Lauril

I started noticing hair loss around 6 months post-op. I didn't alter my diet, because I knew my protein was sufficient and I was having good results. I started using Nioxin shampoo and Conditioner and although a little pricey it really helped me. I noticed it to completely stop after about 2, maybe 3 weeks. I still use the Nioxin - love it! Don't forget your multi-vitamin also!

Hello, I also live in Lake County, IL. My Doctor (Denham) is out of Vernon Hills, but I had my surgery done at Glenbrook Hospital. I have Blue Cross Blue Shield HMO and I was approved quickly and easily in like 7 days from when the Doctor's office submitted the paperwork. I know Condell has been in the news recently about insurance partnership problems.... maybe it's more about the hospital then anything. Hang-in there, don't lose hope. I'm sure it's just slow paperwork........

Steve - I LOVE my band too! I think about it every day - many times a day - How it has changed my life and how thankful I am. Congratulations on the success.

My experience is you will eventually loose the restriction and hope to hit that sweet spot again with a fill. My Doctor explained to me that there is a layer of fat around the stomach and as we loose that fat - the band requires adjustment. Congrats on the big loss numbers - isn't it fun when it working so well! Gotta love the band.

I've been married (happily) for 16 years. He's a good man, good father, works hard and has excepted me whatever size I was (surgery day size 28) . I never looked or even considered another man, until now.... not that I have someone... I do not! I'm just always fantasizing and kinda lookin' around more. Given a real opportunity to cheat, I would like to believe I couldn't do it..... but I have doubts. I've lost 140 lbs.... I wear a size 10 jeans! I feel like a different person with different options everywhere - and this may include men. There are so many emotions linked to that also... it's exciting, it's fun, it also carries guilt and disappointment. I feel trapped between the desire to "live a little" and have fun - be kissed, be held, be complimented, be "wanted", etc.... and the commitment I made.

Way to go New Orleans GRL ... each day will get easier now. The port pain will take a while to go away and my port was initally all pinched-up and ugly, that goes away also. I hate protein shakes to! Hate, Hate, Hate!! Special K has the clear protein drink now that's good and NOT milky/creamy. You can buy it at Wal-Mart or Target whatever .... I would try that. Good luck!

You will totally find highs and lows during the band weightloss journey. I have had those exact feelings you just described. Look in the mirror and see no progress. In fact, I still do. My only advice is to set little goals and totally celebrate them! For me I celebrate each ten pound loss. I finally ran a complete lap at the gym - not a fast lap by any means but I didn't stop to walk.... another celebration. If you approach it as one little accomplishment at a time you'll see the rewards and keep going. If you are only focused on the final weight - the journey will be so long and tiring. Hang in there 27 lbs is great!

I had Lapband surgery in May 2006... I have lost 100+ pounds.... and had my gallbladder removed 3 weeks ago. My doctor said it is very common with significant weight loss to have gall issues and many surgeons chose to take the gallbladder out right along with weightloss surgery. My advise is do it now.... save yourself a second surgery - second recovery time - second set of belly scars etc. I feel nice without that nasty gallbladder. Good luck with your decision!

Hi May friends..... 9 months can really make a difference. I can do so much more now -100 lbs. Walk (and talk!) for miles on the treadmill, cross my legs when sitting, fit into a size 14 swim suit. (Last February for our annual Cancun vacation I was a size 26) 7 sizes smaller! Life is good. This year in Mexico I'm playing volleyball on the beach - I've always been to embarssed to try - NOT this year! I can only hope for continued success. Good luck to everyone - Think Spring.

Juices can be WAY high in calories so I always order a tall Vodka water and add those quick and easy packets of Crstyal light or these calorie free energy drink powders called Replenish. Delicious ! Just watch the Vodka quantity as it has plenty of calories also. Have fun...

Hello May friends. Happy Holidays. Thanks Drew for keeping our thread alive! I rarely post but have checked into to lapbandtalk every day for about 8 months now! It (you guys) have been my support and I am so thankful for these written conversations. They have educated me, entertained me and surely supported me over my banded months. Drews - I love my band also!! We have about the same stats. Banded on the same day - same starting weight and all. And we are both doing great ! I do not fear the Misses clothing section however - I LOVE it !!! I told my doctor I now need a band for my wallet as I have changed vices and instead of over eating I am now over shopping ! How fun ! I do not have biological children instead my husband and I have chosen to foster and have adopted through DCFS. We have lots of children in our own communities that need loving parents. Keep it in mind..... it has been a God's gift for us! Love you May bandsters. Keep up the good work - and stay away from those Christmas cookies!

I so needed these lessons today - you have no idea. I am 75 lbs down from my surgery date (5/2/06) - so doing great, but have been stuck for a couples weeks now at 215. I started my food diary this morning and I'm going workout with weights tonight. Good bye 215 !