jansluv

Congratulations on 35 lbs! My removal is scheduled for Jul 22. Mixed emotions. I am afraid of feeling hungry and going back to old ways, but am looking forward to feeling normal again. I have been feeling hungry the last week or so, so am going to have to be diligent about my eating habits. I have only lost 25 lbs. Have not lost anything in the last 4 weeks. But I have gone down 2 pants sizes so I feel pretty good about this decision. Good luck tomorrow. Please keep us posted, I would love to know how you felt after the procedure.

Congratulations on 35 lbs! My removal is scheduled for Jul 22. Mixed emotions. I am afraid of feeling hungry and going back to old ways, but am looking forward to feeling normal again. I have been feeling hungry the last week or so, so am going to have to be diligent about my eating habits. I have only lost 25 lbs. Have not lost anything in the last 4 weeks. But I have gone down 2 pants sizes so I feel pretty good about this decision. Good luck tomorrow. Please keep us posted, I would love to know how you felt after the procedure.

On the fence. I think I would recommend if the person said they have tried everything else and desperately needed to get some weight off and were committed to working out. Its not for the faint of heart. The first 2 months were brutal. Month 3 was very uncomfortable. I am starting month 6 so I am not uncomfortable anymore, but am also not losing any weight and no longer have the feeling of being full with small portions. In fact I can eat a complete meal and not feel anything but normal fullness - I think my stomach has stretched to accommodate the balloon + food. And the worst part, since end of month 3, i have not lost one pound, despite being very good with diet and exercise. I spent $8000 to lose 25 pounds. I got my health issues that were starting to build, completely under control and have broken bad habits and started new good habits. So, it has put me on the right path, but only half way down that road, so soon it will be up to me to continue on my own.
If I had to make this decision again, I might have done the sleeve ...although I have not done extensive research on that, as I did not want something so invasive and permanent at the time, but I think something more permanent would have been more cost effective with stronger, long term results.
At the end of the day, I did way more work than the balloon did, haha. I worked out 3-4 times per week and every food decision was thoughtful. The only thing the balloon did was make me uncomfortable for 3 months so I had no desire to eat food. If only I had had the motivation from within to do this on my own, back then....but the motivation came from spending all that money!

I was given anti nausea meds and only used maybe 6 pills in total the first month. There were a few mornings that I needed it. I never had pain....some discomfort from bloating or reflux, but no pain. I was also given anti anxiety pills, without me asking for it, and had no need at all. Maybe it somehow relaxes a very upset tummy, but again, had no need.

I think you m might just have to battle through. Pretty much everyone that has written about their experience had nausea the first day or so. Good luck!!!

I could only sleep on my left side, also. I still cannot sleep on my back after 4 months. And up until 3 months could not sleep on my right, but now its not a problem.

HI there! I was nervous too the days leading up. But honestly, I felt pretty darn good when I came out of the procedure, except for a strong, although brief case of hiccups! I felt totally fine and was released within 1 hour. They had me on a saline drip while I was at the facility so I was plenty hydrated. I only sipped Water that night. And yes, I was nauseas later that evening and did throw up that night once. And then again a few days later. I was able to drink Protein Drinks and warm broth the next day. And by the third day was feeling good enough for a little solid food - although the doctor recommended only soft, liquid foods for a week. Try to not have anything on the calendar those first few days so you can take care of yourself. Sounds like your kitchen is fully prepared - Bone Broth is a good source of Protein, too. Good luck.

HI there! I was nervous too the days leading up. But honestly, I felt pretty darn good when I came out of the procedure, except for a strong, although brief case of hiccups! I felt totally fine and was released within 1 hour. They had me on a saline drip while I was at the facility so I was plenty hydrated. I only sipped Water that night. And yes, I was nauseas later that evening and did throw up that night once. And then again a few days later. I was able to drink Protein Drinks and warm broth the next day. And by the third day was feeling good enough for a little solid food - although the doctor recommended only soft, liquid foods for a week. Try to not have anything on the calendar those first few days so you can take care of yourself. Sounds like your kitchen is fully prepared - Bone Broth is a good source of Protein, too. Good luck.

Hi. I have had the balloon for almost 4months. My weight and height similar to yours (211, 5'5") I chose the balloon because I did not want major surgery. I wanted something relatively non evasive that would kick start weight loss while helping to retrain my brain to see food differently, retrain my stomach to adjust to smaller quantities and retrain my psyche into not needing food to comfort myself! And yes, the balloon has done all that. Its been a very uncomfortable adjustment. Its not easy to have this thing take over a huge portion of your stomach. There are lots of uncomfortable side effects, besides being full. But that is what has changed my relationship with food.
After four months, I can easily say I have no cravings of any sort. I do not crave cake or burgers or fries like I did before. If I see them, yes, I will take a few bites, and those bites are enjoyable, but I can also walk away...because I know if I eat too much I will hurt my weight loss goals and there are undesirable side effects. Is this new outlook on food sustainable after the balloon is removed...I don't know. And I am afraid it might not be. But I am eating so much healthier than I have ever done before and honestly relieved that my carb/sugar carvings are gone.So am hopeful I will be more aware of what food does to my body, moving forward.
As I am sure you have read in your research...the balloon is just a tool. It is not a magic pill to weight loss. I have to count my calories (I keep them 1100 a day) and I have to exercise (3 times a week is good, but 4 times guarantees a good weight loss that week) I am very aware of every food I eat....I always try to make good choices (not necessarily perfect, but good enough). So at a burger joint the other night, after having a great weight loss, I wanted to have a nice meal with my family - I had a burger, no cheese, whole wheat bun and asked for a side salad instead of fries. Was it the best choice, no I could have had just the salad, but it was wonderfully satisfying.
The balloon keeps me full so I am not starving all day on such little calories and allows me to eat only a 1/3 of my former portions. I have lost 23 pounds and hope to lose 10 more before its removed in 2 months. You will read plenty of people who lost much more (40-50lbs)- but always take into account their starting weight because others may have a lot more to lose than you do. I did not qualify for the sleeve or lap band or by pass, but really was not interested in anything so dramatic. I just wanted to lose some weight fast, get healthy again so I could enjoy working out again.
Please read lots and lots before committing to this. The side effects are unpleasant and require major adjustments in what and how you eat. But it does work and you will lose weight. Good luck!

Hi. I have had the balloon for almost 4months. My weight and height similar to yours (211, 5'5") I chose the balloon because I did not want major surgery. I wanted something relatively non evasive that would kick start weight loss while helping to retrain my brain to see food differently, retrain my stomach to adjust to smaller quantities and retrain my psyche into not needing food to comfort myself! And yes, the balloon has done all that. Its been a very uncomfortable adjustment. Its not easy to have this thing take over a huge portion of your stomach. There are lots of uncomfortable side effects, besides being full. But that is what has changed my relationship with food.
After four months, I can easily say I have no cravings of any sort. I do not crave cake or burgers or fries like I did before. If I see them, yes, I will take a few bites, and those bites are enjoyable, but I can also walk away...because I know if I eat too much I will hurt my weight loss goals and there are undesirable side effects. Is this new outlook on food sustainable after the balloon is removed...I don't know. And I am afraid it might not be. But I am eating so much healthier than I have ever done before and honestly relieved that my carb/sugar carvings are gone.So am hopeful I will be more aware of what food does to my body, moving forward.
As I am sure you have read in your research...the balloon is just a tool. It is not a magic pill to weight loss. I have to count my calories (I keep them 1100 a day) and I have to exercise (3 times a week is good, but 4 times guarantees a good weight loss that week) I am very aware of every food I eat....I always try to make good choices (not necessarily perfect, but good enough). So at a burger joint the other night, after having a great weight loss, I wanted to have a nice meal with my family - I had a burger, no cheese, whole wheat bun and asked for a side salad instead of fries. Was it the best choice, no I could have had just the salad, but it was wonderfully satisfying.
The balloon keeps me full so I am not starving all day on such little calories and allows me to eat only a 1/3 of my former portions. I have lost 23 pounds and hope to lose 10 more before its removed in 2 months. You will read plenty of people who lost much more (40-50lbs)- but always take into account their starting weight because others may have a lot more to lose than you do. I did not qualify for the sleeve or lap band or by pass, but really was not interested in anything so dramatic. I just wanted to lose some weight fast, get healthy again so I could enjoy working out again.
Please read lots and lots before committing to this. The side effects are unpleasant and require major adjustments in what and how you eat. But it does work and you will lose weight. Good luck!

Congratulation @@monniet50! You made it through and with such tremendous outcome!! You should feel so excited!!
I have another 2 months to go and its been challenging. This process is certainly not for the weak of stomach! lol. I too have not felt myself, and it took every every ounce of strength I had to fight through calling my doctor and having it removed. But the weight has come off and like @@Wayward Traveler said, I have a new lease on life and feel younger, thinner and happier.
I was told that I would be on a very strict liquid fast the two days prior to having it removed because they want to make sure the balloon is 100% free of any food debris as it could possibly get breathed into your lungs as they remove the deflated balloon from your throat. Sounds a bit scary, and definitely gross. So, I certainly plan on following those orders...and maybe I'll get another pound or two off in the process!
Good luck and please report back how the removal went. And congrats again, you should be so proud!

Hi. I have had the balloon for almost 4months. My weight and height similar to yours (211, 5'5") I chose the balloon because I did not want major surgery. I wanted something relatively non evasive that would kick start weight loss while helping to retrain my brain to see food differently, retrain my stomach to adjust to smaller quantities and retrain my psyche into not needing food to comfort myself! And yes, the balloon has done all that. Its been a very uncomfortable adjustment. Its not easy to have this thing take over a huge portion of your stomach. There are lots of uncomfortable side effects, besides being full. But that is what has changed my relationship with food.
After four months, I can easily say I have no cravings of any sort. I do not crave cake or burgers or fries like I did before. If I see them, yes, I will take a few bites, and those bites are enjoyable, but I can also walk away...because I know if I eat too much I will hurt my weight loss goals and there are undesirable side effects. Is this new outlook on food sustainable after the balloon is removed...I don't know. And I am afraid it might not be. But I am eating so much healthier than I have ever done before and honestly relieved that my carb/sugar carvings are gone.So am hopeful I will be more aware of what food does to my body, moving forward.
As I am sure you have read in your research...the balloon is just a tool. It is not a magic pill to weight loss. I have to count my calories (I keep them 1100 a day) and I have to exercise (3 times a week is good, but 4 times guarantees a good weight loss that week) I am very aware of every food I eat....I always try to make good choices (not necessarily perfect, but good enough). So at a burger joint the other night, after having a great weight loss, I wanted to have a nice meal with my family - I had a burger, no cheese, whole wheat bun and asked for a side salad instead of fries. Was it the best choice, no I could have had just the salad, but it was wonderfully satisfying.
The balloon keeps me full so I am not starving all day on such little calories and allows me to eat only a 1/3 of my former portions. I have lost 23 pounds and hope to lose 10 more before its removed in 2 months. You will read plenty of people who lost much more (40-50lbs)- but always take into account their starting weight because others may have a lot more to lose than you do. I did not qualify for the sleeve or lap band or by pass, but really was not interested in anything so dramatic. I just wanted to lose some weight fast, get healthy again so I could enjoy working out again.
Please read lots and lots before committing to this. The side effects are unpleasant and require major adjustments in what and how you eat. But it does work and you will lose weight. Good luck!

Congratulation @@monniet50! You made it through and with such tremendous outcome!! You should feel so excited!!
I have another 2 months to go and its been challenging. This process is certainly not for the weak of stomach! lol. I too have not felt myself, and it took every every ounce of strength I had to fight through calling my doctor and having it removed. But the weight has come off and like @@Wayward Traveler said, I have a new lease on life and feel younger, thinner and happier.
I was told that I would be on a very strict liquid fast the two days prior to having it removed because they want to make sure the balloon is 100% free of any food debris as it could possibly get breathed into your lungs as they remove the deflated balloon from your throat. Sounds a bit scary, and definitely gross. So, I certainly plan on following those orders...and maybe I'll get another pound or two off in the process!
Good luck and please report back how the removal went. And congrats again, you should be so proud!

I take 20mg of omeprazole. Doctor says I can up it to 40 mg, but I only do that on days when its bad. He also said I can add Zantac when its bad. Its important, I have learned, to eat dinner early, before 6, and eat a light dinner. The other issue I battle is gas! Last night was the worst ever. I only had a small dry baked potato and 3 oz grilled chicken. You'd think I had a massive dinner at a Mexican restaurant...lol!

Hi @@Wayward Traveler. I am 10 weeks in. Lost 17 pounds. The thing I have learned from reading the few blogs I have been able to find, is everybody's body reacts in its own way to the balloon. I have read some people who throw up daily for a month. I only threw up twice. Some people lost 10 pounds the first week, I didn't lose anything that week. Some people can't stomach solid food for a week after insertion, I was able to eat solids after 48 hours. So, unfortunately, I think its up to your body and how well you listen to your doctor. I was very uncomfortable the first night (threw up and very bloated tummy) but felt ok the next day, except for being tired from lack of food, I think. You will find through trial and error what you can eat, how much you can eat and when you should and shouldn't eat. My first week was not bad at all. And I was able to get back to the gym by end of 3rd week. The balloon is not easy, nor is a magic diet pill. You may not feel 100% for the next 6 months. I generally feel at about 80%, always a little off, generally first thing in the morning and almost always in the evening. And your weight loss will plateau at some point. You will have to alter what you eat and you will have to add some form of exercise to get past those plateaus. I have had some really rough days, but its totally worth it in my opinion. My blood pressure has gone way done, my cholesterol is back to normal and my sleep apnea has corrected itself in just 2 months. So power through the rough days and keep your eye on the prize! Good luck!

Totally agree with @jansluv. Everyone is different. I had my balloon inserted 1st feb, was sick for two days but don't worry. I was determined not to be sick as I hate it. But I felt okay after it, it's not like being ill. Be prepared on your first day for wind being around your shoulders and back but it will pass. I stuck to 4 days before more substantial foods and 7 days before I went to solids. Have lost 19lbs but haven't lost anything for two weeks. Keep talking on here. People are really supportive and you realise you are not alone ???? Sent from my HTC One M9 using the BariatricPal App

@@jansluv - thanks so much - that's very helpful. Guess all I can do at this point is hope for the best and prepare for the worst ... fingers crossed!! :-) In the meantime, thanks again, congratulations and keep up the great work. Cheers!

Hi @@Wayward Traveler. I am 10 weeks in. Lost 17 pounds. The thing I have learned from reading the few blogs I have been able to find, is everybody's body reacts in its own way to the balloon. I have read some people who throw up daily for a month. I only threw up twice. Some people lost 10 pounds the first week, I didn't lose anything that week. Some people can't stomach solid food for a week after insertion, I was able to eat solids after 48 hours. So, unfortunately, I think its up to your body and how well you listen to your doctor. I was very uncomfortable the first night (threw up and very bloated tummy) but felt ok the next day, except for being tired from lack of food, I think. You will find through trial and error what you can eat, how much you can eat and when you should and shouldn't eat. My first week was not bad at all. And I was able to get back to the gym by end of 3rd week. The balloon is not easy, nor is a magic diet pill. You may not feel 100% for the next 6 months. I generally feel at about 80%, always a little off, generally first thing in the morning and almost always in the evening. And your weight loss will plateau at some point. You will have to alter what you eat and you will have to add some form of exercise to get past those plateaus. I have had some really rough days, but its totally worth it in my opinion. My blood pressure has gone way done, my cholesterol is back to normal and my sleep apnea has corrected itself in just 2 months. So power through the rough days and keep your eye on the prize! Good luck!

Me too!! I do not get a full to bursting/can't eat another bite like everybody else. When at a restaurant I am using all my restraint to only eat half, because I do NOT feel full or anything! About 3-4 hours AFTER the meal, I will feel like a bowling ball is in my gut. So, I end up skipping the next meal. My weight loss is slow and steady. I am 7 weeks in and have lost 15 pounds. I didn't lose any weight the first 2 weeks. I guess my body was trying to figure out what the heck just was going on. 7 weeks in...I am gradually getting used to this week. But I have to be honest, I haven't had one day where I feel good. I have stomach aches, really bad gas while I am sleeping, some reflux (although I am getting that under control now), and some mornings I am nauseas for hours with spit up always at the back of my throat.
As far as food goes...I am simply making healthy choices. Like Oprah, I LOVE bread, but I limit to whole grain and once a day. I gave up alcohol. I limit Pasta or rice to once a week. I eat Protein at every meal. I allow myself one small dessert a week, like ice cream. I am sure if I was as strict as other people on this site, I would not be having some of the adverse side effects. Cutting way back on how much I eat at dinner really helps with the night time reflux.
...15 pounds gone. SO, I am still thinking this was worth it. I started working out about 3 weeks ago (boot camp, walking, swimming), but there are some mornings when all I want to do is lay on the couch and hold my stomach! If I could lose another 20 in my next 4 months, I will be ecstatic and this will all be worthwhile.

I saw my thyroid doctor today who said my thyroid levels are perfect so I can't blame the lack of weight loss on that! He gave me a long boring lecture on cultural changes that have cause obesity to sky rocket. And I should be thrilled with a 1 pound per week weight loss. Really?? Not at the price I paid! LOL. Well, I can happily say I am fully adjusted to this abdominal intruder. No more nausea in the morning. And I only get the severe cramping if I eat more than Soup or shake for dinner.

I take 20mg of omeprazole. Doctor says I can up it to 40 mg, but I only do that on days when its bad. He also said I can add Zantac when its bad. Its important, I have learned, to eat dinner early, before 6, and eat a light dinner. The other issue I battle is gas! Last night was the worst ever. I only had a small dry baked potato and 3 oz grilled chicken. You'd think I had a massive dinner at a Mexican restaurant...lol!

Oh I am sorry! Yup, that happens to me too. I hope you can sleep tonight!

hmmm...you are probably right!! I feel great today and have been hungry all day! Maybe I should do a downward dog and get this thing to shift to make me nauseas again!

@@jansluv Hi there, I have found that the sooner I have some Protein Shake when I wake up, the better I feel. I drink about 3 ounces, and then I can take my pills. I am on day 4, and am going to try very hard to get my two cans of Protein down by the end of the day to see if that will relieve the stomach cramping. besides Protein Shakes and Water, I have pureed beef vegetable Soup, and just having some flavor has been great. I can only have about 2 ounces though, and that takes me about 30 minutes to get down. Haven't thrown up in 2 days, and have lost 7 pounds. I plan on staying liquids through the first 7 days, seems like the people who do that get a better head start on the weight loss. Hope everyone has a good day!