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Eroded band to sleeve - I won my appeal!!!!!!!!!!
JaxBandster posted a topic in LAP-BAND Surgery Forums
For those who haven't been following my story............... I was diagnosed with an eroded band in November of 2011 and had it removed in March of 2012. I had to wait for six months before revising to the gastric sleeve as my surgeon wanted to wait for me to heal completely and do medical tests before confirming that I would be a good candidate for the sleeve. I have complete those tests and he was satisfied that I could have the sleeve. We also found that I had developed another hiatal hernia (the first one was repaired when I had my lap band surgery). My predetermination request for the sleeve surgery was denied. They stated that I needed to complete a six month weight loss program in order for them to consider my request. I asked my surgeon's insurance coordinator to appeal based on the reasoning that this was a repeat surgery for a lap band that had medically failed me and that I shouldn't have to complete the six month medically supervised weight loss program. She filed an appeal but no where in the letter did it address the six month weight loss program so of course they denied me again stating that we still hadn't submitted the records they had requested. Frustrated beyond belief, I took the initiative to write my own appeal letter. I used language from the BCBS-AL bariatric policy regarding repeat surgeries and their rationale for requiring the six month weight loss program and explained how I had met that rationale just by having a lap band for four years and that my waiting for six months before revising to another surgery was not conducive to improving my health. I just got off the phone with BCBS-AL and they have approved my surgery!!!!!! I am actually shocked that I succeeded in my appeal. I fully expected them to deny me and had already started the medically supervised six month weight loss program in preparation for that denial (and have lost 10 lbs over a six week period which is nice). I'm excited, relieved and nervous! I've been through this before so I don't know why but I am. I was very successful with my lap band (losing 94 lbs). I remember how wonderful it felt to be thin and feel good about myself and how I looked and not to be in pain anymore from carrying around all this extra weight (yes I packed the pounds back on after my band was removed). I can't wait to be there again! Yeah me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! -
No Energy - Started My Period:(
missymobaby posted a topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Well, as the title says, I started my period over the weekend. Sorry if it's TMI but it's facts. I have absolutely NO energy and I am 12 days post op. I am so sick of protein shakes, soup, sf jello and sf popsicles I could scream! I go to Dr. on Friday for my 2 week post op and i'm supposed to get moved to mushies then. Surely that will help! Wont it? I'm really having second thoughts on what I have done to myself. I want FOOD so bad! I am not a good one to go without food while on my period at all. Any one have any suggestions or even words of encouragement? A lady down the hall who knows about the surgery said I look like I'm melting cause I've lost weight. I don't know how much because I don't have a scale at home but I hope she's saying that being true and not just trying to perk my mood. Hate this:( Just want to whine and cry but i can't because I did this to myself. -
While on my weight loss journey, I've been learning to drink water. I discovered that I really liked higher alkaline water, so I kept drinking it and started wondering if there was a reason I preferred it. Then, I read this article http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22844861. Now, that I think about it, my GERD isn't nearly as bad when I'm drinking pH8+ water. Has anyone experienced this? Also, maybe it might help someone having lapband GERD issues. That's the reason I'm having revision surgery.
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OAC convention 2016 notice?
Alex Brecher replied to WLSResources/ClothingExch's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
Please see http://www.ywmconvention.com/ for all the info you need on the OAC's Your Weight Matters National Convention. -
It has been three weeks since I was banded, how my life has changed - I am down 15 pounds - I am happy - I just hope the weight continues to come off. I have changed eating habits - ok - so i didn't follow the recommended diet - But I am still doing good - Dr. didn't yell at me when I told him that i was eating already. He said I was doing so well he wasn't going to fill. I go back in a month. I still have these fears of all the times I was on Weight Watchers - where the weight starts to come off - then slowly comes back - This really has to work. :thumbup:
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How much fat do you consume?
ItsMe2033 replied to ecip78824's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Lot's of people have a stall at the 3 week point, so I think that is what is going on in your case, so just stick with the plan and you will be fine. Your NUT has probably given you three numbers to focus on. 1) Ounces of Fluid per day 2) Grams of Protein per day 3) Total calories per day As long as you are sticking by those numbers, it doesn't really matter how the calories are distributed. I would encourage you to always reach your protein goal. I think you should probably aim for 80 grams of protein instead of 60. Are you drinking Protein Shakes? There are also tons of threads on here about alternatives to protein shakes if you aren't drinking them. As far as other calories are concerned, they can come from protein, fat, or carbs. If you have a certain level of protein intake, and if you want to keep your calories the same then if you cut carbs then you must increase fat. There is nothing to be concerned about here. Remember that my fitness pal is a general website, not one geared specifically to people who have had weight loss surgery. I'm glad that you've made the decision to cut back on your carbs. As long as you are meeting your three targets (fluids, protein, and total calories) then don't worry about your fat consumption. To answer your specific question,I try to get 800 - 1000 calories per day. If I consume 125 grams of protein in a day, that's 500 calories. The other 500 have to come from the remaining groups. In my case I generally consume 20 - 30 grams of carbs per day, so the rest will come from fat. 30 grams of carbs is 120 calories, which means that I will consume 380 calories of fat, or 42 grams of fat per day. -
Final Appt - what to expect?
pattychat replied to socaldixiegal's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
I hope and pray your final appointment wasn't like mine. At my final appointment, 6 days before surgery and one day after my pre-opt, I was told I had to pay the part my insurance didn't pay before surgery. I felt that was unfair so I walked out. Tuesday, Oct. 9th would have been my surgery day so you all PLEASE keep me in mind and pray that I'll find the strength from somewhere else to NOT let my weight control my life anymore. Also pray that Dr. Mejias will see that his policy is wrong, that he will tell people upfront they have to pay what insurance does not pay, and not put anyone else through what I went through. I sacrificised my surgery for a cause I felt strongly about and to send a message.... let's just hope someone hears it. -
To you bandsters with great results
tabatha lynn replied to tabatha lynn's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Thank you all for posting! It has been very encouraging to read. Great Great advice and I will say that I will impament them all into my new life style.. I do have a question for you all though.. How long did it take before you started seeing results. I have lost the pre op weight and actually have not lost one pound since surgery. Definatly feel some restriction from the recent fill but nothing major. Just wondering if it took you all several fills before you really started seeing results. Thanks agian for the very inspiring stories and keep up the good work.. -
To you bandsters with great results
BetsyB replied to tabatha lynn's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I've lost at pretty much the same rate since banding, though it's slowing down considerably now that I reach goal. It was very difficult, but I ate as if I had restriction even when I didn't. I know that doesn't work for everyone. It took me three fills to begin to feel restriction. After that, things got way easier. They have gotten progressively easier since. Well, except for the natural slowdown that has occurred as I've gotten nearer to goal. I have consistently eaten 2-5 oz. lean Protein and 1/2-1 cup nonstarchy veggies for my meals. I use 1-2 protein supplements/day. I journal on Fitday, and aim for 800-900 calories, 80-100 g protein, and <50 g net carb/day (primarily from veggie and legume sources.) I do not eat sugar, or use caffeine any more (important for appetite control, for me). I make sure I get adequate heart-healthy fat (supplementing with omega-3s). I take a good bariatric Multivitamin (and supplemented with zinc and Biotin during the hair loss phase), and take Co Q-10 daily, too. I exercise daily, at least once. For me, each of these components is important. It doesn't mean I don't occasionally indulge, but 99% of the time, I achieve what I set out to do. It's worth it, weight-wise. But mostly, I just FEEL a bazillion times better. Your mileage may vary--not everyone needs to follow the same regimen for success. This is just what works for me. -
Get your family involved in your weight loss goal's its easyer to stay focused.. fun spending time with your family. And every one is getting healthy. Take care keep the weight loss fight up!
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Starting Over :)
prettyinpink replied to prettyinpink's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
A couple more things...some of the big mistakes I made were: 1.) Thinking that tighter was better and that it would get the weight off quicker 2.) Drinking during/after eating (this causes pouch enlargement and esophagus distention), 3.) Drinking carbonated beverages (my nurse practitoner now says "no pop!!"), and 4.) Not following the basic guidelines (eating meat first, then veggies, and very little carbs/starches. I would eat things that passed through easily (cheetos, cookies, mashed potatoes, etc), therefore, I didn't have the feeling of being full. -
Hi!! Had surgery the 25th-- How long did it take you to lose Any weight?? I was 307 day of and then day after I was 317 cuz of all the gasses-- now I'm only at 312 --- so I know I have to lose the gas they put--- but since I'm not eating I think I should lose that extra gas Plus weight---- so I'm bugged that its only been 5 lbs list cuz get the extra gas concept -- but I should lose fat since I'm not eating to--- any thoughts/ advise- When will I lose weight along if course w the gas weight -- this week I should have list at least 7 of just fat--?? Sent from my iPhone using VST
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I Need A Scale...
COsleeveDude replied to You would think so...'s topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I bought this one from Target before my surgery, I like it: http://www.target.com/p/taylor-biggest-loser-glass-digital-scale-silver-11-2-x-12-5/-/A-13021683 It has a higher weight capacity. I have weighed myself on it immediately after returning from a weighing at the doctor, and it seems to be pretty spot on compared to the clinic scales. Consumer Reports has some ratings here, but I don't know how recent they are: http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/home-garden/beauty-personal-care/scales/scale-ratings/ratings-overview.htm -
About How Long Do I Have To Make The Most Of It?
UTGal99 replied to Raven21's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Quote: "that means that I am converting fat to muscle with exercise and that I've managed to protect my heart muscle from significant damage from rapid weight loss." I know I should be more knowledgeable in this area; however, talk to me about the potential damage to your heart muscle from rapid weight loss??? Just want to understand better. Thanks! -
About How Long Do I Have To Make The Most Of It?
Lissa replied to Raven21's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Once again, Star is right on the money!! You will always have a tool to help you control your portions, but what makes up those portions is up to you. My weakness is cheetos, so I control that urge by allowing myself a single-serving bag of them once a month. That's what works for me. Other than that, I don't keep them in the house. For me, the first six months were rocket-like as far as weight loss. I dropped weight like crazy. At about 7 months out, I hit a plateau, which was a weight that I stayed at for nearly 10 years on my way up the scale. My weight loss, in pounds, slowed way down. BUT, once the weight loss slowed down, I started shape-shifting. I can almost watch my body change from week to week, and my measurements and clothes sizes reinforce that. I started in a 24/26 and I'm now in a 14/16. I'd be in a smaller size pants, but I have a bit of a tummy still. One thing that really affects how fast I lose pounds is that I got really serious about exercise. I have muscle and definition in places I didn't know I could have muscle and definition before. I had a body fat analysis at my doctor's office recently and it shows that I am within .01% of the amount of muscle I should have in my body for my height, even though my BMI is still in the obese category. That means that I am converting fat to muscle with exercise and that I've managed to protect my heart muscle from significant damage from rapid weight loss. That was a major worry of mine. My pulmonologist is also thrilled with my improved cardio fitness. The sleeve is a tool, but if you work it right, you'll be able to reach goal and to reach goal in a healthy manner. After all, it's not just about the pounds; it's also about enjoying your life and all of the newfound abilities that come with weight loss. If you're not sure what I'm referring to, please visit the "powder Room" and "Man Room" forums here on VST! Good luck on your journey!! -
I have Cigna Insurance. My policy says it excludes weight loss surgery. Does anyone else have Cigna that excludes weight loss but have been able to get them to cover the surgery? Just trying to see if I have a chance at getting them to cover the surgery for me. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
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I would be discouraged too. I hope that if it is because of slippage that they can fix it and not have to redo. The coughing at night is not fun. I cough so much I can't breathe. I feel like I live in the bathroom and I have gotten to the point where I don't want to eat in public becasue I don't want to get sick. I hope that your situation gets better and the weight will start to come off again!
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Those were the EXACT symptoms I experiences when my band slipped. The coughing at night like a 60 year old smoker was so bad... not to mention the throwing up. I had to have mine redone (and repaid for out of my pocket) and the second time around has been nothing like the first. My weight is not coming off and I cannot eat. I am super discouraged.
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Yes it is so worth walking into a store an seeing all the cute thing an hell yes can wear when I first started loosing weight I ran an bought a lot lol then few weeks later buying more because those didn't fit but now that I'm a size 3 yep 3. And have been for a while now. Where they said I would be when I laughed at them saying no way but the spending does level out but the thrill never goes away being able to buy things off the clearance rack or something that's just uR size an I can see the sex because u feel more sexy lol an of course the energy u have after the weight lost
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I had my surgery in April of 2006. I had my gallbladder out in October of 2006, and a hysterectomy in March of 2007. In that time I lost 86lbs. I have not lost any weight since November of 2007. I have been complaining to my doctor since that time. He just kept giving me fills. I usually feel the restriction for about 2-3 weeks then I lose it. I also told my doctor this. He responded with joining a support group (thats why I'm on this site-by the way its been very helpful reading about all of you-THANKS) My doctor also said to go to a nutrictionist-which I did. Still no weight loss and NO restriction. I can eat a whole sandwhich ,2-3 slices of pizza, I can eat all day long, like before the surgery, I've already gained 10lbs. back. I have an appointment with my Doctor on April 4th. He is going to pull my fills out (I have 3.8 in a 4CC band) to see how much is in there and then he said we will take it from there. But I have to admit I am terrified!! Has anyone lost their restriction? Talk to me please! Is this as good as it gets for me-Am I done with the band-I am still about 100lbs over weight.:thumbup::confused::crying::confused:
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I downplay compliments all the time. They make me feel very uncomfortable be even though I have lost some weight it is still not where I want to be. I am great full but it's a self conscious thing. On day a coleagu of mine just said to me "shut up and take the dam complement" with sarcasm of course. I respect her because she has lost weight as well and knows what I am going through.
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I think that often we find ourselves embarrassed by our size, and we don't want anyone to notice us or point out how big we are or how we look. We know how we look we know we are large and we don't need or want anyone to notice us so we try to make ourselves small. Then we have surgery...and we begin to get smaller literally...and at the same time out in the real world we seem to get larger and people who we thought did not notice us before are not only noticing us but making comments about us and be they positive or negative we might feel just as embarrassed. After all WLS still has that stigma to it that Obesity does right? Aren't we all taking the "easy" way out of our fat suit by having WLS?! No we aren't and as time goes on we understand that there is nothing "easy" about our journey. Hopefully through the process we begin to respect ourselves for our efforts, and we being to respect the self that was obese, and the self that endured testing, pre-op diets and surgery and the self that is on the road to and/or recovering from obesity every single day. We begin to lift our head higher and higher and as we lift our heads our eyes are finally able to meet the eyes of others with confidence because we know who we are and we love ourselves for who we are no matter what numbers on the scale no matter what size our clothes or the shape of our body we become larger than life filled with gratitude and appreciation for ourselves so we lift our heads and say Thank you. Thank you not for noticing my weight loss, but for noticing "me" and acknowledging my journey and that of countless others.
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hi there. I have been researching lap band and am really thinking its the option for me but I dont know how to begin the process. So i'm turning to you, those who have already been there and over came whatever obsticles there were. my situation: im 34 262 lbs... bmi 48. i have degenerating health but not sure if its weight related as of yet. i just was determined temporary disables by my family doc so i can get state aid medical. Probably going with health partners when they offer me insurance co. Once i get on insurance what are the first step to going about lap band. do i consult a specalist first or do i need to talk to my family doc or the insurance company first? I need to know how to get the ball rolling. Also i have tried self diet and a couple others like LA weightloss, weight watcher, even a diet pill or two but dont remember what ones and have no documentation of the other ones. will that probably be a problem with getting approved? Any direction u can offer me would be greatly appreciated.
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December 2007 one month before surgery weight 275
ccamarillo posted a gallery image in Member Photo Gallery
From the album: My before and after photos
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Today I Celebrate 2 months post-op. I started the journey at 192 and am now happily weighing in at 156. The last week has been a little tough. I'm finally feeling less restriction and I have to be a bit more conscious of what I eat. I'm able to eat less food but learned that I still definitely need to watch the carbs, they are the devil! Life is so much better. The holidays were just great. I didn't worry about what to wear and how it felt. Instead of celebrating with food, I am learning to celebrate with fellowship -- really learning to enjoy people! I'm still getting used to all the attention I'm getting but it's way better than the attention I used to get. "You have such a pretty face, have you ever thought about losing some weight?". Yes, I've heard that a few times. These days life is good. I'm learning to love the new me. Shopping for clothes that are not plus size is so much fun. Just after Thanksgiving I cleaned out my closet and now I'm slowly buying all new clothes. The Christmas sales were great. If you are considering gastric sleeve, take it from me, it's the best thing I've ever done for my health and my self-esteem. Did I mention I am prescription medication free? Yep, after 13 years of diabetes and high blood pressure, I am completely free from both. Well, that's my story and I can't wait to see what the next two months will bring. Blessings~
