Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story

Basically my question is in the heading, will the lap-band help with hunger pangs? I have been unable to lose any significant weight, or keep off the little I have managed to lose, because of constant hunger pangs. I am considering the surgery, but would like to know if it helps one achieve a feeling of fullness and satisfaction with little food. Thanks.

Hi all- I've been reading your website and some other information and I'm scared a bit of course but encouraged by all of your successes! I just had a couple of questions that I haven't seen specific answers to... I'm sure they are out there somewhere but here goes- 1) Is a lap-band permanent? I've read that it is "long-term," and I see ppl here with 2+ yrs, but I wasn't totally sure. 2) What happens when you reach your goal weight? I guess you get a fill or unfill that keeps you at your goal weight, assuming the lap-band stays in? 3) Are there any foods that you have found that, for whatever reason, you just absolutely can't eat anymore? And why heh... I…

I was banded March 7, 2005. Pre op weight 312 lbs Present weight Feb...225 Its been nearly a year and a very interesting journey. I live in Bermuda and was banded in Switzerland. I have come to accept that there are many foods that I do not tolerate well to this day. Not just beef but even many vegetables, no doubt the fact that i am missing some back teeth has someting to do with it. Still considering what my life has been like,"i'm not complaining at all". I have found that i cannot eat in the mornings and even water is difficult to down. Lunch times are a little better but often food will force it's way back if i try to force the issue. So I try very hard t…

Well I have posted a few times in the past but it is finally time to get serious. I am getting ready to start my journey... I got my financing approved this Wednesday, I have an appointment with Dr Neal in Olympia on Tuesday and I will hopfully be scheduling my surgery then!!!! I am so excited, I have been fighting with my DH insurance for a year trying to get them to pay but it is an exclusion and I figure that I can continue to fight for everyone else but in the meantime I am paying for my surgery and if I win my battle with the insurance I will get my money back. Well that is all for now I will continue my journey as soon as I know more!:clap2:

Just popping in to intro myself. I am seriously gearing myself up for getting banded. I went for an eval. in late 2004. I chickend out. I think I am ready now though. My insurance supposedly covers it. I have a high BMI, sevral co-morbidities, have been overweight for way over five years, and have managed to lose a whopping 10 lbs in the past year on my medically supervised diet My stats are in my siggy if anyone is inerested in seeing where I am right now. If my insurance denies me, I WILL pay myself.

Hello everyone, This my first time here. I live in Europe, I'm 40 years old, had my lap band surgery a year ago. Unfortunately I didn't lost as much as I would have expected (approximately 10 Kilos - I promise I'll look for a place where I learn to convert kilogrammes to pounds). I found this great place of yours, filled with extremely useful information and ideal for sharing so many experiences, when I was researching on how many ccs it is still possible to fill in my band. I now have a total of 6cc in my band but I still feel that food goes through too quickly and in too big quantity. So many of you here are doing such a great job with your bands! hopefully, that w…

I'm so glad to have found this site. It's been 10 months since my surgery and I don't think I'm doing very well. I can't stop eating bad foods...all the sweets and junk food. Funny how all the good foods get stuck but the garbage just slides down so easily. Sec... *popping in another M&M*... There I'm back now. Why is it that I'm so hungry all the time? I thought we were only supposed to be able to eat 1/2 cup of food at a meal but I can eat so much. I'm sure I've stretched my pouch. I've had plenty of fills and if I get anymore, I'll end up not being able to eat anything but liquids. Not what I want. I've lost 40 pounds so far but have not lost anything in the last…

I had my surgery on March 28, 2005. I have lost 40 pounds--twenty since they discovered that I had a VG band instead of the standard band on December 22, 2005. I have had nine fills--not fun--and have finally seem to be on the right track. Has anyone else had this experience? I am getting somewhat discouraged...could use some support! Thanks!:mad:

Hello everyone I have been researching this procedure now for 3 months. I have no insurance so have decided to head for the Border. This forum is PRICELESS, filled with valuable info and first hand accounts, it will surely be my home through my journey of change. Shontel

Hi! This is my first posting. I was banded May 15th, 2004 by Dr. Ortiz in Tijuana. I am 44 years old 5'1" my banded weight was 205 lbs. I am now 142 lbs. I would like loose 10 more pounds. Except with family, I'm not comfortable talking about my banding yet. I've joined your group in an effort to change that.

Hi all. I was banded 2/18/03, and am now 168 from 230. I hve been looking for a supprt group. I'm so glad I found you. I live in Winston Salem, North Carolina. Is there anyone out there from around here? I hurt my back, and in the last 6 months, experienced depression and a 10 pound weight gain. I have gone the last 3 years without a group, but for these last 20 pounds, I really feel like I need some support. I was banded by Dr. Ponce in Dalton, Georgia, and have had no problems. Pat Whitaker

Getting banded 3/8/06 at the Wish Center in San Antonio. Just thought I would say hello!

Hi there! Here's all my information: Wendell Edwards 570/381/225 @ 6’2” tall "The first thing we do is... we kill all the SCALES!" I only weigh in every 6 weeks --- Next weigh in will be March 7, 2006 Banded by Dr. Neal, Shelton, WA Surgery date: September 13, 2004 Starting B.M.I = 73.2 I HANG OUT HERE: http://susanmaria.parachatboard.com/ http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/LapBand/posts.html SEE MY PHOTOGRAPHS: http://www.myspace.com/rainforestman READ MY BLOG: http://blog.myspace.com/rainforestman SEE MY OBESITYHELP.COM PROFILE: http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/members/profile.php?N=E1136403653 My email is: w_e_edwards@yahoo.com LAP-BAND IN…

Hello, this is my first visit. I had my band applied 11/26/05 by Dr. Arturo Rodreiquez in Mexico and I have lost 75 pounds and no problems except some PB after my last fill.Doesany oneKNOW OF FILL PLACES In La. or Ms.?

Hello Banders, I am 50 y/o 260 lbs with a BMI of 41.9. I have been thinking about the lapband for at least a year. I've been overweight for 20+ years. I was told that Cigna PPO can be very challenging to get an authorization even though they do cover bariatric surgery. I have been seeing a shrink for 8 years due to Major Depression. I was told a letter from him to Cigna would be fine but I need to know what it is that he is supposed to write to them? Anyone know? Thanks so much. I'm "so" happy to have found this group.

Hi LBT! I have been peeking at this forum for a few weeks and finally decided to join in on the fun. I was banded just over 10 months ago and have lost 92 lbs. This has been the best thing to ever happen to me. Does everyone feel the same way? ...or are there any regrets out there? I am still adjusting to my band. Tonight, a chunk of chicken and I had a showdown. Unfortunately, the chicken won because the dirty bugger snuck down my throat when I wasn't looking (or chewing, I should say). Oh, and is it normal to be completely obsessed with your Lap-Band?

Guess I should've started here first <he-he> 41, 5' 10" banded 7/28/04 weighing in at 268 (was 275 at 1st consult). Since then I am down to 221 (as of 2/16/06) - not as far along as I would've hoped to have been at this point, but only 21 lbs from 'my' goal; my Dr.'s (Iragau / Wynn) would like to see me at 175 (haven't been that since boot camp 6/84). I'll take 200 even, anything more than that would be sweet though!! Banded throug CHRIAS in Wilmington, DE. Since banding I have had mostly sedentary jobs (IT tech help desk) but now am "on the road" for the Geek Squad, so get little time (mostly none) for lunch, so that's helped me A LOT recently. Thanks for l…

Hello, my name is Emilee and I had the surgery in June of 2004. But have only today found this site, wish I had found it sooner. My starting weight was 303 and I'm down to 215....not where I thought I would be at this point, but I'm still very happy with my results. And the results aren't as great as they could be, because of me. I met my boyfriend and haven't been working out like I can and should...but I am happy that I've been maintaining this weight for months now and it's not like int he past where I would just balloon up again. I know as soon as I start working on it again, the weight will come off. I've only had one fill and that was a little over a year ago. I've …

and will do self pay w/financing and how much does it cost if known ....

Well, I guess my time here is done. I have just been told that there is no insurance company in Alabama currently covering the band. I got mad, I cried and now I am just trying to cope and find yet another diet to try.:think :think

Hi all, I'm considering getting banded next month (Dr. Ortiz); I have been reading postshere and elsewhere about not being able to eat certain foods, ever? like bread and rice, etc... what do you eat in a normal day? The other question is about fills; should I fly out to Tj or go to a local doctor ($200+)? I'm in Maryland. Any help will be appreciated.... Regards to all, nuria

I am not scheduled for surgery yet. I first went to the doctor in June. They sent for pre-auth for a by-pass by mistake. I wanted lapband all along but my insurance rep said to appeal anyway and if it was approved request that the approval be changed to lapband. I was approved for lapband last week and was told I have to se the doctor again before they will schedule the surgery so I am seeing the doc again on the 28th. I am hoping for a date before the end of March. I have a lower BMI. Has anyone had the band that needed to lose less than 75 pounds. Is the wl slower? I have had alot of negatives from friends but I don't care what they say. I'm really nervous but determine…

Hi my name is Debra. I just had surgery on Feb 15. I am doing ok still a little sore. The port is a real pain in the --- side :confused:. I do have one question. I've been reading the posts and hear everyone talking about the gas pain. This may be a real newbie question but how do you know for sure if it is gas pains or just being too full? I feel hungry but have that pressure in my chest like I am full. I am on liquids still. Thanks for the info.

Hey, I am new to this site. But im not new to the idea of lap band, I have been reseaching this for a while. Ive been to a doctor meeting here in Texas, but they didnt accept my insurance. So I am looking for a doctor who will accept BCBS, but is also a great doctor. Anyone know a local Ft Worth (maybe Dallas) doctor? Im ready to get this done and get on with my life. Thanks for any :help: you can give me. :confused: Jen

:clap2: Hi everyone. I just wanted to introduce myself and say hello. I joined this site to <hopefully> get alot of pros and cons on having the surgery done. I hope to hear from you and join in the discussions. Thanks! Marlo

I found this website after my banding...01-13-2006.... I was in Monterrey NL Mexico for Christmas. The advertisement was so inviting. ( impulse shopper) I weighted about 225 lbs and I have not weighted myself since but I m going for my first fill tommorrow 02-15-06. I know I ve lost some weight in my face but I don't feel it in my jeans they still don't fit. My meals have been cut by more then half. BUT Im always HUNGRY. I hope learn more from others. Thanks everyone.

I've been lurking...Finally decided to post a note to all my fellow bandsters...I was banded May 6th,2005 had a slow start related to a viral infection...Things are starting to pick up in the last few months...I had a fill a week ago finally have 2cc in a 4cc band...Feeling some restriction....Total of 31# lost...

I am considering having the lap band at the Bajanor Hospital in Tijuana. Can anyone give me any informaiton?

I was banded on Wednesday 2/8 and I guess I feel ok. I still have a lot of stabby pains from the gas. It's espeically bad in my back. Did anyone eat solids or soft foods early? My nurse said that the band doesn't provide much restriction for me and that I would progress faster on the post-op diet then others but hell - I've already had a chicken finger (chewed well) and a 1/2 serving of oatmeal. I'm serously hungry. I don't think I get a fill until 6 weeks.

Hi all, I am new to posting but have been lurking on this board for quite a while. I have made my appointment with the surgeon and to sign up on March 8th. I am planning on having the procedure done on May 8th. I am a little nervous, but I know it will be the best for me in the long run. I hope to get to know all of you. Since lurking around here, I feel like I already do! Thanks!

Hi my name is Bethann Nation. I will be have the lap-band surgery on the 27th of this month. I am half way through the 2 weeks of liquids and all I see are comercials for food. I am a self pay for the surgery and have gotten all tests out of the way. Just waiting for the big day.

i am thinking about doing the lap band. just research at this point. i wanted to know so many things. i want to attend a meeting in my area northern NJ haven't found one yet. any help out there? what i really wanted to know is how do you go from loving to eat and food being a very big part of your life to drinking liquids. i have been heavy my whole life and have tried every diet in the world (several times) my family as well as my husbands revolves around food, birthdays, holidays, new jobs, new babies. you name it we are eating for it! if anyone can give me some insite i would really appreicate it. thanks!:help:

Hello Everyone, I am new to the Lap Band Talk website . I as banded on Jan 9, 2006 and have been blessed to be complication free thus far . I am looking forward to all the great information and topics of discussion .

I will be having surgery next Friday, Feb. 24. I will have hiatal hernia surgery and very hopefully lapband placed at the same time....Yeah! So long to wait...I nearly gave up. Pray... that I am able to have the lapband with no further delay. Thanks for the support! Sandy:faint:

Hi, I was banded 1/23/2006 in Cincinnati, Ohio by Dr Trace Curry. My starting weight was 280 pounds. I am currently at 251 and feeling a little hungary. My first fill is scheduled for 3/1/06, any thoughts on what I might expect? I have had a few bouts with throwing up seem to be over it now. Just wanted to get my feet wet and join in the forum. Really looking forward to learning more about this banding from here.

Hi name name is Gloria and I was banded 2/6/06, 10 days post-op. I am new to the forum and I'm so glad I found this site. Is there any advise you can give me on what slides down easy. For example I know applesause, scrambled egg, soup and mashed potatoes go down very easy, can anyone give any more ideas? I'm bad at trying to be creative so I need major help. I'd appreciate any responses and like I said before I'm sooo glad I found this site. :biggrin1:

Hi everyone! I am newly banded (1/25/06) and just checked out this website. A fellow bander at rehab exercise last night told me to visit here. I'm looking forward to the support network here as we have all (or are going) down the same path. I've enjoyed reading many of the posts already to check out things. I look forward to keeping up with folks here as I know I will need support throughout this journey! Thanks for being here!!!:clap2:

Hello Everyone, I'm dawg!! I thought I'd post this to introduce myself because I never gave you fair warning about me. About me: I'm an Englishman living in an Idahoan world. It does things to ya. I'm a geek. That does things to ya as well. My sense of humor is satirical, sarcastic and very very very very dry. I am frequently perceived as dry, abrasive, condescending, mean, judg(e)mental, calous, and heartless. Despite evidence to the contrary, there is a slight pulse deep within this stoney heart and I do actually care about people in pain. I rarely say the right thing. I frequently make it worse after trying to do a "cover your ass" from saying the wron…

:clap2: Hi everyone, My name is Tia, I'm new to this wonderful site. I was referred to this site yesterday in my pre-OP session with Linda Lenz from Abkin & Bertha's. I am so excited about my upcoming procedure scheduled on 2/27. Would love to hear from you with words of wisdom & encouragement. Much health and success, Tia

:help: Hello, Thank you for speaking with me. Many questions, doubts, confusion... My doctor recently told me basically lose 150# or else. I weigh 295# - I weigh more than some farm animals....My blood pressure is high, my diabetes is in poor control, apnea, cholesterol, you name it - and every year he has to increase my meds. I'm only 46, I feel like I'm 56 and I'll be lucky to make it to 56 without a stroke or heart attack or kidney failure. He said might be time for lapband. So many people that I've mentioned this to are opposed to me having it done. "You're not that fat", "just diet and exercise", "that's for people who are really sick", "that's a cop out fo…

Hi, I'm Mary. I just learned my paperwork will be submitted tomorrow to my insurance company for approval of the lap band procedure. Been working on it since November. I have done everything required with the exception of the dietician and the blood work. Looking for info and support here and willing to share what I have learned if I think I might be able to contribute to a thread. Sounds like there are lots of great people here. :clap2:

Hi, I am new. Very glad to have found such a great forum. I am in the process of considering getting banded. Right now I am checking out the hospitals and doctors in the area. I live in Bostonand am 50. It is time to make the decision to do something. I appreciate all the information, sympathy and empathy you all put into these forums! So thanks ahead of time! Love, Diva:kiss2:

Hi there I'm brand new to this site as well as the band. I was banded on Feb 1, 2006 in Delta, BC, CAndada. I have lost 18lbs so far but very hungry. Hoping this will pass.

Hello everyone I have been reading every word you have all written for about a month i was banded feb 7 in ontario by dr coborne It went off without a hitch thanks to al lot of you because i knew what to expect thank you I am a happily married 45 year old father with two great kids i am 5'10" 330 lb at start of pre op diet i now weigh 310 lb i have set a goal of 175 lbs ( i do not know if this is possible but i like to dream) I have sleep apeana, diabetes and numb feet. I call myself a bander now and i tell people now i have joined a new race (i get alot of laughs over this) i will try to post some comments and share my struggles just like alot of you have in hopes …

I am a soon-to-be Bandster. I will be banded by Dr. Aceves on Feb. 16. I look forward to joining you on the board and learning all I can to be successfull and being able to help others also. See ya soon.

Hi everyone- Ive just discovered this site and im overjoyed. I had lap band surgery on Aug 19th at Lennox Hill Hospital in NYC. My doc was Mitchell Roslin. So far Ive had two fills and have only lost 30 lbs. I say "only" but I am happy to be going the other way. My starting weight WAS 271, and Id like to lose @ 80 lbs total. I do not have a web site up yet, but im working on it. Im so looking forward to meeting you!.........................Lanie

Hello from Germany! My name is Irene, I am 43 years old. I was born and raised in Germany and I am still living there. I got my gastric banding (lap band) in July, 2004 at a weight of 332 pounds. Since then I have lost about 132 pounds and came down from a size 28/30 to a 14/16. I do not miss one single pound and I am very very happy with my decision to undergo weight loss surgery. One of the members of this board referred it to me, because I have posted in a german forum that I am going to move to TX for good this fall. So I am very happy that she told me about this forum so that I can get in touch with bandsters in the US, especially the Austin/Taylor area where I …

:nervous Nice to meet everybody! Imma newcomer as well. I've already had my consult visit and my doctor is Paynter from the Gastric Band Institue in Chattanooga. I went last Thursday for my consult and the nurse says to give the insurance company 6-8 weeks to respond. So, I thought in the mean time I would try and find some folks to talk to that are going through the same thing. So.... lol

I have been reading posts for a few weeks, but here is my first official post. I am scheduled for LAPBAND surgery on 3/6/2006. I am very excited and can't wait. (Guess I'm not smart enough to be even the slightest bit nervous). I need to lose about 150 lbs. But, :help: , since I set the date, I can't stop eating. :hungry: It's like I'm ramping up to my new lifestyle. Get it all in because after 2/23/2006 (pre-op diet) you can't eat like this anymore. Anyone else suffering through the same thing. I am the virtual food coma . How did you approach the date? What are your suggestions? My surgery is being done by Trace Curry in Cincinnati. Anyone el…

Hi - my name is Phyllis and I was banded on 12/28/05 and have lost 30 pounds. I was very sick for the first 3 weeks and was re-admitted to the hospital because of dehydration. My band was swollen shut and everything I drank for 7 days came right back up. It was a terrible week and for 2 weeks thereafter. I did great for the next 3 weeks until my first fill and I again, started, throwing everything back up for 3 days and had to have the fill removed. Am now doing great. It was no fun but I would do it all over again. I am thrilled with my weight loss and can not believe that I am never hungry. I have to tell myself I need to eat. I just can't believe it. I have a…