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Hello all! I have made the decision to undergo WLS (sleeve) and will be formally beginning "the process" today, when I meet with my to-be surgeon for the first time. To my understanding, everyone's process is different, based on their insurance and/or payment schedule. As of right now, I had to partake in a virtual seminar held by my chosen bariatric doctor. I will be meeting with him in person. Afterwards, nutritionist and psych appointments will be made. Can anyone and everyone, able and willing to, give me a description of what their process looked like so I have an idea of what to look forward to? Thank you! (AND I apologize if a thread like this already exists)

Hey all! New here, just wondering if anyone has any experience with dr. Louisiana valenzuela? From what I can see, she seems to have a great record and she’s actually had the gastric sleeve herself. There’s an extra layer of added comfort there for me, for some reason. (:

My favorite is the BariatricPal brand (the same thing is also sold on Amazon as Bariwise, New York Bariatric Group, etc.), but now I buy the Proti-Diet canister on Amazon because it’s cheaper per serving.

Thanks so much for the link! Interestingly, I have already seen it. I had to google almost all the medical jargon .lol I don't have time right now to find the links to the sources I found. I do know that one of the sources was the Mayo Clinic and maybe Jama??? The findings in these sources were for all bariatric surgeries, not only Sleeve, so that is important to note. I, in no way, want people to think I am negative about the sleeve surgery. I completely understand that my brother's diagnosis is probably ALs, but what does it hurt to investigate all avenues??

First, whenever we see some reference to "WLS patients" in either the general media or even the general medical media. it is (unless specificallyl stated to the contrary) invariably referring to the RNY gastric bypass, as that has been the most common, and most commonly studied, WLS procedure over the past 30-40 years. Even most doctors (non-bariatric) whom we may consult over time will often confuse the procedures, or lump them all together as "the bypass". Something to keep in mind in later years if some doc suggests that "I can't prescribe that for you because of your WLS..." Ask questions and verify if that really applies to you. The RNY imposes a number of limitations that don't apply to other procedures. Aa few years ago we did discuss in our support group (in full HIPAA compliance) a patient of theirs who, after consults with many different types of doctors, had been diagnosed with ALS. As it turned out, after going back and consulting with the bariatric practice (as he had not done in years) it was found to be one of those nutritional problems that you mentioned. This patient, in his 70's if not 80's by then, had a Duodenal Switch, which is more malabsorbing than an RNY, and also somewhat fussier when it comes to supplementing, nutrition and lab follow up. This guy had not done his labs in several years, so things had skewed out on him. Once they got his supplements and nutrition in order, he was fine. The lesson here was that it was (is) imperative, particularly with these malabsorbing procedures, to stay on top of lab follow ups, as weird things can happen. Given that the RNY is also malabsorbing to a somewhat lesser degree, but much more common, I would expect that the medical field would see some of these problems in a population that may be fairly casual about following up on their health. I could certainly buy that there is some association over time with some increase in some of these symptoms owing to odd nutritional problems As to your brother with his sleeve, one of the reasons that many prefer the VSG is that there is no malabsorption, and is much more forgiving - less supplementing need, and hence less intensive follow up requirements -than the malabsorbing procedures. Further, the problem that the above patient had manifested itself over years of neglect, rather than a few months of normal WLS recovery, so I don't see that this is a likely situation for your brother; as above, it is likely simple coincidence. As with taking your car in for service and it breaks down a few days later - there is always a suspicion that they did something there - yet sometimes it is indeed simple coincidence. It looks like you are doing all the right things as far as second (and third, fourth, etc.) opinions, and this is vital when we get into situations that are beyond the normal. Another possible consult may be Dr. Ara Keshishian, also in the LA area, who is long experienced with sleeves and the DS; he may have run across something like this if there is any real connection to find. He does a lot of distance consults for revisions, so if distance is a problem, an initial consult can usually be done by phone/email/skype. All the hope in finding a good outcome,

No I haven’t tried those!! I’m checking out the bariatric store now. I’m definitely in the mood for something with a different flavor. Thanks so much for the recommendations.

Popcorn is a well-known “slider food” for bariatric patients because it slides through the pouch without making you feel full. That’s why it’s so important to eat the things of which you can only eat three bites and then have to stop (mainly lean protein and veggies). Eat the foods that fill you up so you’re not hungry for a whole bag of popcorn.

I had gastric bypass 3 months ago. I had really hoped to be the kind of person who never felt hungry, and could go half the day without remembering to eat. That hasn’t been the case. I’m hungry every couple hours, and on top of that, I don’t always feel my restriction when I’m eating. Sometimes, I’ll eat 3 bites of something and know I have to stop. I wish that happened more often, because other times I don’t feel it at all. For example, I just ate almost a whole bag of popcorn, and I feel just fine. Physically, not mentally. Mentally I’m feeling mad at myself for doing that instead of eating some chicken. Mentally, I’m worrying that the way I was in the past is going to win out and my surgery will be a failure. I’m terrified that my “last resort” won’t get me where I want to be. I guess I’m just wondering if anyone has had a similar experience or any tips. I do know I should be sticking to a Bariatric diet, and I’m working on that. Just had a moment of weakness.

I wouldn't describe you as a "failed gastric sleeve", you lost 84 pounds! I know how frustrating it is to have to take medication that promotes weight gain, it happened to me with Prednisone. My condition was life-threatening, so I had no choice but to take it. Fortunately, in my case, I didn't have to take it for long and the side effects dissipated pretty promptly once I got off it. You didn't say how long you have been off the medication that caused the problem - is it possible that it is still affecting you? If your bariatric team is not knowlegeable about that particular medication, they may not know what to tell you. Have you tried going back to the doctor that prescribed it? He/She may know better how to manage the after-effects of taking that med. Also, have you googled it? You'd be surprised at how much information there is out there from patients sharing their experiences. For example, I learned online that limiting sodium intake is particularly helpful for mitigating Prednisone weight gain and that helped me a lot. There may be info out there about your particular med as well. I had my surgery right around the same time you did and I'm only up to about 800 calories per day. Maybe try cutting your calories a little more? Also, I'm sensitive to refined carbs, so even if I eat a low calorie diet, my weight loss will stall if my carbs are too high. I generally keep my carbs below 50 per day. I do a 30 minute walk almost every day and strength training three times a week (nothing too crazy, I have a nice beginner's low-impact full-body workout with dumbbells). I found the routine on YouTube and I chose it because it's something short that I can do consistently. The strength training really helped me to keep losing as I added a bit more muscle mass. I started with this routine and then added a little more to it over time: Anyway, don't think of yourself as a failure, life happens. Sorry you ran into this obstacle and hope you are able to get back on track soon. Keep your head up!

Sounds like my pre-op was the same as yours. 14 days of Bariatric Advantage HPMR of 3.5 shakes per day. I also struggled with the texture. I had the vanilla flavor and mixed the powder in 16 oz crystal light lemonade with lots of ice. To me, it is worse with any milk or alternative milk products. That is basically what got me through, lemonade. I tried different flavors of crystal light with it, but liked the lemonade the best. I have one bag of the shake mix left post op and am forcing myself to use it up since it is so expensive. I could not tolerate any protein shakes immediately post op, but drink at least one per day now, at 3.5 months out. Can’t say I enjoy them, but they do get the job done. Hang in there! You are almost to the losers bench! ps. It is still disgusting with the lemonade, but a slightly lower level of disgusting. 😂 Just power through this.

I believe every Bariatric program/surgeon is different but my doctor did prescribe them. Never thought I would be able to do it on my own because I hate needles but I had a great nurse when I was in the hospital and she helped me get comfortable with it (or as comfortable as humanly possible Lol) The injections are a blood thinner that helps yo prevent clotting. If you are active that is a huge help to prevent clotting as well. The waist trainer helped me too. I haven't been wearing it lately but I use it when I go for walks.

I am pre-op. My surgery is 10/26. They gave mr the bariatric advantage high protein meal replacement powders. I'm to drink four a day. It's partially taste, partially consistency but I'm barely choking one a day down. I have a bunch of premier protein shakes of various flavors ready to go for after surgery. I like them. I just don't know how I'm going to get through the next 8 days. Sent from my Pixel 2 using BariatricPal mobile app

This is a shot in the dark , but I am reaching out to see if anyone else has had or heard of this: About a year ago, my brother had the sleeve surgery and started dropping weight super fast. He was doing great, but after about 6 months, he started to develop a foot drag/drop and difficulty grasping things with his right hand. He didn't think much of it, but soon after, he started falling down/tripping (hard). He fell out of the blue in the kitchen and chipped his front tooth, and he also fell in the drive way on his way to get the mail (causing a concussion). He went to his primary doctor who ran a bunch of tests. His doctor couldn't find anything out of the ordinary from the tests, so he sent my brother to a neurologist. The Neurologist ran a whole bunch more tests and still nothing. Finally, my brother was sent to a major hospital in Los Angeles because his symptoms continued to progress. After several more test and comparing results with prior test results, it was revealed that he has motor neuron disease. The type he has been diagnosed with is ALS (the worst of all the MND's). Immediately after his diagnosis, we began doing research into other possible illnesses that mimic ALS (if you're not familiar, its the ice bucket challenge disease that has no cure), and we found some vitamin deficiencies that cause the same symptoms. Armed with this new information, my brother headed to the Mayo clinic in Minn. to see if he had been misdiagnosed and get a second opinion. Within the first 30 min. of his visit with the specialist, he was confirmed to have ALS without having anymore testing. I guess I am writing this in the slim chance that someone else has had this happen to them, and if there is any helpful advice as to how to find a doctor who will look into alternative options. It just seems so fishy that he was perfectly healthy before surgery, and within a year he has been given a death sentence! We have read many studies on the (small) connection between bariatric surgery and neurological disorders. If anyone knows any helpful info, we would love to hear from you...thanks so much for reading my post.

The number of WLS are trending upward! https://asmbs.org/resources/estimate-of-bariatric-surgery-numbers I believe a lot of people do it but in private and you won't hear about it because there is still stigma attached to obesity moral falling or character flaw.

I am presently 7 weeks post op. I calculated 5 lbs per week loss thus far. Feeling great, no problem in nutrition due to ordering food from Bariatric Pal. For example the oatmeal cereal packets, I add in a small amount of old fashion oatmeal to it. My nutrition recommended me to increase to 1 cup verses 1/2 cup. Gastric bypass on Aug 28, 2020 with total loss of 37 lbs. Feel good, some straining in the beginning for BM but now it is much better with increase liquid intake of up to 8 cups per day. Meeting all my vitamin and protein intake. I also eat with a baby spoon that helps me control food intake. I use FairLife liquid instead of regular milk for cereal and liquid intake. So much easier with the packets/foods from Bariatric Pal. I do sugar free popsicles as well. No ice cream cause this was one of my down falls prior to surgery. It feels so good to fit in smaller clothing with ease instead of struggling to put it on or off. My husband is proud of me and very supportive. By watching me lose the weight, he is watching his food intake and lost weight with food portion control. Good luck to each of you on your journey.

I could really do with some advice. I had gastric sleeve done April 2019. In 6 months I lost 6 stone (84 pounds) I was pleased with this as I had 3/4 stone left to lose. I started a medication around 6 months post op and it caused me to stop losing weight, fast forward a few months and I had gained two stone in a month due to my medication so I had to stop it. Ever since I’ve struggled hugely to lose weight I eat about 1,000-1200 calories a day and my restriction is still there. I’ve had no support from bariatric team or dietician, I need some advice on what I should eat, how many calories I should be having and how much exercise I should be doing. I don’t think I’m doing enough.

I think capsules are preferred over pills/tablets. I take a calcium citrate capsule and the Bariatric Pal multi vit with iron that is also a capsule. My D3 and B-12 are small tablets that I suck and sort of dissolve in my mouth before swallowing.

My doctor referred me to a bariatric surgeon. I am scared that my insurance won't cover it. I have a BMI of over 50 for my height.

Does anyone know what they mean when they said we have to submit the Bariatric Resource Services weight loss form or UHC with chart notes? I’m not sure what kind of notes? Can my doctor type up a letter in regards to the chart notes? Cause my chart notes said discuss weight lost and out in a low carb diet. And the other didn’t even mention my diet.

The Greater Fool, I would tend to agree with you, but I'm not sure what else it could be. The doctors have tested everything else and this is all that's left. A specialist would be a good idea though, I think I will do that. Thank you so much! MsMocie, I did the pouch reset because I had fallen off the wagon and I was feeling bad overall. I had fallen into old habits and eating unhealthy food and a friend had told me that a pouch reset could get me back to where I need to be. I'm still not sure if I just didn't do it right or it didn't work. I'm 24 y/o, so I don't know about menopause, but my cycle has been almost clockwork-like, which is weird for me, I'm usually very irregular. I didn't consider that maybe my hormones had something to do with it. Oh my, quite the list, lol. I have considered going to Neuro and ENT, simply because the headaches are worrisome and my thyroid problems are recent and I don't know too terribly much about it. When I find something new I usually research it until I could be considered an expert myself, but I find that I just don't have the energy that I used to. Cardio and a full blood workup and everything else is definatly going to be added to the list as well, those are very good ideas. Thank you so much! Tarotcardreader, First, I love the username! Lol. I often consult my own tarot deck, sometimes it gives me the positive reinforcement I need to continue on my chosen path. I love it. Unfortunately, my surgeon retired a little over 6 months after he performed my surgery so I'm at a bit of a loss as to where I can turn to find answers. My PCP doesn't know enough about it to really point me in the right direction so I'm not sure if it's ok for me to call up a bariatric surgeon near me and ask questions? Thank you so much! -Dannie

I did leggings and if something hurt i didnt do it. Touch base with your bariatric team about the soreness but maybe try to avoid the positions that cause it if u just came out of surgery. I was pretty sore for awhile (positioning pulls on incisions and deeper cuts) but it gradually improved. Invested in more pillows to make things comfy while healing

Make sure you call your surgeon. You can usually talk to your bariatric nurse for ideas as well. Did they not give you an IV while there? You can have your surgeon set up an outpatient IV to get you hydrated again. Dehydration can cause vomiting.

Hi Ladies, This is what I have done to get ready so far. 1) Purchased my pre-op liquid diet shakes called Optifast and I will be starting them on Oct. 19th 2) Bought the required vitamin supplements recommended by my bariatric team for the 1st two months after surgery. 3) Purchased Premiere Protein for my liquid protein supplement for after surgery 4) Purchased a small single serve blender "Ninga Bullet" to help me with making my shakes yummy and my pureed food yummy (I'm hoping) 5) I'm telling my office on Oct 19th that I will be having surgery on the 10th of November 6) Joined a very local WLS group so I can connect with people in person. I think I am going to initiate some group walk events so we can meet outside safely. We are in a rural area so that will be easy for us. That's it so far....

Yes, a tilt test which most cardiologist’s office are able to do. You can do orthostatic vitals. Take blood pressure and pulse lying down. Sit up wait 5 minutes and take them again. Then stand for 10 minutes without walking and take them again. You are looking for an increase in heart rate of 30 beats per minute or a significant drop or rise in blood pressure. I have the Hyperadrenergic type and my blood pressure goes up with positional changes from lying to upright. Have you had a chance to google orthostatic intolerance after Bariatric surgery?

I didn't even lose that much during the first MONTH, and I started out at over 300 lbs. 5 lbs a week is about average for the first month or two (an average range seems to be about 15-25 lbs for month 1, but of course there are outliers), but after that, it slows down quite a bit. I've been involved in the bariatric community for about six years, and I've never heard of anyone losing 15 lbs a week. Maybe five lbs - but again, usually just for the first month or two.