PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A

Hi, I am 11 weeks out and have had 2 fills, 1.2 cc's and .4. I go next week for another. I feel restriction on certain foods and my doctor told me eventually some foods I will not be able to eat. I was wondering if someone who has been post op for a while can show a days menu. thanks Stephie

I am so very depressed about my surgery being postponed due to my dr. becoming ill. I hope getting my new date, hopfully tomorrow, will make me feel better. I have been crying all afternoon on and off. I think it really took a mental toll on me.:cry

Everyone is driving me nuts! They say get ready to puke all the time and get ready for feeling like shit! I have had it!

:help: I have just booked my surgery date - June 21 in Toronto. I have two big concerns: 1. I love to eat salads, are salads difficult to eat and/or digest following surgery. From what I have read everyone seems to react differently to the surgery but what are the chances I will be able to enjoy my rabbit food once I become a "bandster"; 2. My BMI is less that 30, I have about 45 pounds to lose. Any words of wisdom from people who have had less than 50 pounds to lose. What would be a realistic time frame, I am committed to exercising 5x/week because I am paying $16,000 out of my own pocket. I am scared, nervous, excited - and learned more from this website tha…

:help: hi all hope your all having a good week so far Ive had the munches today . i know i shouldn`t as i need to heal inside im drinking anoth Fluid . how has everyone else got passed this stage any suggestions would be much appreciated thanks

Ok folks, Has this happened to anyone? I am 12 days post op and it is completely obvious where my port it becasue it sticks out! It's not noticable unless your looking at my bare belly - but still.... Mybe it's still swollen? Just asking. Michele

The first day of the rest of my life is Thursday! I am nervous and excited and at this point, just want the day to come and get the surgery over with. Any last minute words of advice? This site has been so helpful and I know that I will gain support and encouragement in the days, weeks, months to come!:clap2:

My Mom had a gastric bypass and is sometimes unbearable to be around because of smelly gas and diarrhea. I think it's because she doesn't eat properly. Maybe I'm wrong. Would some of you that have been banded several years tell me honestly if you have problems with these things or does it happen when you eat the wrong things??? Banded 2-19-07 DeBanded 3-2-07 due to strep/staph infections Down 22 pounds and holding Trying again??????????

Hi everyone! I had my surgery today and I'm in the recovery room waiting for a room to become available. Definitely sore but tolerable. I just wanted to say thanks to all of who talked me off the ledge last night. This board and all of you have really been a lifeline for me. I am eternally grateful. I'm so glad I did this! My journey begins....

Hi My name is Ann,... i was banded novmeber 18th of 2004, i was losing weight great until about 2005, my band tightened up on me and hasn't been working right. i have had fills and unfills. just found out in april of this year when i had a emergency egd in april of this year to find out i have a hital hernia wrapped around the band and the port is starting to turn over. and is causing alot of pain. should i worry about this . i hope some one can help me.:help:

I AM SO UPSET. I GOT A CALL THIS MORNING THAT MY SURGEON IS ILL AND HAS TO CANCEL HIS SURGERY SCHEDULE FOR TOMORROW! I CERTAINLY HOPE HE IS OK. BUT WHAT A LET DOWN! I AM WAITING TO HEAR WHEN I WILL BE RESCHEDULED. THE SCHEDULING COORDINATOR IS THINKING SOMETIME NEXT WEEK BUT HAS TO FIND OUT FROM THE DR. THANKFULLY HE REQUIRES NO PRE-OP DIET. I AM SOOOO DISSAPOINTED.:faint:

I just heard on NPR radio this morning that Walt Bodine's show today is going to be discussing the "reasons and risks behind surgical weight loss". I hope they give the lapband procedure more than just a mention. I'm at work but am planning on trying to listen to live via the internet and either call or e-mail in. Walt Bodine's show is based out of Kansas City but can be listened to live over the internet from anywhere at KCUR.org. For anyone that can't listen live. Walts shows are also available to listen to free online 1-2 days after it airs at the same website.

Has anyone tried using Silicone Scar pads on their LB surgery incisions? If so, which brand: Neosporin, Curad, Band Aid? What were the results?

:faint: I have been on mushies for about 5 days now and was so happy with my weight loss so far( I'd lost 16lbs since starting the liquid diet pre-op) ......... then I weighed myself this morning only to discover that I'm up 2lbs. To say I was gutted was an understatement. I don't want to become a bathroom scale neurotic and weigh myself every day - but has anyone else discovered that they have put on a little weight during this time? I suppose logically it was bound to happen, but was hoping I would just maintain until my first fill. I was banded on 8th May and am due to go away on 19th June, can anyone out there tell me whether I'll be able to have my first fill bef…

My hunsband doesn't understand why I need to do this for myself. I love him but this has nothing to do with him. I need a chance at life again. I'm 1 month away from my insurance requirements. I want my sister to take me to my surgery cause she has supported me the whole way. Any advise on how to explain to yor spouse that this is a choice for life, happiness, and self love. :help:

Hi everyone, Okay, I just got my surgical time (6am tomorrow morning) and now I'm totally freaking out. It just got real to me, I guess. Now I have all these questions and I'm obsessing. Will the surgery go okay? Will I be in a lot of pain? Will I get any restriction before my fill? Will my first fill hurt? What if this stupid thing doesn't work and I'm out $20,000? What if I can't follow the diet after the band and my life is a huge froth-fest from now on? Is it normal to be this nervous? I'm just obsessing about all these things like a maniac! Did any of you go through this before the surgery? :help:

Hi everyone, Okay, I just got my surgical time (6am tomorrow morning) and now I'm totally freaking out. It just got real to me, I guess. Now I have all these questions and I'm obsessing. Will the surgery go okay? Will I be in a lot of pain? Will I get any restriction before my fill? Will my first fill hurt? What if this stupid thing doesn't work and I'm out $20,000? What if I can't follow the diet after the band and my life is a huge froth-fest from now on? Is it normal to be this nervous? I'm just obsessing about all these things like a maniac! Did any of you go through this before the surgery? :help:

I have my first fill in a few weeks, and I wanted to know what it feels like? Do you feel it, does it hurt, are there problems finding the port? Nicole

Hi from a new member! I am at my heaviest ever (about 280lbs) and have suffered with clinical depression, for years. I am on and off anti-depressants, which make me put on weight, so I go on them, get mentally better, but am left with more weight, so end up depressed again. And I have lost weight over the years, only to put back more! I would love to have a band fitted, and I know this would help my self esteem and my health (swollen ankles, breathlessnes, no energy) I would like opinions from anyone please. Do I seek this operation, or should I try to conquer my depression(after 20years, I am not doing a good job) Thankyou for any help!

Ok, so I was just banded on Wednesday (May 16). I'm finally starting to feel like something OTHER than someone who's just had surgery. I am eating (full liquids) regularly. My question is... Right now, feeling 'full' to me is a tightness in my chest.. well, my esophagus. Does this eventually change to a more natural feeling of fullness.. does it ever feel like you are full in your tummy?? Or will it always be a discomfort a little higher up?? Does that make sense?? :eek:

I know that in the end, the decision to take the surgery is up to me, but how did people around you take it when you said you where going for the surgery? My husband is very supportive, I've sent him links that explains the procedures and all that, and he stands by me with whatever choice I make. But one of my best friends seem to have the opinion that wanting to have weight loss surgery, lap band or other, is passively wanting to kill your self. :eek: I tried explaining that I'm not going into this not knowing the risks (As there is risks in all surgeries), that I know the stories good and bad about it. But from the stories she tells it seems like she is only tak…

Hi to All: I am getting banded on Thursday......44 hours away. I have done tons of research and am very excited. I gained most of my knowledge through this forum.....it has been absolutely wonderful.....don't know what I would do without all of the 1-4 year bandsters advice. Just curious, what is the longest anyone has heard of the band being on and continuing to serve the purpose it was intended for? I see some people that have had it since 2003 and that is about the longest..... Thanks, Lori Ann Will be Banded: 5-24-07 @ 10:00am

Just wondering who else has sleep apnea. I am pre-band, and have been trying to using a bipafor 2 years with no success. evilah

Hi all, I was banded on 03/06/07. I have had 2 fills. 1.2 cc's on 04/24/07 and .4 cc's on 05/10/07. I have lost 19 lbs. I go again on the 29th for another. Currently I hav some restriction, but can still eat, I think more than I should. Can anyone out there tell me at what point you will only be eating very very small portions and start loosing. Will I feel full after only 4 or 5 bites?

I feel like I am getting worse, I was banded on thurs and felt sore, now I am having trouble getting things down and I feel very lightheaded. Did anyone else feel dizzy?

I am scheduled to be banded on July 12. The closer it gets, the more little questions I have. Many have been answered here. But here is my question for the day. I have to take lots of medicines for varied medical problems. Between my blood pressure meds, dilantin, waterpills, and ashma pill, I take lots twice a day. Will it be a problem getting them down? Hopefully, someday as I lose weight I can get off of some of them. But I know that day will be down the road as I have 200 pounds to lose. Any experiences that you want to share would be appreciated. Thanks, Patti C

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I am scheduled for surgery on Wednesday, May 23rd and have just been diagnosed with an ear infection and placed on antibiotics for 10 days :sick Do you think they will delay the surgery for that? :faint:It took so long to get everything done.....:mad:

Hi everyone. Thx for all the great information, I have learned a lot. Last week I attended a seminar in Fort Wayne (about 1 hour away). I have to tell you I left a bit discouraged. First of all, I found out this program is new, only since Oct 2006. Since then he has done aoubt 100 RNY and only about 12 Lapbands. Holy cow, I was hoping for some more experience than that! Also, the nurse who handles insurance said that in Indiana there is a mandatory 6 month doctor-supervised diet before being considered. I had high hopes of getting this done this summer, and 6 months seems like an eternity to me. She also said she has had people who have done the 6 month diet and …

I got my approval for surgery! I have my final consult with my surgeon July 14th! I have a few more appts to attend before the final consult...but I can't believe this is actually going to happen! I wasn't getting my hopes up because I truly didn't think it would....I am starting to get excited and really gearing my brain in the direction of my new lifestyle! The office said that the surgery wouldn't be until August....that will give me the summer to really bite the bullet and get busy with learning the lap band way to eat. I am the heaviest I have ever been...286 lbs. I am fortunate to be tall...but I am most comfortable around 200 lbs. The best I have ever looked …

Just got home from the doctors office...had my first fill...I was so scared...it was nothing like I thought it would be....the doctor numbed the area and it didn't hurt at all....like a little bee sting....the fill didn't hurt at all...just pressure....I am so glad I have got that behind me...next time I will not be so freaked out....I drank a small little cup of Water and ate a few bites of a cracker...no problem....I go on liquids for today, mush tomorrow, and reg . foods on Saturday.... For all of those getting ready for the first fill, don't worry.....it is really not painful at all..... Hope all has a great weekend....

Hey all just wondered what kind of diet they put u on before the surgery. I have my consul on the 31st and i have been eating like its goin out of style. Mental thing im sure. I also need to quit smoking! YIPES!:kiss

I dont know if this is something to worry about but... I have what feels like a golf ball size knot in my lower left stomach (not the port site). I'm a week out of surgery and I've been moderately active...nothing too strenuous. The other night my fiance (who has PTSD from the 14 months he spent in Iraq) had a nightmare and whacked me in the stomach...pretty close to where this knot is. Not sure if that is a coincidence or not.... Its sore, but not unbearably painfull...

Hi Y'all, I Got My Band 1/24/07 And To Date Have Lost 45lbs. How Ever Lately I Can't Get Any Weight Off Of Me. I've Cut Calories And Been Watching What I'm Eating But I'm Going Back And Forth With The Same 4 Lbs. Someone Told Me That If You Get A Fill And Loose Weight That You'll Need A Fill Again Soon Bc Your Stomch Gets Smaller And So The Fill Doesn't Work Anymore. Is This True? Any How I Just Really Feel Like I'm At A Stand Still And Am Looking For Advice. So Any And All Advice Would Be Appericated.

:help: I cannot for the life of me get my ticker from TickerFactory.com over to my file on this site!! Help?? :cry :faint:

I have been so excited about my surgery on May 24. Today I have begun to feel so scared. Not like backing out but like "oh my gosh, what am I in for." I have gotten Jello and boost and Instant breakfast. Am I forgetting anything? Any advise from you seasoned bandsters?:help:

I just had my band done on 5/15/07 and I cannot burp and the gas pains are so uncomfortable. Can someone please tell me what they did to ease the pain.I cannot sleep in bed at this time my bed for now is the recliner..:help:

For the first time since banded, I think I overate. I am uncomfortable. I have a 10 CC vanguard band and it has a 2 CC fill. I haven't felt a lot of restriction, overall. Today I had a Protein shake and 1/2 of a Slimfast snack bar for Breakfast, then a small bag of popcorn at a baseball game (chewed it very carefully) and then ate dinner even though I wasn't that hungry (a half portion of grilled salmon and a salad). I feel SOOOO full. I am afraid I might have stretched my pouch, I'm so full. How do you know if your pouch is stretched? Should I do liquids for the next few days, just in case? It was bad behavior because I wasn't even truly hungry. ugh!

I'm 2 weeks out and NOT losing. I'm eating soooooooo much less that before. What is going on? I'm really frustrated. Any help? Thanks! Kelly

Hello all! I'm starting to get really discouraged and feel like I'm going to be in pain for the rest of my life. I had my surgery on 5/15 and have been recovering steadily. However, after I arrived home I began to get this pain that is now more and more frequent. I figured out that it's happening either in my diaphragm or lower esophogus. I'm not sure which. It's random, not connected to when I eat for or sit a certain way. It feels like an intense ball of pain, then like bubbles on either side of it. I'm still on the liquid diet, am supposed to starting working up to pureed today. I did have hernia repair (hiatal) with surgery, could that be causing this? The pa…

I just got banded on Thurs. My torso is really sore when I go from sitting to laying down. I feel like I am going to bust a staple. Has anyone had problems with their staples? This is my first surgery ever and that thought that I have staples in me is the worst part because I am so squimish. How long did it take for the doctor to remove your staples and do it hurt to get them out?

Hi guys and gals, I just got banded April 30th and for the last three days I have started haveing these kinda sore pulling pains in my tummy and my back. There not sharp pains just kinda dull. I'm pretty sure i have found my port or maybe it's a mucule? It seems to be much harder than the rest of my tummy. I figured the Tummy part was normal but, the back worrys me. I don't know if it's from how i have been carrying myself diffrent or what? Hopefully it is part of the heeling process. Has anyone else had this problem????? Thanks Stacy:help:

Anybody have a packing checklist for surgery in Mexico? Anything not obvious that you took with you? Anything you wish you'd taken?

What was it like? I am concerned because I signed up 10 days ago for one in Dallas tomorrow (May 19) at 10 am. They sent me confirmation email and I have been really excited about. Well, they called and left a reminder voicemail message today and sent a reminder email (around 5:00 pm) reminding me of my seminar in HOUSTON tomorrow!!!! Houston is like 5 hours from here. I'm not going to Houston. So, I called Lap Band Solutions and, of course, since it is after hours on a Friday, it was their answering service. They took an urgent message for someone to call me but I have not heard from anyone. Dallas is an hour and a half from here and I don't want to drive all the…

When can I start taking my vitamins? I will do the chewables, 2 a day. I would also need my calcium and B12 pills.I had surgery on Monday, May 14. I have been looking thru all my paper work and I dont see where they wrote about my vitamins. I hope they would make me feel a little better per I have been really weak and lightheaded. The protein shakes are not helping a whole lot. Any advise? Thanks Joanna

Are you concerned about your "protein" for the first 48 hours? I'm packing to go to my Mom's for the first two days and I am not sure what all to bring in the way of sustenance.....do I need to bring a protein bullet to mix with crystal light or anything or do you just do water and broth and stuff like that? Just trying to get my ducks in a row here.

:help: Hi, I'm Julie from Florida and had my surgery on May 8th. 1 week on and I don't feel too bad. Still sore on the inside and my stomach feels like its being held together with an elastic band and if I stretch it will pop!! Still getting indigestion-like feelings and gassy bloatedness. Is this normal? My doctor says I can start Protein shakes if I want to but don't know if this is helping the bloated situation, but I am so bored with Jello, popsicles and juice!! Did everyone have to do the heparin shots for 10 days after the procedure? I've being doing quite well so far but am running out of places to put them and it has started to hurt when I inject myself. …

I was banded 4 days ago on the 10th I was in the hosipitol for 3 days on liquid diet and they released me didn't really tell me what not to eat just take it easy. I ate a chicken breast and some potatoes yesterday I made sure to chew 20 times until it was small and soft, but after reading the forums here it looks like eating right now is bad. I hope this hasn't affected my band I was kinda upset that I could eat as much as a did on my fourth day. I had my band done in Bahrain it was cheap after all was said and done it was $6,200 had a private room and 3 days stay 24 hour coverage. The doctor didnt explain how much the fills are anyone know normal price? The doctor told m…

:embarassed: Hey all I have been battling my weight for over 5 years now. I have locked myself up in my house for all this time not wanting to even go in public. I have been on endless diets and so hungry and tired all the time! SO this surgery is definitely what i need. Im an emotional eater so im a little afraid i will lose my mind when i cant eat that burger and fries. I have my surgeon appt on may 23rd to get all set up and my psycologist evaluation on June 11th then after that schedule surgery. Im 30 5'10 300 pounds and miserable. Im scared to death to get surgery so any comforting comments would be appreciated. I would love to hear your stories. Please let me know. …