Jump to content
×
Are you looking for the BariatricPal Store? Go now!

Recommended Posts

Hi All,

Several months ago my gastroenterologist of 5 years whom I trust suggested bariatric surgery. I've spent the time since abusing my access to scholarly journals through work and had initially settled on the sleeve. I've got an initial consult with the local sleeve expert surgeon 1 week from today. It's all he does and all he's ever done, I'm so excited! I want the sleeve!

However, while continuing my obsessive research last night, I decided to look specifically at "super-obese" patients with a BMI between 50 and 60 (my BMI is 54.1) and what I found was devastating - according to the NIH, among the super-obese, the average EWL for VSG is 40-50% whereas the DS has averages of 70-90% in the first year and early studies suggest a much higher success rate at 10-years post-op.

Anyone here have the sleeve with a BMI similar to, or higher than, mine? What success have you had? Has anyone started with VSG and then switched to the DS? What that process like?

I am a teacher and can't currently qualify for a loan large enough to cover DS, but don't want to waste time and money on VSG if I'm only going to have to save for several years and take out a second loan later for revision to DS with only 40% EWL in the meantime.

I know DS is often done in two stages with VSG as stage 1, has anyone here done this? How does the cost and experience of doing it in two parts compare with doing the full DS in one fell swoop.

Thanks for putting up with this rambling post. I'll be posting in the DS forum as well, please forgive the cross-post.

Edited by Smye

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

For those wondering, here are some of the articles I was looking at:

RYGB> VSG for super obese

VSG EWL rates for super obese

DS>RYGB for super obese - found on NIH (in tandem with the first link by the transitive property, it seemed safe to assume if DS>RYGB and RYGB>VSG, then DS>VSG)

And lastly, because I wasn't satisfied with the transitive proprty alone - staged DS > single-step-DS > VSG for super obese

I'm also curious as to whether the staged DS (VSG->DS) is cheaper than the cost of VSG+DS.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

It seems like you're planning on the changes in lifestyle, diet, exercise and surgery not being enough. I researched a lot before VSG surgery, went to support groups, talked to people. There wasn't a lot out there anectdotally or otherwise to support the idea that people over 380lbs have long-term success with VSG surgery alone. In fact, many don't even complete initial weight loss goals before they start gaining again. However, even this site is full of people who defy that grim statement.

The reality is that you sort of have to look at the real picture. The food/weight issue is a dangerous, destructive addiction that stalks and kills just like other dangerous/destructive addictions. There are no magic cures, not even surgjcal ones - just tools to help. Whatever surgery you choose, your long-term success might be directly proportionate to the effort you put not only into beginning and maintaing a healthy lifestyle but also addressing the issues that led you to becoming obese in the first place. This has been my experience and my journey so far. I hope my two cents worth helps.

Peace

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

My starting BMI was 58...5'6" at 360 lbs. I had the sleeve 7/14. I have lost as of today 134 lbs. My current BMI is .... 36.3. If you want the sleeve it can work for you. As the previous poster wrote you have to be willing to put the work in. I stay on plan and I exercise. The surgery will only help you so much and then it all you. That is true of every weight loss surgery type. Do not do any of it if you are not committed to a life style change because in the end that is what will make you the most successful. Good luck on your journey!!

I would not qualify for the sleeve today because I wouldn't meet the criteria. That is a wonderful feeling.

post-216699-14228898006981_thumb.jpg

Edited by vanessak8

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now

  • Trending Products

  • Trending Topics

  • Recent Status Updates

    • AmberFL

      2 of the Biggest NSV thus far in my life; 1) my 6yr old daughter can wrap her arms around me for the first time ever! 2) My 12yr old son is having a basketball game for the parents vs. their players and I am playing with him! Its been awhile since I played basketball so I have been practicing lol but I would never had even volunteered to do this 70lbs ago! 
      This surgery has changed my life for the better!
      · 1 reply
      1. NickelChip

        That's fantastic!

    • Newtransformation79

      It has hit me today, as I sit in my chair at work that I don't have my belly sticking out to where it would hit the desk. Oh and I can cross my legs more comfortably. It amazes me just how much I have loss in inches vs actual pounds, I have lost 24 lbs all together. But I believe in inches all over about 3 inches. I am noticing more energy and have pep to my step. My skin is a lot clearer. My watch band is shorter by 3 notches. the little things are what I am noticing. When I bend over I don't feel out of breath or I am going to fall over ( weeble wobble). 
      I am having a hard time with my sweet tooth, it is very hard to not want to get some ice cream or chocolate. Candy I can do without. I have no craving really for that, just chocolate and ice cream. I have gone as far as taking Popsicle and putting them in my mixer with almond milk and making like ice cream with that/ sometimes I have added un-flavored protein powder. 
      I feel better everyday. The energy is great to have with having younger kids and being able to have the energy to keep up. 😃
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • Manisha Sharma

      Buy Dohar Set Online: Top Picks for Cozy Comfort & Style 
      Check out our top selections for cozy bedding, perfect for adding a touch of style to your bedroom while ensuring warmth and comfort. Find the best Dohar sets online for ultimate comfort and style.
       
      Visit - https://amoliconcepts.com/product-category/throws-quilts-dohars/
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • Clueless_girl

      If anyone has any advice on how to make your stomach feel better after you eat something you shouldn't have or at too fast, I would GREATLY appreciate it!! It's painful on both sides of my abdomen (like to the point I'm doubled over and using a hot water bottle in addition to medicine) and I'm really nauseous (the thought or smell of food is 🤢).
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • Mandirigma

      Just wondering if any of the Type 2 Diabetics also have there blood glucose go high when having only a Premier Protein drink for breakfast?  How does Premier Protein compare to BOOST Glucose Control in your experience?
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
  • Recent Topics

  • Hot Products

  • Sign Up For
    Our Newsletter

    Follow us for the latest news
    and special product offers!
  • Together, we have lost...
      lbs

    PatchAid Vitamin Patches

    ×