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I have PCOS and never expected to get pregnant without intervention, so I was surprised when I learned I was pregnant 3 years after I was banded. I had only lost 60# (with 120# to go) in those 3 years, but was in very good health all the same. I had 2.5cc in my band and left it there because I had no real issues with vomiting or heartburn during the pregnancy. My pregnancy went so smoothly that my OB and nurses commented quite often, because my age and weight usually equate to complications. However, I had no preeclampsia or gestational diabetes and with the help of a dietician, and regular physical activity, I kept my weight gain down to 7#, which is what my son weighed when he was born (7#1oz). Labor and delivery went very smoothly and I'm pleased to say I beat the odds and had a vaginal birth rather than a c-section. Post-pregnancy I felt/feel great. I recovered very quickly. My mother is a nurse and she was astonished by how quickly I was up and around doing housework and gardening (4 days after delivery). After a couple of weeks I started noticing I was getting heartburn and some acid reflux. I attributed it to the amount of Fluid I've been forcing down in order to keep up breast milk production -- food just seems to float, and if after an hour it hadn't gone down I'd just go cough it up. I don't want to risk erosion or slippage, and I've been dropping 4# a week which can endanger breast milk supply, so I've had 1cc removed from the band. Hopefully this adjustment will allow me to continue reducing weight but at a healthier pace. Those are my experiences with pregnanct and breastfeeding with the lap band.

I was banded 10/08. I have NO SIGNIFICANT weight loss, in fact, I had weight gain. I'm ticked off as I was 20 pounds lighter before I went into surgery. I am in and out of the surgeons office and it's just frustrating. Totally in the same boat. Bleh. Half tempted to tell him to take it out or lock me down so I can do nothing but drink.

You have captured my sentiments exactly. I had my surgery almost two weeks ago, and have been second guessing myself for the last few days. I realized that I am grieving the food I wont be able to eat again, and resenting those who can eat whatever they want ( without the weight gain.) I'm trying to stay positive and I know someday I will be thankful for the surgery, but this is one of the hardest things I've ever done.

I will pray for you.Remember God has a plan for you. Maybe these obstacles are really an invite for you to decide if you really want this surgery and a time to reflect if you are willing to do the follow-up. Use this time constructively- read the posts on this website so you really know what you are in for. Go on a pre-op diet. Start slowly-maybe just cutting out all sugar- then cutting out all the useless carbs. I am sure your husband is just afraid. Spend this time educating yourself and him about the risks of this surgery. ALso go to other doctors' seminars and if you can, their support groups. This surgery is a change in lifestyle- you don't just get the surgery and viola, your different. See if you can figure out why you eat, besides hunger. I just got sleeved Tues 12/13, and even though I have been uncomfortable, I am confident I made the right decision for me and I honestly don't care about the negative people's opinions are . My husband has become very supportive and he also understands his part in my weight gain, and how those actions can't continue. (lack of wanting to exercise with me, junk food in the house, etc.) Try not to be overwhelmed and take things one day at a time. Good luck to you.

I had my thyroid out last year after my PCP and I fought with know-it-all ENT doctors for seven years. My PCP knew something was wrong. I knew something was wrong. The insurance-authorized ENTs only saw a fat woman "looking for an excuse." Argh. I want to say it took two or three weeks for my levels to be acceptable. Well, they're actually high because turned out my little butterfly gland had turned into Mothra and was cancerous. (Thyroid cancer is probably the "best" cancer you can get because it seldom ever spreads.) I'm sorry about your surgery, but the thyroid governs a ton of different things in your body. Bad levels can cause insomnia, depression, weight gain (or loss)--all kinds of stuff! So do make sure you follow up and find out just why your levels are off. Your surgeon is looking out for you even though I know it must not feel that way. You will get it under control soon and then on to surgery.

OK so I haven't used the scale since I posted this thread. Thank you all for your encouragement. I am thankful that I have lost some weight. I realize I have to give my body time to adjust. I guess it doesn't really know what's going on right now. I would rather slowly lose 2lbs a month consistently than continue to gain 2lbs a year. I am gaining my confidence back. I feel it. My ex used to call me fat ass and would tell me no one was going to date me when I gained weight. 3 years ago I was 130lbs and (not to toot my own horn) very attractive. Then the weight gain and along with the weight gain, depression, hormone imbalance, severe acne and no energy. I started to hate shopping for clothes and became irritable with friends who invited me to the mall. I stopped dating and going out with friends. It's really sad how gaining weight can affect your self esteem, health and relationships. My kids were very happy for me when I decided to get sleeved. I couldn't tell anyone else because of fear of criticism. My ex told me the other day that my face is getting skinny and asked if I am working out. I told him yes. I think he felt threatened that I am on my way to getting back to the old me because apparently he went and got himself a membership to the gym. Again thank you all for your words of encouragement. Only people who have been where I am at understand what I am talking about.

Hi all, New here I got surgery around 1 year and 3 months ago. Lost 59 pounds. Starting weight was 240. Current weight was 180 I gained 4 pounds and have been stalled for 3 months. It’s been a rough three months especially with this weight gain I’ve felt so unmotivated and was hoping joining this forum would help get me back on track. Hoping to break the stall and just feel motivated again. Thanks !

Kat, Thank you thank you!!! Hmmm how I lost the weight. Oddly, I am just not hungry anymore -I only eat when I need to. Somehow (and its even strange to me---I don't feel like snacking either!) I also gave up soda...down to only one cup of coffee a day (if I even drink the whole cup!) and have been hitting the water bottles. All those changes = 4 lb weight loss this week. I am curious now to see how long I can keep it up...trying to set a personal goal to keep doing this until I get my surgery. Oh yeah I am also a couch potato, but decided that everytime I get tired to force myself to go outside...i rake or weed the garden...anything to keep me from napping. I decided napping = weight gain. Oh and I joined fitday.com and sparkpeople.com.

Have you had the sleeve or planning to? I totally get where your coming from. We've all been through all the emotions you feel. Before I was sleeved (wish I did it sooner) I would be do upset over my weight gains & the only thing that made me better was eating a whole pizza pie or tons of pasta! It made no sense. I hope you start to feel better & you can rant all you want on here. We all understand!

As a dietitian I often find myself instructing patients to lower their intake of carbohydrates, in fact I’ve said it so many times, and to so many patients, that at times I feel like a broken record. Previous genetic studies into obesity have tended to focus on how genetic variations alter our appetites and food behaviours. However, a new study recently published in Nature Genetics piqued my interest as it suggests that there may in fact be a rather novel genetic link between metabolism and obesity. The study authored by Dr. Mario Falchi from the School of Public Health at Imperial College London investigated the relationship between obesity and a gene called AMY1, the gene responsible for an enzyme present in our saliva known as salivary amylase, the enzyme first encountered by food when it enters the mouth that begins the process of starch digestion. "We are now starting to develop a clearer picture of a combination of genetic factors affecting psychological and metabolic processes that contribute to people's chances of becoming obese. This should ultimately help us to find better ways of tackling obesity," Dr. Mario Falchi says. The number of copies of a gene that a person carries can vary throughout their DNA, although people usually have two copies of each gene. Yet, Dr. Mario Falchi and his team found that the number of copies of this particular AMY1 gene can vary greatly between people. The researchers examined the number of copies of AMY1 present in the DNA of more than 6,000 people from four different countries: the UK, France, Sweden and Singapore. And according to their results, it is those who have a lower number of AMY1 who are most likely to become obese. They determined that AMY1 was the gene that had the greatest influence on body weight and then counted the number of times the gene was repeated in each individual and how this affected their obesity risk. The chance of being obese for people with less than four copies of the AMY1 gene was approximately eight times higher than in those with more than nine copies of this gene. The researchers estimated that with every additional copy of the salivary amylase gene there was approximately a 20 per cent decrease in the odds of becoming obese. This new discovery highlights a strong link between metabolism and obesity and suggests that goes someway to proving that our bodies react differently to the same type and amount of food, leading to weight gain in some but not in others. How we deal with carbohydrates and hence, how much carbohydrate we should be consuming, must be adjusted for each individual. This research indicates genetics may play a role in obesity, and carbohydrate metabolism is very much involved.

I'm 63 and my dr. has suggested lap banding because it will help my heart. I have had 5-way-bypass surgery and quit smoking. When I quit smoking is when I gained all the weight. It's kind of a vicious circle, because I've once more put myself in danger with my heart with the weight gain. Someone told me that over 55 bandsters don't do well. Does anyone have an opinion on this and is there anyone out there that is banded and older? I'd love to hear their opinions and whether the surgery was more difficult for them. Perhaps I'll find there are no older bandsters and that should answer my question about whether to do it or not. Any feedband is appreciated.

Further in your (our) defense, I don't think we were making fun of using a straw making the poor girl gain 50 pounds, we were making fun some someone actually BELIEVING that's what caused the weight gain. I mean, come on, if you believe that, I've got some pacific ocean view property for sale here in Texas. Come on folks, let's lighten up a little. Its good. It's all good.

This weight gain is normal. But different for everyone. Week one weight loss was 8lbs week two- 4lbs week 3- 2lbs gained 9 this is where I decided to go on the 5 day pouch test until out of bandster hell.) week 4- 2 lbs re lost plus 2 pounds week 5- 2 pounds lost- First fill at the end of this week still little restriction so I will continue on the 5 day Pouch test on monday. 16 pounds lost total in 5 weeks. every body is different but this is what I have experienced.

Interesting article. Basically supports what my thinking has been. I just wonder how long does the procedure have to be done before it is no longer referred to being "in it's infancy"? They state numbers referring to patients 6 years out, so, that would appear to me to be out of it's infancy ... But, I reached goal 8 months post and have been maintaining the same weight for over 2 years now. In the article, they state "failure" of a procedure if you have regained 22 pounds or more. That seems like a heavy statement because I have read on here many folks who have regained this and more, but were able to lose it again when they recommitted to comply with the basic guidelines. To me, that is not a procedural failure, but rather an issue with the patient's compliance. As far as why there is weight gain, the article states: There have been so many pissing matches on this forum with regards to the "cheating" question. I'm not going to get into that battle again. Just be ready to accept the consequences. It is difficult for me to support an alcoholic who won't stop drinking ... Bottom line, IMO, is that if I were to gain 30 pounds, it will be due to my "cheating" the sleeve, not the failure of the procedure. I also believe that if I were to return to rigorously following the guidelines, I would drop that 30 pounds. Does this point to a failure of the procedure?

Well I guess there will be no chocolate for me this Valentine's Day and I am completely fine with that. :smile1: I will be going in for my VSG that day. My fiance just had his done on January 3rd and he is doing very well with his adjustments. I will admit I am a little afraid with some of the recovery issues I see with him but I think overall this is the best decision for me. I have been on a roller coaster ride with my weight-- gaining and losing 100, 50, 80, 35 pounds back and forth. This definitely cannot be good for my body, not to mention the heredity of heart disease, hbp, diabetes etc. etc. I guess I just have to keep convincing myself that I am doing the right thing. I am fairly new to this website and find so many inspiring stories on these forums, I really do thank you all and enjoy the good reads. Wish me luck and I will be back on to share my journey with all of you wonderful people.

@@Tootsietoes Are we all adult's here? I have no Idea why I'm even responding.. The goal healthy. Whatever that may look like for each of us. You asked..."Does it bother you that someone could choose to get the surgery based on the idea that portion control, not food, is what makes you fat?" Never bothered me. I'm not here to rescue anyone. Good luck to a person that ate all their meals as cheese cake. Restriction alone is not a one size fits all. Your food choice will effect your outcome. I see - People looking for permission to go back to old behaviors. As long as they are happy..... that's fine. You are happy with your outcome right? Others are not so happy with weight gain. Some come here to get back on track. I would never tell them to eat what ever they want and all will be fine. That's just me... The majority here are new. I will direct them to proven best practices.(Their program) Not a one size fits all. Off the top of my head. You will see a program changes with people with health issues, complications, above average fitness levels, mobility issues and maintenance ... I'm sure their are more reasons.

I am 8 months post-op and doing FABULOUS! I've lost 70 lbs. and have 70 to go! I found out about Lap-band from my mother who had the surgery two years ago. I was very leery about the procedure at first bc of all of the problems my mom has had (slipped band and chronic pneumonia from the acid reflux) but I found a great surgeon and I have had absolute success. I used to play a variety of sports during high school but ankle injuries side-lined me and I began to live a very sedentary lifestyle while taking in the same amount of calories. I'm actually very tall (6'1) and it took awhile for people to notice my weight gain. I remember going for my pre-op physical and the nurse being shocked that I actually weighed 321lbs. But since the surgery, I've rediscovered my love of physical activity. I actually look forward to my daily work outs and have to force myself to stop most of the time. I love have this much energy and I have a productive outlet for my competitive nature. I've known about this board since before my surgery but I normally just lurked. I had some problems earlier this week after a fill and decided that I definitely need to participate more with people that KNOW what I'm going through. So here I am! I'm looking forward to getting to know the Lap-band community!:tt2:

My doctor is recommended I have a bypass revision done (currently 5 years put on my sleeve) as I have severe GERD and weight gain. For those that have had this done….. which bypass did they do? Full ? Mini? Or? and did it help? Thanks in advance.

@@ChristmasJanet Congratulations!! Way to go!! So happy for you. Besides us, I haven't seen anyone else mention the fluid weight gain after surgery. ....but it sure did happen and at first it was so scary but thank goodness the scale is moving in the right direction now. @@marycw1955 I bet we will all get real creative before te solid food maintainence phase kicks in. I don't like ricotta cheese but I've seen it mentioned a lot.

Thanks reallyrosy and sleeversue - I am drinking the drinks. 4 days post-op and I walked 1/4 of a mile yesterday. I actually could have walked a little more - but didn't want to push it. My friends come over and keep making me laugh - and it hurts to laugh - as I'm sure you're both aware. I look like I've been hit by a big semi truck. I'm sure you remember that, too. But each day is getting a little better and I am slowly losing the weight gained in the hosp. - thank goodness. Thanks for all the support!!!

thanks everyone. i appreciate it. so i guess my weight gain was normal? and also .... feeling no restriction is normal?

I've never been a yo yo dieter...never really been on a diet at all until I started seeing my lapband surgeon. My prior weight loss had been mostly due to increasing activity and very slight food modification, never anything drastic. Never tried the fad diets. Well, I tried some OTC pill, but after a week it made me feel weird so I stopped them immediately. I never was a dieter because I didn't want to become a yo yo dieter. I think my weight issue is highly related to hormones. I've been fat since preschool, but most of my drastic weight gain in short periods have been after I had kids and I started birth control and now most of my weigh loss post band occured when I started this extended menstrual cycle! Which may attribute to why women have more trouble losing weight. Damn hormones. Just a thought.

Well, I'm sorry that you've noticed a change since your weight gain. I think you will definitely notice a difference in how he treats you after surgery, not just in public, but I'm not sure you will resent it--especially if you can think of it as a celebration time--you're feeling better, looking great, enjoying your life more, and you're probably going to be sending out a lot more positive energy in general. It would be really odd if your life partner didn't notice that and treat you a bit differently (not because you're "not fat" any more, but because you're feeling and looking and acting so much more energetically, if that makes sense). Long story short, of course it would be amazing if people didn't treat us differently when we were heavy--my DH loves me no matter what, no matter what size--but I can tell you that our relationship is stronger, better, hotter, closer in every way since the surgery--and this was a guy who loved me like crazy before.

Don't allow "following in your mom's footsteps" in terms of weight gain be an option. It's only an option if you allow it to become one. Understand that weight gain IS possible, even with these major surgerys, but it can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle and staying focused. Good luck!

I had an early menopause brought on by cancer treatment - OMG it was HORRIBLE. The hot flashes, I would get major panic attacks with them, and want to rip my clothes off. At home, I did rip my clothes off! It upset my sleep markedly too I was absolutely bug eyed, totally depressed, having major sugar cravings, etc. I went onto HRT. I know the risks, but I'm only 44, have early osteoporosis, was miserable and not coping with the menopause symptoms. HRT has been an absolutely life saver for me, I will be on it for a long time yet. I also had to start testosterone treatment and THAT was incredible. That's the fountain of youth. It took away all the aches and pains, the belly weight gain, the declining libido, the mood issues. The little break you had might just be a coincidence, I think a more natural menopause can sort of come and go, cant it?