New & Need Advice

knbmom9699 · December 18, 2008

I have been on this uphill battle with weight since I was 18 years old. I have lost weight with Weight Watchers and starving and always gained it back and then some. I heard about this weight loss band concept from Sharon Osborne of all people (who was overweight her entire life preband) after reading her book.:ohmy:

So at this point I am desperate. I have been between 50-70 pounds over the to of my healthy range for over 5 years now. I am embarrassed to go to family functions, meet friends, or really even leave the house. I take medications for Bipolar Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder which are not kind to me in the weight department. Since starting the medications, even Weight Watchers has been unsuccessful for me. :cursing:

I have concerns that I would so appreciate anyone providing input on. I have a BMI of 35.5 (5'6" 218 pounds)...all the research I have done has said that I qualify because I have the BMI of 35 or greater and at least 2 comorbids (GERD, Depression, & borderline sleep apnea) but I have not really noticed anyone in the 60-80 pound goal range.

Do you think this surgery is reasonable for me?

How much vomiting and nausea is involved post op?

Is it unreasonable to feel relieved that there is an option that may actually be successful? I am afraid of the "not a quick fix" term being thrown out because while the band is not the only tool in losing weight, it sure seems like there is a common denominator with the band and the people on this board and others losing weight. Where is the happy medium in terms of relief and excitement vs. reality? :w00t:

Again, any words of encouragement or advice are so very appreciated! I was so hopeless feeling before I learned that this may be an option for me. Now, I have this "this is probably not going to work for me because I am not a candidate" scared feeling. I just want the weight gone once and for all. It is truly my biggest hinderance and just making me a frumpy person that I do not want to be. It seriously controls my life, as much as I am embarrassed to admit it. :bored:

Thanks for your patience and time in reading this! God Bless you!

Kim in Nor Cal

lapbandtalker · December 18, 2008

Do you think this surgery is reasonable for me? Yes, it is reasonable. Get a good lapband surgeon!

How much vomiting and nausea is involved post op? It's probably different for everyone. I didn't have any.

Is it unreasonable to feel relieved that there is an option that may actually be successful? No, not at all. When I learned about the lapband, I thought - It's about time!!!!!

Good luck with everything and keep us posted.