking the walls so much that the neighbors were sure to call the police ... eventually. I was rude to everyone, including my bosses ... had a really hard time censoring myself and almost told one of my bosses that if he changed his travel plans ONE MORE TIME, his next trip would be to SIBERIA - ONE WAY! I did manage to keep those particular words in my head ... so I still have a job ... for the moment. I was just MEAN, GRUMPY and IRRITABLE. I was jonesing for my carbs sooooo badly. I felt like an addict! Bottom line is that cutting carbs really does work. I just have to find a way to do it so that I don't lose my mind, job, and family in the process. I'm working on it. I won't give up. ~Fran

Wow, that must have been scary, Acadia. So glad you are all right. I will heed your warnings should this, or something similar, happen to me. Thanks. ~Fran

You will likely get a number of differing views on this. One thing is for sure, doctors can differ greatly in their post op instructions. My doc had me back on solid foods in 3 weeks, mushies starting my 2nd week. I am now 20 months out and doing fine. You will also hear that many people that were absolutely starving on the post op liquid diet called their docs and were told they could start mushies. Perhaps you should speak directly with your surgeon about your concerns. I have to say that 1 gram of Protein per serving of broth sounds ridiculous -- but that's just my humble opinion. Also, in my opinion, I would not starve myself because a PA told me to do so. I would speak with my surgeon, tell him that I hired a nutritionist and explain the situation and how you are feeling. It has got to be so frustrating to read about people eating mushies (some) after just a few days post band and there you sit eating broth! It is so important to get your protein daily. Remember this is YOUR body and YOUR health. Get all the information you need and take care of yourself. Good luck. ~Fran

I am sorry to hear of your slipped band and hope you recover quickly. I have not experienced this but your post has me very curious. Do you (or your doc) have any idea why after 2, apparently successful years in lapband land, your band would slip? Was it just a fluke or did something prompt the event? ~Fran

I am an emotional eater as well. I agree with happygirl, planning your food is the best route. When I plan my meals I tend to have a good day overall. It seems the band is unique to each person. Physical hunger was never a problem for me before banding, and even less of an issue since banding. Emotional eating has always been my nemesis. As for restriction, for me it really does help me stop. I am fuller faster and, I learned the hard way that eating at night before going to bed was a no-no. Before banding I had a habit of eating something before I went to bed. The urge to do this did not stop after banding, but because of therapy and my desire to lose the weight, I stopped doing this -- for the most part. If I had a particularly stressful day I noticed that it was harder to use the tools my therapist taught me. So, some nights I would have a snack, then lay down to sleep. OMG, it was awful! The food was in my esophagus! I couldn't sleep, I couldn't lay down, I was miserable. I would have to sit up for at least an hour, no matter how tired I was. As you might have guessed ... I don't do that anymore. You see, because of restriction my food stays in the pouch longer, as a result, eating more food before the pouch has emptied enough caused the food to back up into my esophagus. Of course, because in the past I was accustomed to eating as much food as I wanted, I couldn't imagine that the little bit of food I ate for dinner would prevent me from having a late night snack -- but it did. So, while restriction doesn't work for some, it works for me. Do I still struggle sometimes? Yes. But, because I started therapy with an obesity specialist 8 months BEFORE I had my surgery AND I continue to see her now (I could actually stop now, but it's great ME time:), I work on my emotional eating, while the band helps me with the physical. Because my therapist is an obesity specialist she has training in nutrition so it's like two for the price of one -- therapist and nutritionist. YAY! BTW, my insurance pays for my therapy. I make a small co-pay that my therapist decreased to practically nothing. It's true, the band is often not a "walk in the park", especially if you are an emotional eater. But, if you are truly ready to change your life, you will do everything it takes to have that happy, healthy future you want. Learn everything you can about the band. Ask ANY question, no matter how crazy you think it is; someone will answer. This forum is great for information. Take what you can use, and ignore the negative (and there will be negative). One last thing, you will read on this forum that the band does not work for everyone. This is true. Sometimes there are physical issues and sometimes ... people cannot get past the mental issues (i.e., emotional eating). Sometimes the physical issues cannot be overcome, sometimes they can. It is up to you to be the best advocate for yourself, no one is going to care about you more than YOU. I believe you are making a good start by asking questions before you begin your journey. All the best to you!

I was a little confused by your post because you seem to know what you want, or rather what you don't want: lap band surgery. But after reading the responses of Dave, Dawn and Rainydayz, I was able to see your post from a different perspective. You are asking people to give you reasons to have the surgery, yes? Well, Dawn and Dave wrote truly kind and thoughtful responses. I don't think that I could say it any better. And Raindayz, well, her response was closer to what I was thinking, and she said it gently and to the point. I hope the information here helps you with your decision. Good luck to you whatever you choose to do.

I am sorry you are having such a difficult time with your band. Doctors are so different about when to eat mushies, when to eat solids. My doc had me on solids in less than 3 weeks. I did fine. But, I have to say that I don't think it was because my doc had such a "great post op food plan" (he is a general surgeon, not one that specializes in lapband), but because I just happened to be able to tolerate food at that stage. That said, perhaps, because your stomach seems to be more sensitve you might consider the more conservative path mentioned by "honk". It may not seem like much fun, but it could save you a lot of grief and aggravation -- and pain -- in the long run. Be sure to get all the nutrients you need and stay hydrated. Many a bandster has found herself in the emergency room because she is dehydrated. As for your eating "just to feel good", I totally understand. I too, am an emotional eater. It is a complex problem because it is much harder to put a "band" around our heads, in fact, it is impossible. LOL But, for me, seeing a therapist that specializes in obesity has been extremely helpful. Because of my "head hunger" and the need to continue eating after my hunger is gone (a life long habit), my weight loss has not been "speedy", to put it mildly, but I have lost weight. I have lost because my therapist has given me tools to use when the "head hunger" hits. Also, I have learned so much about myself since being banded. And, I have changed in ways that has baffled and surprised family and friends -- and myself. I hate exercise, but I get up every morning and power walk at the park. I am up to 2 1/2 miles. I don't eat fast food anymore, I don't want it and I don't like it -- not anymore. I am not perfect with my food. But I am kind to myself when I am not. Beating myself up only leads to self sabotage. Emotional eating is one thing that the band cannot stop, but I have learned to use "self talk" which helps me to make better choices. Remember, we have to be kind to ourselves both mentally AND physically. Do what you need to do to heal your stomach from the trauma you recently experienced (i.e., explosively rejecting the Protein, stomach spasms, etc.). And gently remind yourself that eating "just to feel good" doesn't feel so good when you get on the scale. I truly hope that your troubles with your band are a thing of the past. Hang in there ... you are not alone.

Your post is a reminder to me to be thankful. I have arthritis (knees), but definitely not as bad as yours. I also have spinal stenosis (arthritis of the spine) - doc says surgery is not an option because it is too extensive. And I have NEVER been able to tolerate ibuprofen, which I believe would have helped my pain. But since being banded and losing weight I walk every morning before work. I am incredibly thankful. I remember how bad the pain can be and I truly feel for you. I remember when I couldn't stand in line at the pharmacy to get the pain meds to stop the pain! Crazy, huh? I feel your pain! I do have one question: Have you tried Water aerobics? I tried it a couple of years ago. It went well until I did the "water weights" segment. I was off from work for two days trying to recuperate! Pushing the weights into the water awakened my spinal stenosis BIG TIME, the pain was unbelievable. But, running in the water was great -- no pressure on my knees. It was nice. Just a suggestion, it might give you exercise without pain. I wish you the best on your journey. I am sure you can lose weight on minimal exercise, it may take longer but you can do this! ~Fran

Congratulations on your weight loss! I have to agree with Zenaida, while I think WW is a great program I just don't see paying someone to weigh me. If I need group support I have this forum, and if I need it in person, there's always OA. And for those reading this post that are unclear on my intention: THIS IS MY PERSONAL OPINON ABOUT USING WW FOR MYSELF ONLY. (This board had been wrought with tension over every little thing a person posts lately, so I like to put a disclaimer in when I post now. LOLLLL) But actually Sdart, I was writing to see how you are feeling. I remember reading that you were in an accident where your truck rolled a few times. Just wanted to know if you are 100% yet. I hope so. Take care. ~fran

Congratulations! I know exactly how you feel. It took me months ...and months to get with the program. I hated exercise and I was already exhausted because I have sleep apnea and my CPAP was not working properly. So I started small, parking far away from my destination and walking there and back. Now I am up to 2 3/4 miles every morning before work. I am NOT happy when the alarm goes off at 5:00 a.m., but when I am at the park and the sun is coming up and the sky is turning blue ... wow! I feel really good -- so good that sometimes I throw in an extra quarter mile just because I am happy! Does my body ache when I am done? OH YEAH! And, since I haven't received my new CPAP I get tired once I am at work ... but I work it out. Point is ... I sooooooo hated exercise, but the resulting weight loss has changed everything for me. I listen to music on my iPod while I walk and it takes me back to my youth .. LOL It is really hard for me to believe sometimes that I waited so long to do this. But I am very glad that I did. Bottom line, we all have to get into it at our own pace. You are doing great and should be VERY PROUD. When you see the numbers drop on the scale you'll be jumping for joy! All the best to you on your journey! ~Fran