Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story

I just joined the site yesterday. I am going to have my surgery on May 25th. I am scared to death about not being able to eat things!!! I am scared to death about what it will feel like. I am scared to death that the whole thing will give me a huge panic attack. At any rate, enough about me.... I just posted this in some other topic in response to this gals problem with missing the way she used to eat. I know I don't know anything about any of it.... yet.... but I sort of thought this might help someone (myself included) think about what we are getting ready to do or what we may have already done. Here goes.... Me and food have a pretty dysfunctional relatinship in g…

Hello Everyone! I was sleeved on 4/22. It was supposed to be on 4/23 but Dr. Kelly said we can do it today ....so I did! So did my sleeve sisters. Today we are going for the leak test and then to the hotel. I feel fantastic. I won't kid you the day after was pretty rough. I had a lot of gas pain and couldn't lie down. It had disapated later in the evening so I was able to sleep. Today...I feel fabulous. Everyone here at the hospital has been wonderful and Dr.Kelly and his wife Cece are just the nicest people! If you are debating about having the sleeve or going to Mexico I can tell you I am very glad I made this decision to come here and do it. Scoot over folk…

Hi everyone, I've been reading all your threads but have not participated until now. I'm five weeks out and finally feeling normal after bypass. I share most of your histories in that I have been overweight my whole life. I'm looking at this like a new lease on life! During the first 3 weeks I lost 20 lbs. now I am down another 4. I have def hit a plateau. Is this normal so early? And how long do they usually last? It's pretty discouraging given how I'm following all the rules. Any insight would be much appreciated!

Hi my name is Raushanah. I had lap-band surgery Jan 2011. I've had some ups and downs I've only lost like 30lbs. On my first fill it was discovered that my port had fliped. I had to wait till April to get fixed (insurance) didn't get my first fill till the end of May. I also had a seroma (fluid around the port)I gained some weight during the wait. I lost all I had gain but have not lost any more in six months. I've had about 4 fills in all and one unfill. I was on the depo shot. My doc said that could be the problem. Has anyone had this issue? I'm trying not to be discouraged with the lack of weight lost.

Happy to be on this forum! I started researching gastric bypass about 6 months ago. My weight has ballooned to 218 lbs and I am 5' 1', My BMI is 41.1. Having a hard time walking up and down stairs, huffing and puffing, back pain, knee pain and I think I developed asthma along the way. My journey I must say has been quick! I saw Dr. Neff- Kennedy Hospital, Cherry Hill NJ in October, 2011 Was with 5 other people for a general talk. He gave a presentation with pictures of surgery and discussed the lap band, VSG and full gastric bypass. Spoke privately with him for 20 minutes- not sure if I asked the right questions- pretty general info. Had all of my pre-certs …

Hi all! I was banded back in December. I've lost 62 pounds total, since starting this process. I joined LBT because I've been feeling really frustrated lately. My band is filled just over 1cc and it's not enough, so I'm hungry a lot more than when I was first banded. I'm feeling a little discouraged as I keep yoyo-ing an annoying 3-5 pounds. I lose it, I gain it back, I lose it, I gain it back - its enough to make me cry! I'm hoping that someone has been in the same situation and can help me feel like I'm not going crazy and that someone else has been in my shoes. I started a couch to 5k program, that I hope will help me drop the pounds. We shall see Thanks …

I have had my surgery april 3rd.I didn't have the best information given to me after my surgery.I had my surgery in mexico.and I barely understood anything they said to me.it was awful.my surgery went well but now I'm having trouble wit my new tummy.I think I'm eating all the wronh things and to much.so scared I'm stretching my stomach already... I feel so clueless and I feel really alone.

Has anyone had a lap band fitted by Mr Super, ive got surgery booked with him next week, geeting more anxious every day. Been reading bad things that could happen on internet, maybe i shouldnt of.

I everyone I'm new, my surgery is scheduled for May 9th. So excited!!!!

Hi everyone! I just had the RNY gastric bypass on April 6th 2012 and just found this site. I thought I would pop in and introduce myself. My name is Erin, and would love to get to know some people who are going through the same thing I am. I have been doing pretty well so far, thank god! Scared to death something I eat may make me dump, so being super duper careful about everything right now. So far so good. I am on the puree stage week three, and its getting better now that I can chew a little...lol. Well, I hope everyone is doing well, and I could use any tips or tricks that can make the transition smoother. have a great day!

Hi everyone. I have been reading your posts for a couple weeks and have found it very helpful. Now that I have a surgery date I thought I would join in. My surgery is May 7th.

HELLO EVERYONE I CALLED THE INSURANCE COMPANY YESTERDAY (UHC)AND I WAS APPROVED!!!! aIT TOOK 1 WEEK AND 1/2 AFTER SUMMITED. TODAY MY SURGEON OFFICE CALLED AND I HAVE MY PRE-OP TESTING FRIDAY THEN I GET A SURGERY DAY.. WOW.. IM EXCITED AND NERVOUS ALL AT THE SAME TIME.. BUT I DO HAVE A QUESTION.. WHAT TEST DO THEY DO FOR PRE OP OR DOES IT REALLY JSUT DEPENDS ON YOUR DR AND HOW SOON CANI TRAVEL AFTER SURGERY.. I HAVE A VACATION TRIP TO MAIMI SECOND WEEK IN JUNE WILL I BE STRONG ENOUGH TO GO IF MY SURGERY IS MID MAY??? THANKS FOR ANY REPLY

My surgery date is June 20th just waiting on approval

I just started my two week optifast diet yesterday and my surgery is scheduled for April 25, and I'm really excited! This optifast diet is not too exciting tho, but I do hope to lose while doing it.....I'm definitely ready for this life change. I'm also really happy I found this app your stories and questions are very helpful

Hi all! Just had VSG done on 4/18. I've been following everyone on this site for a lil while but was just now able to register here as well as on my fitness pal :-) I'm looking forward to participating in discussions now and asking questions cause I know there will be tons to come :-)

Hello everybody! I've been visiting this website alot the last two weeks. I am wanting to get sleeved soon. I live in Iowa and have my consultation with Lamasters on may 1! I am currently 303 pounds size 18/20 jeans and xxl shirts. I contacted BCBS and they told me that it has to be medically nessesary for me to have the sleeve, my BMI is 45, and the only thing that is wrong with me is feet and knees kill I have a long list of family history diseases including diabetes, lung, heart, and liver disease, also cancer. I know that if I dont do something now, I will end up that way. I have tried phentermine, atkins, weight watchers, farrells, the 17 day diet, I lost weig…

please someone help me w/directions on how to use myfitnessplan, i am registered,signed on - don't know how to get to other people area so i can read food diaries of others - which would help me Other basic stuff also, could you please explain "friends" - i can get there too - but how do i correspond with "friend" sounds silly. but computer illiterate kathy

so i started my pre op diet and almost a week into it iam still thinking should i go through this? do they really think i can go from eating anything i want down to 1000 calories a day? most days iam hungry and somedays i just sleep so i can save my food for later. i know i need this but i hope it gets better!! the last two days ive been craving mc donalds!!

Well today I received my surgery date. I had the choice between May 9th and May 16th, and decided to go with May 16th just because it worked around my schedule! So May 16th it is! I am soo excited and terrified at the same time! I don’t know which way to go, or what I need to do first to be prepared for the big day. My surgeon's office is requiring me to use Optifast for my two week diet, which will begin on May 2nd! I am looking forward to the new HEALTHY me!

OK, I am going on day 5 of liquids of three weeks. So far i have had water, sf jello, diluted juices, and broth. Any other ideas to mix it up that worked for you? I made my family a chicken crock pot meal tonight & I strained some of the drippings & added to my boring chicken broth...yum! I also got some of the onion broth that they serve at our local hibachi/sushi place. Cant find sugar free popsicles here??? Just looking for more ideas. Thanks!

Just found out my surgery is scheduled for May 10th! I'm so excited but scared too. I have a couple of Questions for the ladies here... Did any of you experience any major changes in your breasts? I have always been 'top heavy' even at a young age. I'm just wondering if that will change. Also does your husband or parter treat you differently now that you're losing weight? My husband is amazing and I was far when we got married so I know he loves me anyway. I don't doubt him. I just wonder how they react to this 'new you' Thanks in advance

Hi everyone. Im so happy to be part of this awesome board. I have learned so much about the VSG, the good and the bad, and I know know even more than before that Im making the right choice with this surgery. A little about me...Im 5'5", 400lbs, bmi of 66, have high bp, migraines, arthritis, anxiety, sleep/breathing issues, pre diabetes, lower back pain, trouble getting around. Have tried EVERYTHING for years and nothing works. I have been beside myself because I need this surgery to help me get back to being ME, and I wasnt sure if Tennessee medicaid would cover it. I know the sleeve is a tool, but I think its the PERFECT tool to finally help me get back to being happy …

My doctor and dietician told me to take some fiber. But exactly why do i need fiber for

Hello all, I am new to the board and very excited to find this wealth of information. I have been educating myself for the last year on the different procedures. I have been around people that have had the band and the gastric bypass. Neither of those surgeries got me too excited. Once I heard about the sleeve and did more research, i feel I am ready to take the plunge. I was in the corporate world, lost my job and insurance. I was able to find work again but not the insurance that would cover the surgery. I have been researching the surgery down at Jerusalem hospital in Tijuana Mexico with Dr. Almanza. I was apprehensive at first but If after more research and communic…

My name is shannen, and I'm 19. I finally finished my 6-months (insurance requirement) and cleared with everything else. Just waiting on a date. Hoping for may I've lost 75 pounds in six months, and feel great! Support is always a plus which Is why I'm here! Any tips or advise is always welcome!

Are all husbands capable if being huge jerks at times? Sorry... Venting!!!!

Hi! Anyone know how to add a picture to my user name? Thanks!

Hello everybody! Please forgive me for the format of this post as I am not accustomed to blogging or forums, but as I am sitting here 5 days after my surgery I was compelled by one of my closest friends to document my impending journey. I thought about writing in a journal to express my thoughts and I even played around with the possibility of making a YouTube channel focus around my own personal weight loss. I stumbled across this website some time ago and remembered it today and registered. I figured that writing to a community of people with the same struggles and triumphs that I have and will face would be the best route. So... a little about me... I am a young…

It's here its done! I'm here at kaiser Richmond ca. The staff is awesome and I feel pretty darn good considering. A little pain in my upper belly and.my throat is soar from tube but that pretty much it. Dr Im gave me pictures of my insides which I thought was neat lol. Just checking in.

Can anyone tell me the symptoms of a leak?

I go for my pre-op on Thursday!!!!!!

Hi group, I am just starting out on this journey! I have only had my first appointment with the surgeon. I go to the first support meeting tomorrow night and the psych is set for the end of May but no word on the Nutritionist date yet. Hoping that is soon. I have battled weight all my life so I'm really really excited to think perhaps this will all work out for me as I've seen that's worked for others on this forum. When I went to the surgeon the other day they asked if I knew anyone who had had LapBand and I said no.So this is a good way for me to get some much needed info, and possible encouragement when it comes to the time I am sure I will be in need.

Good morning all. Well I'm at the hospital waiting to have my surgery done. I'm not nervous yet. I guess it didn't hit me yet. Well keep me in your prayers. I will be in touch as soon as possible.

My wife and I have both been overweight for most of our adult lives. I'm type 2 diabetic, though it's controlled with diet. At diagnosis I was 365lbs with an A1C of 17. I kinda half assed for a year or and finally got serious a month ago. Current A1C is 9.4 and current average glucose reading for the last month (when I got serious) is 110 according to my meter. So I'm well on the way to the 5% club where I need to be by continuing on what I'm doing. I'm still about 70lbs (311-312) over weight according to my doctor and ~115 lbs over weight according to the nifty little chart my insurance company uses. They will pay for the surgery for both my wife and I, with a total ou…

Well, I did it! I thought about doing it a couple of years ago, but then put the idea on the back burner. Then in November 2011, the idea came forward again and here I am four days post op, at home, and thinking about the road ahead. I had my surgery in NC at Rex Hospital by Dr. Paul Enochs. During the weeks leading to the surgery, I was never really scared or nervous. But now that the surgery is over, I am feeling a little bit of those things. I don't want to fail. Who does? But this is a lot to get used to. Well, I know I just have to set small goals and work toward them everyday. Otherwise, I will be overwhelmed.To anyone considering the surgery, just know that the sur…

I am going to start my pre op diet on April 28th and am really excited about my surgery date of may 8th although I am also nervous. I am worried about getting enough in so I still have the energy to function through my day while on the liquid part of the journey. I would appreciate any help! I am 47 years old I am 5'6" and weight 260lbs I have sleep apnea, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high chloresterol I am glad to be getting myself healthy again!

Hi, my name is Lucy and I'm from Mexico, I've been doing a lot of research about the band and I found this support group, and now I visit it everyday, I'm getting the lap-band as soon as I have the money, or until December of this year, I really need the support since I'm not telling my family only my mom and husband knows, my husband is concerned about the change and thinks I won't be able to recover from it, I know it's going to be hard but I know it's for the better and I know I can do it. If you guys have any advice please feel free to share

Is that I am sitting at the dining room table while my kids are eating their after school meal, and there is a home made flan and a box of Krispy Kreme, and I am ok. If you knew me, you would know how odd that is indeed. I love my sweets. Apparently, not so much anymore. Thank God!

Hello everyone! I hope everyone is doing okay. So I went groceries shopping this morning and I got stuck in the yogurt area and at the end didn't buy any because they are all more than 5grams of sugar. So my question is which are the brands that we POST-OP pts can eat? Pls help! I need to spice up my diet a bit since Proteins shakes are driving me crazy lol I'm bored of them. I'm on my purre stage but I'm introducing food by small steps like for instance; yesterday I went to a cook out (YES I DARE TO GO LOL) and they were Mexican style so I eat a 1/4 of tortilla w/tsp of sour cream/guacamole lettuce & tomatoe NO meat and it went down just FINE!!! So anyways I'm …

i am new to the forum, i found out today that my insurance will cover under certain guidelines (found out after calling back a 2nd time). i am seeing my dr early next month for a check up and i am going to approach the weight loss surgery subject...who contacts insurance my dr or the surgeon?

hi I may have posted in another area first, oops! I am new to this lap band stuff. I have my nutritionist appt. this Thurs., then the appt .with the psych, dr. and then see the surgeon and hopefully gt my date for surgery. I am nervous, excited and anxious... figure the more I read about all of this Lap Band stuff the less nervous I will be? I need words of encouragement, I hope I can do this! I want it badly. Can't wait to buy little clothes!

I am just getting started with this process ...im only about a month into it. And there are some people in my life that are very negative and don't have many good things to say... such as "we know how you are jess you'll never stick to it" or "with all your health problems do you really think you can even handle this?" Or they say something like "I don't believe you've really given anything else a good enough try". Its so upsetting to me because I have tried! And the reason I want to get this done is to help with alot of my health problems...has anyone else experienced this happening to them? If so how did you handle it. I almost feel like its more motivation to prove the…

Hello to all people today is my surgery date I haven't been able to sleep so here I lie. It's 2:23am and I will need to at the hospitality 5 surgery @ 7am! I will let you know what happened stayed tuned!

Please share your diet, tips and experience. Follow me on myfitnesspal. oneproudpappa

HAPPY FEEL GOOD FRIDAY!!! I will make it easy on ya this week! Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words. Post up a photo of you at your heaviest, then post a photo of you today!! Whooottt!!! C'mon y'all - show us that hard work pays off!!! At my heaviest I weighed 330 Lbs. Today I am 170 Lbs. YAYYYY!!!

Hi everyone, Im new to the forum and i would like to introduce myself to the forum. i want to lose weight, well actually its time i actually lose weight, im too overweight and i find i really diifficult to do most of the things slim people can do like put my shoes on. I was hoping you could guide me and help me overcome my problems and advice me on what to do. it would be very much appreciated. I hate being so fattt!!! Hope you can help me in losing weight and advice me on what to do. thanks tom

I am sending the this link to my family that I have not told. But all of you in the VST are welcome to read my story. This picture was taken last week. Before it’s too late Dear family, I hope that you won’t consider me a cheater, talk behind my back, and tell everybody. I hope that you will instead congratulate my hard work that will come from exercising, dietary changes, and commitment to a healthier me. To be honest I thought about never telling you but because I love you and I hope you will support me I want to tell you how my life will change April 25th and why. My name is _______ and I suffer from the disease of Morbid Obesity. Yes, morbid …

I am a little nervous, any suggestions?

i'm scared to death to have this surgery. i have no health issues, just fat. so if something happens to me it will be at the total cost of vanity. my doc will not approve me to have this as he feels that cutting the stomach is 'never something anyone should consider to do', so i would have to go to mexico which also scares me into literal death. can i live with half a tummy? does God want me to do this? what if i die? 10-20 years out what consequence will i pay for not having the gherlin hormone which also supports memory and growth? at what cost do i want to be skinny? why don't i love my fat-healthy self? someone help!!!!!!!!!!!

Have my appointment tomorrow! ill grt a better idea on when we will put in for my prescription(surgery)!