Search the Community
Showing results for 'Complications'.
Found 17,501 results
-
Outpatient vs. Inpatient
kiz replied to kristintaylor1's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I was self-pay, and an overnight stay would have cost me about $5,000, so I was definitely leaning toward outpatient when I was making my decision. The question about having inpatient or outpatient lap band surgery came up in one of my pre-op classes. The nurse said that with lap band surgery, unless you experienced complications, she felt it was better to go home for two reasons. One, because people generally rest better in their own home. Two, because hospitals have sick people and germs, and you're better off recovering at home to avoid them. I live close enough to the hospital, that had a complication arose, my husband could get me back there easy enough. Of course, having someone that can help you those first few days of recovery is important too. So, I don't think there's a rigid right or wrong answer, and you should go with you're most comfortable. I chose to go the out-patient route, and it was the right decsion for me, thankfully. -
Outpatient vs. Inpatient
lessofm3 replied to kristintaylor1's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I was given the option to stay or not. I chose to go "home" When I say home I mean I discharged myself from the hospital the same day, but stayed at a hotel near the hospital with my husband because I live more than an hour from the hospital. I just felt like I would be more comfortable even at a hotel than in the hospital, and if there were complications I was still close enough to the hospital if I needed to go back. -
Tomorrow is surgery day!!
CharlotteWebb replied to CharlotteWebb's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
My surgery took 6 hours. Lots of complications with the hernias. I ended up with a collapsed lung and surgical emphysema (crackling skin chest neck face). Had a chest tube to allow space for my lung to reinflate, it worked. Had a rough first few days. Made it work. Lots of swelling and almost a week post op. One day at a time. It is improving. Tylenol is my friend. -
Thank you ALL! Sorry for the late reply- I don't have a computer at home and replying on my Kindle makes me crave Valium because of the touch screen keyboard (HA!). I am feeling SO much better now. I realize that while I may not have a physical being right next to me- I have this forum and some other Facebook groups I joined this weekend. I am less and less nervous and time goes by! ALSO- I went to the doctors office today and saw my favorite Nurse Practitioner just to tell her 'Hey, I am going to MX to have surgery, just a heads up' and also to notify someone here in case I have complications or issues with wound healing. She said she was SO proud of me for taking some steps to get healthy. I had been expecting to hear 'No!! Don't do it!' But nope. The pre-op diet sucks, btw. But my nerves are evening out! Woot wooooot!
-
Insurance vs Mexico
allycatt98 replied to allycatt98's topic in Mexico & Self-Pay Weight Loss Surgery
Belladonna, One of my points was that the physician I selected in Florida is over two hours away. Therefore if a complication did arise, I would not be going back to him for follow-up. I would seek local care. So either way, I would be on my own for follow-up. Good point about the insurance coverage for complications. If I use insurance for the procedure, I won't be responsible for paying for any additional charges once my MOOP is met..... Provided it occurs during the same calendar year. I need to research the medical tourism insurance policies for comparison. Ally -
Insurance vs Mexico
allycatt98 replied to allycatt98's topic in Mexico & Self-Pay Weight Loss Surgery
Thanks 1Day, The physicians are a bit ridiculous here. The choice to go to Mexico comes with a lot of "what ifs?" Part of the decision making process for me is determining the importance and relevance of each of my questions. If a complication arises, it just happens. I wouldn't necessarily have any more control over the situation in Florida vs. Mexico. I wasn't planning on having surgery until this summer while the kids are out-of-school. I have a consultation scheduled with the Florida doc in April. I think it would be prudent to keep the consult and get a feel for the doctor. I've had some really bad experiences with some docs that were too cocky to listen to their patients. That's part of my interest in a Mexico based physician. I feel like they will be more responsive to my concerns because they rely on these tourism dollars and are focused on building (and maintaining) a good reputation. Either way, I'm happy that I have time to make a decision that I'm comfortable with. -
I'm really grateful for the info that you've all generously posted here. It's helped me mentally prepare in so many ways. Now I'm at a crossroads of my own. I'm totally comfortable making my own decisions, but a little feedback from others in the same situation doesn't hurt either. Synopsis: I live in FL and have UHC insurance with the Bariatric Resource Program. Within a two hour radius, there are only three approved hospitals. I finally decided on a hospital and surgeon only to find out they want a ridiculous non-refundable $600 "Program Fee," in addition to me having a MOOP of $6000. So total estimated costs are at $6600. The alternative path would be venturing to Mexico for either Drs. Lopez or Osuna at Specialized Bariatrics -- estimated costs $4200 - $5000 (surgery, flights and incidentals). Yes, there are flight costs and no follow-up, but considering my initial FL doc choice was over two hours away, I doubt I would necessarily return to him for complications. But if I opt for a Florida doc, I wouldn't be alone. There is a chance that I would be alone going to Mexico. So what are your thoughts? Would you opt for Mexico for a savings of $1600 - $2000 dollars?
-
We will see
SeattleLady replied to SeattleLady's topic in Revision Weight Loss Surgery Forums (NEW!)
My sleeve was done 8/1/14. I had my hernia and esophagus repaired 12/2019. Bypass was the best option. However, not covered by my insurance. I knew this after months of appeals. Now, my surgeons and other doctors would like me have bypass. However, at this point I am not sure that is my best option. My sleeve is "perfect." I just don't want to have more complications. I just want to get healthier and lose more weight. That is happening because I can again barely eat. So, I am going to wait. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G935A using BariatricPal mobile app -
Regrets that got better
VSGAnn2014 replied to ebonymc's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Nope, no regrets. I was one of the vast majority who have no complications and a comparatively easy recovery. That's not to say there aren't challenges -- of learning, adapting, risking, not being perfect and trying again, figuring out perfect isn't required -- just consistency. I think WLS has sparked one of my long life's best personal growth periods. I'm workin' it. P.S. I've lost 100 pounds and maintaining at 135. -
Poor thing! I am sorry you are dealing with this complicated thing.Sometimes relationships are the hardest thing in life. They give us the biggest rewards and the biggest heartaches. I can't tell you what to do but we are here to listen.
-
How much time did you take off from work?
terry1118 replied to WildGrits's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I took two weeks but could've gone back after one. I had minimal pain, no complications, and a quick recovery. I'm a bank teller. I'm on my feet all day but it didn't bother me. I wasn't overly tired or anything. Everyone is different. Some people seem to have more pain than others, or are tired all the time, or are dealing w/nausea. Plan on taking whatever amount of time your doctor recommends. You can always go back sooner if you feel up to it and he clears you. I would just suggest one thing when do return to work. Don't introduce new foods while you're there. I made that mistake twice and spent several hours sick with the 'foamies'. The first time I missed two hours of training on our new computer system because of tuna. Embarrassing! The second time my coworkers were ordering Chinese and I didn't want to be left out. I thought egg-drop Soup would be a safe bet. I was wrong. :-p Plan your meals, drink your fluids, obey your doctors instructions, listen to your body, and you'll be fine. :-) -
Surgery Today 12/14/17 and Scared
ExtracticPris2017 replied to Roxytrini's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
You will have no regrets I had my sleeve on Oct 4th and it has been the best thing I have done...follow Dr’s orders and you will be fine...I had no complications what so ever and by the way I am 59 yrs young..God Bless[emoji106] -
Un-Sleeved Introduction
So Cal Kurt replied to momof2mms's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
WLS is a really good return on an insurance companies investment. I had read that the average diabetic costs an insurance company 14k a year. It makes no sense not to cover it. I was a lucky one, I was covered as well was my wife. The billed out was in the area of 45k each when all was said and done, the negotiated rate was around 25k. deduct co-pays and everything else, it is a sub 2 year return. I have had zero billed expense from diabetes or complications since my surgery a year ago. Not to mention the heart attack, stroke(from the high BP) or amputation around the corner. It seems it should be universally covered -
When to go back to work?
Ms. E replied to DragonFlyFree's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I had originally requested 1 week and 2 days, I had to call in and take the whole 2 weeks. I was so not ready to go back. I didn't have any complications just felt week and needed sleep to recuparate. It really comes down to you, Good Luck. -
Weighing options
Heathermarie0407 replied to edmontongirl's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Of course you can do it yourself. But there is no shame in getting help either. You said you gained a lot after your husbands death, just wondering if you have sought advice from a mental health professional? You may have some depression that could benefit from medicine. If you feel that weight loss surgery something that will help you get healthy then do it! You must do your own research to decide that you can make the lifestyle changes that you have to make with lap band. Are you ok with eating very small portions, possibly not being able to eat certain foods, becoming more active. When you think about the worst case, can you deal with those also? Some people dont lose very much weight, have complications. Good luck in whatever you decide! Take care of yourself -
yes, as long as you have no complications, that should be fine.
-
Hi Everybody! I live in the Northern suburbs of Minneapolis, Minnesota. I had my surgery on 6-23-11 by Dr. Jeffrey Baker at Unity Hospital. He works out of Baker Bariatrics. He is a very skilled surgeon who has done many procedures and is really nice too! I highly recommend him. Plus my insurance covered him so that was a bonus! I am 6 weeks out and have lost 20 pounds so far (i had lost 20 before the surgery) so am down 40 pounds so far. Started at 243- at 203 this week. I had a 'mini stall' at week 4, but only lasted about 10 days. Now moving down again. Overall, I have had no complications or problems that weren't expected. I have not had any nausea or vomiting since the surgery. My incisions healed well (can hardly see them now). I consider myself very lucky!! I am 47, married, no kids except for my 9 year old Beagle, Brewster. Tonight I start in a beginning running class training for a 5K race in October. I have already been thru my closet and was able to give 2 big bags to the Lupus Foundation- I have lost 2 sizes already!
-
new here and want to get banded but scared
Wheetsin replied to greeneyedglow's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
Most people here had some level of anxiety about some complication - the surgery itself, longevity of the band, side effects of the band, etc. Anxiety before a voluntary surgery is expected. If I were you, I'd be a lot more concerned over NOT having anxiety, than having some. Do the research, see the current numbers. Don't gauge numbers from a "support" board - get the clicnical numbers. Then read experiences, look at numbers, etc. From there, it's a pros vs. cons list. Rates of incidence have gone up quite a bit over what they used to be - I suspect they will go up higher. But I don't know very many current or former AGB patients who completely regret their decision. They're out there, especially on support forums, but they're still a minority. For now anyway. -
new here and want to get banded but scared
KINGSKID66 replied to greeneyedglow's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
Hi, I hope you don't mind but I copied and pasted the answer I sent to another poster who had basically the same question. I got banded in April '06. I've lost 90lbs. It was the BEST decision of my life. I was sooooo nervous wondering if I was making the right decision. I was self pay and my husband was reluctantly going along with my decision. I felt a lot of pressure. I have not looked back. It has changed my life. This year I will finally post before and after pictures. I've gone from a size 20 to a size 6/7. Very few complications other than my port practically sticks out now that I'm so thin. That's a small price to pay though. I've had very few complications. No, I don't get to eat everything I want to eat but isn't that the purpose of the band?? Recovery time .... what recovery time? The day of the surgery I recovered in the hotel room and the next day my husband and I were up walking around Tijuana. That was the only recovery time I needed. Afterward I went sight-seeing in San Diego for a couple days before returning home. The 'gas' people talk about is not gas like burping or farting but shoulder pain. I believe it's described as the gas used to inflate your stomach for the surgery or something like that. I bought Gas-X strips to help with the pain and was fine. Be sure to pack those. I hope this helps you Greeneyed. Let me know if you need anything else. I'd be happy to help! Lynn -
Does anyone regret this surgery?
NothingUpMySleeve replied to Wenniegirl's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Yes, I regret it. I had complications in surgery, had an excruciating blood clot, and was just scared. The surgeon was good and I'm in no pain now, but for me the weight loss is so slow that I don't feel it was worth the risk involved. I am also really tired and staying fed and hydrated requires constant vigilance. It's like caring for a newborn. That said, I read about a million threads here on regret, and you'll find the vast majority do not regret it. Among those who do regret it, some regret it due to pain or complications, some miss food from an emotional perspective, and some just don't like the results. You might find it works beautifully for you. It's hard, too, because these posts are a snapshot in time. I may feel very different at 1 year out than 3 weeks out. -
Does anyone regret this surgery?
playlikeworldchamps replied to Wenniegirl's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
The first 2 months can be very difficult. I had a fast recovery and no complications but I was tired and sore. I remember being so frustrated that I could not drink Water or I would burp uncontrollably. I missed being able to take a big swig. I switched to diet iced tea and that was much easier. I also remember that eating solid meat was so hard no matter how much I chewed it. Just an ounce would hurt! It would hurt to eat any solids but i knew I had to in order to make use of the sleeve restriction. I stayed on chili and Soups to get me thru those times. How would I ever get enough Protein? I did not want to do shakes all the time! But even though those were tough times and the first couple days I wondered "what did I do" when I could not even drink water!!! - I just knew it would get better with time. Now 9 months and 100lbs down I am happy to report those problems are a distant memory. In fact I forgot about the constant burping in the early days until my 14 year old reminded me of it the other day. So it may take time and adjustment and work - but there also can be great joy and accomplishment and satisfaction! -
In my case, I consulted with 3 surgeons and my final decision was based on how comfortable I felt. Of course, critical criteria which I asked directly were as follows: - How many years have you been practicing? - How many procedures for each type of surgery? - How many patients have had complications and why? - Patient reviews etc.... In my case, the surgeon that sold me the most was the one that not only talked about the different types of procedures in depth but also took the time to explain the fundamental relationship between our brain and food. That was key to me as he spent quite a considerable amount reinforcing how this was a tool and that the majority of work would be on me to change my lifestyle. I found his focus on the nutrition part golden cause that is what ultimately makes us gain the weight. Hope this helps and good luck with your final decision!
-
When to go back to work?
feedyoureye replied to DragonFlyFree's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I am now just at the end of the first three weeks of my time off of work. My Doc prescribed 6 weeks off from work. This is the most time I have ever heard of for the sleeve, with no complications or anything. I went into work to find out if they would let me back in early (4 weeks) with the stipulation I could not lift over 10 pounds until 6 weeks... my Doc said they might allow me to go back if I could get this agreement... Well work will not do that because of workman's compensation rules. I guess Im out for the full 6 weeks! And i don't get paid for the last three. -
Guess it makes sense so it won't be in too long and cause complications...I mean eh they deal with vaginas daily LOL
-
Kink Repair Follow Up~
hoover123 replied to Spaness2012's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Glad to hear things went well. Your doc listened to you. It took me 7 months to convince my doc something was wrong. I wasn't staying restricted. I knew I had a leak but he wouldn't listen. Finally after getting very assertive he did the test, and sure enough, right in his face!! So the band is leaking and my port was fixed last June and it never healed right. So i still continue to have port site pain. I can't lift like a heavy load of laundry..so in 4 days i am having it removed and getting the sleeve. Would I do it again, YES! I understand complications are part of surgery but when you doc fails to listen to you that's not your fault. I gained all my weight back plus 10 pounds. Talk about sad...but like you said, you have to stay strong and pull yourself up and start again...found myself a new surgeon who i absolutely love and talked to patients who had him for a surgeon. Not one bad word..same hospital, different surgeon. how awkward was that. My body and I will decide who does that cutting!!! One time my surgeon didn't know how many CC's i had when I asked him. I walked out of there and slammed the door. This is not over with. When i am done with my surgery i am going to the hospital and having a chat with a rep. Patients have rights too and they need to know they have Chief of Surgery that is very difficult and is not doing his job. One time I told him I had yogurt for Breakfast and his next question was, what did you have for breakfast. OH MY GOSH!! HELLO!!! So thank god I can move on and have someone who will listen to me. So that's my story. Again, not bashing the band, just the doc!!! have a good day and keep up the good work. Renee
