dishdiva

anyone know who is considered to be among "the best" VSG surgeons in the U.S. -- in terms of number of sleeves performed, success with patients, low complications? it's pretty clear from researching who is among the best in Mexico, but was just wondering about anyone who stands out in the U.S. thanks.

I'm sorry to hear that. However, there IS hope. Check out Drs in Charlotte or Atlanta. You could also fly to Mexico where the surgeons are more experienced. If you are not comfortable with that, it's my understanding that surgeons closer to the border -- in Houston, for example, are also fairly reasonable. You should be able to find a good surgeon, with hospital costs included in the U.S. for about $15,000. Yes, that's a car...but certainly not those ridiculous prices in AVL.

Lora: I hope this encourages you! I had band removed in 2006 after second slip. I'd lost almost 70 pounds. After the band came out, I was released from food jail, because as you know, Water may or may not make you barf with a slipped band. Being out of food jail was so great, I gained about 15 pounds in two minutes. Took a cold, hard look at everything I'd been through and asked myself -- "do you really want to be back where you started in a matter of months (250 pounds)?" NO. I increased my cardio exercise, worked out with a trainer, and like everyone here says, Protein, protein, protein. We all know diets don't work. I approached it as, "this is how I eat now." Not only was I able to lose the 15 pounds I gained in two minutes, I lost another 20 and maintained that weight loss for two years. Then, in my case, menopause, hormone replacement therapy (no longer needed), low thyroid and honestly, the end result of 30 years of yo-yo dieting, kicked in. I've gained 10 pounds a year for two years. But I'm proud to say I still have the good eating habits (mostly!) I started after losing the band. Because I'm feeling the effects of the excess weight -- which are harsher because I'm eight years older than I was at my highest weight when the band was first placed, I too am exploring owning new tool through VSG. Best of luck to you. Choose to be kind to your body after what it's been through with good food choices. And if the time comes for the tool of weight loss surgery, then go for it! You deserve it!

I became a huge fan of Protein when i lost weight after band removal. (No VSG, but hoping soon). Had protein at every meal; reduced carbs, low sugar. Snacks were protein. When I tracked my protein on online food diaries, I actually get close to 50-60 grams a day, sometimes more. Lindsey is absolutely correct -- protein does help you stay full longer. It's also better for all-around metabolism, cell growth, keeping muscle and losing fat, etc. They are "good calories" as long as they're lean. Even some Proteins with some fat are good for you -- cheeses, nuts. In moderation, of course! (LOL, like I eat cheese and nuts in moderation.) I'd worked with a nutritionist for many years before I test drove the lap band. (Bad three year experience) She always was pushing proteins. SO, eat your proteins! P.S. One of the things my nutritionist told me -- and I've subsequently read similar things -- is that you need .07 grams of protein for every pound you weigh. That's a lot of protein!

This is all so VALIDATING to read. Past few days I've been thinking, "well, I DID have problems with the band, I was in that small percentage that had complications. Gosh darn my bad luck.... I didn't think I'D be one of those " which leads me to... "well, if I had such a problem with the LapBand, then I'll probably be one of the ones that gets complications from VSG...." I know that's negative talk and I'm trying to be positive. VSG revision from band wasn't an option when my band was removed in 2006. It was RNY or DS... and those just didn't seem like options for me and I'd lost 60 pounds. Was never even discussed that I recall. I had been so miserable with reflux from slip(s) -- I just wanted it out and be done. With the jump start from the band, I lost more weight, went from a size 22 at banding in 2003 to a 10/12 without the band in 2008! Now, even with good food choices and exercise, the stinking weight is piling on. (20 pounds+) Menopause, metabolism -- whatever. I'm tired of trying to figure it out. I AM DOING IT! As I told my surgeon, it would be ridiculous for me to wait until I'm a size 22 again. Let's Go! I'm nervous about the scar tissue from the $%^& band -- surgeon didn't seem concerned. I also had an incisional hernia from tummy tuck (long story, my fault from overdoing it, actually) so that was fifth abdominal surgery in five years...and now, here I go again. I'm scared, but excited. Like a lot of you, am only sharing with a few people I'm close to. Too much trouble. Too much judgment. Who needs it? I'll tell the people who will give me the most support! Best of success to ALL OF US -- and say a prayer for me. No date yet, but hoping in the next month.

I keep reading that there aren't any long-term studies on the success, complication rate, weight loss maintenance etc. of the VSG procedure. When I first got my LapBand in 2003, there were some reports and studies, mainly from overseas, because the band had only recently received FDA approval in the US. After the band gained in popularity, by 2006-07, we started seeing on Lap Band Talk an increase in reports about the number of slips, erosions, etc. (To that point, as is often the case, more successful bandsters or those with few or no complications tended to post less.) It looks like some of the earliest VSG patients posting here were 2008? If you're still visiting the site, it would be fantastic if you could check in for those of us considering the procedure. 2009 and 2010 feedback would be great too. I'm just trying to get a sense of expectations two-three years out -- and beyond, if possible. Success? Complications? What you wish you know now that you didn't know then (when you first had procedure). Thank you so much. Your experience and expertise, as you know, is invaluable.

Have no idea -- but here goes: could your pouch being getting a little stretch? Also, I've had some funky little spasms from my lap band removal -- I've been told the scar tissue can just create a feeling of some sort. I've also heard of "phantom pain." If Pepcid is helping, it sounds like its heartburn/acid related. I'd find a good bariatric surgeon where you are now located and schedule consult -- rather than an internist or GP who doesn't know anything about your procedure. Two years ago, I had a umbilical hernia repair -- you're born with them...and that sometimes has little spasms. Good luck and get it checked out.

Greetings from a white liar! I told very very people when I had band surgery -- THEN, I didn't tell them when it slipped. THEN, I didn't have to tell them when I had it removed... because the haters would have said, "told ya." But guess what, I kicked some butt and worked that band while I had it -- then worked myself when I didn't. So when people would say about weight loss -- "HOW DID YOU DO IT?" (this will be your biggest problem) you can honestly say... the old fashioned way -- calories in/calories out. Or, "you know, diet and exercise." Sometimes, I might be honest with someone I barely knew if I thought my experience would be beneficial. I didn't tell some of my best friends. I did tell some people after the surgery. I GET it why you don't tell -- whether it be family and/or friends. There are judgments about obesity, there are judgements about WLS. Regardless of THEIR size. No one knows until you've been there. So, hold your head high (I'd used vague hiatal hernia/bad indigestion), be proud. Know it is YOUR businesss. And YOUR truth. And guess what, now that I'm bandless, I'm thinking about VSG and maybe I'll tell some people...and maybe I won't. It's our body. It's our decision. We live it.

Moodiboo and Shine, please keep us posted on how it's going with your friend, Moodiboo, and with you Shine! It's very important for prospective sleevers to know these things going in the door. There are many great stories, but people need to know there are the few with serious complications. God Bless and here's to healing. Banded 8/03 Revision 3/05 (slipped) Removed 3/06 (slipped again)

I agree, Donali! Banded Class of '03. Slipped. Revised. Slipped. Removed. How's your VSG experience been?

I was banded in 2003 and lost about 60 pounds. It slipped once; revised in 04. Slipped again and had it removed in 06. Think slips were from over-fills and testing the band limits too often. Quickly gained 20 pounds after removal. After three surgeries, I sure didn't want to have it end with me at original weight! I exercised, ate a healthy diet and lost 30 pounds. In the past two years, I've slowly re-gained 20 pounds. My doctors say it's aging/menopause and I have to cut back MORE and exercise more. It's sooo frustrating. SO: I contacted my surgeon to explore possibility of re-band. I'm scared I will have same experience, but hopeful the product, procedure and information have improved since original banding seven years ago. I'm worried about scar tissue; I also had tummy tuck to remove excess skin and am not sure how that will impact. Anyone know? My insurance won't cover so this is a big decision, assuming surgeon says it's viable. Feedback from re-banded and tummy tucks re-banded greatly appreciated!

I had my band removed in...2006...After starting to gain weight post removal, I worked hard to lose 20 pounds. After maintaining for two years, I had a tummy tuck at 182. I was about a size 10-12, but in retrospect, I wish I had lost another 20 pounds first. That would have given a little wiggle room in case I gained a few. Last year (1 year post tummy tuck -- which I LOVE the results) for various reasons, I gained about 10-15 pounds. It is awful because the fat isn't distributed normally -- I have a flat stomach and a BIG butt. Plus went to my back...anywhere but my stomach. I'm now working hard to lose the weight back. My goal is to get back to my TT weight of 182. So, I wish I'd lost more. That said, a friend (no band) had a TT and lost 30 pounds after. For whatever it's worth. Good luck to you. Elizabeth Banded 8/2003 Slipped 2004 Repaired 2005 Slipped again 2006 Removed 2006 Banded weight: 250+ Lost 60 pounds w/band. Regained 10-15 after removal Lost 20 flying solo Current weight 193 Long "report," I know. I can't remember it's been so long.

Yeah, the drain things just sound nasty to me. The doctor I did consult with for TT uses two. My sister had one when she had hers. Harley Nana, you are a rock star! Continued good health on your recovery. Elizabeth

since i had my band removed in 06 (slip), i've hardly visited LBT, but i'm so glad i did!! the great news is i've continued to lose weight, the hard, old-fashioned SLOW way. i still have another 20 i'd like to shed. i had a consult with a plastic surgeon last week who confirmed that i have some excess skin and could benefit from TT. she also said that losing another 20 wouldn't impact the results of the TT. that lots of patients are motivated after their TT and lose more weight. several friends with TT's have confirmed this. NOW, another thing she said...what i thought was FAT and easily remedied with lipo on my upper arms is SKIN...and only an upper arm lift would fix...and even then not completely. also wouldn't benefit from lipo on fat thighs...same thing...SKIN. ( i work out a lot). so that's a bummer. Anyone? anyway, plan to move ahead with TT, although i'm kinda scared...recovery's long. i had three surgeries b/c of band (one to place, one b/c of slip, third to remove b/c of slip #3) and don't look forward to another...Anyway, I'm rambling. Anyone with thoughts/comments, etc. on above -- would appreciate it. will let you know when i have a date. good luck to all. Elizabeth -65

I haven't visited you guys here in FOREVER! I had my band removed in 2006 after two slips and after initially gaining back 20 (give or take) pounds, I decided I would not have gone through all of this only to end up back where I started -- 100 pounds overweight! I slowly, over two years, averaging a loss of a miserable one-half pound a week, lost 40 pounds. Quit dieting. Changed my eating habits (less carbs and sugar, more protein) for life and lots of exercise. I have maintained the loss for a year. I have no regrets about getting the band -- it jump started my weight loss (and gets credit for 20 pounds gone) and gave me a glimpse of what life is like without being so overweight! I know it's obnoxious to hear this, but if I can do it, anyone can! There is life after lap band removal. GO GET 'EM. Elizabeth lap band placed 8/03 revision due to slip 3/05 removed due to slip 2 3/06 total weight loss, give or take a few: 65 pounds...20 to goal. YAY ME!

Mrs. P -- That is such a shame about your experience. I live in ATL and I know Piedmont has no bariatric program so they wouldn't make my list for an ER visit. (even though it was likely a matter of geography -- and it IS a good hospital with a good reputation). Your move to Atlanta Medical because it had a bariatric program seemed logical. I still think you should complain to a medical board, the CEO of Tenet (which owns Atlanta Medical) and the state health division that oversees hospital care in Georgia. Some of the best surgeons in the country are in our area -- and even though an ER visit was required -- perhaps a call to one of them with a recommendation on what to do would have been helpful. Dr. Champion comes to mind. Also, Dr. Ponce in Dalton has done more band surgeries than anyone in the U.S., I think. (I had three surgeries and my best experience by far was Emory Dunwoody) Know none of that is helpful to you now -- but am sharing that info for anyone else in our part of the world with future emergencies. (Think they wouldn't "touch you" because your band was done outside the US?) Highly recommend establishing a relationship with a local band doctor. Glad things are better for you. God bless. Elizabeth 8-28-03 revision/slippage 3-05 removed/slippage 3-06

i personally suck at WW... must be some rebellion from having gone in my childhood...i tend to eat more! for me, limiting sugar and carbs is what is helping a lot with maintenance and sloooooow weight loss... but sooo many people are successful, and that's something. and I bless my band for giving me a good 50 pound start... going into a diet program such as WWneeding to lose 80-90 pounds would have been an invite to fail... The boost the band gave me made the misery of the slippage (almost) worth it. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress!

any updates? i was so frustrated after gaining 20 pounds in the first three months after having my band removed, i was ready for any re-routing, stapling, removing -- or whatever they might want to do to my body to get the weight loss bus moving again... then i realized -- i've ALREADY been through enough with my band surgeries. (in, revision, out). i know what to do and how to do this...i need to at least give it a try. i've been exercising 5-6 week and limiting carbs. i quickly lost five pounds...after that i've averaged only one-half of a pound a week....if that's not discouraging, i don't know what is... no wonder we all quit! but i persevere and the good news is, while some weeks i stay stuck, my downward trend continues.. AND, what's great is this weight, because i'm doing it in a more healthy way -- doesn't come right back on if i stray for a day or two...and all the band weight would come right back... i still have a long way to go -- want to lose another 50 pounds. went to my nutritionist recently complaining about the slowness...she said, "what's your rush." that kind of made me think. and, one final thing... i have to say the 10+ pounds I've lost somehow seems like so much more of a victory than some of my band weight lost. NOT to take away from the effort that's required to make the band work. SO...if you decide not to go the surgical route, as of today, remember you DO have it in you to manage the weight! Don't forget that. Good luck! Elizabeth banded 08-28-03 revised 03-10-05 removed 03-13-06

think you'll have a tough time getting the "how many" except perhaps by researching boards... the only groups that probably keep track are the makers of the lap band -- Inamed and the other one -- and I'm not sure how willing they'd be to release those numbers. Which likely don't include Mexico Docs. Maybe your surgeon can help.

Like Sue said -- complications. Slippage (twice) in my case. Thanks for the hugs and encouragement. I've stayed on the path, so I think that's saying something. I just have to accept the fact that doing what I'm doing, I'm going to average the tiny, discouraging fact of losing only about one-half a pound a week. But like someone said, that's not going in the opposite direction, at least. Take care, everyone!

Wanting to check in and see how some of us who didn't revise to other surgeries are doing since band was removed?? I've lost 10 pounds of the 20 re-gained in the two months after my band was removed in March. I do 60 mins of cardio --yes, 60 -- almost every day and average 1800 calories or less... that got the 10 pounds off...but plateaued for about a month...it SUX... to be putting so much effort into with no results... NO WONDER I quit so many times before and ended up obese! On the advice of my former nutritionist, who I called for advice on kick-starting things here, my doctor put me on Metformin, which apparently helps the body process glucose/carbs more efficiently rather than storing them as fat (haven't been eating many carbs as it is, based on their advice)... Nutritionist said she had clients who had a hard time losing weight and went on it because of glucose intolerance and started losing weight when they weren't losing before... but didn't help me at all... Really discouraged, and seeing that discouragement trickle into my eating habits. The old "why bother" head games. It's just sooooo hard to stay motivated when you have no progress... My son is going away to his dad's for two weeks and thought that might be a good time to try Jenny Craig or similar program and see what happens...since I won't have to cook for him... (Weight Watchers is always a bust for me.) Anyone lost weight after being de-banded? Maintaining even? It just kills me that I'm still 10 pounds heavier than I was the day my band was removed. I could be 10 pounds less. (Based on losing 10 of the 20 I quickly gained back.) Trying not to focus on the #$%^& numbers on the scale and just eat right and feel good. But, it would help to have progress!! Advice, comments and encouragment welcome!! Elizabeth

...and the authors name of Feeding the Hungry Heart and When food is Love is Geneen Roth. Think she has a website. Try geneenroth.com dish

All I can tell you is I had my slipped band re-positioned and it slipped again. Not sure why. However, I would INSIST they go slow on fills. Had it removed in March. Sorry, not what you want to hear, I know. My acid reflux was HORRENDOUS. The second I was awake after having the band removed, I knew it was no longer a problem. And I haven't had an episode since. Best wishes for success, Elizabeth

I had the band for less than a year before it slipped. I was getting along just fine once the fill was removed and waited about six months before having it re-positioned. Of course, I thought I'd do everything possible to avoid "bad band behavior" that would perhaps cause a slip again. But an over-aggressive fill (I think) resulted in a second slip. Had it removed in March. Do I wish I'd had it removed after the first slip? No. Everything happens for a reason. Do I wish I'd gone the GeezerSue route and converted to a gastric bypass....sometimes. But, I am working hard and I can tell you when I'm successful the old-fashioned way (exercise and healthy eating), it will feel like a greater accomplishment than anything lost with the band. Sounds like you're still banded, D, so hang in there, take good care of yourself and your band and best wishes for continued success. May your surgeries be over with!

Definitely would be interested in hearing about how Jenny C. works out for you. Soon after being de-banded, I went to WW and quit after the first week and gaining five pounds. Points plan just gives me a little too MUCH freedom. I did have success with Jenny Craig after I had my son -- 16 years ago!!!!!!! So, I've thought about it. And, hey, it worked for Kirstie Alley. As she says on the cover of this week's People magazine, "If I can do it, anyone can." Arrgh. Elizabeth