Idlewood4

I have mixed feelings about the band. I had it for just over 7 years, and lost and maintained a 50 pound weight loss. I never got to my goal weight, but that was more my fault than the bands. However, I had 3 port revisions, and finally had a slip in April 2013 and had to have it removed. With the band, I had some real problems, but I'm also grateful for that 50 pound loss. I'm just starting the process to get a sleeve. My doctor wanted me to wait 6 months till the irritation/inflammation from the band settled down.
So the bottom line is that I would probably join a class action suit against the band. I had a lot of co-pays, and a lot of time missed from work. I also had nasty acid reflux and a terrible time taking my meds cause of swallowing difficulty.

Excellent article timed perfectly for my personal situation. I'm 10 weeks out, and am relying heavily on my support groups, and tools to keep me on track. It would be so easy to fall back into old patterns. Once I stopped logging (justified of course by I'm eating the same things anyway), I stopped weighing and measuring, sneaking in occasional crap..... It's a dark path, and so easy to fall back into the old patterns. If it wasn't for my support team, it would be another failed attempt.... With the team, I'm logging and accountable, and mindful. I can't say enough how mindful helps me. I hear my nutritionist's voice in my head, "dense Protein first, veggies next, fruit/whole grains if any room left. My nurse's voice, "exercise, Vitamins... ". My psych's voice, "why am I doing this to myself? What do I want" And finally my own voice, in how proud I am of the weight I have lost, and how I don't want to stop here, I want to keep moving in the right direction, for me, my family, my friends........

My personal experience is to avoid the bad carbs. As soon as I started to add them back in, all I wanted to do was eat white toast with lots of butter, and other useless foods. It's a struggle now to stick with the veggies, fruits and whole grains. Those bad carbs have my name all over them. It's so easy to go back down the bad path. Every day I wake up determined not to give in to those cravings. I'm only 10 weeks out, and wish I'd never had that first bite of non whole grain Pasta. It starts the cycle....... Again, this is only my personal experience, but it scares the crap out of me how easy it is to fall back into bad patterns.

OMG! I don't need a seatbelt extension on the plane anymore! Woooooo Hoooooo!!!! And I fit in the bulkhead seats now fffnnnn Yea!

I have a group of online horse friends... all lifelong athletic and trim ladies. They were thrilled for me BUT have zero understanding of the ups and downs and emotional journey. My feelings were hurt until I realized that they had no reason to understand it. They had always been trim. They were like "crap, get over it, nobody cares". Then I just reset expectations. I share my joys and sorrows HERE and basically don't talk to most people in my real life or horse life about it unless they ask me. Even then, I stay reserved about it. Why, because they just don't care. They don't want me to be depressed, they just want me to get on with living life. Being normal size is not something in their world is worth celebrating, know what i mean?
I had a long term relationship. I had lost 125# and he hadn't said a word. Not a negative word, not a positive word. Now that hurt and then I realized he didn't care either because we really weren't still in a relationship, i just didn't know it yet. So, I share that so you know it could be worse....

Wow. Thank you all for your advice and support. I needed the perspective of people who understand and have experience with this. I have to say this journey is more interesting than I ever could have imagined.
My husband is overweight. I understand that he is envious and having a hard time with this. I would probably be the same way if roles were reversed and I will have to try to be more sympathetic. It was interesting at work today. One of the janitors walked in and stopped to compliment me. I couldn't help it with as low as I was feeling after last night I burst into tears. I thanked him and told him how much his compliment meant to me. Poor guy. I think he thought I was crazy. I am going to embrace those compliments and keep my thoughts to myself at home.
Madame Reverie I really appreciate the time you took with your lengthy post. So much good advice. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

I know this is going to be tough, because you have all this excitement and new found zest for life.. But in order to minimise the reactions.. which appear to be all negative... you're going to have to limit how much you squeal and bounce around with excitement.
If you can stand in your husbands shoes: Is he overweight himself? Is he seeing these massive changes and wondering how he fits in to this any more? Is he being a bit childish and resentful, because nothing this exciting is happening to him? Is his ego taking a bit of a bashing? Is he fundamentally fearful he's going to lose you and resentful that YOU are the one who changed your family's dynamic?
Your children's shoes: Are they just bored to tears of hearing about it? Are they, too, a bit miffed that they haven't got anything this exciting going on in their lives? Are they feeding off the negativity coming from your husband because they, too, might recognise that YOU are the one who changed what they knew and upset the applecart because of the change in family dynamic?
You have every right to want to sing from the hill tops - but a little appreciation of how they are viewing things, might be useful. It might not change their opinions - but by talking to them gently, attempting to understand their position, you might be able to temper your enthusiasm for your new path (which might make them feel like you're leaving them behind) and try and find ways to integrate them and make things more inclusive.
Humans don't like change. None of us do. When we choose to make a change in the form of this surgery, we're already 3/4 of the way to embracing all the good things that happen. Rarely we look at all the potential negatives. I would hazard a guess your husband is resentful. Your kids are bored and reacting to your husbands negativity. The friends are probably a little jealous of the excitement in your life, because they don't have the same in theirs. It would be interesting to hear if your friends are there to support you in your current difficulties with your husband.... But, and before you try broaching that subject with them...
All of this boils down to people who are sitting their thinking 'what about me?'. I know this is crapadoodle, because everyone feels they have the right to be happy and the right to be supported and damnit, the right to be excited! Sadly, most people are a little bit selfish and whilst they're seeing you happier by the day, they're not feeling so happy. They probably feel that they need more of your attentions and sympathies for their circumstances..
Try talking to all of them. Don't mention your surgery at all. Ask them how THEY are doing. If they become animated and engaged, you know that was the problem. If they don't, then you might be looking for something else. With the husband? You might want to tread carefully with that one and not mention the surgery for a while... As awful as it sounds, do a bit of ego soothing for him and see if this garners a positive reaction. If it does.. Then you know what it was.
Sad as it is, you might have to keep your excited Carlton Banks dancing in your smaller trousers in your room, just to yourself and for a little while. Just until the waters are calmed and their reserves of emotional generosity are topped up enough to give you what you are after and what you fundamentally deserve.

My program through Salem Hospital, Salem MA has a $400. program fee. It wasn't covered by insurance either. I had to pay it before my first visit with the nurse and nutritionist. It covers all their visits, a 4 week pre surgery program, a 4 week post surgery program and monthly support groups. I've see the nurse and nutritionist monthly since July, had my surgery in December. We can go back to the post surgery program anytime we like (I'm still going, it helps keep me on track. It also includes a 3 month membership at the hospital gym. The hours of the gym are very limited though. They are open 8-7 Monday thru Friday and Saturday mornings 7-10. I haven't been able to take advantage of it because of my job. Although it was painful paying the $400. up front, it was well worth it to help keep me on track.

Bariatric patients should embrace both of these powerful tools to enjoy long term post surgery success, with food and lifestyle choices, that are faced with well into the future.



The Importance of Behavior Modification and the Role of Personal Accountability


As a bariatric patient care professional, I encourage the following mindset with patients from all surgery time frames and life situations:
Lifelong commitment to pursuing a healthier lifestyle,
Compliance to the recommendations of behavior modification, and
Addressing and grappling with the challenges that are life long

Self-awareness and personal accountability are two areas that are not so obvious when assessing one’s own role in the struggle with obesity. We are aware of genetics, family history, medical co-morbid conditions and life stress that impact each patient’s history of their own struggle with being obese. So how do patients obtain the necessary tools to support the physical presence of bariatric surgery? Through engaging in a solution to the past disappointments of weight loss efforts that are already so familiar.
Many patients report the path to insight and reflection often reveals mental justifications, old bargaining behaviors and frustrations that fuel negativity and inappropriate attachments to and uses of food. Although it is easy to lay blame for many things in life, self-deception only facilitates the repetitive cycle of anger and disappointment. In the professional arena, we often discuss the addictive quality of food and how food has a parallel function in the same manner that other behaviors do, i.e. shopping, drugs and alcohol, sex, gambling and the like. The need for emotional escape and mental distance can encourage us to use food as “anesthesia”, a way of shutting down and shutting out the world around us. We are careful to watch for those cross-addictive behaviors following bariatric surgery and recommend supportive resources across the board. These services provide a safe and secure way to investigate and discuss personal issues that are relevant and central to the patient’s path to success following surgery.
The role of a supportive aftercare program or community of patients, even individual therapy, is a vital component to future success and and be a valuable tool on the road to recovery, helping to smooth the transition and adaptation to new food related behaviors and lifestyle choices. The ability for patient’s to share a parallel experience and be able to “relate” to a certain stage of recovery, or a certain type of struggle with others, will provide an opportunity for engagement and bonding with others. On a therapeutic level, individual counseling can expand one’s degree of awareness and promote a greater sense of personal accountability, once the roots of old behaviors and attitudes have been identified and deciphered. A patient can then restructure their responses to daily challenges that may have been inadequate prior to surgery.
As patients walk the road of recovery from obesity, while engaging in physical as well as emotional healing, the element of discovery and pride is tangible and even contagious. Patients will enjoy improved health, greater energy and a strong positive attitude of self worth; what follows can be a heightened sense of calm, balance and overall peace of mind. Once personal discoveries have been made, individually or in a group setting, bariatric patients can feel a greater sense of control in planning the path in front of them. Commitment and compliance are two key elements that promote post surgery success. As patients employ newfound tools and wisdom on a consistent basis, quality of life can be infinitely better as well as profoundly rewarding.

Awesome! A lot of hard work on your part, and it's paying off. Did your shoe size change? Mine went from 8 1/2 Wide to 7 1/2 Regular. I never even knew my feet were fat!

Thanks ya'll. Got 2 liters pumped back in me and waiting for the doc. I will keep you updated.

Stephg, praying for you.
I got sleeved 12/9/13. Surgeon said the number 1 reason people are readmitted is dehydration and to keep the Water flowing. We're told not to use straws. I had my post op followup at 10 days. Surgeon said I could move to soft foods. I had a 1/2 scrambled egg and it was delicious. I never knew an egg could taste so good. At 3 weeks nut appointment she said we could eat anything nutritional. Get Protein and veggies and fruit in that order. No coffee, caffeine tea, alcohol. soda, carbonation. No liquids 1/2 hour before or after foods. It's full time job keeping track of it all once the Vitamins are added in. Sugarfree popsicles are my salvation.
Hang in there, and let us know how you are doing. Keep that Water going.

glad you are feeling better... my NUT didn't want us on carbs for the first year... or as minimal as possible as there is little nutritional value... I have one "real" carb once a week, when we go out to dinner, I have one of their little rolls that are so yummy and warm... this is my "treat" and I look forward to it... I savor it and eat it S L O W L Y... otherwise those kind of carbs are GONE from my diet, along with carbonated beverages, regular sugar, alcohol, and a few others that have zero benefits for my new life style ... good luck and take care, this will be but a memory, very, very, soon!

We were also told no straws. I would really take it easy on liquids a few days and "rest". We were told at 3 weeks we could have mushies, and to add Protein Powder if it was mashed potatoes. I have found that I am not interested in the puddings and mashed potatoes I bought. Since we have diabetic issues, I made a decision to keep carbs and sweets out of my life and out of my house because I am so excited to make this new change in my life. Good luck and make wise decisions!!! Hope you feel better soon.

As of today, I'm in 'onederland'....
That's right, people. I weigh under 200lbs.
I think the last time that happened, I had just been born.
Yippppppeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!

Saturday I took my grand daughter to a market to look for some cheese and fresh produce..On the way out I spied a stall that made curly fries. I told my hubby I would get some as a treat and share them with him and Amelia....
Well the plate was loaded about 12 in. high. i had to place a napkin over the chips just to carry them. My hubby said no way we need another plate. So he put some on another plate and I salted them...Then I salted the remaining chips on the other plate.....
I felt terrible, I knew I loved these and went ahead and got them knowing they were a trigger food for me in the past....Oh well I thought everyone needs a treat now and then...We rushed them to the car so they would stay hot and my grand daughter got the second plate.I was sure she would not be able to eat that much....I was wrong.....
My hubby took the other plate and moved it toward me. i looked like a kid in a candy store...They smelled amazing. I took 1 flat piece and popped it into my mouth and almost instantly got this pain in my chest....I deep fried potato piece made me feel sick....I pushed the plate away and said no way..not going to work out.....
As I watched my family eating the fries I said without even thinking.." Today I am glad I have my sleeve " My hubby looked at me and he said good for you girl!!!!!!
Saved by the sleeve!!!!!!!!!

I am a band to sleeve revision. The band works for a lot of people. Bandista and Carolina Girl are examples of successful bandsters.
You ultimately have to do what you and your doctor believe is the best procedure for you. I had my band for almost three years before I started having problems.
I was a compliant patient and followed my pre and post-op diet to the "T". Things happen sometimes and I was one of the people for whom the band did not work through no fault of my own.
I have to say since I have had my sleeve surgery, I have not had one instance of food being stuck and have no heart burn any more which was a constant in my life for more than three years before sleeve surgery in October.
Good luck to you in your decision and your weight loss journey.

I had the lapband and it was slow and steady to get my fills every two months. I too thought the way you do now.
However after years of going through so much and never getting the sweet spot of fills then leaking and kinked lapband. My spirit was broken I was lead to believe I had done something wrong. It took awhile to get enough strengh in my heart to fight for me and get what it took to get this lapband out of me and the sleeve done.
When I woke up two weeks ago from having the revision surgery I felt great! I was walking the hallways and told the staff and doctors this time my surgery felt like I had Cadillac treatment vs Pinto treatment in level of care and how i felt as a patient. My stomach was flatter then when i had the lapband. I am a Happy Camper!!
Good luck in your decesion for what is right for you. Do alot of research and by all means pray about before you decide.

Is it just me, or does this read like an advertisement?

I had a band in 2007 because I needed colon surgery and the surgeon said it was too risky unless I lost weight. I went from 308 to 237. Fast forward one year, the port flipped, I had to have surgery to fix it. Got a major infection that wouldn't heal. Not good. Finally got over that, and they couldn't fill the band. Port problem again. They did another surgery, and they did one fill, but I was unable to swallow anything. Eventually I had a slip and the band was removed in April 13. I did research and decided on a sleeve. I love my sleeve. I had the surgery 12/9/13. I'd gone back up to 257 when the band wasn't working. I weighed myself today and I'm at 219! My pants have changed from a 24-26 to a 16-18. My shoes went from an 8 1/2 wide to a 7 1/2 regular. It's amazing.
With the band I couldn't swallow pills, had to crush them. With the sleeve, I have no problem swallowing the pills.
No matter what option you choose, the surgery is just another tool to help you succeed. It's tough to do the liquid diet, it's tough to give up coffee, and it's tough to meet all the insurance requirements. But it's worth every bit of effort.
Good luck to you whatever you decide, and let us know how you are doing.

I had a band in 2007 because I needed colon surgery and the surgeon said it was too risky unless I lost weight. I went from 308 to 237. Fast forward one year, the port flipped, I had to have surgery to fix it. Got a major infection that wouldn't heal. Not good. Finally got over that, and they couldn't fill the band. Port problem again. They did another surgery, and they did one fill, but I was unable to swallow anything. Eventually I had a slip and the band was removed in April 13. I did research and decided on a sleeve. I love my sleeve. I had the surgery 12/9/13. I'd gone back up to 257 when the band wasn't working. I weighed myself today and I'm at 219! My pants have changed from a 24-26 to a 16-18. My shoes went from an 8 1/2 wide to a 7 1/2 regular. It's amazing.
With the band I couldn't swallow pills, had to crush them. With the sleeve, I have no problem swallowing the pills.
No matter what option you choose, the surgery is just another tool to help you succeed. It's tough to do the liquid diet, it's tough to give up coffee, and it's tough to meet all the insurance requirements. But it's worth every bit of effort.
Good luck to you whatever you decide, and let us know how you are doing.

that brought me to tears...thank you...your right. This is not the end...It is just so awful to not be loosing, and eating mindfully, not engaging in all the party food. AND have people around me see how heavy I still am 2 months after surgery. I am having my true metabolic rate tested on NYE in a lab...to find out if I am in metabolic failure or what is going on...thanks for your support...means more than you may ever know.

I'm feeling great! 9/5/13 was my revision and I'm just about 60lbs down and 199! Onderland! Omg! This tool is amazing. I'm wondering how others are doing with restriction. I'm still tight as can be and that's the best feeling. My mom was sleeved the same day as me and can eat much more than me. Maybe because I was a revision? I'm not complaining there. I've heard after six months restriction can get less. Why is that? I also haven't found any sliders, but I'm not looking. Lol. I've had popcorn, cupcake, fro yo, but I still can't go crazy. Thank goodness! Sweets just don't agree with me anymore. Yay! I'm also anticipating loss to slow, but I'm exercising and working my sleeve.

I will be the negative Nancy on this thread. As a leak survivor it's my job. I followed everything to a T and ended up in the hospital for over a month with a leak. TPN strict NPO, MRSA, permanent lung damage, and here's the kicker: over a year out after following everything insanely strictly I stopped losing at 6 months. I regret it. I'm back at square one having to go back to different dieting, dealing my jerk of a doctor, etc.
Think about it CAREFULLY! Just because you follow the rules doesn't mean you won't get a leak. Surgeons are much nicer pre-op, but once you're cut, they're done. I'm not going to talk you out of it. SO many people on here have amazing and inspiring stories and it's changed their lives for the better. But don't forget about the small handful that this surgery has devastated. We're a small percent (Thank God) but remember you could be in our number. Slim chances! But it's a serious life change and risk.
Best of luck! (And before anything research research research! Think you know enough? Research more! So many people on here rush into things and then bit** and moan afterwards because they didn't do enough research beforehand) keep us posted, love!!

Was sleeved 5 months ago. I had a BMI of 36, high blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, arthritis in my hips, and knees about to give out. I was a size 20 XXL. Everything exhausted me. I'm 53 and felt every inch my age.
Today I'm a BMI of 25.9 - almost normal. I wear a size 10/12. Went from 3 blood pressure meds to one. Arthritis is nearly gone and knees are great. Trigycerides and cholesterol are excellent. Blood sugar is terrific. Energy levels are excellent, can even bike and do weight training now (ok, not well, but I'm doing it lol). I'm not hot all the time. For me it was the right decision. It was very hard, this is not a walk in the park. I have had to completely change my eating habits, but I'm really ok with it. For the first time I feel like my hard work paid off and will continue to pay off if I use this wonderful tool to its full extent. I am terrified of gaining the weight back, but I feel like I have a really good chance of keeping it off for life this time, thanks to my sleeve.
I'm just over 30 lbs from goal. I lose slow (be prepared for that - not everyone is a fast loser), but I couldn't be happier. I did have terrible throat issues the first 3 months, so hard to swallow, but that's gone now. Remember there is risk with this surgery. You may be the 99% that has no trouble or you may be the 1%. Prepare yourself for either case.