Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story

I'm haven't posted since the day before my surgery. I was banded on 10/7/09 and it was a painful and interesting experience. The shoulder and chest pain was almost unbearable and I ended up staying 3 days in the hospital because I kept throwing up. I didn't go back to work until today. The first week and half were tough, but I feel much better and able to exercise. Biggest advice: walk and Gas-X lol. No regrets and currently healing and learning how to eat agin. My first fill is scheduled for 11/17/09. :wink2:

Hi all! My name is Lisa and I live in Western Newfoundland, Canada. I weigh 316 pounds and I should weigh around 180 (I am 5' 10" with a massive frame). I am depressed, need knee surgery, can't hike, can't bike, can't work my Search and Rescue dog and have given up my certified status on the team, can't run, can barely walk, have a hard time sleeping, have sleep apnea, and various other health issues, high cholesterol being one of them. I over-eat at every meal (to the point of uncomfortableness), binge eat at night. I eat prior to attending events where I will be expected to eat in front of people in order to curb my appetite so that I don't embarrass myself. I …

:rolleyes2:WOW!! This forum is great!! I have been through 4 months of all pre-op requirements, and I have my endoscopy on 10/19, and pre-anesthesia on 10/21. I am scheduled for surgery on 10/26. I am getting nervous, excited, and scared. I look forward to sharing my experiences with all of you.

I am 5'3"(and a half)...lol...with a BMI of 46. I have hypothyroid, high blood pressure, and take meds for my heart racing and anxiety. I just recently had a sleep study and have sleep apnea, not that severe, but I was to get a Bi-Pap machine, with oxygen. As I was leaving the doctor's office (for the resluts of the sleep study) he made a flippant comment to the effect of lose 50 lbs and you won't need the Bi-pap. After finding out that the Bi-pap and oxygen would cost approx $3000, and I might not even like it, I decided to pursue other options. That's how I came to investigate LAP-BAND® surgery. I had a co-worker who's sister had it done 6 weeks ago and some othe…

Hello All....I just joined the site yesterday. The site is very informative and I am enjoying reading all of the questions/responses/blogs. My plan is to switch over to Fed BC/BS this open season and hopefully get approved and have surgery early next year. I hope it works as planned....good luck everyone.. Thin is in!! :wink2:

Hi everyone. I'm from NJ. I was banded on Oct. 23rd. This is a new experience for me and I look forward tot he support and talking with everyone.

Hello everyone! I am newly banded in NC. I had my lap band surgery on Friday, October 23rd with Dr. Enochs from Cary, NC. So far so good.....I am SO NOT feeling the clear liquid diet. I am SO ready for something heavier to eat. Some nausea, lots of gas....the expected I guess. Looking around the site to find lots of useful resources! :wink2:

Hello everyone, I'm new to the boards...and new to the thought of getting the surgery. I'm on the fence - about 98% sure that I will do it but before I am 100% positive, I am going to a local seminar at the hospital next week to have a professional answer my questions and talk about the surgery. I would also like to hear directly from LAP-BAND® patients. Will you guys answer some questions for me? I think it's best when it comes straight from the one's who have been there. Can you feel the device once it's in? Any complications at all? (I know it's different for everyone, but still...) Ladies: Can you take birth control afterwards? I'm using Yaz right now...wil…

Hey I had my lapband done on May 13,2009 and I feel wonderfull, Before I had the surgery done I weighted 239 and I am now down to 157 and I fell so great and I can do the things that I couldn't do before because the lack of energy and the tired feeling I got before ..... I can eat the things that I ate before just in small amounts and I feel fuller before I am done ... I feel and look great ... and my skin is alot better too ... Before the lapband I was a diabetic and now I have been back to my doctor and she rechecked me and I have gotten the news that My diabities has gone away ... I am still loosing the weight and I want to lose down to 95 to 100 pounds because that…

:blushing:Hi my name is Cathy, I am pre-op. I would like to know if anyone can say that they had to take the psych evaluation twice. I took it in Nov. 2008 and now I have to take it again. because I just had my labs work almost a year later which was in Sept. 20009, I may not have lapband surgery until 2010. My evaluation was fine. I qualified to have the lapband I know I'm not crazy or anything. Or is this just away of getting more money?:closedeyes:

can anyone tell me how long of a process it is before you can actually get the lapband procedure done.

Hi everyone. I joined this site in June last year and have come across the site again. I was banded on 29th May this year and have lost 20kgs. Look forward to chatting with you all. Bec

My name is Michelle. I had my surgery last Monday, 9/28. I am 42 years old and live in Huntington, WV. I'm eager to find people who understand what I am going through and help me along the way. The first week has certainly been an up and down roller coaster. Friday was by far the absolutely worst day. I don't know if it was post surgery blues, over doing it, or what but I cried a lot, thought I was hungry, and towards the end of the evening, while trying to support my daughter in the color guard @ her high school football game, I got really sick (thank goodness I did not throw up) and I was really scared. However, I feel the light is at the end of the tunnel. …

Hello everyone. I am from the Reading area of PA. I am starting out and trying to get insurance approval. I have a consult with Dr. Ku of the Reading Hospital Weightloss Center on 11/03/09. Hoping it won't be long after that that I get a date. I will be 40 11/30 and hope that by 41 I have my weight down and health issues under control. I have 2 children one boy who will be 17 next month and a girl who will be 2 in December. I want to live a long healthy life with my baby girl and my someday to be grandchildren. :cursing:

Hi All, I'm new here. Thank you for reading my post! I'm waiting on my insurance approval. I have Empire Blue Cross / Blue Shield PPO. My BMI is 41. I've given the LAP-BAND® a lot of consideration and I'm finally ready! I'm concerned because I see a lot of people had a lot of problems getting their insurance to cover the band. And they had a higher BMI than me. Is there anyone out there who did NOT have a problem with insurance covering their LAP-BAND®? If so, I'd love to hear from you! And also what Ins Co do you have? Thanks so much for any help!

Hello everyone- I would like to introduce myself, my name is Shanon and I live in southern Indiana. I have 2 wonderful little girls and I am happily married, I own a Sensual Lingerie store here locally and I attend classes at night. After much consideration I chose the Lap-band because I have always been overweight and I also have diabetes. I love to show my miniature horses, and last year I got into driving them. But in some of my show pics I noticed that it looked like this little tiny horse, pulling an elephant and I said enough is enough. I have tried every diet known to man, and the only thing that really ever worked was my divorce :wink2: but then I remar…

Hey everyone, after surgery does this irratating, hideous sweating ever stop? I could be living in an igloo and be sweating to death. . . I mean sweating all the time! It's not menopausal (had that checked) so it's just from being obese and too hot. . . gosh, tell me it stops!

Hello everyone. I have been on here for a while reading all of your posts and getting so much helpful information. This is a great website full of friendly, helpful people. So tomorrow is my big day and I am nervous. I started getting nervous right after my pre-op appointment. I guess it all became real at that moment. I am also very excited as I've struggled with my since childhood and I am hoping that the band will finally be the tool I need to get this weight off. I am mostly nervous about life after getting the band. I am nervous about how and what to eat, complications, etc. The boards are a great place for advice and my surgeon seems really understanding and is righ…

I was so excited to have a roux n y surgery, I think I danced my way into the surgery room. I was happy , not nervous, just so excited to start my new life. Kissed my loved ones and said , see you later. Little did I know , later was going to be much different then i thought. When I finally did wake up from my surgery I was still in recovery and not in my own room , like they had promised. They were taking the thing out of my throat, and telling me to wake up, wake up. Now I was under the impression , they had told me, that , when I awoke I would be in my room , and my loved ones would be there with me. Instead , they untied my wrists, kept telling me to wake up…

Hello! My name is Heather Branson and I am now just starting to think seriously about getting Banded. I have found this site quite informative and all of you are so kind to offer your experiences. So, thank you. :crying: I will be attending my first seminar on November 5th. After exploring this site, I am wishing that it was sooner! I have done some research, and luckily my insurance does cover the procedure, 90% in network. I couldn't ask for any better than that after reading the trials some of you have been put through. Looking forward to going through the "journey" on this forum... Have a great day and good luck! - Heather :thumbup:

Hello from South Dakota! I just wanted to say that I am looking forward to reading peoples advice and stories. To do's and not to do's. Also I believe that something such as a lap band you should not be doing alone. Finding people that have had the same kinds of questions and struggles will remind you that in the end... you are never a lone. I will be in surgery Nov 12 2009.... and have had a great journey so far. I hope to establish myself and share my journey and experiances with all the others on this site. Thank you for all of your support already.... Jess

Ok so I had my surgery dont 2 days ago and now I am not so much in pain when I have to drink something. When I drink anything hot or cold I get this really hard pain on the top of my abdomen and it doesnt go away till I burp a little. Is this normal? did anyone else have this happen to them? and when will it go away? anything you can guys can tell me to help me out a little cause I am miserable and my doctor wants me to drink at least 80 oz of water/ juice per day but its hard to do with all the pain that comes along with it. Please help anyone

I learned that the surgeon for my upcoming WLS does not routinely use the new Allergan AP Lap Band system. He will order it if the patient insists but it costs more. Is that a big deal and is it worth the extra cost? Does anyone have any information on the Allergan AP Lap Band vs other models? I called the Allergan information number but got no information specific to this question. Thanks for your advice.

Hello everyone well today I went to the hospital and had my chest x-ray and upper gi test, the chest x-ray was a breeze but that upper gi test was a little difficult. The test it self was ok but drinking the barium liquid was tough it was so thick and swallowing was a challage, but I made it thorough and I don't have a hernia or any acid reflux. Each time I complete an appointment I get more excited cause it gets me closer to my Ins approval and a surgery date. Everyone have a safe and blessed day.

Hi everyone I am new to the site. I was banded on 9/25/09 and so far I love it I am down 40 pounds and feel better than I have felt in years. I hope everyone is having a good day.:cursing:

Hello - I've floated in and out of this website several times during my 6.5 month journey. I'm at the point where I have met all my requirements I'm just waiting on insurance approval. Over these months I've lost 24lbs that I'm quite proud of having done. Few people know what I'm doing parents, boss, HR manager and two very close friends. I dream of playing softball on the company team again, riding a roller coaster with my godsons, getting on a plane knowing I won't be imposing on some person stuck in the middle seat. Today solidified a part of why I'm doing this - I was promoted a few months a go and 'they' have decided to update the website with new VPs photos…

this is what I wrote in my facebook's blog. Why I chose to get Lap-Band? It’s been a struggle my whole life trying to lose all this weight. I’ve been overweight pretty much my whole life. I don’t have an excuse why I’ve become this way, but I have to blame it mostly on emotional eating & low metabolism. Most percent of my family are overweight. I gotta admit I LOVE food! Who doesn’t!? But- I know I love food more than I should. Food is #1 worst addiction on earth. Because: it’s EVERYWHERE you go. It’s on TV, fast food is everywhere, it’s legal, and of course you have to eat to survive. There’s no way around it. I eat when I’m bored, mad, sad, or stressed. Food is…

Hi everyone, My name is Cristina, I'm 25 and I got banded on the October the 5th. The first 4 days were awful for me, my band was too tight and liquids were getting stuck (causing the usual pain, discomfort and constant 'gurgling'). I got some Fluid taken out yesterday and it's made a huge difference. To be honest I was regretting the surgery at first but I think that's normal - it comes as a bit of a shock to the system and I don't think anyone is 100% prepared for what's to come. I'm supposed to go on 'mushies' next week but I'm scared so think I might stick to liquids for a bit longer - I don't think my stomach is ready just yet. I've shed 5 kilos in 5 days (d…

I'm full of questions, but I know someone can answer this for me. lol I'm going to be a self-pay. I'm wondering, from any of you who self paid, how fast did all of your appointments go and how fast you were scheduled for surgery?

Hello all! I'm going to get banded on 11/19 and I'm super excited! Just curious how everyone has been doing pre and post op.

Hi eveyone... I just found this forum and signed up after asking google about coughing post surgery. I had my surgery yesterday afternoon and have been coughing a bit because I have bad sinuses and get alot of drippage down my throat - I was worried that coughing a little might slip my band - turns out its a low chance... so I'm a little relieved! Anyway, I just wanted to introduce myself and you will probably see more of me around here in the future. =]

Hi there. Im from Australia and was banded back in November 2007. I've had moderate success, having lost 25kg (about 55lb) but still have a bit to go. Having browsed a few threads on here about people suffering from left shoulder pain, i'm feeling a little better! (I'm not alone!!!) Recently I have began having SEVERE pain on the top of my left shoulder, which sometimes gets so bad I feel like i'm going to collapse. I can't seem to pin point what causes it. My surgeon sent me for a Barium Swallow Xray (which was horrific), but can't seem to find anything. He thought it may have been my band pushing up on my diaphragm, but it doesn't seem to be. Just a warning to …

Hi everyone! My name is Lisa and I live in Illinois. I am getting banded on the 28th of Oct. I can't wait for my "new" life but I also feel like I am giving up my best friend - food. I saw my surgeon for my pre-op yesterday and he was kinda discouraging. He told me how the band was the easiest of the WLS to cheat with and how he has had patients not lose weight. He stressed how it was all about the foods and liquids that I put in my mouth. I walked out of there worrying that I might be one of his patients that are not sucessful - not that I don't realize that I DO have to change the kind of foods that I eat. Just kinda bummed. :blushing: Lisa

Hello Everyone :closedeyes: I thought I should introduce myself to the site. I'm K-Joy, AKA Kristin. I'm 25 and live in GA. I had my surgery on August 14th 2009. So far I have dropped 23 pounds. I had my first fill yesterday and actually found this site while looking for information about them. It definitely helps to hear from other people what their experiences have been. I hope to both help and learn from others! Talk to you all soon!

Hello, I'm in Perth Western Australia so it's a bit hard to talk in the chat room because of the time difference but I'm learning a lot from everyones postings. I found this site through the LapBandTalk. I've had two, yes, two failed lapbands and the last one in March 2009 was a life/death situation. I've also had 6 large abdominal hernias since being banded the first time. Won't bore you all with the details. I had gone from a size 22-24 top down to a 14 and a size 18 pant to a 12 not at goal weight but really feeling happy about the weight loss. The only thing I didn't like was that I'd never had wrinkles before because the fat filled them all out, so that was a b…

Hi, Feeling a little nervous since this my first post ever. I was banded on June 30, 2009 and have lost only 30 pounds. I have had 2 fills for a total of 6cc and will see my doctor next week. I had so much support and guidance from my doctor pre-op but not so much now. I often visit this sight for information and answers. I joined in hopes of getting some input and support. Any comments?

I have a bad knee and no matter how thin I am, the only exercise I will be able to do is walk... Is that enough? Will I be able to lose weight just from walking? Also how long after surgery before I can start walking my extra large dog again? He weighs 140 but is very well trained and does not pull at all. (Strange question, I know, but he is very spoiled)

Hello, I am new and have only just been referred to Dr. Koura in Sacramento. I understand there will be alot for me to do before insurance will approve or deny my request. I am just wondering if anyone knows if its true that Pacificare requires 6 months with a nutrionist prior to surgery approval? I cant imagine having to wait 6 more months. I am ready for this surgery yesterday... I know I should be patient, I am just ready to feel better. thanks

Hello, everyone! My name is Ben. I'm 18 years old and a senior in high school. I was banded 8 days ago (Oct 15) and I have already lost 32 pounds (including Pre-op diet)! That's pretty much my story... I had my first bowl of Soup tonight and, I must say, bland, watery soup has never tasted so good. :closedeyes:

I HAVE A DATE ! I HAVE A DATE ! I HAVE A DATE ! I HAVE A DATE ! NOVEMBER 3RD IN JUST TWO WEEKS!!!!!! I'M SO EXCITED !!!!!!! I'M SO HAPPY TO GET STARTED!!!!! I'M DOING THE VICTORY DANCE !!!!!!!!!!:thumbup:

Hey everyone. Signed up about 4 months ago and never pursued it any farther so here goes. Been having some issues lately. I had my surgery in Oct of 08. I started at 326 and to date I have been hovering at 255. I have been stuck here for about 3 months, well since my last fill. I'm at about 6cc's and have the large band. I wont lie been depressed and thats why I think I'm here. Lets just say I have drank my calories more then eating. Mornings cant eat so try to remember my protein shakes. Along with a glass of milk. I'm always out and find myself eating fast food:( So any ideas there would be great. Also quick dinner or lunch ideas would be much appreciated. I am 24 and…

Hello, Im new to this lapband community and I have to say I am very happy I found it. I go to school fulltime and I don't have time for support groups yet so this will hopefully help me out a lot! I just got my band October 7th 2009 and I am already on the pureed stage. Its been hard for me but I have been following the diet strictly until yesterday. I ate a couple pieces of cheese and turkey and I am regreting it now because I don't know if this would effect my healing process. I dont know if it is a really big deal but would this hurt anything?? I was kind of worried after because they say how important it is to follow the diet 100%. This may sound like a dumb question…

I had my first fill on 10/19/2009 of 2cc. My stomach is growling, and I can eat anything. I have to cut myself off. I dont know what I am doing wrong.

Had my initial consultation with the surgeon today and I meet the criteria they are looking for but my problem is they charge $350 for a program fee (psych eval, nutrionist and a class) my insurance covers all these things except the class. I have never heard of this. Has anyone else had this problem? My insurance said they have never heard of this as well.:thumbup:

O.k so after beeing on the fence for what seems like forever I got a call today from my surgeons scheduler and I'm approved.. I'm excited :thumbup:

Hi I was wondering if anyone here has been banded by Dr. Scott Bovard or Bovard Bariatric Center in Raleigh NC? I have made the decided to get banded and have been to a few seminars and I am thinking I will go with Dr. Bovard but can not find to much information about him. Any information you would like to share would be great. Mommy5

can i still have WLS even if i have a fatty liver? i hear everyone talking about shrinking the liver so im wondering if fatty liver will hinder me getting surgery?:thumbup:

I just wanted to share my excitement with those who can truly understand I met with my surgeon today, she was awesome! She asked me some questions and told me that I am a great candidate! After that I had my psychological evaluation that also went really well- he gave me the green light! THEN I met with my PCP who signed off on my release form and started me off on my pre-op diet. He wants me to try the south beach diet again, which I'm not thrilled about but I reckon he know's best! My appt with the nutritionist is scheduled for Friday, other than that all I've really got to do is finish my three-month pre-op diet. I'm getting closer!!

I just had my second fill and have no trouble eating a little ceral in morning,but come lunch and dinner it seems chicken or veggies or meat make me feel like I am golng to get sick.I end up having a milk shake because it goes down easy and I am full.I know I am having trouble eating better food choices but then I think I have to eat something.My calorie intake is still low due to the small portions.Does anyone else eat the "sliders" because you have to eat something.:thumbup:

:huh2:Well - I just wanted to come on and thank everybody for the advice. After a lot of research and soul searching I have decided to give WW a solid try for a year and then re-evaluate my decision to NOT have the band surgery. I feel it is just too great a risk (not death) being a self-pay that I will have to have additional surgery or the possibility of band removal. I would love to be able to do this and would if my ins picked it up, but, I can't put my family through the ups and downs financially and having the potential of it not even working for me. I wish you all luck and maybe in a year I can see how skinny you all have become. BTW, I posted my decision on t…