pnw218

Belly binder - you can get one at a sports store or from a cosmetic surgeon. It is mainly a wrap that goes around your stomach for support. It is quite helpful. sleeping - At home, I slept in the recliner quite a bit and would put a pillow under my legs. Takes a little pressure off the tummy muscles. I was sleeping on my right side in bed by the 2nd day after surgery and used pillows along my side as support. Also put another pillow between my knees. I have had a history of poor sleeping at night so was taking ambien and started using a cpap machine right after surgery. I am doing much better now and think the weight loss has helped. Hope you are doing better soon!

The chance of a leak is very low and decreases daily and weekly. Seems it is very unusual to happen post op. Listen to your body and if you are really sick a day or two after surgery, speak up. Insist on an additional test. It seems that most of the doctors will allow you to stay longer if needed, and most don't even charge extra. If you have had prior surgeries, try to base how you feel on those experiences. I have had enough to know what typical post op feels like ... and I felt markedly better every day. By day 3 when I flew home, I was fine. Walking thru the airport, flew just fine and never took another pain pill. Even went to the grocery store on the way home. Is your surgery really scheduled for 2012?? I could barely wait the 3 or 4 weeks after I scheduled mine! LOL Good luck!

yep, me too! so glad I switched to the sleeve! I spent less than half of what yours will cost and am thrilled. I haven't needed any aftercare that my primary dr couldn't do. I was fortunate that she was supportive. She ran a very thorough lab check at around 3 months post op; everything was great except I was a little low in Vitamin D. Granted, I live on the other side of WA where it only rains! LOL I totally understand if you aren't comfortable going to Mexico, but I would encourage you to reconsider the lapband and research the sleeve. It is amazing! You can read about my experience in the link below. Good luck with your decision!

I greatly disliked the 2 or 3 types I tried. The one I liked most was from Amway/Quixtar. I just used Protein drinks. My fav is Premier chocolate from costco - it was 30 Protein, 160 calories and low carbs.

I was overweight for the past 10 years, about 50-75 pounds. I have lost just over 50 lbs in the past 6 months and have little if any sagging skin. I am 49 and 5'4" tall. I have areas that need to be toned - mainly the upper arms and the thighs. I seem to have lost inches fairly evenly tho from head to toe. Have finally lost in the bust also! yea! Down 4 inches and 1 cup size. It seems to me that all of the above mentioned could have an affect on how the skin recovers. Kind of comparing it to pregnancy. I have a girlfriend who was always slender, gained a normal amount during pregnancy, lost her baby weight quickly - and had the most saggy, wrinkled skin I have ever seen. She called it elephant skin.

Back in town! And it was about as I expected .... wearing a bikini was awesome! the spa on the Carnival Dream was wonderful! the visits to the beautiful beaches were too short! :wink1: dinner???? Was horrid!!! ok. the food was great but I got full too quickly! I did fine at Breakfast and lunch. We always did the buffet and I only took what I could eat. And I could nibble while the family stuffed themselves. LOL However, at dinner, they bring one course at a time. And I could only order 2 - an appetizer, Soup or salad and a main dish. So, I sat there drooling over the bread, and the multiple courses they all ate! I did sneak bites here and there from them ... but also could barely make a dent in the main course or I wouldn't have room for dessert! And dessert is very important! :biggrin2: I had to take dessert back to the cabin for a midnight snack a couple of times. Overall, being slender was much more fun than eating 5 courses at dinner. Not gonna lie tho. It was hard. When we got back to Florida for 5 days, I pretty much quit ordering and just shared. My stomach was upset quite a bit - I figure I was eating very different food than normal tho. And - I didn't make time to find a costco or somewhere I could buy my normal Protein drinks. Next trip - that is mandatory. I eat every 2-3 hours and it was hard to do that while spending days in ports or at theme parks. I didn't want to eat Protein Bars all day everyday, and Protein drinks actually would have been heavy to carry around and hard to keep cold. I know, I am whining! :blushing: I have no intention of giving up traveling, so will just need to adapt. The other issue I had was motion sickness. I have never had problems flying or driving, and rarely cruising unless the waters were very choppy. I had to take bonine (Meclizine) regularly. Even when we got back on land, I had to continue with the med, especially when we were going on rides at Universal. it was highly annoying. Would be curious if anyone else has had motion sickness after surgery. I am hoping it was a fluke and doesn't happen again. It also took me longer to get over the time change. I am hoping to have a more normal day tomorrow! The girls and I did work out regularly on the ship and took the stairs instead of the elevator most of the time. I came back only one pound up. Not bad after 2 weeks on vacation! Hoping the scale will be back to normal tomorrow!

Yep. Change it up. Try days of Protein shakes only, see what happens ... and then try higher calories for a few days. It has worked for me. However, I must say, my weight loss has been very slow the last couple of months. Have you measured? How are your clothes? I have continued to lose inches and wear smaller sizes. Are you building heavier muscle but getting smaller?? Just a couple of ideas. Hope it gets better for you!

I can hardly believe how many doctors I have talked to, how many times I have asked for help and how many times I have been ignored. Finally, today, May 19th, 2010 - I got help .... my family got help. After going thru a divorce back in 1991, many of my thought processes changed. For many of you here, maybe now you will understand why I am the way I am. Why I play devil's advocate. Why I am always willing to accept that there are two sides to every story. Why I believe that stories change every time they are told, sometimes for the better and sometimes for the worse. After always being called a perfect couple, many friends and relatives couldn't believe we were getting divorced. Charlie Rich nailed it: No one knows what goes on behind closed doors. The divorce was mutual. It just wasn't working. We are still friends. Back to today. My husband of 17 years is finally being sent to rehab. I finally had someone say that it was him, not me. I never had an issue with weight, depression or stress until after we had been married for a couple of years. I think people are often on their best behavior and at some point, they can't keep up the act any longer. He always said that he didn't have a problem with alcohol; the only problem was my attitude when he was drinking. I could share many family gatherings, vacations, company events and just nights out at restuarants that ended poorly. Most of the time, he didn't even remember the details and never acknowledged any responsibility at all. I was always on pins and needles, never knowing how a night would go. I did not want a second divorce - I really dislike failure. However, I also did not want my children raised in that type of environment. He would be good for a long time, and then there would be several incidents. It was a constant circle. We separated in 2002 for a few months. Fast forward to August 2008. We took a cruise in Alaska with our youngest daughter and my ex's daughter (from his second marriage who is about the same age). At dinner one night, he had too much to drink, got mad about something, got up and left the table. When the girls and I returned to the cabin, he was gone. His dinner clothes were laying on the bed, the balcony door was unlocked. I was awake almost all night - he never came back. By morning, I didn't know if he had continued drinking, gone gambling, taken off with some woman or even jumped overboard. I finally had to go to security and report him missing before we came into port. Being interrogated in a small room by their officers was not fun. After about an hour, he was located on board. He had supposedly been reading and sleeping in an empty lounge all night. After being separated again for almost two years, we just got back together last fall. Again, he has been on his best behavior. Until recently. Over the past 2 months, the episodes began again. After two in the past three weeks, I had enough. He had asked me to go with him to the doctor this morning to help describe some sleep issues he was having (kinda like restless leg but his whole body shaking). When he reminded me about the appointment this morning, I told him that I would still go, but I was going to bring up the alcohol issue. He is also diabetic and I felt the dr should know. I have asked drs before about his drinking and diabetes, and he has always talked his way out of it, making me sound like a bitchy wife. For the first time, a doctor actually listened and asked him directly if he had a problem with alcohol. He didn't answer. She asked him again. He said that according to me, he did. I sat there quietly and held back the tears while she questioned him. Has he ever had a dui? yes. Has he recently driven drunk? yes. She straight out told him that she believed he does have a problem. I thought he was going to cry. He will be evaluated at a recovery center soon and they will recommend treatment. My youngest daughter and I will also go to their family classes. I don't know if the older two kids (24 & 22, from my first marriage) will participate; will cross that bridge later. He was very depressed after the appointment; I called our office and let them know we wouldn't be back. After a nap, he was in much better spirits and seems fine tonite. Maybe he knew he had an issue but didn't want to admit it? This way he can say that "we" made him go and he doesn't have to take responsibility yet? I dunno. Probably like most, he is a nice guy when he isn't drinking, spoils his daughter and me - within reason : ) I am so very thankful that I had this surgery when I did, and that I feel as good as I do. If not, this could have pushed me over the edge. I am going to remove his photos from my album for his privacy at this point. I likely won't be around too much over the next few weeks - I feel like my health is quite stable and my focus needs to be on him for awhile as well as my daughter. I am sure there are those out there who can offer me advice or encouragement - I thank you in advance for that. If you are in my position, don't give up. Eventually someone will listen. If you are the person being told by a friend or loved one that you might have an issue, drop the attitude and get an unbiased opinion. Maybe you do and maybe you don't. One way to find out. In the meantime, I am mentally and physically exhausted but very hopeful. And I thank God for our doctor. She is a young woman with an excellent persona. She is kind and considerate, but also says it like it is ... which is why I was so stinking scared to talk to her about my sleeve surgery! LOL She fully supported that as well. She is very proactive - not the take 2 aspirin and call me in the morning type. I do get an email notice if someone sends a private message, so I will respond. for now ... grazie and ciao! Janet

Thank you! I was just looking at your photos! Amazing how people change! You are looking great too!

There's always room for one more! : ) And thank you! It is so exciting to finally be successful :thumbup: I am sure you are feeling the same! You don't have much further to go either!

Thank Fab! And I am excited to get away! We hadn't been in the Caribbean for a long time, until last January, and then the weather was just so-so. This time should be nicer. And we are going to 3 ports that the rest of family hasn't been to before - so that is always nice. I am a little concerned about the food thing, mainly dinner : ( I figure I will have an appetizer and main dish - and then chocolate melting cake with a side of vanilla ice cream! Maybe one of the girls will share with me. LOL I love to cruise. This will be my 20th. Kind of a milestone. We will be going to the beach, ziplining, cave tubing and hiking so I should get a decent amount of exercise : )

I was changing pant sizes every 3-4 weeks. Was really amazing! Shirts were a little slower - however now I don't want to wear tops that are loose at all! Wanna show off the waist! : ) Good Luck! You will love it!

Do you ever make positive comments?? If not, please don't respond to me. I ignored you the last time you were rude - was kinda hoping you would just go away. If this was your best effort at nice and not intentionally sarcastic ... he is actually doing very well and I am sure this trip will go just fine. Have you tried adjusting your meds to improve your disposition? Sheesh.

My husband has not had VSG; was able to lose weight on his own. (brat!) However, he has lost over 40 pounds and his diabetes is now very under control. He has never taken insulin, just metformin. His numbers are so good that he may be able to reduce his meds as well. He is also swimming about a mile three times a week - and he will turn 59 in August. We have talked to several people with diabetes and weight loss in general seems to help alot. Good luck to your friend!

Seriously?? That truly comes off as quite rude. And are you going to look at my rate of loss and tell me that I am failing to use the tool properly?? I have lost as much in five months as others lose in one month. However, percentage wise, I am right there with them. AND - I am happy and not stressed. Read my story. And then try to answer more supportively next time. As lisalu and others wrote, there is more than one way to get from A to B. It takes alot of nerve to post about one's failings here for all of the world to see, whether it is pre-op or post-op.

I didn't cheat, just followed a different guideline than others. And I felt better faster than many people and was able to return to a normal life sooner. Was also told by a nurse, also a sleeve patient, who consulted with her co-workers & doctors who said anything mushed up that was tolerated was fine. Stay away from the obvious crunchy, seeds, etc. Things that might actually get stuck in and damage your stitch line. Common sense and moderation. When you want to try something new, try a small bite, wait a few minutes and then try again. Personally, I think over eating anything would be as likely to cause a leak - and that possibility goes down tremendously day by day. Read this guideline for a different view if you haven't already. Others around here will post it and then tell you not to follow it. Go figure : ) http://www.cornellweightlosssurgery.org/pdf/dietary_guidelines_sleeve_gastrectomy.pdf

I would have gone crazy at home for 4-5 weeks : ) I do have a desk job tho, not physical and went back part time on day 4, working 4-6 hours per day. By the end of the week, I was back to full time. Guess it would depend on what your physical activity level was tho before surgery also. If your job is walking, don't see why you couldn't return to that in one or two weeks. Lifting and using the stomach muscles would need more time off or at least light duty. Personally, I wouldn't want to use time off for this situation - would rather save it for a vacation : ) If you have insurance that is paying, that is a different story. I am also self employed so if I am not there, it doesn't get done. More incentive : )

congrats on your date! it will come quickly and then you will be on your way! good luck with your current recovery!

5 month update! The scale has moved slowly however the clothes continue to get looser! I did adjust my numbers to reflect the entire wieght loss from my high around January 1st. Current Stats: - current weight 147.0 - have lost a total of 52 pounds, 73% of my goal of 71 pounds - now wearing a loose size 6 levi's, size small to medium shirts Went to a water park after volleyball camp last week - and wore a two piece swimsuit! It felt wonderful! Even the 120lb+/- teen vb players didn't bother me! LOL We are mostly packed to leave for a Caribbean cruise later this week. I will be taking a 2 piece tankini and a 2 piece bikini. And NO 1 piece suits!! It was such fun trying on dresses to wear this time - everything fits so much better, including those I bought ages ago 'knowing" that I would lose weight, and never did. Until now! There are a few things that are actually too big - so will be passing those on. Physically and mentally I am doing so well. I am sleeping better, being more productive during the day, haven't had any major back issues. Went to a 50th bday party for a friend last night and wasn't the least bit embarrassed to be there with former high school classmates. We are planning another get together in late August and I am excited to see everyone. My current goals: - would like to lose 10-20 more pounds; however just firming up the hips, butt and thighs would be fine also. - would like to phase out the cpap machine and the stress/depression meds eventually, if possible It is such fun to be able to hang out and keep up with the kids again. We have a great itinerary planned during vacation; the girls and I plan to use the gym on the ship .... and since we are booked in spa suites, it is right outside our door! There shouldn't be any excuses!! LOL Hoping not to gain any weight on this cruise and maybe even lose a couple; however, I do have rule that dessert is required with every meal ! We will definitely be taking the stairs more than the elevator! My youngest daughter commented the other day about my weight loss. Said she was looking back at photos from Cmas and now really notices the weight I have lost. It is sweet how those closest to us don't always see us as overweight or as heavy as we see ourselves.

Congrats to you! I was out of town last week at a volleyball camp with our varsity team. The scale did not move at all. Must have been that lovely college food. lol Was hard to find any real Protein - and it was scary to eat the mystery meat! We leave for a cruise and will spend a few days in Orlando next week. I am thinking I will get pretty frustrated at dinner ... have put everyone on notice tho that they have to order what I want to eat so I can have bites of their meals! : ) Hoping I will not gain after being out of town for 2 more weeks!

silly girl! you are at 100% of your original goal - I am at 65%! ; P I ran a quarter mile today without stopping! and even had a kick at the end! LOL The pylometrics and abs almost killed me - sitting with two ice packs now! It is a good feeling tho - I am keeping up with the teens pretty well. It is amazing how quickly it is coming back - after being out of shape for so very long. Did ya'll thank a soldier yesterday?? Thanks WO1 White!

Yep! I agree. The percentage lost is a good way to look at it. I am currently at about 2/3 (65%) and most websites say to expect to lose 60-80% of excess weight in a year. I figure that makes me good! I may not be losing much lately but I did run a quarter mile this morning without stopping and finished strong with a little kick! And made it thru 90% of the plyometrics and ab routines, so I must be getting stronger : )

My thought was - you are eating less so it takes more days to fill up the "tank" and then empty : ) I was a once a day, every morning bm'r (LOL) before surgery. Post-op, initially I was going once every 4 or 5 days, sometimes more than once on that special day. Now, I don't keep track but can usually tell when I am getting due to go. I haven't had to take any stool softeners - only once I think right after surgery. I bought benefiber and hated it. I haven't done anything special and all systems are working well : ) If you are still taking pain meds, those will tighten things up and make it harder to go.

awesome job!! and I totally agree - I have not been stressing about what I eat and just recently started to exercise. My loss has also been slow but steady and I am happy! Congrats! You did great!

naw, do the sleeve! : ) you will still be able to eat most everything that you enjoy - just in much smaller quantities. I totally understand about life circling around food. It does get frustrating at times - not gonna fib about that! It does get easier and the amount I can eat has become a big joke with family and close friends. My youngest daughter said today that she likes it cause when I say I only want a bite or a sip ... I really mean it! : ) You do sound like a work out machine! You will be in amazing shape after surgery and reaching your goal! Congrats!