Hi, I have just been approved for Lap-Band surgery and I have been making all of my pre-op appointments. I live in the Fox-Valley area and I'm going to Dr. Batty to have it done. I do have some questions about things that I didn't see on this sight yet. How long does a person have the band in them? I think they are trying to say you can keep the band for life however my surgeon said the longest band in history is around 15 years old. Since it is still a relatively new surgery, i think you can't be for certain how long one band will last. If in 20 years i need another band put in, i would do it. Do you gain weight right back when it's taken out? Like previously mentioned, the band is a tool and i am sure from reading on this site you have heard that people gain weight and lose weight all the time with the band. The band doesn't fix any of your mental problems with eating...i didn't even know i had them until after the band:)
I was hoping that I wouldn't be hungry but, it sounds like everyone is after the swelling goes down after surgery. You will always "get" hungry but your band will tell you when you have enough to eat. Also, what happens when you get a stomache virus and you vommit a lot? Fortunately i haven't had to deal with that but i just had a virus where i was coughing my head off. My family dr gave me codeine which really didn't do a lot. Is it dangerous? Does it hurt
bad? Has anyone died from the shock of the drastic change in caloric intake or had a heart attack? i have heard of instances where people become malnourished...you can have a weight problem yet be malnourished. It doesn't happen for a while. Your body has an amazing capacity to adjust to the things you do to it. Getting dehydrated is the big thing to watch for...that could lead to an electrolyte imbalance leading to a heart attack. The possibilities are there for anything...you have to always watch what you are doign and take care of your body. Your body will tell you what it needs. As for shock of decreased calories...get enough protein and you'll be fine. I'm trying to get as much info as possible.
I have 4 children and 2 of them as mental disabilities that will need care for the rest of their lives and I need to be around for a long time.
Thanks very much! I can tell you after losing 40 pounds and working out 3 times a week, i feel so much better. I could only think that it will help you be around for a longer time. You just have to be diligent in taking care of yourself and realizing when to tell others no i am doing this for me. Best of luck! We are here for all your questions-feel free to join us for lunch to get more info!