Was anyone banded at a weight of 200lbs or less?

pnw · June 20, 2009

Seminar this week - learned much and revealed much to both my DH and me. Went to the social worker yesterday. Loved this lady. Real people - put into perspective what and who their nutritionist is all about. She is new to the team - I think she should go to their seminar.

Well - here's the bottom line for me folks. I am recommended for RNY - Gastric Bypass - and I agree. While the lapband is a great tool for some - not all and I am in the not all group.

I will continue to post to this thread because I think while our end result may not be the same our journey is and we can use all the tips and support as possible.

Tip for the week for those in the 1st stages. Make a list for yourself and for later when you talk to your social worker and nutritionist. Research fad diets - look at this list and I bet you (like me) could pick 5 or more that you forgot you were ever on. Or maybe I blocked the memory of them. List your weights from the time you remember that match the diet and why you think that diet did not work - again.

Bring your food intake journal for at least 2 weeks.

Bring family photos

Research the tests you may be given and really understand how 'stuff' plays a part in this process. Depression and Anxiety. Look up PHQ 9 and GAD 7 - these are the base tests to determine if you are functionally impaired (a good thing) and what you do to alleviate your stress and normal depression.

Make copies of every thing you give them - track your progress and conversations.

Make a list of why you feel you need this surgery

Make a list of why diets in you were on in the past did not work and why you think this will.

Make a plan for the new lifestyle you will be 'in' after your surgery.

Once I started writing this down - I understood more and more why this is the right way to go. And I was more able to explain this to others. ****Today I told my kids - I was afraid to tell them before - I did not want judged. But they got it - probably better than me!!!

If you need 'words' email me - I have a few you can toss out.

I am certain - that once I get past all my required tests I will be on my way.

Edited June 20, 2009 by pnw
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schulbaby · June 20, 2009

Glad to see your question. I am 234 lbs at 5'3 I was having doubts due to being the smallest in the room too but I feel so bad. It is hard to walk, can't exercise due to multiple problems or wind up hurting myself when I do. I go Monday for my first apt. The insurance approved the beginning phases and I have to go thru a 3 month period before they would consider final approval for the surgery. Thanks to all of the people who post replies, this really is a good place to get good information!

:biggrin: :blink: OK, now I know some of my questions I want to ask but if any one has any good advice on what I need to ask my doctor it would be appreciated!

pnw · June 22, 2009

Hi - On questions to ask

1. Going to the seminar first - that helped me to focus on what I really wanted to know.

2. I found that another site Obesityhelp.com had a great series of questions

Questions to ask your surgeon

While not all the questions worked for me - it was a great starting point.

3. The doctor will NOT persuade you to one surgery over another - that is for you to determine and for the doctor to confirm as a good route to take. While some facts are strong for lapband some are just as strong for gastric bypass. Know your facts.

4. Ask the doctor how many lapbands he/she has done and since when. How many have failed. How many have been replaced. Ask if they are using the NEWER band on the market. It's softer.

5. What type of support is offered after the surgery - and for how long.