CherBee

Hi! I had the Lapband procedure 5 years ago! And lost the most weight the first month (liquids and soft foods). I lost some after that but had trouble with the whole band thing pretty much from the beginning. I was misled to believe I would feel satiety, that's the word they used. No I never felt satiated, as in not hungry anymore. Filled, yes! Gagging, burping, drooling all part of the wonderful experience of the band. I found ways to "cheat", like God forbid drink with my meal (like normal people do) or go vomit in the bathroom, really pleasant especially when out to dinner. I guess I fell off the wagon and did not go to support group meetings to face successful banders and other sugery patients. I think the saline eventually evaporated. So about a year or so ago I saw the new doctor (my surgeon went to another hospital to practice). I felt like I wasn't connecting with this guy, so I didn't go back. Thenj I got a call from the weight loss center asking me how I was doing (first time in 5 years) and I told them not well. So I went in to see the new new doctor...younger guy, user friendly. So after a fill and a removal I am going to have an endoscopy done next week and then see if I am a candidate for the sleeve. He thinks it's a possibility. I didn't even know about the band except I saw a new flip chart in his office with the picture and description and I asked about it. They are just starting to dom this procedure and i hope to be a guinea pig! I need to hear success stories from people who have been through a similar situation.Thanks!

Thanks for your esponse Lynn...much appreciated. :001_tongue:

Wow! You look fantastic! You lost half yourself. I am new to the boards and am seriously considering the sleeve (hate the band). Did you have any negative experiences? How was your appetite? Any problems with any foods? Did you drink with your meals? Lose any hair? Did your stomach pouch stretch at all? It sounds like you have no regrets. I hope it will work for me.

Hair loss...that's the first I have heard or read about that....hmmm...that's a downer. I am 60 and I don't want to look like 80.

I think if the doctors says the right think my insurance will cover the sleeve. It covered the band. I am wondering..will I react to the sleeve the same way as with the band...gagging, drooling, burping, gurgling...all that. And it looks like the same rule applies about drinking before and after but not with meals. And the sleeve is irreversible. Glad to hear you were appoved and will be sleeved soon. Thanks for the good vibes.

Thanks for your story and support, R. I have been reading severtal posts and it sounds like the way to go. : ) I hope insurance covers it or it won't happen.

Thanks! I have read some of the messages and I am encouraged!:thumbup:

Hi..whatis the 5-day pouch test diet? I too want to restart start the lap band diet.