LAP-BAND Surgery Forums

I am looking into having my band removed (several reasons) Anyway..do doctors do the removal and sleeve (or similar) during the same surgery?

Anyone from Kentucky here been banded?

Patiently waiting to get my 2nd fill, I have not really felt a difference with my first fill that I got Nov 7th. I only have 2ccs in my band right now, and feeling very discouraged and afraid of losing all my progress I've made. I feel like I haven't even had surgery at all, with the exception of some mornings when I can feel that my band is tighter. I'm trying to keep pushing through and exercising and using portion control. I have to wait until Dec 19th to get my second fill. My dr office makes u wait 6wks from surgery to have the first fill and then another 6wks to have your second and then you can have one every 2 - 3 wks. On a brighter note my nurse who had the surge…

I got my lap band April 23rd, 2010. So far I've had 1 fill, 4cc's, and I've lost 22lbs. So far I've basically been eating most of the same foods that I ate before the lap band, except for breads and meats that aren't ground (such as steak or pork chops) because those things get stuck and hurt me! I think that I'm losing weight simply because I'm eating far less than I did before, and what I'm wondering is if anyone has had long term success this way....or am I just kidding myself? I'm waiting for the idea of a nutritional, structured diet to kick in with me, but so far it hasn't. Before I got the lap band, I thought eating a healthy diet would be easy because I wo…

Recently I met a lady who truly inspired me. I admit I at times have not been as sympathetic to people who were extremely obese. At first I didn't see myself in their category, then it became clear to me that I was and I was thoroughly disgusted with myself as well. I had the band due to this disgust and the knowledge that I was becoming disabled due to my weight and the knowledge that people saw me as a fat middle aged woman who had no control of her eating. I was finding it more and more difficult to get around, I was getting short of breath and my body ached in places that I didn't think should ache. My fat even hurt. That sounds wierd and when you tell someone t…

Almost 18 months ago when I had lap band surgery I thought wow when I lose all this weight I will feel like a million bucks, well that didn't happen. I've struggled since day one, not with eating, physically. I have not been able to exercise at all, I have loose skin everywhere. For the past several weeks I've undergone testing for several things and today I headed to Nashville for the results, certainly not what I wanted to hear, I was diagnosed with Lupus. Thank goodness it hasn't affected my kidneys or liver yet just has damaged my muscles and joints along with other symptoms. Today was a shocker to say the least. The dr prescribed Plaquenil and he was quick to …

is it just me, or is the lap band peeps no longer posting??

Anyone else read the sane and sensical blog "Weighty Matters"? penned by Dr. Freedhoff? This recent blog post struck a chord with me: So here are some truths. People are not walking math formulas whereby if they have 3,500 more or less calories than they burn they'll gain or lose a pound. 3,500 calories of one food or type of food will likely have a different impact on health, hunger, thermic effect, and weight than 3,500 calories of another food or type of food. Different people have different caloric efficiencies whereby they are seemingly able to extract more calories from food or reserves than others and lose weight with more difficulty (and gain with greater …

Okay guys and gals, it is not perfect but it is up and I will keep it updated. If there comes a time when I cannot, I will pass the information on to someone who can keep it updated. Start posting so I can get everyone updated that needs updated. Here is the link: Notorious Novembers 2008 Weightloss Spreadsheet - Google Docs If you are new, post the following information to this thread. Surgery date Highest Weight Preop diet starting weight Surgery weight (Your weight the day of surgery) Current weight Goal weight If you are just needing updated, please post the following: Current weight: (whatever your current weight is) Then whateve…

I Was banded in 2009 lost 175 pounds then had my gall bladder out, went thru a divorce, and a whole bunch of other stuff. My last fill was in 2011, I've had 3. I have some trouble with certain foods getting stuck. Since having my gall bladder out and starting birth control to regulate my cycle I've gained 15 pounds. I know I should go back for a follow up with the MD, but I can't get another fill.. If I do the food will not go down so I don't know how much help going for a follow-up will be.. I've tried going back on liquids and soft foods for 2 meals and my diet hasn't changed much so I'm not really sure what to do here. I'm concerned! Has anyone else had these i…

Hi everyone I am just wondering why do some eat 3 times a day max and others are instructed 3 cups a day for meals and then 2 small Snacks. I have had two fills and go up and down often. So I began researching and see that some drs say only eat 3 cups a day and that's if you are hungry. I was instructed 3 cups then 2 small snacks. Just getting discouraged as I am not in my green zone yet and perhaps eating more than I should be Any input would be great Thanks everyone

Was wondering what everyone's tips for success are? What have you found that has helped you lose weight? My two tips are: 1.) nighttime cup of tea - as a former nighttime binge eater I now have no interest in eating after dinner. If i do get hungry I have a cup of chai tea fresh from my kureig and go to bed not too long after! 2.) Chili!!! I have found that when I eat homemade bean or bean and ground beef chili for dinner that I lose like 1-2 pounds per day! It's amazing!

Hello Band Buddies Couldn’t resist sending this out… how many times have we said out ourselves… “I’ll start my diet next week.” (Yes.. I hate the word DIET). If you’ve fallen off the “band-wagon” now is the perfect time to get back on… don’t wait until next Monday, next week or until after the holiday is over… start with your next meal. Hope everyone has a great holiday. Tom, Toronto Banded July 6 06 Wt. Loss: 160 lbs

Haven't felt A1 since my fill on Saturday. Had an episode of sliming on Monday and was sick with it (just saliva). It was all my fault because I obviously hadn't chewed properly ! I never want to experience that again! I can eat much less now, feel totally different. But I have experienced this mild pain in middle of my chest today, wondered if it might be hunger? Has anyone else experienced this? I am needing some reassurance

i will be banded in May and just want to know if any other moms in my area who have been or will be banded ?

Hi all! I had my first fill last week. I have noticed a difference but really didn't day of. I was on liquids for 24 hours and then on mushy foods for 24 hours and then I was able to eat normally. I really didn't know what to expect after my first fill and its not what I thought. The first day back on real foods I was still eating softer foods and ate over a cup. I was able to do so but it made me extremely uncomfortable (heartburn and gassy). Since then I have been making sure to eat no more than 1 cup of food per sitting. I have had an issue of feeling stuck when ] I made tuna and tried to eat it on toasted bread (I had read somewhere that is the bread was toast…

Hi All I am 6 years post op (all been very successful for me and happy with weight loss), but over the last 2-3 years have gradually lost most of my sense of smell and taste! This may have nothing at all to do with the surgery, but thought it would be worth asking if anyone else has had a similar experience?? Would love to hear! Many thanks, Salmar x

Hi everyone I was banded 3 days ago and I have been really dizzy and nauseous. I told the surgeon this as I think it's the anesthetic that does it to me. I am worried I could have done damage? How do I know if my port is still in position and hasn't moved? I have been lifting my 4mnth old baby - who the surgeon said would be ok to lift- and am now doubting things. Any body in a similar position??

I'm so excited! Today and until Monday is nothing but clear liquids, then liquid for 2 weeks straight. It's scary but necessary! I can't wait to see myself (hopefully 60 lbs) lighter in 6 months!

The title says it all.. I have been stalled for over a month. almost 6 weeks to be exact. But I am happy, I have did so well so far... and I dont wanna end the Journey, before it really begins. Holidays are just not kind, so much good food, and parties, and not keeping count of calories. Also, I need to get to the gym, I told myself, when I got below 300, I would start going. Why am I not going? Its close to the house, My kids are in school for 4 hours in the morning daily, I have the time. But no motivation. I went thru my closest, got all the 5x tops and size 32w jeans out of there. Huge contractor bag full sitting on the floor of my room. ( I did keep 1 shirt and…

I have been having pain in my right side of my neck, right shoulder, right arm all the way down to the right side of my right hand. Also, the location of the port has lots of scar tissue, so much so, that when I lay face down (my sleeping preference), that spot hurts. I have to adjust myself in weird positions so as not to aggravate the port and scar tissue. Does anyone else have these problems. If yes, what can one do to alleviate this?

Banded on Aug 29,2013 just had my 3rd fill and I have been experiencing cramps in my stomach area after eating or drinking any thing. It comes in waves, I have to spit out food at every meal. Still trying to SLOW down... is the cramping a normal stuck problem or something I should worry about?

It's Monday again....what is your Inspiration and Motivation and Goals for this week?

pizza. I make the Italian sausage. Divide into two and flatten onto a cookie sheet sprayed with non-stick spray. Top with low carb sauce, part skim or fat free mozzarella and veggies of choice. Bake at 400* on bottom rack till desired done-ness. It's low carb, low fat, high Protein and DELICIOUS!!

I have my first appt this week. I've started preop protein liquid diet. I'm wondering if how much anyone with BMI 32 weight loss??

Just ate some apple slices for the first time in six weeks!!! Oh apples how I have missed you dearly!!!! Lol

I understood there were going to be gas pains. I walk my dog in the morning, I park far away from the entrance at work, and I make sure I'm mound throughout the day. However, the gas pains I am experiencing are awful! I'm taking gas-x, phazyme, drinking peppermint tea, nothing seems to ease the pain. It hurts to take a breath. Any ideas?!?

So I recently (mid sept) had an total unfill because I was having surgery and then I had surgical complications and wound up losing 13 lbs. I was enjoying being 170 lbs...the thinnest I've been since I was a kid. But I was also enjoying eating and my weight went up to 179. I know, I know, its just 9 lbs and many of us would be very excited to be at 179... But this AM, after the person Im dating told me, as nicely as a person can say such a thing (I love you and want you to be the healthy vibrant person you should be) that they are no longer attracted to me sexually because of the weight gain. Of course they offered to diet with me and they are not breaking up...but t…

I'm new to this group-I had my surgery on August 28th had my first fill in September and just last week had my second fill. I'm now at 3cc, I was excited to my 2nd fill hoping I would finally get close to the green zone-not happening;where as I'm not satisfied Ever!!!!. I weigh my food, don't eat or drink 30 minutes before and after meals. I lost 30lbs the first month and nothing since.I work out 30-60 minutes everyday. I really would like some info as to how soon I can get another fill to help me with feeling full as they say I should and not pace.watching the clock to see as to my next meal. Any help would be greatly appreciated.......

Hi Everyone- It has been on my mind lately to start a new post as a positive, motivational, and inspiring thread. I have noticed several threads lately where those considering surgery are asking if it is 'possible' to lose 100 pounds with the band. My answer to that is...Yes, it definitely is. Many say it is not realistic. But I have watched the amazing progress of LBT members on the board, and believe it is not only realistic, it is happening to many of our LBT members all around us. And for those that aren't quite there yet, many members are extremely close. As time goes by with lapband increasing in popularity and the number of LBT members growing everyday, I believe…

Hey guys. Just a quick question, I had my lap band this time last year. It has been very successful and I am now at my goal weight. Went from 120kgs to 63 kgs. I have had two fills my last being about 6 or 7 months ago. I do feel hungry a lot but I have lost my excess weight before through will power and through a lot of exercise. This seems to be the same I have lost my weight partly to the lapband but more I feel due to exercise and nutrition. I am at the stage where I am not exercising as much and have put some of the weight back on. I am going to see Kevin Dolan my surgeon in a couple of months and was going to ask him for a fill, do you think he will give me o…

The surgery did not help me at all I am sick all the time. When I eat i throw up. Seems like the food gets stuck in my chest seems like it don't want to go down. I seen the Dr. he ordered test and x-ray and he did not find anything but he told me that he wanted to do surgery again. Another surgery but if there is nothing wrong why another surgery ??? I have been scared to do so because when I had the surgery the first time I went into Cardiac Arrest but something is truly wrong and seem like I have not lost a pound and I like eat 1 time a day because when the throwing up starts it hurts my chest and I can hardly get my breathe. HELP !!!!!!!!!!!!

Here is info will come in handy when thinking about fills/adjustments. Great information. I have seen this information before and it is really good. How to Tell When You Are Perfectly Adjusted You are losing 1-2 pounds per week. If you are not losing 1-2 pounds per week: A. You may need an eating adjustment 1. Are you eating 60 grams of Protein a day 2. Are you eating 25 grams of Fiber 3. Are you avoiding all liquid calories a. Soup can be sign of “soft calorie syndrome” b. Alcohol contains a lot of calories – 7 calories per gram (1) It’s also a stomach irritant c. fruit juice is just sugar Water 4. Are you making healthy food choices from a wide variety…

Hi my name is Chaya and I am new here. I just had my band surgery 18 days ago and my doctor wasn't very specific about what I should eat he was very general and basic said drink liquids till u feel u can it mushies and then eat mushies till y feel u can eat solids. So in the last few days I have started eating solids. The problem I am having is I have started feeling hungry. Is this normal and is because I haven't had the band filled yet? I have my first post op appointment only in 3 weeks! Will it be different then? Thank you in advance for reading this and answering me.

Hi. I just needed to come somewhere and vent. I'm feeling so discouraged. I was banded in May 2013. Almost 7 months later, I am up to 9.5 cc in an 11 cc band and I still feel very little restriction. I have only lost 20lbs so far. I do my best to eat healthy and exercise, but the weight is not coming off. I still can/have to eat as much as usual to get and stay full. On the up side, when I do get full, I tend to stay fuller longer (about 3 1/2 hours). I have the REALIZE band and I have heard that it can take longer to reach your sweet spot with a REALIZE Band, but this seems crazy since it is almost full. I don't know if I should continue getting fills or just give up. An…

I'm sure some of you know Skymoon1982- aka Melanie from YouTube. This is EXACTLY the reason why I didn't hesitate last week and IMMEDIATELY went to the ER when I got "stuck" while drinking coffee after an aggressive fill. I was so scared my band would slip. I feel for her, but she waited TOO DAMN LONG. Now she had no band.

I was banded 2 years ago. this past summer I had a slip so the band was emptied, I was put on liquids, and my slip/pouch corrected itself and it moved back into place. since then, the pain/pressure I experience when not chewing well enough, braving bread/chicken, etc is much, much lower. its almost as low as my belly button and radiates through the areas to each side, its hard to pinpoint exactly where. its hard to breathe and very difficult to bring the offending gunk up, whereas the pressure used to be in my chest and I could bring up food pretty easily if I was feeling stuck. my doctor assures me the band is situated in the correct spot and while I know the band itsel…

I had lap band in May of 2013. My best friend since nursery school had gastric bypass in July of 2013. This was our journey together. There is such comfort of having a friend that is exploring this journey with you. Someone who tells you like it is, who doesn't play games, who is as real as it gets. She passed away on 9/8/13 due to complications from WLS. I'm lost. I'm heartbroken. She's the only person (other than my husband and immediate family) that knew I had lap band. She was the one person that I confided in about everything. The one person who "got it." She was my sanity. The one who broke through the bull ****, could talk about the real issues of being fat, …

Which did you have to close lapband incisions? Which leave the least scarring?

What is PBing and Stuck? I feel like I may be stuck but idk what it means. Help please!!

Was banded may of last year. Two weeks ago I had my band emptied and have to go back next week to check that all is well. Praying it is because I need it. I have been eating everything in creation

Needed so badly...

I was just diagnosed and put on Abilify. I love it! It makes me feel awesome, better than I've felt in years. The only problem? It makes me so super, super hungry!! I've lost so much weight so this hunger is really bothering me. I'm watching everything I eat and so far I'm doing fine but I'm scared I will start slipping and gain some of my weight back:( Any tips on coping with this?

My band has slipped and I'm going to consult with a new doc next week for "fixes". I had a fluoro done Tuesday and when I asked him how to fix, he simply said, "call my office, make an appointment & we will discuss". I admit I was a little alarmed and started asking - Sleeve, fix this band, blah, blah blah. What I'm looking to hear is people's experience with a slipped band=gained weight 40lbs+ for me, and what the outcome was. I'm not uncomfortable, hungry really - I kind of just eat because it sounds good. I have no fluid in the band now. Please share your experiences - good, bad and indifferent. I do "lift" for a living and one of my concerns is recovery tim…

Has anyone bought this program, and if so what did you think?

Happy Hump Day everyone! It's past noon here in NY, so we are the down slide into the weekend!!! Wooo HOOO now if I can only stay awake! The cold weather is really taking it out of me! Inside it's warm, almost too warm, and I am falling asleep as I thaw out!! Day dreaming of Hawaii and walks on the beach....snorkeling with the fishes and not busting out of my swim suit. What's motivating you today?

I had my surgery in July 2013 and am sad to say I've only lost 20 pounds . I know for sure I'm not doing my part like I should be doing, but I also haven't been able to have one fill since my surgery. My doctor's office told me AFTER surgery that they don't do fills on Fridays, and since I go to college 4 hours away from my doctors office, it's pretty much impossible to be there on a day other than Friday. How hard is it to switch doctors for fills/aftercare? There's one closer to my parents house that does fills on Friday and also has once a month saturday fills, and also a TR office only 1 1/2 from my school that I could do a weekday appointment at. Can you do fills at …

Those who are currently one week or so after LB surgery, please post items you are eating. I have a list of liquids and creamier liquids but just need some brands, ideas, etc so I know it's ok. Currently 5 days after and I have Water, very little milk with Ensure High Protein shake, maybe two bites of sugar free Jello and I feel full. This morning I felt the first official feelings of being hungry since 12/6. I sometimes forget when I wake up and catching myself thinking I'll make eggs and toast. I also get really thirsty if it's hot in the house and then realize I can't just drink a bottle of water.

Hi everyone! I'm new to the Forum, and i'm here seeking a bit of guidance. I have been lurking for a couple of weeks as I have been trying to decide if the Lap Band is the thing for me...and i have decided it is!! So I figured I would stop being rude and sneaky and introduce myself! Now i'm not going to lie...i'm SCARED TO DEATH. I'm a 46 years old female, and took a job 6 years ago that requires that i sit for 12.5 hours a day with only 2 15 minute brakes and not being allowed to leave the room (or take a walk). The sedentary lifestyle has unfortunately caused me to gain about 60 lbs in 6 years...i've exhausted myself on a NUMBER of diets, and just CAN'T seem to g…

Continues to lure me to my doom. Despite the warning of Mistress Band I continue to fail, when I should be finished, there is that one last bite or two that looks so lonely sitting on my plate. Too small to save, but such a waste to throw it in the trash, I give in and it pushes me past my limit and into the promised realm of discipline from my mistress. All to no avail, since I end up offering it to the watery grave of the cold white throne.