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I think it depends on where the disk problems are. I have a herniated disk in my neck (C5, C6). If the disk problem is lower back, I feel very certain that getting excess weight off will help a great deal. I need to get the weight off, but that will not help future problems in my neck. I did PT and had the epidural procedure and have been pain free (knock wood) for over two years. If I were you, I would not have the back surgery, continue your exercise, have the lap band surgery, and feel pretty confident that the weight loss will alleviate some or most of your lower back pain. I personally would not have back surgery unless I were unable to walk without it. PT can do wonderful things. A good physical therapist is priceless! Good luck to you.

Surgery was 9/2/16 OMG it won't stop. I hate to wash my hair, when I brush it out it makes me sad. How much Bioten do you use?

@@retrieverguy - I asked what concerned me - lack of energy (how long) and hair loss (again how long). He answered both and has been right. The energy picked up when I could eat a little better and I cut my BP meds in half. I am now down to a quarter of a pill. Hair loss is a common post surgery issue...sucks, especially for a woman :/ The surgery was scheduled at my last pre-surgery meeting (guess that's why they call it that). I was pretty set on the idea of being first one on for surgery. I didn't want to wait in pre-op. I have only had surgery once before (index finger, last summer) and I was scared then and especially have WLS. I could've had my surgery within 8 days of that appointment because I had already started my pre-surgery diet pretty much and they were happy that I had lost weight already.

Here is a link to my weight loss blog. http://pamsweightlossblog.blogspot.com/

. I hope your back pain gets better,,Its probably gas I hope. If not seek pain medications from your doctor. I just got banded yesterday.. i was so excited until the numbness and anesthia were off. The pain is as if i were hit by a bus. They give some serious pain medication at hospital which worked up to3-4hours then pain came back double... I was then released went home only to find the pain increasing. i took the prsecribe hydrocodone but really didnt help. Today my whole body from neck, shoulders, arms, of course belly and some weakness in legs. I feel like a gutted fish. And havent slept been pacing all night. Is this common.... <a href="http://www.TickerFac...t-loss/wmXcgkW/"> <img border="0" src="

Wow, you lost fast! We started at similar weights, I was 205 last June before the pro op diet for 2 weeks, surgery in July. And I am still at 156. You look amazing. How do you still have hair? I’ve only lost 49 lbs and I have only 1/4 of my hair left. Admitting to envy! But you are inspirational. Congrats!

Take a few deep breaths and hugs to you. It's really tough to read about the bad stuff. There is always that possibility with any surgery. You need to examine what your outcome can be. What will happen if you don't make the changes? Can you loose the weight on your own? Can you stay with that weight loss program, Are you happy with your body/mind/soul at this time? Will having the surgery help with any long-term conditions? Can you commit to the after care? What will happen if you do nothing? Sit down with your mental health professional, talk about your fears, your hesitations. They can help you discover if you are ready. Think back to when you started the process, why did you want to do this? This decision is a huge step, life will change. Try not to keep reading all the bad experiences. Yes be aware that things can go sideways but its not the norm.There are many more with positive outcomes or these surgeries would not be done as much as they are. Hang in there! Find your path , find your peace. Sent from my SM-G920V using the BariatricPal App

I'm going to share my positive experiences with having the VSG with the hope it will ignite a spark of optimism in you about it. Besides my mild state of panic about having the IV inserted (I have a completely irrational needle phobia and always freak out about them, no matter how much I promise myself I won't) the surgery itself was as smooth as it could possibly be. When I regained consciousness I actually was confused for a moment and thought the surgery hadn't happened yet because of the absence of pain and discomfort. The anesthesiologist had done a terrific job. My period started during the surgery, and it did feel like the cramps had been amplified that first day. I'd brought a heating pad with me, and that provided some relief along with the ample pain medicine I was given. I was slightly nauseous but that abated when they increased my meds a tad. I slept for a few hours, and then felt ready to start going on laps. I actually was told I needed to slow down my pace because I was feeling so well I just zipped up and down the hallway. I slept very well through the two nights in the hospital, and during the day would snooze when I wasn't walking or watching movies. I brought my laptop and a HDMI cable so that I could hook it up to the TV and my parents (my support team since my husband was working) and I could watch them. I had the surgery in Tijuana, Mexico, because my BMI was too low for my insurance to be willing to cover any of the costs, and the facilities exceeded my expectations. After I was released I felt energetic enough to go to the little touristy area and explore and shop, and then chilled out by the pool at the hotel. After we left Tijuana my parents and I went shopping at the outlet just over the border before making our two hour road trip back up to LA. We stopped at a couple of scenic places, and at Panera for dinner where I had broth. I felt completely comfortable the entire way, without being burdened by fatigue or pain. The only discomfort I experienced was from an allergic reaction to the tape used over the incisions. They caused tiny, itchy, angry welts. Fortunately they healed quickly. My recovery was easy. In a way it was even enjoyable because I gave myself permission to just lounge around the house and recuperate. I'd stocked my kitchen with Protein powders, popsicles, Crystal Light, PB2, broths, Jello, and the like before surgery, along with everything else I thought I might need, and put the house in order so I could just relax. The blog site "The World According to Eggface" has a great post about things to stock up for the liquid phase, and I recommend that you check it out. You can also find packing list for the surgery on YouTube and this forum. I binge watched Ray Donovan and all these other shows people had raved about but I never had time to watch, read books, and took gentle strolls through the neighborhood. I'm a professor, and I started teaching one month post-op with more vitality than expected. I was back on campus preparing for the quarter prior to that point. I think if I'd had another job a total of two weeks off - one for the surgery, and one for post-op - would have been sufficient. I'd worried I'd be lacking in stamina, but was already benefitting from the weight loss in that first month. I've increasingly gained energy, fitness, and confidence in the months since surgery. I learned about my appetite changes and got myself into an eating and drinking schedule during the time in between surgery and going back to work. I threw up due to having the VSG just once. I'd eaten something that was spicier than expected, and guzzled Water to try to put out the flames. That caused me to throw it up. I was really sick in December, but that was due to a virus that several of my students had, and I would have gotten regardless of having had the VSG. It was a week of misery, and then I rebounded. I'd been a tad bit concerned prior to surgery that I'd lose hair, have loose skin, and would look and feel aged. I'm grateful that none of those problems became a reality. I lost a tiny amount of hair around the four-month mark, but it was only perceptible to me. My skin isn't the least bit loose, and my scars have faded entirely. You cannot tell I ever had surgery. I'm in my early 30s and am now getting carded again, and confused for being a student. Strangers have paid me sweet compliments. I've gone from a size 14 / XL to a size 6 and am still losing. The shirt I wore today was an XS. I have PCOS and have seen an improvement in my blood work and symptoms post-surgery (no more painful acne breakouts that throb all night and make me want to hermit at home because they are so unsightly). This time last year I was incredibly self-conscious and would dread the thought of running into friends I hadn't seen in a while because I knew they'd notice my weight gain. I shrank into myself like a turtle retreating into its shell then. Now I am emerging, blossoming. I am actually living my life instead of just existing in it. I feel freed. I had mentally prepared myself to have "buyer's remorse" because I'd read that it was quite common, especially in the first month, but I have honestly never regretted this surgery. For every medical procedure there is, there is someone who has had a painful and horrific experience. Someone who has had everything that could go wrong go wrong on them. There are people who've died from having their wisdom teeth or their tonsils removed, from reactions to OTC medicines, from childbirth. And we're surrounded by risks everyday - cars, tubs we could slip in, food we could choke on. You have to look at the risks of not taking action, too. Obesity can shorten your life, and it can shackle you to health problems. The VSG is really a low-risk surgery if you chose a qualified surgeon and follow the guidelines given to you. Many of the problems people experience post-surgery have solutions to them. As an example, some people with acid reflux problems have felt better by taking a PPI. People who are very fatigued might have a Vitamin deficiency a blood test can identify, and then they can treat. I felt better when I increased my Vitamin D. You're likely to be able to make it over any obstacle you encounter, too. Hopefully you'll go for this surgery, and you'll benefit from it like I and so many others have. Best wishes to you.

Good luck to you as well! Great job publicly documenting your weight-loss journey. It will really help you keep on track & stay accountable. I did the same thing when I had surgery three years ago. We look forward to you sharing much more. Good luck! You are not alone!

After the weight loss, I found that many people I know do not recognize me. Sometimes they have a strange look on their faces - like I think I know who this person is but I can't quite place it.

As a rule, no. The lower the BMI, the slower the weight loss. Don't let that discourage you. Slow and steady wins the race.

You can do it. All those numbers can and will be fixed by all the hard work you put in. Just take it a day at a time. I started with high blood pressure is the 140/90 and now my BP is down to 116/69 and that is just with the pre op weight loss and life style change. Hoping after surgery will be able to ditch those BP meds for good! You can do this. Just think of your long term goal to be healthy and have the best possible lab numbers possible! Best of luck!

Thanks. I think that might be why I might not have to do the diet. I will find out more tomorrow at the pre-op. I have lost weight, and all since July, mainly in the last few months. The VA requires 5-10% body weight loss and kept off for the surgery otherwise they start you over again. The surgeon's reasoning was that I had already lost weight and was doing good because I am still losing. I have lost an additional 5lbs since I saw her in February. I am just curious.

I agree with everyone. I also understand your trepidation. Having been sleeved for almost two years I am proud to day I have not gained any of the weight back. I believe the sleeve was the tool that helped me maintain my surgery weight loss of 75 pounds. The sleeve gives me restriction and a reminder not to eat too much. My portion sizes at one time are a bit larger than at the beginning, but still smaller than pre-surgery and still smaller than most everyone in my family. I think the smaller stomach is always there to remind me of the journey. It's there to remind me to stay in control. Having said that. In almost two years, I've not reached my goal weight and am still trying to lose more weight. The surgery doesn't change our brains (wish it did). We must still be mindful of what we eat, when we eat, how often etc. Our bodies still have the ability to gain weight. We are in control. binge eating, grazing, too many bad carbs (in my case), sweets etc not controlled will cause us to gain weight. I think, like the others have said. the sleeve is the tool that should help you in your desire to get to and maintain a healthy weight as long as you add it to a true desire, plan and implement a healthy way of eating. Good Luck!!

I'm relatively new in the process, as I was sleeved on August 5th. I think this is the ultimate tool for weight loss, but I can't say that it is a "cure all." At the end of the day, successful weight loss and (more importantly) maintenance is all on the individual. As poster above me stated, you can lose all the weight, but if you get into bad habits (constant grazing; terrible food/drink decisions, etc.), you will gain it back. The sleeve is an outstanding tool, but like any other tool, you have to use it correctly for it to work. You can have all the tools in the world, but those tools won't build a house by themselves. I guess what I'm trying to say is that ultimate success or failure does not lie w/ the sleeve, it lies with you.

If you are struggling with quitting smoking you might try e-cigs. They helped me quite. The 10th will be my 3 year anniversary of quitting smoking. As far as excess kin, it's going to happen. Almost everyone seems to think they will be forced to live with it for the rest of their lives. In reality, you can have plastic surgery to remove it. Just think of it like the weight loss surgery is only part 1 of a 2 or more part surgery you will need. You can actually go ahead and research it and save up for it since most insurance companies will not cover it.

I had a body composition test done last week and was wondering if anyone else has had one of these done? Here are my results: Height: 5'11" Weight: 183 lbs Percent body fat: 27.2% (my Aria scale says 40%, so I like this number better!) Fat body weight: 49.8 lbs (total amount of fat in the body) Lean body weight: 133.2 lbs (muscle, bone and water) Basal metabolic rate: 1,838 cal/day (Right about what I have estimated based on avg losses and daily intake. 1,838-1,200=600; 600*7/3,500=1.2 pounds of loss per week) Total body water: 41.2 liters (49.6% of body weight and it should be 60%... I need to get more hydration and reduce inflammation) The test recommended that I should be about 22% body fat, and that my optimal weight would be 170.8 lbs. My goal weight right now is 175 because that would put me at a normal BMI. Interesting results. Had a wonderful talk with the trainer that ran the test. He was amazed that I have lost over 90 lbs in the last year. I wish I had run the test before to have a comparison.

Well I will give you some info about me. I weigh 360lb and I would like to lose 120lb. I have a bad back I have been living with for years (over 15). I have a herniated disc, degenerative disc disease and the cartilage is very thin to gone between a couple disc. My doctor suggested to go until I can't stand the pain any longer then look into surgery. I know even with weight loss im going to have pain but my nsaids really help me. My weight loss doctor is wanting me to get RNY to lose more weight faster. He suggested for the back pain take tylenol and water therapy. I know tylenol and water therapy won't help me so im considering the sleeve. Has anyone else been in a similar situation? I'm trying to decide between the two surgeries and its only two weeks away from surgery time

I'm back! Almost two years ago I went through the entire 6 month+process of jumping through all the hoops for insurance, weight-loss and actually getting a surgery date, only to chicken out 2 weeks before surgery and call the whole thing off. Now nearly two years later , 20 lbs heavier than when I started the first time, having developed Diabetes II and just generally hating life, I'm starting over in the process again. My PC submitted a new referral to the bariatric clinic and the new journey begins. I am ready this time.

I'm out from hibernation and hopefully you'll be hearing from me a bit more often! We had some really gorgeous weather until today. It's raining at the moment. It's one of those days where you just want to stay in bed and pull the covers over your head. You've had some amazing weight loss success yourself. I'm always so inspired by the changes every one makes. Thanks a mill for your continuous participation in our community!

I enjoyed: Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies Eating Well After Weight Loss Surgery Before & After *The first two I found by doing an online search at my local library.

My insurance company also is making me do 6 months. After getting some clarification really what it meant is that I have to see my primary physician each month to talk about weight loss and changing habits. I am just at the end of the forth month. My husband has surgery in nine days for his sleeve.

The Everything Post Weight Loss Surgery Cookbook Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies Changing Our Foods Changing Ourselves Passing For Thin: Losing Half My Weight and Finding Myself

Having lived through chemo and drastic hair loss, I'm not worried.

@@Namaste6, forgive me! Glad you are already through the approval nightmare and are only 3 weeks away from your surgery. I had my gallbladder out on Tuesday (from rapid weight loss) so I am a bit loopy from the anestheisa/meds, although this one is much easier than the VSG. Good luck with all your prep!