coloradobanding

Hi there, I am in the process of looking into a full body lift, and specifically an arm lift. Would you mind telling me how much your procedures cost? I'm very scared to find out the cost..have a feeling it is way out of my budget

The Green Zone is truly why we get the band in the first place. As already described, it is literally when your appetite doesn't run your life..you do! I literally forget that I haven't eaten..and when I do..normally don't even want to. I am the exception to most rules about the band though..I've been able to eat "tricky" foods pretty much from day one..any type of bread, pizza, chicken, carrots, broccoli, you name it...I generally have no issues with any type food. But the manner in which I eat it (bites etc) my band will "remind" me it's still there On the very rare occasion (maybe twice all of last year) I was able to eat a large meal in one sitting with no PB's or sliming. In fact, the last time I ate that way I distinctly remembered thinking..WOW..this is what being full feels like again...I didn't like it

Right after surgery I was instructed to take a mult-Vitamin and Calcium (both chewable). Once I could swallow pills again, I found the best Vitamins on the planet. They are NOT cheap..but I would pay TWICE what I pay for them now having seen the benefits for years. They are made by Pro-Caps, Andrew Lessman and sold on HSN. I personally would not live without the "Healthy hair, Skin & Nails" capsules. My hair is thick, my nails long and my skin absolutely amazing (I'm going on 43..if you check out my pictures, I look maybe 10 years younger than that I've been told). I am not a spokesman for these vitamins nor HSN, but lemme tell ya'...its is the BEST investment I've ever made..and take them every single day without fail. By far the highest and purest levels of Biotin available anywhere. Best of luck whatever you choose!

My band definitely tightens up when I'm stressed. Then it causes me not to have any appetite. Also, and I don't know if this happens to anyone else who is a couple years out from surgery...my throat burns sometimes when I haven't been eating. When I do eat something..it literally burns the roof of my mouth and my throat. Sound familiar? My family is getting concerned because I am down to about 300-500 calories a day, but I cannot force myself to eat (Did I just say that???? lol). I am hoping my stress levels go down on their own and my appetite comes back..but for right now..I'm healthy, not too tired, taking my Vitamins and losing weight again finally...(almost 6 months of no weight loss). 13lbs in 4 weeks...

My insurance paid for the first year, but then it's only $125 after that which I thought was high. Some of these seem like highway robbery!

I read this too which brought me back to this forum after a long hiatus. When I got my band over 3 years ago...I had a lot of pressure from friends who had RNY and saying that there were many more problems with the band over RNY..the band takes longer, why would you want to do that..etc? I've NEVER regretted getting the band over RNY and it seems as time goes by..more and more RNY patients are doing the band surgery. I love Carnie Wilson..she is strong and true! I hope this works for her!!

I am 3+ years out and feel great! Still not exactly at goal, but went from a size 22-12 to a 12 and I don't have that saggy look that I've seen with so many RNY patients! I love my band!!

I would disagree with the thought of the lap band being reversible. The band is actually sewn into the stomach..and after a certain period of time..the risk of having serious side effects of having it removed is pretty high. So..yes..it is "reversible" to a degree..but my surgeon and many others I've heard of, wouldn't do it unless it were an absolute necessity. To that point..I've been extraordinarily happy with my results with the lap band. I too had several people trying to talk me into RNY, but I chose lap band for many of the reasons already listed. The main thing I'm learning over the years (3 years out now) is that many who have RNY can easily gain the weight back because the stomach can stretch back to its original size (and bigger in many cases). With the lap band, if you get off track you can get it filled again. There is always a way to adjust the band to where you want it to be. That being said...take a LOT of time to investigate all WLS options and choose the one that feels best for you! Because, until you're lying on that gurney getting ready to roll into surgery (one of the scariest moments of my life) only YOU know what is best for you. My weight loss has been slower than most, but I look and feel GREAT!! The 3 year plan (that being you will lose as much in 3 years with the band as you would in 1 year with RNY) is pretty close to right on for me. I am SO happy I chose the band!! Best of luck with your decision!

Hi Amanda, This is the first post I've replied to in a year or more. I had my surgery on 1/19/2009, so I am almost 3 years out. At 3 years I should have reached my goal weight. Although I haven't, I feel great! I am still 25lbs from my absolute goal weight, but have reached 3 big milestones I set for myself. My 4 milestones are/were...lost 35lbs..check. Lose 50lbs..check...get to "Onederland"..check and finally get to my goal weight (working on it). My point in telling you my story is this....this journey is yours and yours alone. If you want to cut down on foods to make you feel better..do it! If you want to feel better...do whatever you need to do to get it done. I would suggest walking..that made a HUGE difference for me! Everyday, focus on walking at least 30 minutes...do it in 10 or 5 minute increments if you have to. But setting even a small goal like that can completely change your outlook! Congratulations on your new "birthday" coming up..it will truly be a day that will change your life forever! Chin up...you're already on your journey. How you choose to prepare for it, is up to you and your doctor. You can and will do thiS!!

I went through Northwestern Mutual and got the highest preferred rate!! I was surprised because our broker "prepped" me for a high premium because of the surgery (I was 10 months post op at the time). He specifically told me that insurance policies for WLS patiens is much higher than others. After all the normal testing, he was shocked to see the results and my rate. I was PERFECT in EVERY WAY (test results wise anyway). The underwriter told him that I was the "poster child" for perfect health! It was that reason that outweighed the surgery.

Oh how I can relate!!! My family is Sicilian...need I say more? lol LITERALLY, there is food on the stove or someone inviting you over for something or other darn near every single day! I didn't tell ANYONE in my family except my cousin (who is more like a sister) so that was even harder. What I did, and still do today, is bring my Muscle Milk and some healthy Snacks. I also usually eat before I leave so I have no desire to eat anything. When someone asks why I'm not eating...and trust me, even after 15+ months, someone ALWAYS asks..I tell them I am cutting out fatty foods for a healthy lifestyle. After a few "you do look great" and "good for you" comments, I don't have to explain myself again. However, on certain occasions, if I want a "no-no" food, I have it. Just make sure it is not very often and in small quantities. Best to you, it does get easier!

They ask basic questions to ensure you are ready for the life changing surgery. I wouldn't worry about the "what do they want to hear" part of the question. Speak the truth about everything so you are going into this with "eyes wide open." It isn't a quiz or anything, but it is a life changing surgery and they need to make sure you are ready for the challenge. I've never heard of anyone being turned down because of a bad pshych eval..but that's just me

Yes it is VERY normal and your body NEEDS it!! I slept for 3 days straight pretty much. Then by the 5th-6th day I got more and more energy. My doctor stressed the importance of taking the pain meds when needed and sleeping..and I did just that! Take it easy and rest..you have the rest of your life to be active!

I did start a new thread but was a bit hurried...if anyone ha any words of wisdom on that thread that I left out inadvertently, please fel free to contribute!

Hi everyone!! I posted a thread similar to the one I am posting now, but I posted it in the "Post-op" section of the forum. After many suggestions and AMAZING posts, I have decided to put this thread here also. I assume that many reading this are considering, scheduled or just general "pre-op" folks. If you are pre-op, researching or post-op and frustrated...READ HERE!! I am posting what to expect with weight loss and recovery post-op. I got so tired of addressing post after post of "2 weeks post op and frustrated" or "3 weeks post op and only "X" lbs lost" etc. I realized that many patients have no idea what to realistically expect post-op. Many surgeons don't go into detail as to what the bandster patient will go through post op (most notably...bandster hell). Which is why I'm posting here. Below are the MAIN points that are MOST misunderstood. I am posting ONLY for future bandsters to CREATE realistic expectations and have success with the band...I hope this helps anyone/everyone who reads it!! THE FIRST 4-6 WEEKS POST OP IS FOR HEALING NOT LOSING!!! Most post-op bandsters wake up feeling beat up and sore, but expecting the pounds to just melt off..this does NOT HAPPEN!!! YOU WILL NOT BEGIN LOSING A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF WEIGHT UNTIL YOU REACH PROPER RESTRICTION...this on average takes 3-4 fills..or 3 TO 4 MONTHS!!! AVERAGE WEIGHT LOSS WITH THE LAP-BAND OVER 12 MONTHS IS 52 pounds. Some lose MUCH quicker...some lose MUCH slower! EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT!!! DO NOT..I REPEAT....DO NOT COMPARE YOUR SUCCESS WITH ANYONE ELSE!!!! You will defeat yourself without even knowing it!!! Everyone is a different weight, height and situation. There is NO POSSIBLE way to compare your weight loss with ANYONE ELSE!!! DON'T DO IT!!! Any weight lost is a HUGE success!!! I am 15+ months post op and have NOT lost 52lbs yet. I work my butt off in the gym every week and work hard. I do NOT compare myself with anyone..I am THRILLED with my weight loss so far. YOU WILL FEEL LIKE YOU MADE THE BIGGEST MISTAKE EVER IMMEDIATELY POST-OP...this will pass! Every single person I've ever had contact with has felt this way and so did I. Of course there are those that had a perfect recovery and never felt this way, but the vast majority of patients feel remorse immediately post-op..THIS WILL PASS!!! I know there are others with great advice to add...I just wanted to let you know the actual truth...you will NOT LOSE weight and could possibly gain the first weeks following surgery! SIGNIFICANT weight loss generally does not "kick in" until you've had 3-4 fills!! DON'T GET DISCOURAGED!!! THIS IS NORMAL!!! Many others will add valuable information to what I"ve already posted...if you have any questions or concerns, always consult your physician first. But for real-life experience questions from others..this is a great place to start!!

Is there any way to copy or move this thread to pre-op or should I just start a new thread there? Great comments...keep em' coming!!

EXCELLENT ADVICE!!! Everything posted here is great! I would suggest that those having last supper syndrome, and one poster having last supper month should really consider what they're doing. Don't consider it your "last chance" to eat what you want. You should be willingly giving it up to start your "new" life. It scares me when people are willingly gaining unnecessary weight before such a life changing surgery. Everyone has different pre-op instructions, I would just suggest you try to refrain and don't look at it as having your last supper...look at it NOT eating food that will kill you

Very nicely put! After I read Missy's very rude replies, I was thinking of posting something less polite....you inspire me :thumbup:

I TOTALLY agree that you need to pick a gym that is close to your home or work (whichever location you go to the gym from) and that you like the facility. I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE 24 Hour Fitness, and it's only $25 a month. They have AMAZING child care facilities as well. Cannot recommend them highly enough!!

I cannot tell you how happy I am that this thread is helping some of our fellow bandsters...it just puts a smile on my face. I have to admit that I started this thread out of sheer frustration at seeing the same posts, by different posters, over and over again. I did hope that it could be a place where people could read what to expect and that they are not alone. I am SO INCREDIBLY inspired by each and every one of you, I could never thank you enough. This journey continues long after the first 6 months, year, 2 years etc., and finding those with the same issues is SO therapeutic. Thank you to everyone who thanked me for this thread, but you are my inspiration and I must thank you! I can truly feel the "weight lifting" off some of you by reading the words posted here. I sincerely hope you take these words and information to heart and don't feel like you're not living up to your own, or anyone else's expectations. I've felt that way too!!! No one noticed my weight loss for 8 months and I beat myself up like no one else could. I thought I wasn't doing it right, and this was something else I was just going to fail at. Let me tell you, we can end this journey before it even begins by letting our thoughts, or others opinions dampen our spirit...don't do it! Know that this is a much slower process than RNY (also less invasive) and it has it's own benefits and deficiencies. If you are FULLY aware of what to REALISTICALLY expect, you WILL SUCCEED!! Keep up the positive thoughts, exercise, proper eating/nutrition and hard work...you're doing GREAT!!!!!

I got the idea to post this thread from you probably...lol. I just got very tired of typing the same response over and over. I think your idea of posting this on the Pre-Op board is an EXCELLENT Idea! I think I might have to tweak it a little for those pre-op. I cannot believe how many people get incorrect or no information on this process, and I too would get frustrated. But people need to do research on their own as well and don't just take the Dr's word for it and let them cut you open. I'm surprised how many people do just that.

First of all, don't beat yourself up about eating a few "no no" foods now and then..we are all human..and this is..again..normal. I am NOT saying eat whatever you want and don't eat healthy, what I'm saying is that you know what to eat, so eat it the vast majority of the time. If you eat something you shouldn't..don't fret..just REALIZE what you did, change the behavior and move on. It is SO easy to say.."well, I already messed up so why not eat a dozen more donuts and whatever else." DON'T DO IT!! Just go back to the foods you are suppose to be eating and file the "no no" incident to memory and try not to repeat. What helps me is the have quick access Protein meals around. I really like the Hormel fresh meals (chicken breasts, turkey stroganoff, etc. in the meat dept. at Super Wal-Mart). They are quick, low calorie, low fat and high protein. It is important to have items available quickly so that you can easily choose good over bad. I keep my "cheat" foods as healthy and proportionate as possible as well. SmartFood Popcorn comes in 100 calorie packs. When I REALLY feel like potato chips or real buttered popcorn, I grab a little bag of this instead. The best choice?? NO! Bbut CERTAINLY better than a bucket of buttered popcorn or a half bag of chips! I also keep the pre-packaged apples slices packs around at all times. This and a little bit of Peanut Butter often cure my "sweet tooth." When this doesn't cut it, I have a few of the "trick or treat" sized Kit Kats that I can grab in case of emergencies. Again, the best choice? NO! do I eat these every day or even every week? NO! But when that chocolate demon gets in my head, it is ceratinly better to have 2 bites rather than a king size. There are all sorts of demons and temptations we have to overcome EVERY DAY!! How I choose to deal with them might be TOTALLY opposite of someone else..but this is what works for me. I know many bandsters that would totally FREAK OUT if I told them (gasp) I have chocolate a few times a month. They might accuse me of not following the rules and be shocked. Truth is, it would be FANTASTIC if I could give up chocolate 100%..but I cannot..so I minimize the temptation the best I can. For me I could NEVER give up chocolate 100% so why would I set an unrealistic expectation? I personally don't..but I do give it up 90% of the time..which IS attainable for me. I think what is most important is to focus on your eating habits, what you can do well (maybe walking) and what you do poorly (for me giving up chocolage 100%) and make it work the best it can for you personally. A friend of mind that also has the lap-band is shocked that I drink a diet soda a day or two here or there...you would think I had another head growing out of my ass..lol. My response is...maybe not the best choice, but I do it in moderation and it works for me. If you "fall off the wagon" learn from it, grow from it and keep fighting. Don't beat yourself up and feel horrible. You're human and it will surely happen again. It's not how we fall that defines us...it's how we get back up!