Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story

Hi everyone,,,,I was banded on September 11, 2008 and I have lost 50 lbs so far. I have been happy overall with my results. I come from a family of several gastric bypasses and I was the first to be banded and I don't know anyone else who has the band. My weight loss has slowed from the initial speedy weight loss but they told me that it would. I have had two adjustments but I still don't have a lot of saline in my band. I am having some gall bladder or ulcer trouble at the moment and as soon as I get that resolved I will probably have another adjustment. Has anyone else had trouble with ulcers or gall bladder following surgery? I have just been interested to hear others …

Hi I'm new I have only just begun. I had my informational meeting and got the bad news the my insurance requires me to do 6 months of MD weight loss..oh well that gives me time to save my $$$. I have like $225 saved already..yeah. I haven't gotten my first appt with my MD so he can start documenting all the BS, but I'm preparing myself to go off the bad food..gooodnesss additic or what?? My BMI is 45 guess that is the new "Thing" insted of height and weight. I'm getting excited, but my husband thinks I'm not doing the surgery for the right reasons. He thinks I'm doing it to because my father is horrible to me about being overweight. Anyone else have that problem?? No spou…

Hi, I am 44 and I will have surgery on March 30. I live in San Diego and Dr. Bohyrul is performing my surgery. I was going to have the surgery in October, but I'm sure you all are very familiar with how ridiculous insurance companies can be. Well, my insurance FINALLY just came through. I was on here in October and found so much information.... this is a great site!

Hello, Hello! I had the lap-band procedure done in October of 2002 and have been up and down with my weight over the past 6.5 years. Post-Op, we discovered that I had issues if I was bloated, leading to my not being able to keep anything down, including Water. This made using the band as a tool very difficult, as they could not put more than .7cc's into the band. I've definitely struggled, and after getting down to 199 in March of '03, I am now back up to 242. In the past year or so I've developed insane heartburn and pain in my left shoulder, and I finally saw the doctor today, as I had never thought it could be lap-band related. They think that my esopha…

Hi Everyone! I was banded 9/24/08. I've been feeling kinda lonely though in my progress since I don't know of anyone else around me who has a lapband. That's why I've signed up there. So far things are great, and thanks to a wonderful and super supportive husband I've been making it ok! I started at 209 pounds and am not loosing as quick as I want, but I am loosing safely. I am also a compulsive overeater (I think they've changed it to binge eater?) so this lap band has been a major adjustment - mentally. At least I am in therapy which is good. My therapist does not specialize in eating disorders, but at least she is helping me figure out why I binge. It is…

I had surgery about a year ago and I have not been successful. I am in search of some new ideas or tips that may help... maybe even a new doctor.:scared2:

I am getting my lap band on March 31st. I will be started my pre-operation diet on the 17th. I can't weight to get stated. Starting weight 219.

Hello Everyone, My name is Maria and I just found out that Aetna has denied my request. :thumbup: I am 5' 6" and currently weight 270lbs. My BMI is about 40. I fortunately (or unfortunately) do not have any medical concerns. I have a family history of Diabetes, High Blood Pressure and Cholesterol, but Aetna seems to think that this is not enough. They are looking for a 2 year weight history. I tried to get my records from a free clinic that I used to go to before I got insurance, but they purge their records after 2 years. It has been about 2 years since I have gone there. I have one year of history that I have been able to obtain but that may not be enough. Wish…

This is my first time posting. I finally had my lapband surgery last month (feb.20). I'm a little surprised that the weight loss is so slow even though I'm only still doing liquids

I'm a newbie to this site. I will be banded on 3/18/09. I am anxious and a little nervous, but overall excited to get started with this journey:thumbup:. Vlynn

Hi everyone, I have been thinking of getting lap band on and off for a while, but have always been too nervous. I have autoimmune hepatitis and the combo of steroids/imuran has caused me to gain about 60 lbs in the last 3 years. I am off steroids but will have to continue my other medications for who knows how long and after all efforts on my own, I do not think I can do this without help. Finally after being told by 2 different dr's of mine that it is something I should really consider I went and meet with Dr. Luckey of Scales in Thousand Oaks. He was very nice and I have the first group meeting on Tuesday. I am still very nervous about having surgery and hope that I …

i just got banded yesterday and am at home resting now. i only started considering the lap band in december 2008 and just 3 months later am recovering from the surgery! it all happened so fast that i'm still processing everything and am so glad to have this site as a resource. it seems every concern i've had so far has already been discussed at length here! anyway, i'm hoping to meet a few band pros and some people who are just getting started like me.

Hello - this is my 1st post I have attended a seminar, chosen a surgeon, and have now completed all the post-op testing and classes. Waiting for the appt with the surgeon and get my surgery date. I am very happy with the surgeon's office that I have chosen and so far (cross my fingers) my insurance company has NOT been a barrier! Hoping to be banded at the end of April 2009!!

I am Patti, and I had my lap band surgery on February 19, 2009. Had a rough couple of days in hospital but am doing great now. I am losing slowly, but still going down. First fill is scheduled for April 3. Exciting time for me!!!!:w00t:

Hi, I am new to this site and becoming discouraged about how long this process is taking. I started in Oct. and and just now scheduled for my psych evaluation next week. I have changed my diet and started excersising and down 20 lbs, but I am anxious to have the banding done and start this thing for real. Any advice on how to get through the waiting period and the psych evaluation. I admit the evaluation has me a little nervous, I have talked to people who didn't pass and were denied the surgery.

woo hoo...my 1st intro session is today! After first deciding in January that this is something I wanted, I am going to get this ball officially rolling! I attempted to attend a session last month and got the times messed up so I showed up for a regular session (not the required 1st intro session). I stayed just listen anyways but it would not count towards any of the required sessions that I would need to attend overall. So I am excited and nervous at the same time because I wonder what I am getting my self into. But I am happy that I am exploring this opportunity!

Hello all! I have decided that Lap Band is for me. I will start my long 6 month doctor assisted weight loss program on April 1st. I have 100+ lbs to lose and am excited to be reborn. The next 6 months is going to seem like forever. Really wish the insurance company would realize that at the age of 43, it is very doubtful that 6 months on any diet is going to mean very much. I have tried them all! I think they do this to weed out those truley serious about this and those that are not. Anyway I was pleased to stumble on to this sight. It looks like I have tons to read and learn from everyone here. Looking foward to it.

Banded 2/23/09 Dr. Mario Almanza Reyes So far so good but along way to go.

Hi, My name is Mel. I'm 54 and I am 65 pounds over weight. My BMI is 35.4. I have tried dieting and always gain the weight back plus more. I enjoy exercising and work out 3-4 times per week. I'm interested in learning what it's like to go thru the experience of adjusting to a lap band. I'd love to hear from you.

I am so excited I recieved the call today letting me know that I am getting my lapband done on the 6th of april. I can't wait! Does anyone have any words of wisdom for me? Anything I should deffinantly know before going under the knife? ahhh words can't describe how I feel right now!! I can barely type haha!!:w00t:

Hello All, I'm in the beginning stage of this. I've decided it's time as my BP was so out of control and now I find myself taking 3 BP meds, I'm grateful to have a normal reading now. However, This is "NOT" living to me. I have just schedule my evaluation for next week and have spoken to my primary who is in total support. I have BCN so I have to wait the six months. Why am I nervous? In the back of my head I want this but I have questions, questions, questions. You hear things good and bad. Is this for me? Will it work? Lord, I don't want to die but I know if I keep going at this pace it's not good for me. I have NEVER in my life been this heavy and it's not hea…

Hi- I was wondering whats is the first step in getting the lap band done. I went to a seminor, but they didnt take my insurance. I was sad becouse they didnt even try to help me find someone who does take the insurance. I went to my OBGYN who told me about a docter at Yale, CT who does take the insurance. I just dont know what i'm suppose to do. they want me to get things done but with no referal. Help!!!!!!

I just wanted to stop in and introduce myself... My name is Michelle, I'm 33... been married 13.5 years to Rick... have 3 sons Ryan, Joshua and Matthew (Josh and Matt are twins). I have been struggling with my weight for all of my adult life. Having 3 kids in a matter of 17 months didn't help, but hey... hindsight right? I have been considering weightloss surgery for the past 6 or 7 years, actually coming close once. Then my husband's insurance company decided that they didn't want to cover the costs anymore. We all know how well firefighters are paid (sarcasm), so paying out of pocket or getting a loan for the cost was not an option. So I thought that I would be stuck …

Hey guys & gals! I am new to this site and the entire "lap band" world. Several co-workers have had the procedure done and it has got me interested in it for myself. Out company INS pays for everything, minus co-pays which I was told are only a couple hundred dollars, which makes this even more interesting to me. Enough of that. I am 29 from Ft Worth TX, have a beautiful wife and a 1 year old son. I have struggled with weight for most of my life and have tried every "diet" and fad out there. They all work temporarily as you probably all know, but you gain back twice as much (if not more) than you lost. I am here to read your stories, gather some information and…

I had the band surgery in October 2008. My surgeon is Dr. Fass. December 10th, I had my first fill for 1.5cc. Since then I have had fills in January for 1cc and two fills in February for 2cc. I have had no restriction at all. I could eat anything. My total is now 4.5cc and I feel some restriction when eating bread for the first time. I have only lost 23 pounds (7 since surgery) and have been totally frustrated. My doctor says that he has had patients who lost nothing in the first year. I was afraid that I would be one of those people. I overheard a fellow patient talking about your website while sitting in the waiting room at the doctor's office. I've heard some…

My name is Alys (pronounced Alease) and I am 31 years old. I am nervous and excited and scared all rolled into one big ball of emotion but more ready than ever to have this done. I have been overweight my whole life and I have finally reached to point where I have to make the change. My friends and family are being super supportive but I hope to make even more friends and create an extended support system on this forum. Good luck to everyone else in their journey to getting healthy.

Hi everyone, I'm scheduled for my surgery this Wednesday, March 11th. The surgery is going to be done by Dr. Scott Robbins, at Flowers Hospital in Dothan, AL. I'm currently six feet tall and as of this past Friday, I weighted 358 pounds. I want to do whatever it takes to better my chances for enjoying life by adjusting my lifestyle and methods to loose weight from this tool. I'm really looking forward to a new way of life and to aleviate some of the pains in my back and knees, that I'm pretty sure that extra weight in aggrevating. I'm also excited about the possibilities of lowering my blood sugar and maybe elimination the shots of insulin, and some other medicati…

Hi everyone, I am thinking of getting banded and I would like to know if anyone has been banded by Dr. Oliak here in Orange County? If so, can you please tell me about your experience? Thanks!

I would love to hear from anyone that has this procedure done in the St. Louis area. I am looking for a recommendation for a physician that you like. I just found out that my insurance will cover the procedure as long as it is deemed medically necessary and not cosmetic. I am hoping that this is a solution to a life long problem. Also, just looking for your opinioins about the surgery.

Just wanted to say hello. I am just over 2 weeks banded and what a rollercoaster already. anyways hi purr

I was banded on jan 8th by Dr Naim In los Angeles..Great Doctor...I lost 13 lbs the first week and went in for my first fill on feb 6th ( total 3cc in a 10cc band). I lost at total of 16lbs and since my first fill, nothing... I am going in tomorrow march 6th for another fill, but i have to say that I am depressed..it's been 2 months and I don't see much result..I eat more that I was expecting..started to go to the gym 3 times a week... Is there anyone out there who was banded the same day? I need help...what's wrong with me? :cursing:

Hi my name is Sylvia. I had lap band surgery done Nov 26th 2008 and I am very happy with results but has anyone experienced hair loss?:thumbup:

Hello! I stumbled across the site while looking for other's experiences with insurance. What a great community! I am attending my 6th and final "6 month supervised diet" visit tomorrow morning, and my surgeon's insurance coordinator will be turning in the paperwork to my insurance company (CIGNA) as soon as she gets the 6 month diet notes from the doctor that did that part. I have done my psych eval, dietician meeting, attended a seminar, and have gotten a 3 year weight history from my PCP. The coordinator says that I have more than enough info, and my PCP had very detailed notes for each year where they spoke with me about weight, losing weight, etc. She said ever…

Hi All, not banded yet but it's scheduled. Anxiously waiting on the 31st.

My name is Josie and I got my lapband done in Mexico by Dr. Ortiz. He is the best! I got my lapband done in July 2008 and I have lost about 78 pounds! I weigh 155. I just got my second fill on march 7 2009. I am so pleased.

Hi! I am new to this forum and I am in the process of getting ready to be banded. Dr. Fass is my surgeon. I chose him because of his reputation and because (I am a nurse) I have seen his work. Many of my nurse friends have worked with him and think highly of him. I am going for my psych eval next week and hopefully will complete my nutrition counseling soon. I am so ready to get started with this! I am scared and excited at the same time. I love looking at the pictures of folks who are doing so well. I can only hope that I will be there soon....:mad2:

Hi! I am scheduled for surgery on March 19th in Garland, TX by Dr. Nicholson. I am really excited to start this new stage of my life!

I just joined this site today and I'm very excited. I have not been banded yet but will soonish hopefully. I have had numerous appointments but still need to have my sleep study done. I feel like its sooo hard to schedule everything because my schedule of classes is hard to plan around. After my sleep study (3/27) I have another appt with my surgeon to hopefully set a date, which is very exciting! Anyone have any advice? how long did you have to wait between setting a date and getting the surgery? Looking forward to meeting everyone! Amanda

hello to all...I was just wondering who's from nawlins?? :thumbup:

Hi my name is Amanda and i was banded 2/13/09. I have officially entered bandster hell. My first two weeks were no sweat except for a head cold that had me throwing up for 2 days. Since then I feel like I'm right back to where i was pre- surgery. I know this period is for healing so no restriction. Does anyone have any suggestions as to stopping the ravenous hunger betwwen meals. Thanks in advance.

Hello, I am new to this forum. I have not been banded yet but an looking for an surgeon in Austin, Texas. Has any one used Dr. Ganta? Let me know your experience. Thanks.

Hi all! I've been a member for awhile but I've never written a post. I have learned a lot of very helpful information from all of you though and I want to thank you! I am scheduled for surgery on April 7th!! I am so excited that it's finally happening. Is there anyone who has been to Dr. Gabriel in Smithtown, NY? He's doing my surgery.

:w00t: I have just been approved and received a surgery date. Countdown to March 23. I am very excited, but a little nervous also. I have been reading the web site for several months prior to making a decision. It has been a great help.

Hello, I stumbled upon this site while searching for an on-line support system for those who have been banded. I am 3 years post op and have lost an amazing 80+ pounds to date. My problems have been quite minimal and no real traumatic issues to speak of. Having said that, I have discovered that I have fallen off the band wagon and need more help than I have been willing to accept! It is difficult to come to the realization that I am my own worst enemy when it comes to the never ending battle of the bulge. And doing things my way has stopped working for me. I have a wonderful husband, who is supportive, but because he loves me unconditionally, it has never mattered to…

I met with a surgeon today who was recommened by a friend of a friend ... they told me my insurance requires me to wait 6 months before they allow the surgery .. so I guess that gives me more time to TRY another diet in the meantime ... I'm a little nervous about the whole thing.. afraid of what I've been reading about people saying food getting stuck and coming back up and all.. but in the long run its worth it .. not to have health issues .. or worse.. be dead ... Craig

Like many of you, I am sure, I have tried every diet and exercise plan. Most have worked... but of course, the weight just comes back on when you stop. I started thinking about the LB procedure November 2007. I decided to try one last diet program. It was great! Lost 40 lbs but I deprived myself of sooo much and was working out like a maniac and became so overwhelmed and exhausted... and low and behold, I am now heavier than when I started. Grrr! I am 28 years old and thankfully do not have any health problems. I want to end this cycle before any start. I went to a seminar today and have my diagnostic appointment on Friday 2-20. I am nervous, but I think this …

Hi Everyone had surgery on 02/24/09. So I'm new to this journey. I'm on protein shakes and looking for any new recipes or other ideas on how to get the protein in.:wink:

Hi All I have been researching the lap band for over a year now. I started with Day One Health in Chicago, about 6-7 months ago, I have just fininhed my 6 months of "dieting" per insurance guidelines. I still need to make my Psychologist appt. Here is where my confusion sets in...I work at Loyola Hospital, I have met a few people who have had lap band surgery by a physician at Loyola, and they were pleased with the overall procedure. I went to get a consult from this doctor. She wants me to go get clearance from several specialists, and have a hand ful of tests, including a sleep study. Why didn't Day One do this? Is it just different practices that require differe…

I had my first appointment with my surgeon last Friday in pursuit of the Lap Band. He is trying to persuade me into RNY because he said there are better results with it. I am leaning towards the band and hope by reading your I can come to an ultimate decision!:thumbup:

I will be turning 50 in a couple of weeks and its time....I have been struggling with losing the weight and have made my first appt. for consulation for the Lap Band. Reading all of your blogs has been really helpful in deciding. I have read on more then one occassion that you can't eat bread! is this true....can you believe that is the only thing I am worried about? Thanks, Suzanne