Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story

Hi, I am a newbie, just joined recently and am looking for fellow bandsters in my area. I have surgery on monday and have gotten a cold and am not sure if they will still do the surgery....also have had trouble staying on the liquid diet. any suggestions would be appreciated

I was banded on 10/19/07 & have lost a total of 38lbs as of today. I just went for my 3rd fill this morning & lost 3 lbs during the Holidays. AMAZING!!!

Anyone have recommendations on doctors in Mexico? I think I have it narrowed down to Mexicali or Tiajuana but I am still open to suggestions. The whole "fills" thing still has me undecided. I've noticed that some people get fills monthly, while others go every few months. What is the average? I could go to the new FCUSA that opened not too far from my home. I will be self paying but if there is a highly recommended, comparable, US alternative, please let me know. Thank you so much! Michelle

my husband's insurance does not cover the surgery. We have very bad credit. I am desperate for a solution to my weight loss. Is there anyone out there that can lead me toward an answer or solution to financing??

I am new to this and not really sure how to use it. I was banded on Monday, 12/31/07. My doctor was Dr. Nazari in Greenville, NC My top weight was 239. Today I weighed 226. I am on the protein shakes and are already tired of them. Any suggestions out there on what to do?

HI! I am a 36 yr. old mother of 2 from New York State. My lap-band doctor is Dr. Forbes from Buffalo General Hosp. I am just starting the journey like most of you. I was looking for a site that I could use to talk about things that might/will come up that friends/family don't understand. Patti (chilly)

Hey Everyone!! I just started posting on LBT. I am pretty active on another forum, some of you might know me...some might not. Thought I would give this a try. I was banded August 1...by Dr. Spivak in Houston. I have had NO problems so far, which I attribute to his great skill and experience. I feel lucky ( so far) I am down 48 lbs..40 of that since surgery. I want to lose 110 more. I need to do better with exercise which will be a focus for me in 2008. Hope to get to know some of you ...a lot of you... it is wonderful to have people that really understand what we go through on a day to day basis!

Hi Everyone: I've been reading a lot on the board before but now that I'm actually having it done, I decided to post. I hope I'm doing this right. I'm having my surgery on Janl 16 at long last. I decided to do it back in May. I started the protein drinks Nwe Year's day. So far I'm doing pretty good, drinking mostly the ready made EAS Advantage and I really like BOOST, but its got a little too much fat. But I'm making it through. I've already shed a few. Thank you all for allowing me into your forum.

Well I had my first visit with the Dr on December 27th. He said I was the perfect candidate for lapband. I had my bloodwork, attended one out of two support group meetings, the mandatory appts made. I have my GI workup this week and am waiting for cardiology and sleep study to call me. Hoping to get this done in March. My surgeon told me my insurance is golden. I have Anthem Blue Cross. I'm psyched and scared but sick of being fat.:help:

Hello there, I am looking around at all the info available about Lap Bands and came across this site. I was quite set on doing it until I read of all the complications everyone has had!! I wondered if you could help me answer a few questions about Lap Banding to help me make up my mind? 1) Would you do it again if you could reverse time? 2) Does everyone have such bad pain after the op? 3) How long would I need to take off work after the op? 4) Does everyone have problems with bad breath, dry wretching, nausea, vomitting, leaking ports etc? 5) Why would you have an 'emergency unfill'? 6) Has anyone had one in Belgium or Prague 7) Can anyone recommend a goo…

Hi, I'm Mitch from Phoenix, Az. I am a mother of 4, grandma of 7 and I will be 60 this year. I am really tired of yo yoing as far as weight goes and will be banded by Dr Nirmul on 1/4/08. I am nervous, but excited. Am looking forward to loosing my weight for good and not just the same 20 pounds over and over. I wonder how many lbs I have really lost over the yrs? Mitch:nervous

This happens to be my first group posting! I have been content with quietly lurking around the site, but I have to report........I made my surgery date today and it is for Jan 22nd. The moment that the doc wrote me in on the schedule, this overwhelming sense of hope swept over me. I am so blessed to have this opportunity! "Attaboys" to everyone on this journey. On the last train out of fatville, Amy :whoo:

Hello everyone. I am so excited about this new adventure in my life. I had my surgery 12/27/07. I have been overweight since my high school years, but really put on the last 100 lbs the last 10 years of my life. I have heard some of the ladies locally that were banded, and they've talked about being sizes 24 or 28 and now are in size 10. I can't imagine how it will feel to shop in a real store and not have to go to specialty stores. This first week of being banded was slow (painful) moving, but nothing that I woulnd't do over 100 times to have the tools to do loose weight and feel human once again. I hope that if anyone has any advice, or questions that they'll fr…

Hi all. I am new to this forum and I am really excited to be a part of it. I have been working on getting a lap band for 4 years now!! I went to a consultation with a friend and she did it, but I decided to wait. Then I went back and started the process over and my insurance declined. Finally last month, when my husbands insurance changed, I decided to try one more time and not only did his insurance approve, but my insurance benefits changed and my insurance approved it too!! I am so excited and a little scared. I have scheduled my surgery for Februrary 8th. I am having the surgery in Clinton, IL, which is a very small town about 30 miles from home. I am a total…

Hi tomorrow I go for my pre-op class and any testing that needs to be done, and I am very excited. :whoo: Just over a month now till I get my lapband..wooohooo:) can use any input one things to do prior to surgery..I have been practicing taking small bites and chewing the dickens out of it.:clap2: I can use any hints to keep from getting into trouble the first few days.. thanks Carol in WA

I was banded August 30th, 2007. My Dr. is Dr. Verseman in Kalamazoo, MI. My surgery went better than I ever thought it would. It was the first surgery I had ever had and I was quite nervous, but I was at work 4 days later with no problem. I've just had my second fill. I can really tell there's a restriction this time. Before I didn't notice anything much. I'm down 37 pounds from the beginning of this journey. So far, so good! I'm looking forward to sharing my journey and reading about everyone elses. This looks like a great forum. I hope everyone has a fantastic 2008!:biggrin1: Linda

I've been a member of this forum for a few months. I finally called the doctor's office today, after getting on my husband's insurance, and they said I am covered by Aetna. I will go through a 12 week program. The nurse at the dr. office said my surgery will probably be around the end of April or May. I'm totally excited. Ive enjoyed this forum since I found it, and look forward to sharing my journey as well. :whoo:Sooned to be banded....Kim

Friday Dec 28th I had my surgery I have feeling fine until yesterday. I have been very tired no energy I have been on clear liquids I started to have protein drinks. Today I went to the clinic to have my staples removed the nurse and nutrionist suggested that I do more protein she said I should be doing a thousand calories a day. They also said I can have eggs cottage cheese and yoplait:help:. My husband wanted to stop and have breakfast I ordered ham and eggs. I could only eat 3 forks of the eggs with two small pieces of ham. Please can someone help me. Since Friday I lost 6 pounds. Friday I was 245. God bless you guys:phanvan:help:

Hello everyone, I'm 24 and I'm from NYC. My husband got banded back in April of this year, and has so far lost 65 lbs. I'm now thinking of doing it myself, however I'm not quite eligible to have insurance cover the cost (the insurance covered my husbands) and am thinking of having it done in Mexico specifically with Dr. Ortiz. I don't know much about it, so if anyone has done it down in Mexico with him, and has some information, I'd greatly appreciate it. (cost, phone numbers etc.) I have a few questions as well: In Mexico, do they offer the wider band (my husband has that one and I like the sound of that one better) or do they only use the older narrow band? How …

Hi Banded since 12/14 with Dr. Barker in Dallas, TX My BMI was 40.1 and currently 38 I am still new to this however I want to say many thanks to yall for positive suggestions in dealing with post-op surgery and sharing receipes for munchies week. Coleen

I had my surgery on Monday, December 31st, at Presby in Plano by Dr. Stephen Hamn. Looks like everything went well. Now my only concern is that the band not slip. On Thursday before the surgery, my official weight was 350 lbs. I'm 6'2", so I think that makes my BMI 44. I'll have to recheck that later. While I was at the hospital, I unofficially stepped on a scale in my hospital gown as opposed to the official weighing done in my street clothes, but it looks like I'm down about 5 lbs. True weight loss is probably 2 or 3 lbs., but I'll take anything extra. I've been on the Phase I diet since Friday. I guess 2 or 3 lbs. doesn't really count for anything since that could …

Hi everyone! I just recently made the decision to get banded, I will start my journey soon. My parents are really supportive, but my best friend is not-so I guess I am here to learn more and be in a supportive environment. I am 26 years old and have struggled with weight my whole life. I am really really excited to begin learning more and to get "banded!"

Hi Everyone, I am new here. I have just began thinking about lap band. I am going to the meeting next week. I have done alot of research and called my insurance company to get their criteria. My husband is very supportive, he just wants me to do my homework. My BMI is 38 but I have high blood pressure and PCOS (I don't know if they care about the pcos). It makes losing weight difficult. I could reallly use a little help. :)Thats why I am here:))

I am able to pretty much eat what I want at this point. I dont eat as much but I can have EVERYTHING with no problem! I guess this is what is kinda the "honeymoon" stage...before my first fill. So just wanted to say hello to all and I am so happy to be a part of your board. I cant wait to share.:clap2:

Hi, I'm Devil Dog's Diva......and my real name is Rachel. My friend Sha and I have been best friends for quite awhile. We are both Marine wives. We have Tricare insurance and they wouldn't cover the cost of a Lap Band, but they would cover the whole gastric bypass. I didn't understand this logic. For the longest time, we have both searched for ways to make a difference in our lives by losing weight. We both have sons that are the same age, and even though we have tried to do things by the book (exercise and diet)...we have not been able to maintain any results that we want. We even joked, and seriously considered, entering the Biggest Loser so we could have a shot at maki…

I moved this question to the Pre-Op/Post-Op section.

Hi Im new to all of this. I live on the east coast of New South Wales, Australia and I am being banded on Tuesday 8th Jan. I am nervous and excited. I am going well on the optifast it doesnt taste that bad. I am going to try and visit alot of forums before Tuesday.

Hi I am from the UK and in need of further support on my weight loss journey! I have been banded for nearly 3 years but I am slipping back into me 'old ways' lately and need to pull myself out! I weighed 294lb when my journey began and I now weigh 168lb so still a little way further to go. I spend a lot of time online looking and researching plastics which will be the next step for me or at least I hope it will be... I look forward to getting to know you all on our journey! MsTaylor

My name is Lori. Had my band 2-9-07. Just started exercising 2 days ago. I finanlly plateued long enough to start the dreaded work out! Nice to meet ya'll.

I am working right now in the ER...where is everyone from that is online right now?

I have been fat all my life and have tried so many diets it's ridiculous. This year alone I gained 25 pounds. I'd like to know if anyone regrets getting this procedure done. Also how many were paid for by insurance. I'm going to research this quite a bit before I do it and discuss it with my Dr. who is getting pretty frustrated with me, I can tell.:help:

I was banded by a nice facility in Mexico and my experiences were favorable. It's time for my first fill. I was hoping to get this done in Phoenix, AZ for convenience. When I call any facility in Phoenix, they ask where was the procedure preformed. I tell them, then they promptly advise 'We do not service bands done out of the country". Any advice?

I am totally new to this! I have met with the surgeron and have been to the informational meeting! I have been approved by my insurance! I just have all of my pre-operational tests to do. I've been reading a lot and I'm starting to get scared! I'm hearing about sliming! No soda after the surgery for life! Can't eat bread! Can drink liquor! Can't have certain veggies! Liquid diets before and after surgery! I'm just starting to question is this really for me! I guess I'm just looking for some guidance. I am going to speak to a dietian and she specializes in Lap Banding...but just scared that if I go through all of this...am I going to stick to it! I LOVE food...is the surge…

Hi Y'all!!! I am having my surgery on 1/4/08...and so excited! I have loved reading the board. Y'all have provided me with wonderful stories, fabulous hope and answered so mnay of my questions. Love and Hugs, Wendy Rae:clap2:

I had a adjustable laparoscopic gastric band performed in Glasgow, Scotland at the Nuffield Hospital (Mr David Galloway) on 7th February 07, I am a surgeon myself (Trauma Orthopaedic & Hands) and live in Edinburgh, Scotland. Pre band I was 162Kg. Yesterday at 118Kg I entered the Water kayaker. The Edinburgh Triathlon consists of a 400-metre swim, 11-mile cycle ride and a 3.5-mile run. I finished slowly in just about two and a half hours. I'm not sure anyone has any experience with adjustable laparoscopic gastric banding and triathlon or endurance sports? If there is anyone out there please contact me. I guess being catabolic for most of the year my liver has little ca…

Hi I was just wondering if anyone could fill me in on a few things that have got me confused. I just had my first fill today and my surgeon said to do liquids today, tomorrow soft foods and Friday regular food. I don't feel full when I eat. I have had instant potatoes which have gone down great. He said Friday I should go on regular food but most time it feels like things get stuck. The soft food go right down. I guess what I didn't understand was that you wouldn't feel full on soft foods. What type of food do you need to eat to feel full. Should cream soups and potatoes stay out of my diet..........If any can shed some light I'd appreciate it..Thanks J.:help:

In fact I am writing to you from the commons room of the hospital wing I am in. I will add my good intro when I get home. Happy New YOU and Happy New Me. ~Paula~

Hello all, Well......... its a new year, and I still struggle with my weight. So, here I am, and I am going to look into the Lap-Band procedure. I am 5'10" and weigh about 260lbs When I use the BMI calculator.... about 37 I sleep with a CPAP machine Blood Pressure and Cholesteral are fine Sugars..... starting not to look good. Time to do something.... I will of course do some searching on here to get my feet wet and get some questions answered, but would appreciate any support I can get. My main question will be how to get this covered my insurance.... Thanks all Troy

Hi guys! I was here some time last year when I first heard about the lapband, but then when I found out my insurance didn't cover it. I was discouraged and went away, but now I am back and super excited that my insurance BCBS AL now covers lapband and I am starting my long journey back to skinny! How is everyone?:biggrin1:

Hi, all! I was banded 12/6/07 and have lost 17 lbs. I am relating to those in the thread about band-hell, as I lost most of the weight in the first two weeks and haven't lost much since. It is so good to hear from those who have gone before me and to know that I should just keep on my bandster program and wait for my first fill. I have an appt on the 21st with the surgeon, maybe I'll get a fill at that time. I was very depressed for the last week; grieving the loss of the foods I no longer eat and feeling the rebellion I feel when I realize that I'm no longer binging. I'm eating slowly, trying to savor each bite, which drives a part of me nuts - I derived such pleas…

Hi: I'm seriously thinking about having lap band surgery done and have been wondering if I will need tummy tucks, once I have lost all the weigt.

I am booked to have Lap Band surgery in six weeks time. I have been looking for a forum to get some feedback. I have some real reservations about whether I am doing the right thing or not - did anyone else experience reservations before they had their surgery. Its on my mind everyday, am I doing the right thing, will I be able to cope I am just not sure if I am ready for this yet.

Hi all, Im new to the forum tonight, I had lapband surgery done on August 3rd and am down 40 lbs.. IM feeling recently that this is enough?? My doctor says im doing fine, he only wants me to lose 4-5 lbs a month. So am i supposed to be feeling like im not doing alright? My dr is Dr Sudan in OMaha Nebraska...I dot not have my own website, maybe i should i dont know. IM open to any suggestions , tips, questions, and answers.....:help:

Hi - My name is Jody - this is my very first post, I was just banded on 12/20/07, and between the 2 weeks of Optifast prior to surgery and weightloss after surgery I am down 21 pounds! I had a follow up with my surgeon on 12/28 and he wants me to start exercising. I am not against it but am too sore yet to work out. Prior to surgery, I loved going to Curves, but there's no way I can do that right now. I haven't had to take any pain meds since I got out of the hospital, and don't want to start now because of over-doing it. My surgeon suggested that I walk, but it's far too cold for me to walk outside. I'm not much of a mall-walker person, since I am a slow mover ri…

Hello, my name is Carla. I was banded by Dr. Jose Rodriguez (Dr. Rod) in Acuna, Mexico in May of this year. I have lost 120 pounds and am about 40 pounds from goal weight. I have had no complications and have no regrets! I basically wanted to join this forum to chat with others when I have questions. For instance....I have hit a plateau of sorts and want some advice on what to do to get over it....I appreciate all advice and look forward to "meeting" new people. Carla

I have had a weight problem all my life. Around the age of sixteen I became more weight consious and managed to lose. I was able to maintain close to a normal range but it was ALWAYS a struggle and I was NEVER as slim as I could be. Now I am 47 and weigh the most I ever have. It seems every year I am 8 to 10 lbs heavier than I was the year before. I consider it an accomplishment just to not steadily gain. I have not been banded but I am trying to lay the groundwork for it.I'm considering trying through insurance but I'm at the point that if they tell me I gotta document a diet for 6 mths or some kinda BS like that I'll never be able to wait that long. I'm already contempl…

Hi, I am considering the lap band for weight loss, in the research stage, have an appointment to a seminar for tonight with True Results in Hurst. Sounds like quite a few people are have great sucess!! Hoping for the Best!

I've not been banded yet but well on my way and super excited!! I've only made the appointment to go the mandatory seminar. It's this Saturday, January 8th. I don't really know what to expect. I want to get it done as quickly as possible, and I would love some advice from anyone who has insight on that. I'm on my way on becoming the person that I feel that I am on the inside! I've made the decision, and I'm not changing my mind. I'm ready for this change!

<p>Happy New Year! My name is Lori and I am going to be banded at the end of this month. I am soooo excited. Ready to begin a new chapter of my life and start living!!!! I am 5 ft tall and weigh 205. Would love to make some new lap band friends and support each other through this journey. Happy New Year!<img src="http://www.LapBandTalk.com/images/smilies/whoo.gif" border="0" alt="" title="Whoo" smilieid="339" class="inlineimg" /></p>

hi , its my birthday to day and the start to a new fresh year.. had my band fitted end of sept 2006 and i weighed 32 stones (448 pounds) i now weigh 15 stone ( 212 pounds) i was bigger before i was banded i weighed another 4 stone , so i was 36 stone to start with but with determination and thewill to prove i could lose weight and so they would do the banding i stuck it out and lost the two stone they asked me to and two more i was well shocked. well ive got 2 stone to go and they said i might be able to get cosmetic surgery for my lose skin . i cant believe ive got this far. its been really tough some times but the way i feel now has made it all for the best well …