hiddnstar

HI! Im sorry to hear you're having a rough time. I'm glad you're looking toward the future and what you can do to be prepared! I had my lapband removed after 3 years and have not had another kind of surgery, but my advice would be to continue to eat as though you had the band. (I understand you are on mushies right now). Eat amounts you would have eaten with the band as you prepare for your next surgery. I would also suggest that, as soon as you are able, you increase your activity/exercise so that you increase your stamina before the next surgery. When I had my lapband removed, my surgeon told me to go for 5 walks a day! While that seemed excessive at the time, it was the best advice ever! Right away I was walking for 10 minutes 5 times a day which added up to over 2 miles a day. The walks helped structure my day as I recovered, getting me up and moving throughout the day when it would have been so easy to just flop. I hope these suggestions are helpful to you. I hope the pain you are having eases up, soon! ~hiddn

HI! It was my experience that it took a while for everything to relax and open up again. I stayed with soft foods for almost a week, then gradually added a variety. I still focused on eating a small amount, though. You can always eat some more, later, if you get hungry! I think a lot of us have no clue about how to know when to stop eating. It's helped me to continue using a small plate. It might also help to find a good rule to follow, for instance see what a "serving" of that particular food is and serve yourself half - for now (knowing you can have more if that is truly not enough) then wait 20 minutes before deciding whether or not it was enough for you. I know sometimes our mealtime doesn't include an extra 20 minutes to experiment (like at work...) but you could maybe try this at dinner time. It's at least an idea that may generate other ideas that could help you Having had my band out, too, I am in an on-going struggle with my weight. I understand what you mean about the emotions coming up. I was so grateful to have the band removed, yet felt kind of an "aloneness" without it. I wish I had stuck with my exercise routine - which was walking 2 miles a day. (a month after having it removed I had an injury that prevented me from continuing, but I didn't start back up after it was resolved) I regret that now. I will say - be as active as possible. Be kind to yourself. Hang in there! You have lots of company here who understand what you're going thru. ~hiddn

HI! I did not have the pain you are describing, but Im not surprized that you are having it. It has taken quite a while for my body to heal after having had the band removed after 3 years. It did some damage; I also think there can be some "memory" in the body that can cause discomfort. Im glad you will talk with your surgeon about it, but if you are not having a fever or other signs of infection, I wouldn't stress about it; just be sure to bring it to his attention.~hiddn Thankyou, it is just very uncomfortable when bending or sitting forward. In fact, it started after working two 10 hour days and another 8 hour day back to back, by the time I got home, I had to take a percocet to dull the pain. What you mentioned makes sense. No fever or anything else thankfully. I will give him a call tomorrow though. How long did it take for you to feel better after your band removal? Did you revise to a different surgery? Hi again! It makes sense to me that after working those long hours back to back could possibly inflame that area. My surgeon told me I would have the most difficulty with the port area as I healed. I tend to baby myself, so I took 3 weeks off work after I had the band removed; my surgeon told me to take 5 walks a day, so I structured my days around those walks. I was soon walking 2 miles a day without even realizing it! I think that helped a lot. When I went back to work I did a couple of half days (I normally work 10 hours a day) and then back to full time. I think maybe you pushed it a little too hard for your body to accomodate. I am glad to hear you will be calling your surgeon today, though; it's not something to just let slide and "see". I think it will help your peace of mind to talk with him and then you can relax again and just focus on healing. My healing went very well - I had this surgery 2 years ago, so my memory isn't real accurate on how long it took to feel better. I was glad I took the long time off, though. And was still somewhat tender when I went back to work. I still have symptoms of my body's rejection of the band and hope they will eventually go away. I did not revise. I've gained a lot of weight back, but feel so much better and healthier - my body could not tolerate the band, so I had no choice but to have it removed. I hope this helps!! And I hope things go smoothly for you. ~ hiddn

HI! I did not have the pain you are describing, but Im not surprized that you are having it. It has taken quite a while for my body to heal after having had the band removed after 3 years. It did some damage; I also think there can be some "memory" in the body that can cause discomfort. Im glad you will talk with your surgeon about it, but if you are not having a fever or other signs of infection, I wouldn't stress about it; just be sure to bring it to his attention. ~hiddn

I know what you mean! I learned a lot about myself going thru the whole thing. I've struggled with my weight since having the band out. At first I lost weight. I don't know what the key is. I read a beautiful quote you might like: "And I said to my body, softly, 'I want to be your friend.' It took a long breath. And replied. 'I have been waiting my whole life for this."

You're welcome! No, I didn't have another weightloss surgery. I think if the doctor says it's medically necessary to remove the band, you'll be fine with the insurance company. I don't know what the rules are, but quality of life should count for a lot. As I said, my band was not functioning and was causing major discomfort and insurance paid to have it removed. If there is a question that insurance may not pay, you might ask your surgeon to test the functioning of the band -- not just the positioning. If it's not performing it's function and it's causing illness ---that seems like plenty for an insurance company to approve payment for. Hang in there! I'm glad you are intervening on your own behalf. ~hiddn

HI! I'm sorry to hear how miserable you've been and I totally understand. I had my band removed after 3 years. My surgeon would not help me; he said my problems were not related to the band. I went to a different surgeon who ordered a barium swallow test that not only showed the band position, but also the actual functioning of the band. He was able to make the argument that it was medically necessary to remove it; my insurance paid. This different surgeon does a lot of weight loss surgery, including placing bands. He knew right away from hearing my description of what I had been going thru that the band needed to come out -- so, no, he did not give me a hard time. The removal was much easier for me than the placing. I took around 2 1/2 weeks off work, as I recall. I do clerical work. I think I also did couple of half days when I returned. So I'd suggest taking 3 weeks off - and go back earlier if you feel you can. The recovery was fine. I rested and took pain meds, but was able to quickly taper off. My surgeon ordered 5 walks a day, which was the best order I've ever had! I'd do 5 ten-minute walks which got me walking 2 miles a day without realizing it! It also helped structure my day so that I wasnt just sitting around and losing my stamina, etc. I hope this helps! Good for you for realizing you need to do something to resolve the issues you're having. I'm so sorry you've gone thru such misery. I remember being so excited about my weight loss, but at the same time I was in a lot of discomfort all the time. My body rejected the band; I didn't have the sliming or food getting stuck, etc. The decision to get a band was a good one --- and the decision to have it removed was also a good one. If you decide to have the band removed, please be patient with yourself as you acclimate to not having that tool. My body is still healing after 2 years; give yourself some time ~hiddn

HI! I had mine removed a year and a half ago after having it for 3 years. I do clerical work - mostly at a desk. I believe I was off 2 1/2 weeks. It was an easy recovery. Be tender and attentive with the port site; it's the biggest incision. My surgeon brought that to my attention, but I had no problems with it. Apparently some people have trouble, infection difficulty mostly. My surgeon ordered that I walk 5 times a day right from the get go (after spending the night in the hospital). I did that (grumbling) and was pleasantly surprized at how fitting in 5 walks a day helped to structure my day and get everything moving along. For me, I walk 1 mile in 20 minutes. So 5 ten-minute walks every day was 2 1/2 miles! (I started with just 5 minutes each time) I ate a soft, mushy diet for the time I was off work, though I've heard some people stop for a hamburger on the way home from surgery (I'd go gently if I were you). I still felt like I had some restriction and I continued to lose weight for a while. My advice is for you to continue to eat in portions designed for banders. Don't get back into what most people consider a real serving. I hope this is helpful for you! ~ hiddn

HI! Im so sorry to hear how sick you are. I don't know what the criteria is for band removal with insurance covering it. My band was removed due to rejection and it was covered by my insurance company. I went to a surgeon who did a series of barium exrays to see how my band actually functioned ---whereas my original surgeon would do that to only see band placement. He could see my band was not functioning, that it had migrated up, and was apparently causing me a lot of discomfort and weird symptoms. He determined it needed to be removed and there was no argument from the insurance company. I don't know if the surgeon needed the test for proof so the insurance would cover it, or if he really wanted to see what was going on before deciding what to do. It worked out and Im glad the band is out of me. I have gained some weight back, but feel so much healthier than I ever felt while the band was in. I hope this helps. ~hiddn

Hi I am having my Lap Band removed today! My surgery is this afternoon. I was banded in July of 2010 and was very successful in losing weight the first year. Then I had a series of odd symptoms and a lot of discomfort that has taken 2 years and many tests/doctors to come to the conclusion that it is best to remove the band. There is also a leak in the band (since there is no fluid in there at all after 3 fills) and I believe my surgeon accidentally poked a hole in it while doing a difficult fill early in 2011. Because of that experience, I would suggest people have fills done under the fluoroscope and not blind, so the doctor can see exactly where the needle should go. It could save you grief and expense down the road. I'll write again in a few days to let people know how I'm doing and how the procedure went! Thank you to everyone who reached out to me when I first posted with questions for those who have lost their band. You were very helpful and comforting. ~hiddn

When I've run into someone so insensitive, I've found it helpful to remember that what they say to me is just an indication of the kind of things they hear in their own head about themselves all the time -- some call it the "inner critic". Can you imagine living with that 24/7? Be glad you don't have to! Im sorry they were so hurtful. Completely uncalled for. ~hiddn

HI! Im sorry to hear how miserable you are and how having the band has contributed to that. I hear you being honest and forthright and genuine. What's happening now is not healthy. From what you wrote, I understand you have brought symptoms to your surgeon(s) attention and whatever was done, did not address them to resolution. I think, in your shoes, I would request a consultation about removing the band. I'd be interested in a surgeon's reason for keeping it at this point. Some people's bodies simply reject the band -- no one's "fault". It works for some and does not work for some. I'm really sorry that your pain and discomfort were not adequately addressed from the very beginning. I understand how hard it can be to try to maintain any semblance of changing bad habits under that kind of duress. I hope you can step away from "societies expectations" and away from perceived expectations on this board....and make your next move based on what is actually good for YOU. Just YOU. This struggle with the band has gone on a long time. I would get a consultation for removal. If it is decided to be in YOUR best interest to remove it, have your eating plan mapped out as well as your exercise plan and what you'll do for ongoing support from other people. Keep moving toward your own personal goal of good health -- and make decisions based on THAT. Having a lap band or having weight loss surgery is not the only way. I had a similar experience as yours and toughed it out for 3 years until I finally saw clearly that I am the one who truly has my best interest at heart. I was fortunate to find a second surgeon who wasn't invested in my being HIS success story. Be your own success; blaze your own path. Focus your energy there. I'll be interested in hearing how things go and what you decide to do. You intervened on your own behalf to have the band put in; remember that. You may need to intervene again In the meantime, Keep your head up. ~hiddn

Loose clothing. My surgery was outpatient and I wore a longish dress and sandals -- nothing else. I especially didn't want anything around my abdomin. Plan to walk 5 times a day to keep your stamina up, even if it's just 2 minutes each time to start. Set your timer so you know when to walk again. I rented DVDs of some HBO TV shows and watched episode after episode after episode - it kind of helped me psychologically (I won't go in to explaining that). I kept a notebook of what time I took the pain meds and what time I could take the next dose. I found that helpful. Sipping water will help keep clearing things out of your system. And it keeps you getting up regularly, too. It's a time to focus exclusively on YOU. I learned a lot during those two long weeks of clear liquids. One big one was to not be afraid to be hungry. I wore dresses during my whole recovery time so there was no pressure on the incisions or on my tummy area. It's important to follow all the doctor's orders and to not start eating any different, early. Let your body heal all the way. It will pay off. One thing that happened to me was that I got in the habit of eating the exact same things all the time. I put extra unflavored protein in everything I could, I ate a lot of dairy (like pudding - which could handle having the protein added). Eventually, I became lactose intolerant. After that I became gluten sensitive So, try to vary what you eat and don't over-do any one item. Get in the habit of sitting down to eat only what is on your plate or in your bowl...and put the correct portion on it. Remember - you can have more later if you want! So many bad habits and issues I didn't realize I had, came to the fore. So be patient and understanding with yourself, but change those habits. You've gotten lots of great answers to your question from people on here!!! I've enjoyed reading everyone's responses. Im glad to hear you are planning in advance and trying to address things before hand. You'll be glad you did. ~hiddn

Hi Amelia I have no idea what is going on and am sorry you had those symptoms. How are you now? What did it turn out to be? I hope everything's resolved. ~hiddn

Thank you for explaining fitness pal! And for commenting on fit bit! I don't have an iphone, but I can still look for something that will help in a similar way. I've heard of Panera, but have never eaten there. Is it a southern california thing? I live up north of san francisco. I think you're going to do just fine. ~hiddn

HI Tyger's Mom! Im very interested in how you're doing with with fitness pal. Would you mind reporting back? Congratulations on losing 10 pounds!!! Yay!!! How very encouraging! You asked if I am gaining weight now that may band is out. Yes, I have gained some. I didn't at first, in fact I lost more. My weight now goes up and down; very frustrating. But I do see that when I focus on losing, I lose. It's when I use food as a treat or reward that Im in trouble. Same ole "old" pattern. I also have some of the throat symptoms I had with the lap band--and unfortunately, what makes them feel better is the feel of food passing. The band did some damage somewhere as it migrated up and I don't know that anyone knows how to fix it (or exactly what it is). I don't have the funds to do another round of specialists and then, more than likely, end up where I started, like last time. I continue to research and ask around to see if anyone has had these symptoms and what it turned out to be and ideas for resolution, but so far the only thing that seems to actually make the symptoms go away for a while is a certain stretch and exercise I do for my throat and abdomin. Im thinking of using something like fitness pal or purchasing one of those things you wear that keeps track of steps and calories, etc (Im not real sure what they do!). I think the key for me will be keeping really close track of what I eat(write everything down), limit the calories to 1200, and daily exercise - pretty much no matter what. I would say avoid weight loss surgery if you can. For some it is not so much of a choice and, as I said earlier, it can be a true life-saver. I loved that I had the band and I love that it has been removed,now. My body may not ever be the same because of the damage caused, which could not have been foreseen. It feels wonderful to have lost a chunk of weight that I believed would never happen. But when it gets down to brass tacks, my true opinion is avoid surgery. (any kind of surgery, not just weight loss) If it's unavoidable, we are very fortunate to have the surgical options available I applaud all those who have been very brave and very loving towards themselves to go thru the procedure and do what is necessary for successful weight loss afterward. Surgery is NOT the easy way out. So please don't think Im knocking the band or weightloss surgery. I am grateful to have had the option. Please write about the fitness pal and what it involves when you get a chance! Hang in there. You're going the right way ~hiddn

hi! I love that you're asking for opinions! It isn't every day one is actually asked for one's opinion I was banded in 2010, but had it removed last year because my body rejected it. I've seen lots of people here have great success with the lap band. I agree with what other people have posted in response to your request. Lots of wisdom and experience! Good call on the doctor who held the informational meeting. She does not sound like the kind of surgeon I would want for this kind of surgery and all the follow up. It's important to be a team and that the surgeon (or whoever it is who will do the follow up) is capable of being sensitive and intelligent in their attitude and response to their obese patients. My opinion is that getting a lap band is a drastic change in many aspects of one's life. It's a caring intervention (often life-saving) on your own behalf. And It's not for everyone. There is a lot of learning to do and absolute compliance required. Everyone responds to the banded life in their own way. Im glad to see you are doing your research. There is a lot to learn, to be aware of, as well as a lot of responsibilty. And it can pay off with wonderful results, good health, an incredibly positive and exciting change in your life. It is intended to be permanent, so keep in mind that when you are 80, you will most likely still have your band and the follow up that goes with it to make sure it stays in the correct position, the port is in place and not infected, etc. It's a good idea to look at the biggest picture you can, not just the fact that you want to (and need to) lose weight somehow. The surgeon who removed my band is in Santa Rosa, California (Sonoma County) -- if you are anywhere near there you might check out his program. He is the director at Healthy Steps in Santa Rosa (it might be called a weightloss and metabolic center...not sure of the whole title). On their website, Dr. Robert Woodbury has a blog where he posts the latest research being done on obesity; it's very interesting. People at the center lose weight and may or may not choose to have weight loss surgery ---they are finding that often people do not need the surgery after all! A modified Mediterraen Diet is followed and I am told people never have to be hungry! I wish I had been able to go there from the beginning, to lose weight without the aide of surgery. When interviewing surgeons for your surgery, I'd want them to describe the symptoms of the complications they have seen...and what the signs of band rejection are. Find out what they expect from YOU, what they want you to do if you have "symptoms". Get a good feel for their availability and expectations. My original surgeon did not recognize the signs of lap band rejection and repeatedly told me my symptoms had nothing to do with the band. I saw several specialists (over a 2 year period) who couldn't diagnose anything helpful, finally ending up back at my surgeon's office because I was sure it was the band causing the problems -- and he actually told me to not bother coming back! Dr. Woodbury, howver, recognized the symptoms, did a test and came to the conclusion that the band needed to come out. Thank goodness! So--be sure your surgeon is open to listening to YOU. I'll stop here with my opinion Thanks for asking! Take good care and use your background and intelligence in making your decisions ~hiddn

My feet. They got trim and beautiful; though not particularly obvious to others Then my upper body- breasts and face and waist. Unfortunately for me, my body is now somewhat lopsided. I have a small upper and a quite large lower - except for my feet, which have maintained their new beautiful trim selves. I remember the day a good friend hugged me and declared, "I can feel bone!" One of the best days of my journey ~hiddn

I've heard good things about the Healthy Steps Support Group and I love Dr. Woodbury! Im in Mendocino County, so rarely make it down to your area - but glad to hear there may be a group forming! ~hiddn

HI! I just have time for a quick reply. I had my band removed in September. I was told to start out with liquids for the first day and then add food as tolerated. I stayed on mushies for a good week, maybe a little more. I think everyone's body responds differently, so I suggest listening to your body and going from there. There is NO rush!! During recovery, I walked 5 times a day for at least 10 minutes each. Keep hydrated. And just ease back into eating when you get the sense. I have read that some people have stopped for a hamburger on the way home from the hospital after having their band removed! I pampered my body and gave it time to adjust and relax. I hope this helps! Im glad you're feeling great! ~hiddn

I like Raw Probiotic by Garden of Life and Ultra Care by Metagenics. What was the reason they suggested you take a probiotic? ~hiddn

Hi! I see lots of people here can relate to what you're sharing. My surgeon told me I would be able to eat what I wanted to eat, but just not in the beginniing. It's important to heal and to learn how to use the band. One thing I learned, was to not be afraid of being hungry. What a realization that was!! It came about during those first few weeks right after surgery. I was on a clear liquid diet and my body was in a sort of shock. It's hard to describe and I'm sure everyone's experience is unique to them... But you may be surprized as you see the weight coming off and your energy rising how very invested you are with getting healthy and in shape! For me, the safe refuge of food has not disappeared. I have to remind myself many times a day, every day, what I truly want. I found it a relief to not be able to eat a ton of food while I had the band. Thank goodness! Before being banded, I had felt so out of control at times eating everything in sight, and to not be physically able to do that anymore was a comfort. Though there was a bit of shame that I was not controlling that myself, that I had to use an implant to put a stop to it. When I think back, I never felt very good after eating all the food I wanted. It always seemed like it would make me happy...but, in reality it didn't. I hope you can relate to what I'm saying, or maybe it will stir something up inside you that may provide some comfort and reassurance. It's good to hear you're aware of how you feel. That's great! I think you will learn a lot as you go. Keep listening to your body as you shrink and blossom. and don't expect perfection We're all just doing the best we can do, moment to moment. Be open to surprising yourself! Gosh, what if you found the little bit of food you eat so delicious and satisfying that you don't even think of wanting more? For me, part of what was satisfying was seeing the weight come off while eating 3 meals a day! My excitement grew and fueled my motivation to keep it up. Best wishes to you! ~hiddn

I like coconut milk! In the winter Id make hot cocoa with it, using unsweetened cocoa (just don't expect it to taste as good and creamy as cows milk or you will be very disappointed). Now I put about a cup in a mug and add coffee and heat the whole thing up. It apparently has 50% more calcium than dairy. When I was first banded, I ate a LOT of dairy, plus I added protein powder to everything I could including soup and pudding. I then developed lactose intolerance; I believe I brought that on by the onslaught of dairy. I agree with the person who suggested a nutritionist. Maybe even an online nutrition site? It's good you're asking around!!! I'm not one to depend on pills and supplements rather than real food. ~hiddn

I love the title of your post!! It makes me laugh each time I see it. Keep your sense of humor and lightness; it will help in many ways. And thank you for your post! ~hiddn

HI! I, too, had my band removed (last Sept). Mine was removed due to intolerance. I feel so very much better without it! I don't want any more surgery. At first I lost 10 pounds, then would gain a little and lose a little. Basically, right now, I'm maintaining. But anytime I focus on eating well and exercising, I lose more! I need to decide to finish and get on with it. I've been enjoying some of the foods I couldn't have with the band and the issues it created. I'm loving raw salad! and pork chops with apples. I'm gluten and dairy free, so I'm not pigging out on garlic bread and milk shakes! (though that sounds heavenly -- as well as equally sickening) It took a while to get everything working together again inside. It's taken some experimenting, but things are coming together. I have found that using a good probiotic and adding digestive enzymes keeps me feeling even better. It sounds like you're doing well and you're very smart to have exercise simply be a part of your normal day. I have not been successful in that area. Yet. I'll be seeing my surgeon on Friday for the follow up from having the band removed. Congratulations on having a successful removal and moving forward!! You've lost a wonderful amount of weight Hopefully other people will reply; I'd love to hear other's experiences and what has worked. Keep on goin!! ~hiddn