catfish87

I chose the band for a couple reasons. #1 When I had my band installed in 2009, I didn't even know much about the sleeve option. It was either the band or bypass as far as I knew. #2 EVERY study I read, and I think I read a lot, showed the rate of serious complications was much lower for the band vs bypass. After having the band for over three years, and hearing/reading how others have done, I would still choose the band. However, I would discuss the option of band with plication with my surgeon. It seems from the outside looking in, it may offer some of the benefits of both the band and sleeve. I would not currently opt for a sleeve. Yes, the band (for me) requires several trips to the doctor for follow up. But I like that follow up. Keeps me honest and moving in the right direction.

That'll depend on your specific instructions from your Dr. Mine suggest liquids for 24 hours, then a day of soft foods, then progress as tolerable. Lots of different ideas from each.

Good Job! Congrats! Just keep doing what youre doing.

WOW! Awesome job!

I'm over three years banded and haven't had any "band" issues. I did have a installation issue that was corrected. KNOCK ON WOOD! It works for me when I work with it.

I agree 100%...just imagine how many people start this process and never go through with it.

I paid a $350 "program fee". ( I think thats how much it was, been over three years )

You should be able to sip Clear liquids with no issues. If you can't, I'd suggest calling today. Otherwise, you've been banded for less than a week, so not being able to drink Protein PROBABLY isn't an issue. My doc had me do clear liquids for a week PRE and POST op. While everyone's doc's have different suggestions/requirements, I don't think you're doing any harm by not getting in protein for a week. JUST KEEP HYDRATED.

I did clear liquids for one week post op, then full liquids the second week.

I don't think the costs you mention are unheard of. My Dr office was billing my insurance $600 for a "visit" with fill, NUT session, all my fills now are done with fluoro. This year, it is $700 per visit. This is a summary of my recent visits bill:$700.00 Bill received by Aetna on 12/19/2012Your Aetna member rate $364.03Your total responsibility: $72.80Included: Office visit = $100Fluoroscopic Guidance $125Contrast XRAY Upper GI Tract $175Adjustment Gastric Band $300

Yea CG! Congrats!

Love me some Pandora radio while riding!

I have one and use it sometimes. Its also useful to keep the info about it handy as well.

I took two weeks off. Then did "light duty" for a couple more. Everyone is different, so listen to your body and surgeon.

Congrats! Start asking questions and reading. Nobody will bite....Hard! Lol Welcome

It sounds like you are happy and excited about your revision....so, CONGRATS! Wishing you much success in your new journey!

Congrats!! Welcome!

Bacardi and unsweetened Iced Tea

Congrats! Stay hydrated = most important right now. One day at a time and you'll do great!

My insurance also required a "six month supervised diet". I went to my PCP. My insurance, (Aetna EPO & I live in Illinois. ) was a stickler for dates. Couldn't go too early, too late, etc, etc. If I were you, I'd talk with a prospective surgeon's office, and/or your insurance and make sure you know your insurance's requirements and then follow the requirements to the letter. I've heard more than a few posters on here talking about having to start over because they didn't meet the exact dates. Congrats on your decision and good luck!

How's that bike going? I too started biking last spring. I bought three different ones before I found what I really like. I ended up going to a bike shop and buying a USED road bike. ( Trek 1200 ) Since then, I have put about 1800 miles on it. (Ive got another one I ride at times with the family.) I started slow, about only about 5-8 miles the first couple of times. Within a month, I was doing 20. Now a 26 mile lap around our local bike trail is a normal ride. The longest I've done so far is a 50 mile nonstop ride, with a group. I'm gonna get to 100 KM by summer, with this years goal to get to a 75 mile nonstop ride this year. Next year, hopefully a century ride, 100 miles! My point is, get you a bike that fits you and your style of riding, start slow with small increases in distance/pace. I despise going to a gym and working out, but LOVE outdoor road/bike trail riding. Good luck to you and congrats on your weightloss!!

If I'm on the go in the mornings, I have a muscle milk LIGHT chocolate flavor, and if keeps me satisfied until lunch. Just find one that works for you and count the calories.

82

As far as your question about test to determine if all is well.. Does your Doctor do fills using a flouroscope? (Its similar to a live X-ray.) It can show band placement and restriction level. It can also show if your band possibly came undone..I know firsthand on that issue. If they offer it, please try one. If not, ask if you can have a fill done using this method. I highly recommend it. My insurance, Aetna covers it. Im sure there are other tests, but I have no experience with them.

Just a question/suggestion.... have you had a fill done using a flouroscope to actually see how much restriction you have? I wish everyone could have this option. You and your Dr can SEE the restriction level, instead of guessing. Maybe something you could talk with you Doc about. My Doc has one in the "fill room" and I THINK all adjustments are done this way now at his practice. I know mine are. Read my story or send me a note for more info on how it helped me.