Search the Community

In the end only you can make the best choice for yourself, it's your body. But, I chose to do the band because I wanted to lose weight slower, I also liked the idea that it was adjustable and that I'd still be able to eat anything I wanted (but limited amounts of course) without becoming physically ill (other than a few stuck episodes from time to time) what I mean by sick is with the other surgeries you could get very ill from eating certain things, or by having too much sugar. I liked the idea that I wouldn't have to deprive myself of some of my favorite foods like when I've "dieted" a million times before, doing this in the past only caused me to fall off the wagon and binge eat. Now everything is in moderation and I'm still losing. Another reason, I had many reasons lol.. I didn't want them removing anything, cutting me or re-routing anything. I did not like the idea that the sleeve and the bypass are not reversable, if something goes wrong with my band they can take it out, they can't give me back my stomach once they remove some of it... I also did not want to risk some of the side effects from those other surgeries, malabsorption, dumping syndrome ect. I felt safer with the band. My boyfriends sister had the bypass and she regrets it because she is always sick, since surgery she has become anemic, gets sick after eating alot of foods, her hair falls out and its very thin and brittle now. But I also have another friend that had bypass and she's doing great. I do not know anyone that has had the sleeve, so it's hard for me to form a personal opinion about it other than me not wanting to have part of my stomach removed. Everyone is different, but it scared me too much to have such an invasive surgery and by seeing some of the potential effects first hand. If for some reason the band does not work for me, and I had to do something else I might consider the sleeve as it seems to be better than bypass in my opinion. But let's hope that doesn't happen! So far I couldn't be happier with my decision, but it was a chance I took just like anyone else. There is no guarantee this will work for anyone, but we have to try. This is my attempt at taking my life back and so far so good. I'm loving my band, so far! Good luck you!

Thanks for all the comments folks. I started at 420 so I was considerably heavier than you. I believe that is why my weight loss is so much more dramatic. I was sleeved December 26th, 2012 at 420 pounds. The drastic initial drop in weight I attribute to Water weight. But since then the weight loss has been steady so I am very happy. I was looking at everyone's stats on this thread and I know you all made the comments that your weight loss was "slow", but if you look at your starting weight and mine I bet yours is even greater than mine, percentagely speaking. Percentagely is a new word...believe me :-) So glad to hear everyone is doing so good. Keep in touch! Dave

How are you feeling? How was your surgery? I am 2 days pre-op and just curious....I was told you have to walk for a few weeks first but I am not too sure. Congratulations on your weight loss so far!!!!!!!!!!!!

Congrats on your decision and goo luck on your journey!! I am 8 days po. & My dr was Rey clear to not excerise Until week8, and even then at his approval. Until then I walk the dog 30 min every day. I get winded and dizzy but each day it gets better! The side pain is a huge issue for me too. I was told today at my one week check up it'll e 6-8 week before that muscle stops hurting. It's a major muscle that is connected to any activity invoking your arm or waist movement and IT WAS CUT AND SEWN UP!!! I didn't know when I was released on day one and freaked out from the pain but also I was icing it and it was spasming and finally day four I went to THR hospital cause it felt like an alien baby wanting to pop out and that's when it was explained to me what they did!!! Oh dear lord start off with that prior to surgery will ya!????? Now I use a heating pad as much as possible an. The two days I've gone somewhere I use those temporary heating pads strips that stick to me. Ahhhh relief!!! I started soft food today and it felt so good. I wondered how will I really know when I'm full cause I feel starved... And uhhhh oh I knew!!! Ouch!!!! But I'm learning like everyone else and am exciting for my journey. I had a major issue for 4 days po getting any liquids down, let alone Protein liquids, so my loss for one week is 8.9lbs. I was sad, but being the dr said i was dehydrated when I saw him on day 4, I understand that the 64oz of liquid & 60g of protein we are to take in everyday aide in our weight loss. You'll stall, and your body will not cooperate so that an 30min of walking daily will be the key to weight loss and healthy living. Well that and our mountain of Vitamins, I start mine tomorrow;-) Be gentle and hopeful towards you and you'll be a success!!!

Congrats on your weight loss,those are my plans also to get a tummy tuck and breast lift like a year after surgery. Im getting sleeved next week. Do you have before and after pictures ?

I am the day after you! The big thing that I am doing is, making a list of all the things I want to get done before surgery. I am doing it the Notes APP on my phone, but you could carry around a little notebook or something. Every time I think of something that needs done I write it down, right then! I don't wait, because if I wait, I forget. Then I stress out about trying to remember what it was. I also took off the 3 days before we leave to make sure everything is ready. Plus I scheduled myself a hair appointment and a pedicure appointment. Just to get some relaxation in with all the stress.

6 1/2 months post-surgery, I am exactly halfway to my goal weight!!! I chose my goal because it is just inside the Healthy BMI zone. The biggest thing I have learned in this time is that I have to count on myself to do most of the work, and the band helps me. I have to make good food choices more often than not. And I have to tell myself daily that exercising makes me feel good! That's still a hard one, but I know it's true. I don't usually brag, but check out my guns! And disregard the bed hair and lack of make up or hygiene of any sort! Thanks for looking.

I had my surgery on the 8th of this month and I've lost 33 pounds. I'm very surprised by the loss but also am having issues with eating so that might be why. Also I had the Roux-En-Y.

Reporting in that I had a great day today. Stuck with my meal plan and had a really good workout at the gym. Thanks again to everyone who provided words of encouragement. It was just what I needed! I'm still getting used to talking about weight loss and being honest when I have a bad day. I usually just suffer in silence because I'm so mad at myself and embarassed. Just about all of my friends and family members are thin and it's impossible to talk to someone who thinks having 10 pounds to lose is a big deal. I have to say I'm actually looking forward to my psych consult. Pretty sure it is going to be more helpful than I think.

The weight lost you'll love, I love my band, when it needed to be removed I felt like I went through a death. Doctor had me wait six months to perform the sleeve. I have went through the same things with the sleeve as the band, if you don?t chew at least 30 time before swallowing and don?t drink slow you'll be throwing-up just like the band. If you don?t pick wise choices when eating you won?t losses the weight either. I have learned a lot through the classes, support groups before and after surgery. I still go to classes all the time to help reinforce what I know. I have learned that if you eat mushy, soft or Soups this wont help. You must eat food of substance, always Protein first, veggies, fruit then last carbs if you chose to. Congratulation on your twins, what a wonderful time for you, and then your off to a new you in Sept. :thumbup1:

Hi, I had my surgery In December 1st 2009. At that time it cost 13,950.00. That encludes everything. You have to put down a small down payment if your self pay like 250.00 if I remember correct. I really like Dr. Ballenger. He is a great Dr. He's not real talkative, but does an exellent job. I've had NO complications what so ever. This is the best thing I've ever done for myself. I wouldn't change a thing. I've lost 48 lbs in 4 months. I am not looking for super fast weight loss. My progress maybe slower than some, but I'm very happy with it. My Insurance did not pay for my surgery. I was lucky enough to have inheireted enough money from my beloved Grandfather to pay for the surgery. He would have wanted this, and I know he would have approved. They do have a payment plan, but because I didn't have to use it, I don't know much about it. But if I had to do it that way, I would, no doubt. It's worth every penny. My husband would not hear of me going out of the country, so I had to give up that idea. Best of luck to you !!! Judy:blush:

Welcome to the forums! Very excited for you! One recommendation -- dont stock up on the Protein powder just yet. Most of us will have our tastes change a bit after the surgery. So for now, buy some samples and try them after surgery. Once you find your fav brand, you can buy those in large quantities. I wish you a safe surgery, speedy recovery and great weight loss!!!!

Hi Chris, I know exactally how you feel.........my date 3/8 so we are almost surgery buddies and we are almost the same size--I have 5 lbs more---but close enough to share our losses ..........Good Luck to us both ...YAHOO !! karen surgery date 3/8/04 DR Borao 240/--/165

Thank you peacequeen for your kind words. You can relate to me not wanting to tell the masses. My co-workers already know I'm on a low carb diet and have noticed my weight loss. There are certain people at work who will mention it every day (WLS) in a negative way if they know. I am going to eat less and exercise a lot so I should be lose weight quickly.

Hello LovePINK, Maybe the therapist thought that by saying those things she was helping your case for the surgery. I would hope that was the case. But, don't focus on what happened the first time. It is over now. So, when you do your second eval., Be really positive and upbeat. Tell them that you have made the choice to do this for your health and your wellbeing. Stress that you have a good support system. If you don't have a friend or someone, I suggest you get a couple of people you can trust for your support. Let them know you have joined this support group. Tell them that you will continue your therapy after your surgery to help with any anxiety or depression that may come with weight-loss. Don't focus on anything negative in your life during the session. You will be just fine...I know it! Once you have your surgery and lose the weight your self esteem is going to soar and you will no longer accept any abuse from anyone. Keep pushing on and I will be praying for you. God Bless, TurtleGirl49

First, stop reading (before you drive yourself nuts), you have all the information you need and you'll have an opportunity to ask questions at the seminar, and if your having surgery in the US more than likely your surgeon has a staff of support people available for you, pre and post surgery. Then come back to this form and only read the ones that are for a specific question you have. I highly suggest you look at a website I found reading post on this form. Kelly is an amazing, funny, and most impressive; honest person about weight loss. She brings up all the things we all feel, but think we are the only ones dealing with such issues. I too have done a ton of reading, and was asking the same questions as you. After reading several of Coffeys articles, my life makes so much more sense. Bad choices, bad habits, yup, I'm the only one who put the food physically in my mouth, but now I'm learning so much more. Go over and cruise her site www.strongcoffey.com I too have the same concerns as you. I know and know of people who have had some form of WLS,only to either not lose the weight, or gain it back. But I have a most critical eye, I saw, first hand these people over eating, eating everything in site, not "choosing" nourishing food, but eating and drinking crap! Surgery is only a tool. We have to learn the rest. This is what I am currently working on. My insurance doesn't cover WLS (bastards!) but I do believe things happen for a reason. So, I am taking this time to work on me. To learn how to handle situations better, how to see them coming and be prepared to ensure I'm taking care of me first and foremost. Please, be honest with yourself. Ask the tough questions, write them out, discuss them with your support person. What ARE YOU going to do differently once you have WLS? More importantly, what are you currently doing to start the process now? For me, I have started exercising. No excuses. I have arthritis in both feet and ankles. No longer an excuse. I am using free weights and a rebounder (mini trampoline). I listen to NPR while I bounce. Music disrupted my rhythm I am eating better. No processed food, none nada. I eat when I'm hungry. I eat fresh food and cook it myself. I allow myself 1 teaspoon of sugar in my one cup morning decafe coffee. Otherwise only Water for drinking and no other sugar. My body doesn't like grains. I try to avoid them. I pack my lunch and have healthly Snacks available when needed. Sure there is still not so healthly food in my house. But there will always be unhealthly food (to me) available everywhere I go. Its learning how to handle and react around those foods that are my goal. My family doesn't have to follow my eating "rules". But at dinner time, we all sit down to a meal that is designed around my plan. Tonight it was 4oz of Cod, with a big helping of steamed zucchini with a touch of olive oil and a dusting of parmesean cheese. I would already be on the surgery table had my insurance approved it. But I now see I need this time to process my decisions and make healtly choices to set myself up for sucess once I do have WLS. I am looking into Medical Tourism for my surgery. My insurance will cover consuling and working with a nutritionist, so I have started the journey before "hitting the table". I'm sure others will answer your post. Good luck on your journey....

In the beginning my husband would ask me things like " Do you want something from Mcdonalds? or Do you want a box of candy for the movies?" At first I would say no and keep my anger to myself. After about the 15th time of him asking me this stuff I blew up and screamed at him about why in the hell would I want that crap if I put myself through a life changing surgery. I went to explain very loudly that I thought he was rude and insensitive and that I did not appreciate his attempts to change things back to the way they were. I have not heard any of those junk food attempts lately but now he has the audacity to make comments about how often I am or am not using my Wii Fit. I finally told him that was pissing me off to no end since I have lost 91 pounds and he is at a all time high of over 400 he has no business worrying about what I do or do not do for weight loss.

Hi, Lismivel! Don't be discouraged! Others here who are further post-surgery than I am will be able to give you good advice on how best to keep up your intake, as my experience is limited, since I am still in the clear fluids stage. Just so you know you aren't the only one worrying about your weight loss, when I was weighed at my first follow-up appointment last Thursday (9 days post-op) I was one kilo more (yes, more!) than I had been on the same scales two weeks previously - after four days of no food while on the IV, six days on clear fluids only and a huge portion of my stomach having been removed! Of course, I had read the average weight loss statistics and was therefore doubly disappointed. The surgeon said (from what I can remember between my tears!) that all sorts of things could be responsible, but that in days of yore I would have been ideally positioned to survive in periods of famine, as my body is so good at hanging on to what it has accumulated during times of plenty! He warned that it could also mean that I can expect long stalls as I move through the weight loss process, but for both of us, if the loss isn't showing at the moment, once it does show, it should be well worth seeing! Keep your chin up and all the best!

I am 5 weeks out and in a 2 week stall have lost 27 lbs since pre-op diet. I am pleased with the weight loss so far and I have noticed some body changes in mainly my legs. I still have a big belly bloat and have not gone into any smaller sizes in anything. You would think at 27 kbs less I would at least be down 1 sz, so frustrating, just venting. Also at this stage how many ounces is everyone eating with each meal. Sent from my SM-G935P using BariatricPal mobile app

Well I didn't have to have more tests but my insurance company denied my first submittal because they said I did not space my appointments far enough apart during my 6 month supervised weight loss program with my PCP. Two of the appointments occurred 2.5 months apart instead of 3 months apart... arrrghh!! I had to wait an extra 3 months before being able to resubmit everything and felt like it was the end of the world at the time. I too was just so ready and had tried everything. I literally wanted to just chuck it all and just give up. But I'm so glad I just kept going with the process. I hope you will too. Just remember that it WILL happen and when it does, you will probably figure out there was a reason for this delay that worked out okay in the end. For me, I ended up having my surgery in December when I had time off for the holidays and people around me to help out and I got to begin a new year on a new journey. I know it's so hard to wait but we are here for you. Don't give up. Your time will come!

I personally believe too much of a calorie deficit can stall weight loss.

Hi. Just signed up and e-mail from Alex said to tell my story to get started. So here goes. I had a VSG performed by Dr. Keith Kim at Celebration Florida Hospital on 29 July. Surgery went well and I didn't suffer any nausea other than from the pain meds. But the post surgery recovery time at home was definitely more hard core than I'd anticipated. I think the surgery group downplays the significance of the surgery but there's no denying - it's major abdominal surgery. I've had my gall bladder removed (old school style 20 years ago) and a c-section. And while I was much younger for both of those, the rebound on the VSG was nearly as bad as those prior experiences. The path to surgery took 8 months. Between arranging financing (I was self pay), and pre-clearances - both cardio and pulmonary - it seemed like it was never going to happen. In total, the surgery cost me about 19K but I figure where is my better investment - a new car or a new me. I won. So I'm 10 days out and pretty much back to normal. It's definitely taking time to get the hang of the eating/protein/vitamin/sip routine but I keep reminding myself to be patient. My first birth took 9 months....only makes sense that my rebirth take a while as well. And to be honest, I'm making this post because I want to learn how to put up one of those cool weight loss count down graphics!! Gastric Sleevely Yours

Carol, I know it's tough....I've been there, I've hit several plateaus during my weight loss, etc. You definitely are not alone. One thing that helps tremendously is writing down everything you eat....we can forget so easily what and how much we eat. If you track it, you become so aware of what you are eating. Don't beat yourself up when you get off track and you need to get rid of the old behavior "I will lose it when I get my next fill"...replace it with "I will try and do better tomorrow.....and then do better tomorrow. Good luck

I went to a weight loss seminar "prescribed" by the doctor I've chosen for lap band surgery. He gave a lot of good information about the band, the process, what to expect and how the band is a tool. He said not to gain any weight before the surgery because he wouldn't think you're serious about weight loss. It is a lifestyle change. After the seminar his nurse took information and made appointments. When she got to me she said "oh i'm not sure you're insurance will cover you". I told her I was going self pay and she asked if I wanted to try to go thru my insurance, I said no because i'm affraid I will go thru the process and be declined. She made my appointment for my first visit with the doctor on October 27 :Banane47: . All I need to bring besides their paper work is a letter from my doctor that says I'm fit for surgery. I've made my appointment with my doctor to meet with her on October 24th. Once I meet with the lap band doctor, he will schedule my surgery. I'm excited looks like I will be getting banded in November!!! :Banane44: i love all these banana guys :Banane48: