Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story

Hello everyone I'm new on here...was just wondering which is better the gastric sleeve or the lapband I'm kind of confused..I know it might sound stupid but I am at this point.

34 mother of three boys. My husband was sleeved 10-15-2012 and mine was 12-17-2012. We are doing this together and he is my biggest support system! I think I'm pushing harder since he has already lost 85 pounds. I'm stalled for the last 3 days and its frustrating but I know it happens and I'm trying to remember to look for the long term. Still have some pain/discomfort at one of my incision sites, but wouldn't trade it for not having surgery. Good luck to everyone!

I got my band February 11, 2010... I did pretty good my first year lost 60 lbs, then I got complacent and stopped trying... a year ago we moved to Washington and that's when I really stopped exercising.. rain was my excuse.. I gained back 10 lbs... In July I had emergency back surgery, and they unfilled my band completly .. I got a fill afterwards but swelled shut and got some taken out the next day... Finally, this month I got refilled under fleuro and am so tight again... the problem is, I'm so tight I'm unable to eat anything most days. coffee is difficult to get down I think because I put creamer in it (sugar free) Water goes down ok, but very slow. I know I'm t…

I had my surgery after a 18 month wait and 4 months of classes. The surgery went well, my doc said my liver shrinking diet worked well and surgery took 45 mins. I woke up in my room and it did hurt! Nobody talks about the pain but I'm gonna say it did hurt. It was well controlled with medication though! I was discharged on day 3 cause I was still having trouble getting any fluids down. I also had diahrrea in the hospital. They said it was normal so I was t worried. When I went home sat I had diahrrea about 10 times and the same thing Sunday. By mon morn I was weak and very dehydrated. I was back at the hospital 2x that week for an iv but I felt better each time so it got …

Well, yesterday i was sleeved! I have been walking as much as possible. I still cant get this gas out, but im working on it. The nurses say im doing awesome. I really want to go home today, but we will see:-) how is everyone else doing?

Hi There. I have been reading a lot about hernia removals during lap band surgery. I also read insurance may cover part if the surgery then. Is this in Canada? I need to private pay. Thanks

i have a four year old daughter and I thought it would be awesome to teach her how to roller skate! so... For Christmas I bought myself some skates and gear!!! Hope I do better now than when I was a kid!!!

Has anyone been noticing a lot of the weird post that seems like they don't have anything to do wit lap band, losing weight, or any bariatric surgery

hello everyone! i had my surgery on the 17th and was able to come home the next day. for the first couple days i was not hungry or thirsty and was struggling to get through the requirements. now my appetite has come back but im not really finding anything im supposed to have appealing. any suggestions on combating hunger? also it does not feel like im losing weight fast enough either. i weighed myself on sunday (with sneakers on lol) and seemed to have lost only 4 to 5 pounds...is this normal? i have several friends who have had it done as well and on their first week they have lost anywhere from 15 to 20 lbs which is way more than i have:(

Hello. I've been on here a few times and I REALLY enjoy reading everyones stories...so here's mine.... I have been overweight for the majority of my life. Three beautiful children added even more weight which was so hard to lose. I've tried diet after diet...pills ...everything. I would lose a little weight here and there then gain it right back. Recently I began looking into info. on the gastric sleeve. My PCP said I was a good candidate considering my history and my not so good family history. Eventually I started the 3 months of classes that Kaiser requires and completed them. Next was my consult with the surgeon. He put me on the 3week liquid diet and I lost the 10 …

I am new to this forum so will tell you a bit about me. I have been overweight most of my adult life. I guess my first diet was about the time I graduated from college. But before that I would hide and sneak food setting up roller coaster that would plague me for from late teens into adulthood. I learned early on to reward myself with food, for good behavior, bad choices, hurts, boredom, most anything was rewardable with food. The big white box in the kitchen became my lover. I think I’ve tried almost every diet out there, some with good success for a time and some not so good. As time goes I will share more of myself here, Fast forward 60+ years. My quality of …

Anyone from pacific bariatric medical group in San Diego?

Does everyone go through a regret stage after surgery...I haven't had surgery yet, but I am reading a lot about people wondering if they made the right decision AFTER they had surgery? I'm getting closer to my surgery date and am getting scared and don't want to regret it? Is this normal?

Hello, This is my first time posting here, or any other forum, but I just wanted to share my story and have some support during this journey. I have been overweight my entire life, but in the last 5 years I gained over 80 lbs., develoved high blood pressure and sleep apnea. It has been difficult doing any physical activity as my knees and back will always hurt. I tried 3 years ago to see if my insurance will me for gastric bypass but they denied it. I tried again in April and they immediately approved it, and I was sleeved on the 24th. This is day 4 post-op and I'm still sore but feeling great. I'm mostly struggling with what to drink. I started drinking Protein …

Hello everyone, I've completed my procedure on a week ago today. Actually came home on the following evening 12/13/12. Praises to God that all is well do far. Just had my staples removed today (1st post-op appt). My biggest struggle is getting in 60 grams of of protein and 60 ozs of fluids....any suggestions? Trying not to end up back in the hospital from dehydration. Any words of encouragement. Otherwise, I feel fine. Get tired pretty easily, but was told by my PA that it is because I need more intake. I KNOW that, but it is sooo hard and also concerned about my sleeve staples. Thanks R.

I am 14 weeks out and due to flu and a month of coughing I have a umbilical pooch Has anyone else had this? Also has a mini tummy tuck along with it

In a nutshell... My name is Terry and I give up, I can not do long term weight loss through will power alone. My BMI is currently 40 and I am 110 pounds over my ideal weight. I am very active physically, but have always been able to out eat my physical activity. While my health is good, I am 57 years old and have had both knees replaced, if I do not find a way to get down a healthy weight, I am not sure how much longer I will be able to maintain my level of activity. I went through a brief period of depression when I came to the conclusion that I was going to have to resort to bariatric surgery, but for the first time in a long time I have hope that this may be the tool…

How do I get a hold of him

Hi everyone. I had my gastric sleeve surgery on Wednesday, 12/19/12. I came home from the hospital on Friday, 12/21/12. So far, I am still on liquids but I feel soooo full all the time. It's really uncomfortable. I have to force myself to get my Water and Protein in. I am doing my best. My follow-up appointment isn't until 01/03/13 due to the holidays. I live in Cleveland, Ohio and had my surgery done at the Cleveland Clinic. My diet is "self-advancing." So, basically, I have some guidelines and I move along as I feel I am able. I am supposed to stay with liquids for 1-2 weeks and then move on to pureed foods for another 1-2 weeks and then on to soft foods. I really enj…

My name is Kristine, I am 24 years old and I had the sleeve surgery on Dec 19. My surgery was done in fast forward. I had thought about surgery years ago but never really went and did the research. This summer it really got stuck in my head that I really wanted to go through with it. I told my mom and she was not very supportive, but I was to the point that I was in constant pain, couldn't stand being on my feet (which by the way is my job I am a teacher), and had no energy at all. I kept saying I was going to do it and never went to see doctors. Finally I went to Disney which I do multiple times in a year and for the first time ever I had to be in a wheel chair. It kille…

Hi There Has anyone tried the lapbandconnect.ca site? I can't get into it. It is asking for a PIN number.

Sorry guys I know it's not the best topic but will it ever be solid again? I mean my stomach hurts and them.........it's explosive!!!!! I mean I just 12 days post op but DAMN!!!!

Sorry I made a previous post with a mistake. Has anyone been able to log into lapbandconnect.ca? It asks for a pin. Thanks Jen

I'm officially two days from my surgery date. (12/28/12)I'm so excited I don't think it has hit me yet maybe when they call me tomorrow with details of when to be at the hospital it will. I am on my clear liquids for the next two days. !! Just weighed in at the surgeons office at 264. Goal weight is 150 (I'm 5'4 and 33 years old)!!

Hello everyone, I am new to this site. I had my procedure done February 20, 2012 & have lost 84 lbs. I have been having issues lately with getting hiccups about 20 minutes after I have finished eating that ends up leading me to throwing up. Has anyone else had issues with hiccups?

So my husband, daughter and myself were sleeved by Dr. Fernando Garcia in Tijuana two days ago, I have to say what a wonderfully team they were. They made us feel safe and were very reassuring. I would defiantly recommend Dr.Garcia. We are ow at the Marriott hotel which is lovely for the next two days. We are keeping all fluids down and walking around lots. We will keep in touch with our progress.

Hey all quick question I am still on mushies till 1/19 per my doctor I am eating things like ground meat made in slow cooker fish turkey cold cuts cheese well cooked rice mashed potatoes egg whites egg salad low mayo caviar Soups cream soups soft veggies baked apples. But this holiday i couldn't help my self but pick at things like bread, had a tiny pc of very soft low sugar cake, baked chicken well things like regular food not mushies i chew it well but worried If i did damage the tummy or the band. I also worry that I had sushi not for the rice but for the raw fish. Doc is closed till after NYE . I don't regret any decision in my life because at the end I will make it…

My name is Erin. I'm still pre-surgery right now. I'm still trying to decide between the sleeve and the Realize band. I have 13 more pounds to lose before I can have surgery. I plan to have surgery in early March. I am engaged and I have an almost 9 year old daughter. I'm not planning to get married until after I get a job, but hopefully that will be late summer. My surgeon will be either Dr. Matthew Mancini or Dr. Gregory Mancini with the Tennessee Weight Loss and Surgery Center in Knoxville, TN at the University of Tennessee Medical Center. I chose to have surgery because I know I needed to make that change. I've been feeling horrible for the last year and I'm tired …

Hi all! Just wanted to share with ya'll an update on me. I'm currently 10 months out and my only regret is not having done this years ago!! I feel so great about my progress and am just about 35 lbs from my goal. I have pretty much stuck to the program, I am not as good about taking Vitamins as I should be, but I know it. However, labs at 9 months were great! So I guess I can't be too hard on myself. I'll go ahead and post before and afters so you can see where I came from and where I am now. Please don't hesitate to ask questions, this site was so helpful to me at the beginning... HW: 368 lbs 2/20/12 CW: 215 lbs 12/18/12 Goal: 180 lbs

Hi everyone! I have not posted on this site before but just wanted to introduce myself. I live in Christchurch, New Zealand and was banded on 29th March 2012. In 9 months I have lost 36 kgs or 5.5 stone or 79.6 pounds(whichever system you use)!!! My live has changed for the better. I used to take Metformin for insulin resistance and stopped these completely just before my op. I no longer require them at all as I now have a normal blood sugar/insulin ratio so am no longer classed as "pre-diabetic". I have loads more energy, walk, cycle, swim regularly because I now enjoy it as it's less of an effort!!! I no longer crave chocolate/sugary foods but when I feel hungry I natu…

Hi my name is Corky I am 46 years old on Dec 19 my surgeons nurse called to say NE medicaid had approved my lap band surgery. I will know my surgery date on Jan 3rd. Can't be soon enough I am so ready for this. I currently weigh around 340 lbs. I have been overweight all my life. I have stage 2 or 3 COPD (depends what Dr you talk to) so losing weight is even more crucial now then ever. I have been on diets and failed since 3rd grade. I have lost as much as 70 lbs just to gain it back. I have been on this site daily since the day I found it was approved and am really glad it is here. Looking forward to my new life.

On my WLS journey the first thing I have to do is six month diet with a physician . Thursday is my last appt but I know I've gained weight . It's hard to go there knowing I have . The holidays really catch me up ! I need some guidance or help on what to do in the future with similar circumstance by the way I'm Lindsay and I'm 17 years old

Hw305 DOS 7/30/12 290lbs 12/25/12 208

I was banded 12/15/12 and am 9 days post. I starting having solid foods at 3 days post cuz I just couldnt take the hunger anymore. I didnt eat much, maybe 1/4 cup worth through out the day but my surgeons office told me to stay on the liquid diet for at least the full week. I am wondering if anyone else started eating solids that early and if they went on to lose weigth successfully?

I just want to say hi to everyone. Just starting to eat blended foods yesterday and protein shakes for snacks. I am so full. like "Thanksgiving full" all the time. I am getting all the water in too. It seems odd to be full. A new sensation for me.

august 2012 270lbs Dec 2012 186lbs

Hi There I have made the decision to go with the surgery. My fear isn't the surgery itself. My fear is failing. Did anyone or does anyone feel this way?

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, everyone. So yesterday, I had a breakdown. Crying and all. I have not had qualms or fears until the last few days. I knew that would happen. My son (22) is having this with me and he admitted to a little fear about the anesthesia and he is one who claims no fear to anything, ever. So, the closer you get to it, the more your fears start emerging. I'm afraid I will be a basket case as they are prepping me for surgery and hopefully they will give me something for the crazies. I had a hysterectomy in 2007 using just a spinal (which I requested) and happy juice. No fears, no intubation and I don't remember the surgery at all, just o…

I'm Lindsay , I'm 17 years old , and I HAVE decided its time to have WLS.

I'm Ashley, 23 years old from Oklahoma. I was banded on Wednesday by Dr. Ronnie Keith in Norman. Definitely didn't expect to be in quite as much pain as I was, but finally starting to feel like a normal person again. Down 18 pounds since my last weigh-in before my pre-op diet but I definitely am still feeling the bloating and such. My doctor didn't give me really strict or specific instructions for when to move to full liquids and then mushies, so I am sticking with Protein shakes, some Soups, applesauce, etc. Would love chatting with anyone--it's helpful to see (hear?) all the stories and posts here.

Hi There I am curious about what kind of pain medication everyone received. Happy Holidays

I had my surgery on the 18th Dec in NorCal. My surgery went very well and I was really impressed with the care I received. Stanford University hospital is terrific. The team/people are the key attribute to that hospital, [certainly not the crowded, older rooms]. I did have complications including bleeding along the the staple line. I had nearly zero pain, but bloody BMs and vomiting. I needed a transfusion. [H&H at 6/17] I got out of the hospital on Saturday [H&H at 6/18]. And had to return to the hospital today for the second transfusion. I am home now and comfortable. [H&H 6.9/21.9]. I am eating well and sleeping well too. My wife has been awesome. Co…

I am trying to get ideas for pre op Clear liquids only diet. Any ideas?

-sleeved 7-24-12 (survived serious complications) and now experiencing some GI problems. regardless of what i eat, how i eat,etc.....after my first bite of food and sometimes liquids, i get nauseaus, sweaty and experience and increase in my heart rate. i have reverted to "urping" and vomiting daily. no diarrhea. i will contact my health care providers. my weight has stayed the same for almost 3 weeks. i am 5-5, started at 205.5 and down to 164. The remainder of my weight is all in my belly. no more feeding tube. the TPN and formula (6 weeks at home) was so calorically dense i feel i am a bit behind my goals. more importantly, i am not getting the proper nutrition due to t…

Hello everyone first of all I am so glad I found this group!! I was so alone for a minute but I have come to this group and have read so many encouraging and inspirational stories you all are amazing!! Well I am 43 years old and weighed 253 before I had the sleeve done on 12/19 I have excellent insurance from my job!! So I met Dr Mckeen on 11/30 had 2 more visits and in less than 3 weeks had my surgery!! It all seems to fast I was finding myself in aww due to what would be next. I am now 235 pounds in 6 days this is amazing!! I am on all liquid diet I started premier Protein shakes 2 days ago and I am able to consume 22 ounces totalling 60 grams of protein but I fin…

So here it goes. I am all set to have my gastric sleeve surgery on February 6. Very excited for this change in my life, but am very nervous as well! I am a 38-year-old male. I was a college football offensive lineman and have always been a large person. I have struggled to lose weight all my life. I seem to get to a point and never move. Normally only a few pounds up or a few pounds down. I am looking for a change in lifestyle. I miss the active lifestyle of when I was in college and still try to do activities but feel like I cannot compete at the level I would like to do to my size. I am always tired and never can get motivated to do the things that used to come so e…

Had my surgery on Thursday, December 20, 2012. Got home yesterday and still trying to adjust to all the changes. Really appreciate everyone one here and wish you all luck! Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! Merry Christmas! E

January 2012, my hair was falling out in gobs; all the new clothes I wore during the past three years no longer fit; and I was devasted by the passing of a beloved friend, the loss of my job, and the return of 90 pounds that seemed to have arrived much faster than overnight express. In less than a year, I went from 365 pounds to 235 pounds swimming laps, walking several miles a day, and eating high protein meals. Those strategies no longer worked. I had no money to support my healthy habits and my 5'3' frame ballooned to 320 pounds. I went to my family physician for help. He just shook his head then agreed to manipulate my thyroid medicine to see if that would spark …

Anyone else getting breakouts? I haven't had a blemish in years and my whole is breaking out! I also can't get down my anti-depressant meds. Crushing them makes me vomit and the liquid form is unbearable! Is it just me?

Well, I have offially made the choice to get sleeved. I finally topped out at 222lbs and this is by far the heaviest I've ever been or plan on being. I was always able to maintain weight at 120lbs until I had my son 22 years ago. I yo-yo'd between 160-173 lbs for quite a few years. Truthfully, the weight gain from 173 to 222 was so gradual that I became adjusted to it....until....the knees started clicking, the back started hurting to the point of not being able to sit straight up for several minutes at a time, and walking 2 flights of stairs made me winded. After trying the gym, diet drops, diet pills, diets and every combination of those, I knew I needed a new tool. I o…