dreamangel1974

Dallas, TX area[emoji4]

KCgirl, just wanted to clarify...it’s not a new procedure, just a different method to do VSG. Dr McCarty has done over 2000 of VSG’s this way, but as far as I know, no one else does it this way. It seems to me that Dr. McCarty is always looking for ways to improve patient experience. I’m gonna have a huge list of questions for my consultation for sure! Don’t wanna be a guinea pig!

I understand, FluffyChix. Bottom line is that it’s less invasive, outpatient, and much quicker recovery time. That’s what makes it an attractive option for me. Still doing my research though! [emoji4]

Btw, this is not to be confused with the ESG procedure which leaves your entire stomach in.

He does some of the work internally by putting an instrument down your throat.

Wow! This seems to be a real hot button issue for many people. I am happy to report that my husband is coming around and seems willing to at least support me and my decision, even if he really wishes I wouldn’t have surgery. I appreciate all of the helpful comments and concern about this issue and the state of my marriage. Someone mentioned underlying or unresolved issues, and you are absolutely right! We have worked together on multiple issues, but personal growth takes time. The reason I am committed to make the marriage work is that I see a desire and willingness in my husband for continued growth. He has many redeeming qualities that offset his occasional fall back into controlling behavior. Old habits die hard, but we are both working on our individual issues to make our marriage successful. [emoji173]️

I’m leaning very heavily towards the gastric sleeve, mainly due to reduced risk and less issues with vitamin deficiency. I would love some feedback from y’all who have had either procedure. Pros and cons that are maybe not listed on some of the articles I’ve read etc. No better reference than personal experience!

I’m in the same boat! Everything else I’ve tried has failed, so I know that WLS is the absolute best chance for me to get to a healthy weight and stay there. It is a huge decision though, and shouldn’t be taken lightly. I think it is perfectly normal for us to have these thoughts and feelings at this stage in our journey. We need to explore every pro and con so that we are ready to live with the negatives as well as the positives of this life altering decision! Let’s be honest, none of us would be here if we didn’t love food! I’ve been having some “food funerals” with some of my favorite fast food and heavy carb meals. Not binging...just savoring every bite. I think a huge key for me will be experimenting with protein focused meals and finding healthy recipes I enjoy. The foodie in me won’t settle for dry chicken breast with a few boring vegetables for the rest of my life. With that being said, I am hoping that with a reduced appetite and capacity for food, that it will finally be dethroned from it’s prominent place in my life!

Thank you all for your input! This forum has been a source of inspiration and support for me. As for my husband, I dropped the subject of WLS surgery temporarily so that we could enjoy Valentine’s Day and his birthday this past weekend without conflict. We have both put in a lot of work on our marriage in the past few years, and I’m not willing to throw all of that away. I have decided to write him a letter outlining how important this is to me and the reasons I want to do it. I sometimes have a difficult time articulating my point when we’re in a heated discussion. I have also discussed this issue with our best friends who are a couple that we spend a lot of time with. They are excited for me, and are prepared to back me up and help him see that he’s being selfish by withholding his support on this. If he’s still not on board by the time of my appointment with the surgeon in March, I may schedule an appointment with our pastor who is a licensed counselor that my husband has the utmost respect for. I’m feeling hopeful again about the possibility of changing my life for the better! [emoji4]

Anyone get approved for gastric sleeve through Medicare? If so, what were your out of pocket expenses?

Has anyone heard of or had a WLS performed by Dr. David Arnold in Dallas? I was referred to him by another doctor because he accepts Medicare part B.

After reading many posts, I'm realizing more and more that success with the lapband is mainly dependent on behaviour changes. I know that the lapband is not a magic bullet, but I guess I'm just wondering if there's another nonsurgical tool for appetite control I could use if I'm having to make such drastic changes on my own anyway. I hope I don't get pounced on for this...lol. I just see how many drastic changes that we have to make for ourselves, and frankly I'm not sure if I have the willpower. Would appreciate some responses about what made you decide that this was the best tool for you, and how you have been able to cope with all of the major changes.

Hey...just wondering what the deal is about not being able to drink with your meals after being banded. Anyone?

Thanks for explaining that...well put. This is just one of many changes that I feel are going to be very difficult for me. I love my beverages!

Hello everyone. I finally decided to join the LapBandTalk community after "lurking" for several weeks, and I'm glad I did. I'm looking forward to hearing your stories and am very excited to learn more so I feel more comfortable taking the next step in my weight loss journey. Sheri