Search the Community

HI All, Need a little assist here. Was Sleeved 2/11/19... In the morning I am normally rushed (get myself ready and kids ready and to school and then off to work all by 7:30am) and don't have time to make a meal... I was taking my vitamins and meds before I left the house in the morning (Bariatric Choice ONCE DAILY Vitamin, Ursodiol, a bp med, and pantoprazole), however afte rtaking the pills on my way to work I would gag and cough and a couple times had to pull over to vomit... So I thought I had a solution - On my way to work I drink a Premier Protein shake and then take the pills, so I have at least something in my stomach when I take the pills. It went well for a couple weeks and then today I got the same thing soon after taking the pills and had to pull over... Anyone else have this issue? and is there any good solution?

I had gastric bypass surgery around 6 years ago and I am very pleased with the results. It is sort of like the gold standard for bariatric surgery. They have most of the bugs worked out. Mini-gastric bypass is somewhat new so I can not really assess it. In general, many people try various kinds of diets prior to eventually getting gastric bypass surgery. Most of the time these are referred to as yo-yo diets. Because the individuals will lose some weight but then over time give up the diet and then gain the weight back and then some. So it is like a yo-yo. In your case it went to the extreme and you slid into anorexia. So the only advise here is that the psychological treatment component is very important for you for the surgery to work. (the package with the 12 phycologist sessions). Also if things go south sometimes after surgery then reactivate the physiological component. The three most important elements after gastric bypass surgery are to meet your daily protein, fluid and vitamin requirements. Food is secondary because your body is converting your stored fat into the energy that drives your body. Thus you lose weight.

Hi, I'm older than you but similar and just started my journey a month ago. I am 48 with a bmi of 54. I have no co-morbidities but decided I wanted the surgery since I'm getting close to 50 and 150 extra pounds is hard on my short frame. My insurance, Aetna will cover 80% of the surgery also. (Just found out last week) I also didn't have a regular ;primary doctor but have tried and failed at diets for 25 years. What I did was establish a primary doctor relationship, had my first appointment yesterday. It was like, "hi, nice to meet you, can you sign off that bariatric surgery is necessary" lol And you know what? He did. He sAid that appointment could be the 1st of the 3 required physician monitored/supervised diets and he let me pick the diet, which I chose Keto. We then set up two more appoints, one for May and one for June. After the 3rd appt he will sign the letter of necessity. After you go to your consultation on 04/29 you will know more and they will assign you a patient advocate at Emory but it's a good time for you to establish a primary relationship in the meantime with a local doctor, preferably before your consultation. I hope this helps. I'm still at the beginning of this journey and

Hello all.... I have my last appointment (friday) before my paperwork gets submitted for approval. I had a recent doctors appointment and I could not believe the scale. I gained 10 pounds since my last month bariatric weigh in. I believe the weight gain came from self sabotage knowing that my last appointment was coming up. I found it very hard to stay on track. My weight has fluctuated during this whole 6 month process but the 10 pound weight gain would put me right at what I started at 6 months ago. Im Thinking about cancelling my appointment and giving myself a week or two to really push myself and see how much weight I can loose before I do my last weigh in for my 6 month requirement. Has anyone else experienced this? Any suggestions? FYI my insurance doesn't say anything about weight gain, but the doctor suggested that I be under my starting weight for insurance purposes and showing active participation in the program. I'm very upset with myself to get to this point and now this. Thanks Sent from my SM-G935T using BariatricPal mobile app

The same happened to me. I ended up dehydrated 3 times. I was given the bariatric cocktail infusion 3 times. I can keep things down now as long as I take a real "sip." Sent from my Moto E (4) using BariatricPal mobile app

Had my consult with the bariatric surgeon. He said that sleeve or bypass are both possible after esg. Sleeve would depend on the anatomy of the stomach and could only be done if the stomach had dilated or stretched a lot since esg. He did also add that if the esg did not work for me then a sleeve may also not be as effective. The only way to see what would be best is to do a gastroscope and decide after this. He did say that as this is considered revision surgery, a leak from a sleeve or bypass would be higher risk and that his preference is most likely a bypass but would wait until after a scope to further discuss this with me and decide. As for now, I have lost 15kg in 2019. Hoping not to need surgery but glad to have a plan to move forward if I do. Mel xx

My why boils down to 3 things. My husband. My daughter. My son. When my almost-7yo was a year old I was diagnosed with type two diabetes. I had dealt with gestational diabetes twice, and facing the rest of my life with those frustrations and challenges, I committed to losing weight once and for all. And I did lose weight. For a year I did well. I was down almost 80lbs from my highest. Then life got messy and I turned to food again for comfort. I again became a lump on the couch, and to help our meager budget, I went off my meds... for a year. Bad idea. The weight I lost was found. I started getting the tingly toes and fingers that go along with diabetic neuropathy. I was having hypertensive headaches daily. I regularly started having anxiety attacks about my health. I was terrified of dying while my children were still small, of leaving my husband with two kids to care for on his own (my hubs is a great father... but he cannot cook a healthy meal or do a braid to save his life). I was terrified and frozen in place at the same time. What finally sent me back to my doctor was a yeast infection that I couldn't deal with without a prescription. Around that same time two of my SIL were preparing for WLS. I asked a few questions and did my research. And after another 3 or 4 months of working on my courage, I finally asked my doctor to refer me to our bariatric clinic. Sent from my SM-G960W using BariatricPal mobile app

I'm sure it does happen, there was a guy mentioning that when I first joined Bariatric Pal. Then last year there was a girl that they did go ahead and the surgeon leveraged her liver, suspect,it happened when trying to move,he4 liver out of the way. Oh she recovered pretyu,goood but it was a miserable recovery. that she had. So Yeah very very rare , but it could happen. The fact that you did your . sinning" early in this process and went on to lose 10 pounds should work. out to your benefit. Looking forward to an update posting when your surgery is completed!

the straight lines to the left tell me this is some kind of contact dermatitis..are you using a heating pad? changed your detergent? wearing new clothes or underwear? sitting next to an animal your allergic to? It was an allergic reaction to lovonox. I was allergic to my blood thinner!! I am now on meds to heal this rash heal. But I will not continue my blood thinner. I was not near heating pad. No new detergents, nothing out of norm other than the Bariatric meds. So ahh ha!! Now just to heal:)

Oh man, definitely get a therapist. In fact, talk to your surgeon to find one who specializes in bariatric patients. This is something you want to nip in the bud ASAP. While you're finding a therapist, try to do some work to figure out WHY you're doing this. "Mindful eating" could be a good way to slow yourself down and analyze what your motivations are here. Are you trying to "keep up" with other people at the table? Are you misjudging how much of each course you can eat and then stubbornly continuing to eat because you've only had a partial meal? Are you chasing the high you used to get from overeating? It could be any of those, all of those, none of those - but clearly you know this isn't a good pattern, so therapy + self-reflection is something you can start doing right now. Our teeth already have a rough enough time of it post-surgery without attacking them with stomach acid.

I am looking to have the sleeve surgery and my insurance does not cover any bariatric surgery. I am looking for affordable self-pay options in the USA. Any suggestions?

I am looking to have the sleeve surgery and my insurance does not cover any bariatric surgery. I am looking for affordable self-pay options in the USA. Any suggestions?

As a paramedic, you don't have anything to worry about with your current weight! I've had all ranges of ages and weights. Average weight of the patients I transport is about 250lbs. Our standard stretcher is rated to 750lbs and our bariatric stretcher is rated to 1600lbs. We can, and will, lift you!

Hello y'all! I just wanted let anyone, who is being denied by their insurance company, to consider Lindstrom Healthcare Advocacy, to help in your fight for approval or overturning a previous denial! My story.... I was denied coverage for revision surgery (lapband to sleeve) twice, by insurance xyz (I am not naming insurance company, until I get reimbursed), and enlisted Lindstrom Healthcare Advocacy for 3rd appeal and subsequently, a review by an independent doctor. After a few months of diligent and expert advocacy, on my behalf, LHA convinced the doctor and insurance xyz to finally approve my surgery! And this was almost 3 months AFTER my surgery, in which I funded myself! I am just waiting on reimbursement, which is in works now. I've talked to my insurance company and they are keeping me updated in the whole process. They have assured me that I am covered and reimbursement is in the making. Just a matter of claims and paperwork from my providers. Walter and Kelley Lindstrom, makeup the army that fights the good fight for you, by way of expert letters, phone calls, and legal knowledge. These guys are lawyers, who have made their primary scope, that of advocating healthcare, for those who need it. Insurance companies, in many cases, will use a multitude of reasons for denying coverage! In my case, insurance xyz was denying my coverage, due to a clause in our policy, that allows only one lifetime bariatric surgery. Walter Lindstroms letters and provided facts, convinced that my revision was not only necessary, but also eligible for coverage. Regardless of clause in policy. Kelley Brown Lindstrom, does ALL the leg work, as far as medical records and release forms. I can't say enough about her help and willingness to listen and answer all questions! She is simply genuinely awesome! As for the cost, it amounted to about 10% of the cost of my surgery. A risk indeed, but nonetheless, worth it. I will be getting back, minus deductibles and out of pocket maximums, about 90% of my total surgery cost! Three months AFTER my self paid surgery! My revision surgery was worth my self funding, regardless of an approval or not. I am now only 15 pounds from my goal weight, in just 16 weeks out of surgery! But with the help of Lindstrom Healthcare Advocacy, the victory is just that much more sweeter!

This is from the ASMBS website- Q: Do I need to avoid caffeine after bariatric surgery? A: Caffeine fluids have been shown to be as good as any others for keeping you hydrated. Still, it is a good idea to avoid caffeine for at least the first thirty days after surgery while your stomach is extra sensitive. After that point, you can ask your surgeon or dietitian about resuming caffeine. Remember that caffeine often comes paired with sugary, high-calorie drinks, so be sure you’re making wise beverage choices.

I would say you are getting close to intervention time, that said, check with your own Bariatric nurses and staff. Some surgeon's are more fecally- inclined💩than others. My own was 5 days and we start stirring Miralax into your protein shakes, 7+ days we bring out a " Bigger Gun" Milk of Magnesia, 10 days and we really "intervene", didn't happen to me but my guess is an ER visit, an abdominal scan, and then whatever it takes to empty YOU out!

Hi all!! Ok here's what I'm thinking!! I really liked the LOSE IT APP... And want to also get back to the basics. Carbs and sweets have been my weakness!! So let's get back to that strictly protein and the 4oz we're supposed to have... Or do you know of a bariatric eating app?? We could use that! What are your thoughts esskay77 and Gradycat!! Sent from my SM-G975U using BariatricPal mobile app

I’m self pay and am going on a short Mexican vacay. My ins sucks as far as Bariatric coverage. Contrary to popular belief, I had to jump through hoops as well, to get approved. Who knew, right? I just got approved after submitting my EKG. I am scheduled for 10/1/19 (my choice). I’m so excited! And I am excited for you. I can’t wait to hear about your experience and new life adventures!

WIth my surgeon, that is 😜 April 29th, the big day. Got the call today that my insurance approved and I scheduled it today. They wanted me to have the surgery next week but I couldnt get all my ducks in a row that quick. Started my pre-op diet today, that'll give me an even 2 weeks to shrink that liver. Looking forward to seeing what I weigh after 2 weeks also. Now im gonna go take a bunch of before pictures, do some measurements and buy some bariatric vitamins online. Thank you to everyone who has shared their stories and advice, Im so happy to be one of you!!!

Hey ya'll!! I just wanted to take a minute to brag about my surgeon. I chose Dr. Mark Smolik who is associated with Mercy One Bariatric in West Des Moines, Iowa. He is a straight shooter, doesn't sugar coat anything and takes as much time as you need to answer all of your questions without making you feel like he's in a hurry. His entire staff has been wonderful. I've had to do 6 months of supervised diet visits per UHC so I've gotten to know many members of his staff over the last few months. The nurses and dieticians work with you to make sure you are doing what you need to do to prepare for surgery and life afterwards. Again, they never make you feel rushed. The office staff is friendly and helpful. I have never had to wait past my appointment time; I'm usually called back a little early if they see me sitting there. They give you a "to do list" during your first visit and schedule all of your appointments (other than clearance appointments) that first day. That was nice for me as I tend to be a planner. You are weighed on a Tanita scale every time you go in so you don't have to worry about fluctuations between scales (I had that issue at the other big bariatric center in Des Moines). They divide the process into what they call Modules. Prior to Module 1 is the lecture where you learn about the different options and have the opportunity to ask questions. It's a small conference room so there aren't hundreds of people there which was a huge plus for me. I didn't feel crowded. Module 1 is your initial RN assessment visit where you discuss your insurance criteria and they let you know exactly what you need to do. Module 2 is your surgeon consult where you'll decide which surgery you want to proceed with. They do an EKG in the office. I failed mine so I was referred to Iowa Heart for cardiac clearance...no big deal, I have failed EKGs most of my life and my heart is fine. After meeting with Dr. Smolik, you walk over to Mercy West and have labs and chest xray done. Module 3 is a diet and exercise class and these ladies are hilarious. They make it fun and you'll learn a lot. Mercy One program requires you to meet with the dietician twice but these visits DO count towards any visits you need for your insurance. You're also required to obtain psychiatric clearance using your choice of psychiatrists (they'll provide you with a list if that helps.) After you complete everything on your "to do list" then they submit to your insurance. Module 4 happens after you get approved and it's a pre-op teaching class. They'll request any additional tests needed at this time and have you go to your primary doctor for a history and physical to get cleared for surgery and they'll also schedule your surgery at this time. Module 5 is one week post-op and is a diet progression class. Module 6 is your 2 week post op visit with Dr. Smolik and also an hour long nutrition class. ((They want to make sure you are clear about your diet and vitamins and discuss these things often during this entire process.)) You will have several follow up appointments post op where they'll check you labs to make sure your vitamin/mineral levels are where they need to be for optimum health and readjust your routine as necessary to make sure you remain healthy. They also offer monthly support groups. They do give you a binder at Module 1 that you'll need to take with you to all of your appointments. I refer to this binder often as it contains a wealth of information. If you live in Iowa and are considering weight loss surgery, even if you have already seen another surgeon, I highly recommend checking Dr. Smolik's program out at Mercy One. It's the best thing I've done for myself in decades! ❤️

I'm an aircraft mechanic. I was back to work in three months, but that had more to do with my previous knee surgery rather than my VSG. After the bariatric surgery I felt surprisingly good. With each week that passed I saw the scale move down and that supported my mood to skyrocket.

Wow you have been to the edge and back again! Thank,you for sharing your story and your pictures. It is an,honor to,meet you, even if only on Bariatric Pal!

Autism Society usually has an Autism Walk. Another good one is one for Adult Congentinal Heart Disease,My son apparently. had cardiac problems along with dying. of an Ascending Aortic Aneurysm, he looked so healthy nobody checked into it, as His parents my Last Husband and I had no clue! If he had any pre- symptoms we weren't aware and if he had felt them, it had been life- long and he didn't know of any other way to feel. Diabetes, MS, Muscular Dystrophy, there are oodles of diseases who sponsor Mini, Half and Full,Marathons, should be,one for Bariatrics, I think. Of course since everyone's recovery is individual, maybe nobody would walk, March or run? Just a suggestion!🚶&🏃

I was just told by my cardiologist that I should consider bariatric surgery. What was the deciding factor for you? I am worried about side effects and I hear it’s a long process to be approved by insurance. I would love to hear how everyone got started on their journeys. Thanks.

is anything you're drinking have food coloring,or have you been drinking grape juice, that gives you green poo, keep on with your liquids,bariatric patients fare better on Fluid drive just like some cars.!