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I have always enjoyed margaritas with friends at the local cantina along with the rich food. Since the band yes there were major cut backs. I continued to drink though and really to much and to often. My weightloss was consistent but slow. For the last 5 weeks I have not been to my favorite spanish resturaunt and the scale has noticed. My weightloss doubled over the last three weeks. I was drinking a lot of calories bottom line. Eating the food went hand in hand. I am now getting back into cooking my own food. My band is good to me as I can eat most anything with caution and limits. I wanted to share this because I did not think a couple drinks a couple times a week would have such an effect on my weight loss but it did. Don't be fooled like me and don't let anything stand in the way of our quest for being healthy! I'm in the 50lb club now and with renewed vigor!
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From CO..hoping to get banded soon
KayleighsMommy posted a topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
Hello, I am from CO (orig from MI) and have my first consultation appt on the 9th of April. I have already been told by the doctors office that my insurance does cover bariatric services (she said my insurance is so good, she wished she had it.... I just hope she was not wrong about that :sneaky: I am looking forward to moving on to this new stage of my life. julie -
Worsening depression before bariatric sleeve
JessLess replied to Jokersgirl's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
Do you have a psychiatrist or therapist outside of the bariatric office? What do they think? As long as you are not suicidal or self harming, I would move ahead. I also have chronic pain and depression and I'd rather have them without also being obese. How many pounds of ugly fat would you lose if you lost your husband? Good luck and feel better. -
NBC: Dateline Obese Special Report
Alexandra replied to California Dan's topic in LAP-BAND Surgery Forums
Teresa, your idea of writing to them was a great one. Here's the letter I just sent: I was very disheartened to watch Al Roker's piece on bypass surgery last Friday. There was no discussion whatsoever of other types of bariatric surgery--irresponsibly so in light of the fact that more and more people, including teenagers, are taking this very serious step. Someone watching your show could easily conclude that there is only one type of surgical procedure available to people suffering from severe obesity. Laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding is profoundly safer than bypass and equally effective in improving the health of people suffering from weight-related problems. Weight loss is moderated and, as with RNY/bypass, requires that the patient make substantial changes in his or her life. Perhaps you avoided discussions of banding because as yet, only one manufacturer distributes the band in the U.S. But at the very least it would have been appropriate and helpful to say that there ARE other surgical options available, and that people doing research should be sure to inquire about them. The goal of any weight-loss surgery is to improve the life and health of the patient, and there is no question that banding can help that happen with exponentially fewer risks to the patient. Dr. Christine Ren is one of the most respected band doctors in the country. Since it's inconceivable that she did not bring this procedure to the attention of Mr. Roker or your producers, the obvious conclusion is that it was excluded for some reason. I am very concerned--as you should be too--that some members of your audience will make an unnecessarily risky decision because of your editorial choice. -
I was originally 4/21 but a project that I was working on at work got postponed from 4/1 to June... So I quick called the surgeons office to see if they could move me up and (yay) they could. My docs pre-surgery diet ended up being super simple. He's not real strict about pre-surgery diets other than to cut out the caffeine and sodas (cut out sodas 2 years ago) and not go hog wild this week on the food. He said be sensible. Nothing but clear liquids next weekend. Have to do the "cleanse" over the weekend too (oh boy!). It is going to be so hard to focus at work this week. I'm like nesting...cleaning my house, throwng out and giving away the contents of my fridge, freezer and cabinets so there is nothing in there but bariatric friendly stuff. Making lists and trying out Protein drink concotions in the little blender. I keep arranging and rearranging my protein drinks, Vitamins and supplies an the table. LOL Can you tell I'm just a little excited?
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You don't say whether you are in an HMO (which requires a referral for the surgery), but that's what it sounds like. I would hit him with a two-pronged approach. The first would be scientific: Go to the website for the American Society for Bariatric Surgeons and go to the section called "The rationale for surgery." It does deal mostly with bypass, but the rationale holds for ALL bariatric surgery. The NIH, The American Heart Association, The National Heart Lung Institue of Health (part of NIH) have all endorsed bariatric surgery for patients with a BMI of 40 and above. I think the Heart Association has too, but I don't remember for sure. Look up their position papers. I know I saw all of these position papers in an appendix of a book on weight-loss surgery (it was about bypass), but I don't remember the name. Then I would get him all of the information on LapBand (maybe Inamed could help you there). But I would also take Alexandra's approach and pour your heart out to him. Document all the diets you have been on, all the weight you've lost, all the weight you've regained. And tell him what being obese has done to you as a person - how you feel. You could do this in a letter if you want, but I would hand him the letter in person. It will be harder to ignore that way. You might also see if ObesityLaw.com has any advice. I think they deal mostly with insurance companies, but they may have some useful info. Good luck. Nancy nancy
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There is no comparason if you check the long term studies from Europe. In the U.S. the lap band is the new kid on the block and has gottan some bad press because so many of the U.S. Doctors are not qualified to do the surgeries, or haven't done very many of them. This procedure was only approved by the FDA in the last couple of years is my understanding. When I went to two specialist in bariatric surgery and requested banding they were both condesending about why I would choose this over bypass surgery. There was a suggestion that I was not as serious about weight loss if I chose banding. The new book on banding by Dr Ortiz "Lap Band For Life" should show banding in a more positive light. This book will answer alot of questions other Dr's have as well as the layman and seeker of help for life changes through weight loss surgery. Hopeful Brenda Banded September 24, 2004
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I had my band put in in Mexico. I found a Dr. here in Michigan that will do fills for me. His prices are 250 for the first fill, and 150 for each fill after that. He also offers a two year deal which includes unlimited fills, dietician visits and support groups. I don't know which to choose? If I only get three fills per year in the first couple of years, it will be 550.00 per year alone. How many fills are average per year? this is a respected bariatric surgeon and I consider myself LUCKY to have found someone that is only a 2 hr drive from where I live that will even touch my mexican band. YIKES! I need advice!!!
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Psych Evaluation...im nervous
mrsto replied to jesse6657's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I found the psych evaluation to be pretty weak. They want to get an idea of who you are, and make sure that #1, you're not suicidal, where weight loss surgery will push you off the deep end. And then they want to get an idea of your food issues; how you eat, when, why, etc. At the end of my session, she said that I was an excellent candidate for the gastric bypass. Because I tend to graze throughout the day, bypass seemed to be a better choice. With the band, they want you to have only three meals a day. Though her recommendation was bypass, she said that I would also be okay with the band, and she wouldn't absolutely say that it wasn't an option.....if that's the way I wanted to go. I'm guessing that all psych evaluations run a little differently, but that's how mine went. I would say that most ALL of us run to food out of boredom, emotion, etc., and the shrinks expect to hear it. But they will advise you on lifestyle changes, and what it will take on your part to work with the band. We all didn't get here because we simply love food & eat only when we are hungry. I would find it difficult to believe that any bariatric surgeon, or his staff, would think otherwise. But it's up to us to work on our heads, getting any and all support we need along the way. Good luck! -
so what kind are you trying? My favorite is Muscle Milk 🍓. I also like part of the Premier Protein flavors, wondered why I couldn't find any at my Wal-Mart, then I read they are embroiled in a lawsuit. Dont know if they,arent shipping or Wal-Mart,isn't ordering. Do NOT buy their,house brand Equate it is VILE beyond all understanding! I would drink Slim-Fast first and I Do Not,Like it, not even before starting Bariatrics.
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There are proabably lots of reasons for the wide variety in weight actually lost. Many folks are not ready to actually do the hard work to shed the big numbers....everyone CAN be successful by following the plan the bariatric team will lay out. One thing to keep in mind is that everyone will lose in different ways and at different speeds because each body's physiology is different. Work the plan and the plan will work!
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intense depression
Kellyfitz4 replied to crazyplantlady's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Crazy plant lady- I am going thru the exact same thing. I am nearly 4 weeks out and I went to work after 2 weeks. Simultaneously I received a HUGE promotion at work that requires me to work long hours, on my feet (I'm in Law Enforcement). After working in my new position for only a week, I cried every day on my way to work, every day on my way home, cried myself to sleep. My husband finally said enough is enough- this past Monday I went to see my family Physician and she told me I went back to work way too early. She gave me some anxiety meds, which make me really tired, and told me to take another 3 weeks off at the least. I then went and saw my bariatric physiologist today and she said the same. She explained that I am recovering from major surgery at the same time learning an entire new life change and to add a huge promo on top of that, put me over the edge. She too suggested to take at least 3 more weeks off to take it day by day, meal by meal ( I didn't eat the entire week I went back to work and got really run down and emotional). She made so much sense now I have to really concentrate on me and apply it.. Please keep me in your thoughts, this is going to be SO HARD FOR ME. -
Waiting For Lap Band Surgery
Jean McMillan replied to CarrieBrownsville's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
Gastric bypass is the #1 choice for resolution of diabetes. Many patients have normal glucose levels within days of gastric bypass. Other types of bariatric surgery, like the band, can also improve diabetes, but that usually is the result of the weight loss, not the surgery itself. I have no idea if the bypass can reverse or stop the calcification in your pancreas - you need to talk to your doctor about that. One other thing (for now) to keep in mind is that with the band, weight loss may not start until months after surgery, when you've gotten enough fill in your band to help it do its job of reducing hunger and creating early and prolonged satiety. For that reason, if I were in your position, I would strongly consider a different surgical procedure. I loved my band, and it did wonders for my diabetes in the long run, but the benefit only persisted as long as I made good food choices and exercised. I can't help you with your support group questions because I'm not even sure where Brownsville and McAllen are. Are they in Texas? There are 2 ways you could research support groups in your area. One is to go to the Texas forum here on LBT and post a question about it there. The other is to call the hospital nearest to you and ask if they have or know of any WLS support groups in your area. -
Hello Everyone, I'm new here but I have a few questions..... First of all I go this Thurs for Blood Work and then I go the following Thursday( March 31st) for my nutrition class ( 8-10), then at 10:30 I have my one on one with the Bariatric Counselor and then I meet with the surgeon , I already know my Co-pay But will the surgeon be giving me a surgery date ?? Sent from my HTC Desire 626s using the BariatricPal App
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That is so awesome about your Hep C! I have a friend here in OKC who had Hep C, but none of the drugs worked to cure her. She ended up with a liver transplant last year, and this year started the latest treatment out, and 4 months later was cleared of all Hep C! Hang in there till Thursday, I bet your bariatric counselor will have a ton of news for you then
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LapBand Buddies Weight Loss Surgery Cruise & Conference
Guest posted a topic in LAP-BAND Surgery Forums
Hello Everyone, My name is Iris and I am with Bariatric Support Specialists and I would like to take this opportunity to invite the members of LapBandTalk.com to join us and Dr. Lloyd Stegemann of New Dimensions Weight Loss Surgery based in San Antonio, TX for the LapBand Buddies Weight Loss Surgery Cruise & Conference. The cruise & conference is scheduled to sail aboard Carnival's Elation from the port of Galveston, TX to Cozumel, Progresso and Belize, May 14 - 21, 2006. We have a great educational conference planned that will cover things like nutrition, exercise, mental health issues, fashion shows, makerovers and much much more. We have some great pricing for the cruise & conferece that makes it affordable for everyone. Even better we have a payment plan that makes it even more affordable. If you would like more information on the LapBand Buddies Weight Loss Surgery Cruise & Conference please send me an email to bariatricsupport@gmail.com and I will send the information out to you. This is a great opportunity to meet your fellow LapBanders and I hope that everyone will be able to join us. Sincerely, Iris C. Slack, CTC, ACC, CBSGL Bariatric Support Specialists -
Attended: Obesity Help Regional Event in MI 6/4/05
NancySmiles posted a topic in LAP-BAND Surgery Forums
Hi everyone: Just wanted to let you know that I attended the "Making the Journey Together 2005" event which was held in Troy, Michigan yesterday, June 4th, 2005, at the Embassy Suites Troy. It was sponsored by ObesityHelp.com; with speakers in all bariatric surgery areas such as Dietitian, Psychologist, Plastic Surgeon, Bariatric Medicine, Bariatric Surgeons, Motivational Patient Speakers, Authors, Counselors/Therapists, and so much more!!! What an AWESOME event!!! Motivational, Inspiring, Informative...and loads of information, tips, vendors, ideas, etc.; and even prizes! I would HIGHLY recommend this event to ANYONE interested in keeping up with news in the bariatric surgery spectrum! I will report on this event at our Support Group Meeting on June 15th! Still pumped up and motivated after yesterday!!! Here is the link in case you are interested to see what you missed! Shocked banana -
So, I am moving to Oregon on Friday and had found a fill doctor in Portland. Not such an easy thing to do being a patient that was banded in Mexico. Anyway, I got a call from Dr. Eubanks scheduler this afternoon saying that all appts and fills for bariatric patients are on hold indefinitely. I guess that his liability insurance has excluded all bariatric patients so until they figure out what to do, he isn't seeing anyone for fills. I am really bummed. I was really looking forward to my fill. Now I have to find a new doctor. Oh well....this too shall pass.
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Has anyone been banded by Dr. Chang at Citizens Bariatric Center/Victoria TX? Let me know if you have and your opionions of course! Thanks, Shawn
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Car ride home from hospital
ButterflySeoul replied to shotgun72000's topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
I second (or third or fourth..) the pillow! I was lucky- there is someone who makes pillows for all of the bariatric patients at the hospital where I had my surgery, so I got one the morning of my surgery, and it was on my bed with me when I got to my room. I used it every time I had to get up to use the bathroom, or walk. I would also try to get an abdominal binder--- I wore one home from the hospital and that thing was a life saver! It really helped with the pain of getting up and sitting back down.. and going for walks too. I also wore it under my clothes for my first two weeks back to work. -
The Most Embarrassing Fat Moment....
Butterthebean replied to Sannah's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I had the same problem with an MRI machine. Two years ago I had a tumor in my middle finger and it developed an infection. They admitted me into the hospital for surgery. That morning they wanted to take me down for a presurgery MRI, but they said I was over the weight limit. I said "MY HAND???" It took them a while to figure that out. To make matters worse, the nurse wanted me to strip down to nothing but a hospital gown for the MRI, then ride like that in a wheelchair across the hospital, down the elevator, and to the imaging center. Again....it was just my hand. I said "Lady, what do you think that gown is gonna cover up? I'm 6'1", 400lbs. I could use it as a dew rag maybe. " Long story short. I wore my basketball shorts and tshirt, and they just stuck my arm into the machine and MRI'd the hand. 2 hours of fuss, and 10 minutes to do the dang MRI. Thank God the Bariatric unit at the hospital where I had my sleeve had gowns designed to fit big people. That thing was like a 4 man tent. -
Although I'm all preop'd & ready to go, it looks like Tricare will not cover the sleeve with an off base provider. Our MTF is just getting the bariatric practice up and running so It looks like my surgery will happen there. Today is the first time I'm meeting w the surgeon. Wish me luck !!!
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Headache...help!!!
GreenTealael replied to DanieHall's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is usually what Bariatric teams suggest. Call your email/team & ask. Also dehydration causes wicked headaches so try make sure you are properly hydrated (water and electrolyte drinks) as this *may* solve the problem Get Well Soon 💜 -
SLEEVE CONVERSION: Vertical gastric sleeve (VGS) to Mini Gastric Bypass (MGB) ?
berry girl posted a topic in Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums
Vertical gastric sleeve (VGS) to Mini Gastric Bypass (MGB) ? I was sleeved about 7 years ago in Mexico. The operation added about 90 pounds of weight loss over 18 months. However unfortunately, after several years and a couple of babies, the weight has come back on. I’m exactly where I was seven years ago. 😔 I feel my pouch has been stretched slowly over the years and my metabolism is shot. Not uncommonly, one of the side effects of the sleeve was terrible heartburn. I’ve been taking a prescription grade antacid since my surgery. I recently read that this particular bariatric side affect has been linked to stomach cancer. 😳 I recently consulted with bariatric surgeon in Mexico to see what my options are and he suggested I convert to a mini gastric bypass. He said it would resolve the acid reflux complication and also I would lose the weight I have regained. Has anyone gone from VGS to a MGB that could share their experiences with me? Either here or privately? I’d really appreciate it. 🙏🏼 -
Band Revision To Rny Vs Vertical Sleeve
corinneq posted a topic in Revision Weight Loss Surgery Forums (NEW!)
Hello, I'm considering having my band removed and converting to either the vertical sleeve or RNY surgery. I'm interested in hearing from people that have been in this position. Specifically, during recovery from band removal did you lose any weight? How long did you wait to have the second surgery (RNY or VS)? I had my band placed by Dr. Arturo Rodriguez in Monterrey, MX in March of 2004. I had decent success with the band, losing 70lbs in my first 7 months post op, but then after getting pregnant I stopped losing weight. I ended up having two children post banding and overall am down 40lbs. I have not lost weight for the past 5 years and now realize that an expectation of further weight loss is not realistic. My insurance will be changing effective April 1, 2011 and will exclude bariatric surgery so I will be going very quickly through the revision, insurance approval and surgery process in the next 4 months. Corrie