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I was banded by Dr. Ortiz in Mexico in January 2005. My total weight loss over the next three years was 130 pounds from my highest weight, 110 pounds after banding. My decision to go to Dr. Ortiz was cost - my insurance didn't cover bariatric surgery and I absolutely do not regret my decision. The procedure was still new in US in 2004/2005. I had a surgeon friend who performed my fills "blind" whenever I needed more restriction and we truthfully were "winging" it. I did ultimately have an overfill, but ignored the signs because I loved the weight loss. The price I paid was that I needed an emergency unfill (my surgeon friend moved to another state). I went a year with no/minimal restriction but had actually gotten too thin and needed to gain 15 pounds. I maintained that for about a year, then decided to get a fill. It was then (I only had approximately 2 cc in a 4 cc band) that we figured out something was really wrong because I became severely restricted and had an unfill again. The UGI revealed band slippage. I am waiting until after January 1, 2009 to meet with my new band doctor to decide what to do. I am self-pay because I no longer meet the criteria for bariatric surgery (or do I?). I'm not counting on BCBS to pay for this but I will probably go along with the surgeon's recommendation. I hate going into debt for this, but I hate being fat more. This is my story. Whatever I have had to go through, it was worth it to be thin again. FYI, my mother was one of the first gastric bypass patients in the US in the early 70's. She die four years ago, it did extend her life, but the quality of her life the last 10 years was pitiful. Land Band surgery spoke to my heart. I liked having my stomach and intestines and not dealing with malabsorption, etc. Looking forward to hearing from anyone who identifies with my issues and now problem of band slippage. I did it to myself - stress, overeating and mad vomiting. It still involves being able to control yourself and I wonder if I can do it without being banded. Probably not . . .
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just had my port revision yesterday...its a breeze..way less painful then the surgery! I agree I've been blessed as well, my port flipping was my own stupid doings (tried to carry 80pounds of topsoil on my shoulder...didnt end well! LOL) I'm down about 110 pounds and feel amazing... i hope all goes well for you on friday and keep up the great weight loss! ~Megs
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I'm so sorry to read about your bad news. Write up the hospital in the reviews section on OH. I don't know how all of this medical stuff works, and I think hospitals are short staffed, yet with a test that doesn't read right, I would expect immediate follow-up. I had a call last night, Friday night @ 9PM, to tell me that my lung test was okay. They even called me and left a message Friday before I had arrived home from getting the scan. Two calls to me telling me surgery was still on. I thought I would have to wait until the following Monday to find out the news. Try and keep up the exercises to help you be relaxed (that will be really tough...)until Tuesday. I believe in the sit and be fit exercises- YouTube - Sit and Be fit Keep in touch -support groups are one of the keys to successful weight loss. Anita
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Is there a chance this will happen to me?
honk replied to camann's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I am only a month out of surgery so you can take my thoughts with a grain of salt. Almost 2 years ago I started slightly modifying my diet and began swimming every day; because of a knee problem. A year later I had lost 30 pounds; but out of nowhere I had a mild stroke, I was 39. I recovered (knock on wood) with no side affects. As part of treatment and searching for a cause one of the doctors asked if I had ever considered weight loss surgery. Had I ever thought of it seriously? No. While attending the presurgery classes and nutritional appointments I realized that I was eating a less of the unhealthy foods but they were still unhealthy. Changing my diet presurgery I lost 52 pounds. Do I occationally have cracker or a small piece of cake at a party? Sure. But I don't keep them in my house. I think of my "thin" friends and most of them eat healthy choices most of the time with the occational treat. Kind of the 90/10 rule (healthy 90% of the time). -
Getting Banded in Mexico....Anyone Else?
grandmax19 replied to bunnburner's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
My BMI pre lap band was 34. I was banded 12/2/08 and have lost 13 pounds to date. I did not have to do the diet before I was banded. I'm wondering if there is anything I can do to rev my weight loss some. My caloric intake is probably 800-1000 cal/day. I have difficulty getting enough water as I get full even on liquids. I was afraid I might be getting too many calories and not enough protein with just soups and other liquids. I looked up several websites that recommended starting pureed foods. So, I did start pureeing salmon and mashed potatoes yesterday. But, I'm not sure what the best approach is. I do not want to waste my efforts. I'm also feeling very tired and weak. Lois - we started at about the same BMI. You lost your weight. What do you recommend? -
These are a few of my favorite (weight loss) things: 1. My iPod Shuffle. I love, love, love to listen to music that makes me want to move my body. I actually make excuses to go to the gym just so I can put my headphones on and get lost in the music while I'm on the elliptical. 2. My Polar heart rate monitor. It's a basic unit, but it's really all I need to keep my heart rate in the training zone. I don't like to exercise without it. 3. My Spinning shoes. Spinning is my favorite exercise, and somehow just putting them on says "Athlete" to me. 4. Kashi Go Lean Crunch Cereal. I have it every single day for Breakfast, and absolutely crave it. 9g Protein, 8g Fiber per 1 c. serving for 190 delicious calories. 5. Breakstones 2% large curd cottage cheese. That's my favorite post-workout snack. It's creamy and delicious, and packs in 11g protein in 90 calories. 6. Edamame. I love the frozen pods (which remind me of one of our southern staples, boiled peanuts), and the wasabe-flavored freeze dried ones. 7. My local lap band support group. We have an awesome bariatric coordinator, who does a wonderful job to get us inspired and motivated. Tami
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6 Months Out of Surgery - Need Help
coloradobanding replied to Jacks2009's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
There are many different anecdotes to curtail hair loss, including Protein intake. I personally had more than my required protein intake daily since day 1 so the protein theory was not my issue; don't know what was. I had the exact same problem, but it has just recently began to stop (8+ months out for me). My doctor told me that hair loss at 4-6 months out from surgery (most surgeries) is normal because of the shock to the body. The good news is that he also told me that when the thinning/fall out stops, your hair will grow back thicker and quicker than pre-surgery. My hair is very long and thick, so I'm not looking forward to the "thicker" part, but every doctor and person for that matter, has an opinion on this and it's different for everyone I'm sure. Don't worry, you will be fine. My hair loss lasted about 8 weeks or so, which is what my Dr indicated. Hang in there, no wigs, just new clothes!:frown: -
Hey Its Been 3 Yrs Of My Lap Band !!
BayougirlMrsS replied to triny07524's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
Congrats to all of you on your weight-loss...... My three year is in November.... can't be leave it's been that long already. I started at 223... got down to 139.....then back up to 149....143 now gained a few back after my Tummy tuck.... because they removed all my fill and went 8 weeks with an empty band got 5cc, then at 17 week i got another 4cc... so i'm back at 9 in my 14cc band. i'm so great-full for my band. My Tummy it the only thing i have had fix .... so far. I would love to have a reduction and lift, but i have to wait. My insurance would not cover my TT, so i had to pay for it. I work a few job and im able to use some of that "extra" to pay for my TT. I was going to get a personal loan but opted for a Chase Slate care at 0% interest for 15 months. Hope to have it paid by then, but if not i will transfer the balance to another 0% int. card until i have it paid. Total for everything was $8800. It was the best $8800 dollars i have ever spent.... i would do it again tomorrow if i had too. The pain for me was very minimal and i was back at work in 12 days. My stomach i now flat-as-a-fritter (as my friend says) and i can see straight down ... after i move the boobs out the way.... lol. i have now replaced my addiction of food with VS panties.....lol -
I think it's a natural reaction, especially when you have insecurities. If both me and hubby were obese and he lost all the weight, I know for a fact that I would start thinking why would he want to stay with me? In fact, hubby lost nearly 100lbs as did I ( I put it all back on). And even though we have a solid relationship, my overeating, not being able to keep up with our son, or have the energy to be out and about, or feeling confident to get in the sack, has impacted my family. That was definitely the case after food coma. And even though my husband has never been anything but supportive and loving, I still feel insecure. There's nothing he can say or do to change that because it's on me. But now, oddly with the pre- op weight loss and upcoming surgery, I can tell he is going through his set of insecurities. The only advice I have is to enjoy your family and don't try to convince him. It will resolve over time.
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I have been on this uphill battle with weight since I was 18 years old. I have lost weight with Weight Watchers and starving and always gained it back and then some. I heard about this weight loss band concept from Sharon Osborne of all people (who was overweight her entire life preband) after reading her book.:ohmy: So at this point I am desperate. I have been between 50-70 pounds over the to of my healthy range for over 5 years now. I am embarrassed to go to family functions, meet friends, or really even leave the house. I take medications for Bipolar Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder which are not kind to me in the weight department. Since starting the medications, even Weight Watchers has been unsuccessful for me. :cursing: I have concerns that I would so appreciate anyone providing input on. I have a BMI of 35.5 (5'6" 218 pounds)...all the research I have done has said that I qualify because I have the BMI of 35 or greater and at least 2 comorbids (GERD, Depression, & borderline sleep apnea) but I have not really noticed anyone in the 60-80 pound goal range. Do you think this surgery is reasonable for me? How much vomiting and nausea is involved post op? Is it unreasonable to feel relieved that there is an option that may actually be successful? I am afraid of the "not a quick fix" term being thrown out because while the band is not the only tool in losing weight, it sure seems like there is a common denominator with the band and the people on this board and others losing weight. Where is the happy medium in terms of relief and excitement vs. reality? :w00t: Again, any words of encouragement or advice are so very appreciated! I was so hopeless feeling before I learned that this may be an option for me. Now, I have this "this is probably not going to work for me because I am not a candidate" scared feeling. I just want the weight gone once and for all. It is truly my biggest hinderance and just making me a frumpy person that I do not want to be. It seriously controls my life, as much as I am embarrassed to admit it. :bored: Thanks for your patience and time in reading this! God Bless you! Kim in Nor Cal
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In horrible pain four days out
janetsjourneytoslim commented on Meganginna's blog entry in Blog 95546
Hello, I was banded one year to the day ahead of you, I still remember how I felt as well, but on the fourth or fifth day I was really on the mend, my scars have all but faded away now. The pain is really coming from gas and in incisions and stitches around the port area, so you should take something for pain, if you cannot take strong meds. Then just pulverize tylenol or some tablet and mix it with water and take it! You are entitled!!! God Bless I am praying for you and wish you a wonderful year of weight loss. -
Glad to hear there are others haha! Sometimes it hard to not have anyone to relate to. I had my first nutrition visit last month, and I go for my next one Dec 28th. My insurance doesn't require I lose weight either I hope your insurance counts your previous weight loss visits. I was bummed about having to wait, but I think for me it's better so I have time to prepare for the new lifestyle. Good Luck on your journey!! We must keep in contact!)
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Don't wait for the testing results. Schedule a consultation with another clinic. You need to find one that will be supportive pre-op. If they aren't supportive pre-op why would you think they are going to be better post-op? I know some doctors require some weight loss prior to the surgery but I have never seen one require 115 pounds. If you mentioned which WLS you were considering I missed it. The sleeve was orginally used as part of a two part surgery for those with really high BMI to get some initial weight off. Therefore needing to lose 115 pounds pre-op makes no sense to me. I would understand if the doctor required a supervised weight loss program of 3 or 6 months and a reasonable amount of loss during that time. 115 pounds does not seem reasonable to me. It almost sounds like he still is concerned about the Crohn's and put the 115 pound weight loss out there figuring either he would never see you again, or if by some miracle you lost 115 pounds on your own he might be willing to reconsider. My surgeon is about an hour and a half to 2 hours away depending on traffic. I am in PA so went to Barix Clinic there. For me it was well worth the trip. Yes, I have only been to one support group meeting pre-op. I don't have lots of time post-op since I go to the gym and ride my horse. I use this forum and a facebook group to answer questions. Many people on this board flew across the country to go to Mexico for their surgery. A few hour drive is nothing. I have seen mine post op at 2 weeks, 2 months, 3 months. I will see him at 6 months and 1 year. I only saw him pre-op twice. So making a bit of a drive 7 times in say 15 or 18 months is nothing. For what it is worth I love Barix Clinic in PA. I personally like the idea that WLS is what they do. There is less chance of infections since there are no sick people there that might be using the same xray machines and being seen by the same nurses, having food brought to me by the same orderlies, breathing the same air. These doctors and nurses really know WLS and what is normal and what they need to worry about. They can specialize in it not just in general abdominal surgery.
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I take two flintstone chewables w/ iron in morning: three tums chewables after dinner for calcium along with a packet of coramega gel (fish oil) - I can't believe your doctor said you could eat meat, bread, etc - there is a major conflict with what our nutritionists specializing in weight loss surgery and our surgeons are instructing - my nutritionist said to say goodbye to bread, pasta, rice and should concentrate on protein (3 oz) and vegetables if I want to be successful at this - I believe the nutritionists are the experts in this field and should be given the benefit of the doubt over any surgeon's eating advice, ceratinly much more the more we move away from our surgery date -
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My last doctor visit is on 1 Nov. On that day, reflecting six months of doctor visits and a 15 pound weight loss, my package will be forwarded to insurance for approval. Now that the reality is sinking in, I'm scared. After struggling my whole life, fighting, losing 50 pounds, gaining it back, losing 100 pounds, gaining 50 back, I realize that this is the final end to a lifetime of low self esteem, finding clothes that fit, being belittled and put down for my looks. Is it really happening and can I really do it? Will I really see the person on the outside that has been fighting to get out for 46 years? Shopping at Victoria Secret? No more plus sized clothing? Is it real? Can it be a reality for me? I would appreciate any words of encouragement from those in the same situation. Thanks! Christi
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Does anyone else ever feel this way...??? Sometimes, I wish that no one would notice my weight loss. Sometimes I wish that no one remembered when I was much fatter. I'm truly thrilled with my success so far with the lap band and will be more proud of myself when I reach my goal (about 30 lbs to go). BUT my weight has been in the forefront of my mind since I was in second grade. I am almost 40 years old, and I want my weight to be a little lower on the totem pole in my thought-life. I want to just live life, make healthy choices, and not obsess about my weight or body image. For the most part, conversation with others about my weight loss (their questions about how I'm doing it, compliments, questions about WLS) has been positive, and I am thankful for positive feedback. On the other hand, some coworkers and "friends" are very obvious in their attempt to not acknowledge my success that I've noticed them distancing themselves from me. My husband is wonderful. He's supportive of my decision, but doesn't make an issue of it. He gives compliments mostly when I "fish" for them. He loved my at 270 and will love me at 170. Perhaps I'm venting like a mad woman! Just wondering if I'm alone in these feelings. Help me think about this differently, please!
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Hello, New to this forum
thebandedgirl replied to PennState86's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
Congratulations on your loss so far, Jeff! 150-160 pounds is an awesome loss :tongue_smilie: -
I agree with so much of what you are all saying. I was banded 4 days ago. I did screw up last night and did a 1 mile walk. Probably not a great idea, especially be myself. I got ringing in my ears and my finger tips went numb.taking it easier today. I am doing good with liquids, gas gets easier each day. I find sitting to be the toughest. I gotta stay off the scales as suggested the sales are showing a 13 lbs loss. Yipee but I hope it doesn't come back when I start stage2 (mushies) Thanks and skinny days ahead to us all!!
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It's been 3 1/2 months since my surgery and I have finally hit 50 lbs down. I have to say that out if all the weight loss diets and all I am the most proud of this accomplishment. It's been a difficult road and to finally lose this weight is great. Still have quite a ways to go but it's fantastic. Pre Op: 298lb / Surgery Day: 288lb / Week 1: 278lbs / Week 2: 267.5lbs / Week4: 263.7lbs.
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Hi everyone! Last post I made on this forum I was a bit confused and scared about my weight loss progress since I had lost my insurance in the middle of it all and was clueless as to how I was doing in terms of Vitamins and weight loss. Well, as I mentioned before I was able to get my insurance back and finally went in for a follow up appointment 6 months after surgery. As per my nutritionist, I am doing really well in terms of weight loss! As far as all my Vitamin levels go, I was low on Iron, (to be expected because I have a bleeding disorder) and on Calcium. Everything else was normal and right were it needed to be, especially the Protein levels! She recommended I change the calcium brand I was using because it may not work for me, and also suggested I stop my work outs for a bit until I am able to bring my iron levels back up. I usually feel really out of breath and dizzy after just a couple of minutes of working out, and it's not a Water intake issue since I always drink 62 oz. or more of water per day. Anyways, just wanted to update those who encouraged me and helped me get through those months of uncertainty and confusion and to thank all of you for being so supportive! You guys rock!! Here is another pic update!
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Assuming all seminars are pretty much the same, it is an informational session where the various surgeries are explained, and info about what you need to qualify. Some insurances may have different criteria, but, in general, a BMI of 40 plus 100 lbs overweight, or a BMI 35-39 with one or more co-morbidity (diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, joint arthritis, reflux, sleep apnea--there may be more, but that is the basic list). There is no weigh in at the seminar; that would take place either at your surgical consult, or when you meet the dietician. Some insurances require a documented 6 month weight loss attempt (I didn't have that so I met with the dietician who set me up for it and I had to wait until that was over before they could submit to my insurance). You will also get a psych consult and a pre and post op meeting with the dietician, plus a class with the bariatric nurse. I had all of that, and I think in general most places work that way. The seminar is just informational, to give you an idea what to expect. If you find you don't qualify you don't have to make any other appointments, and the seminar is usually free. Good luck on your journey. The band is a tool to help you control portions; it is still up to you to eat right and exercise. Hope this helps.
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I'm new to the site and I need help, help, help! I go to my first seminar at Mercy Hospital in Chicago in a week and I am not sure what's going to happen. My BMI is low (about 37.5) and I am afraid I wont qualify for insurance approval (medicaid). I wont bore you all with my struggles with weight loss, but I will say, this is insane to me to not be fat enough. I know HOW to lose the weight. Ive done it a million times before. What I need the WLS for is help keeping it off once Ive lost it. Please, please help me with the quailifying process over at Mercy. Is the seminar weigh in, the number they use for approval? Will the nurse put my weight up a bit since I'm close? Help!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Kimber
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anyone older out there?
horserider replied to horserider's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
HI, Thanks, I have found the 60's thread and have posted to it. How did you get that neat weight loss tracker on your posting? Congratulations on your 79 LBS!!! -
Sweet....got insurance approved...Sour... thyroid issue
gamergirl replied to noamy4life's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
If you search the board for hypothyroidism you will see that many of us have it. In many cases, our doses are going down along with the weight loss. This topic comes up a lot, so definitely search the threads. Lots to learn. -
Sweet....got insurance approved...Sour... thyroid issue
gamergirl replied to noamy4life's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
From what I have read, we will all lose hair no matter what we do. Protein, Biotin, shampoo etc., it will still happen. Only a very few don't lose any. It seems to start at around 3-4 months after surgery and lasts for 3 months, and it always all grows back. I haven't started seriously shedding but I am losing more in the shower and in my hair brush. As you know, those of us with hypothyroid have this issue anyway. The only thing that works for my thyroid-related hairloss is to take evening primrose oil capsules. But for this loss, nothing is going to help. We should all eat our protein in any case, and that's the best we can do for the hairloss. So I'm hoping I will be relatively calm when the clumps start falling out I really can't afford to lose any more hair but I guess I'll have to live with it. A lot of people are finding Toppix and stuff like that quite helpful. Again, if you search the board for hair loss, you will find lots if very informative threads.
