KimInMD

Hey Joe,

Thanks for writing! Dr. Averbach is cool, aloof and keeps it very professional in the beginning. After a while everyone says he warms up. I think he just wants you to understand how serious this surgery is. I like him a great deal. He recently worked with me through a gall bladder attack, and I trust his opinion completely even more now. For the most part, I like the office staff. I have no real complaints. All in all, lap band is the BEST thing in life I've ever done for myself. I only wish I had done it alot sooner. I'm 2 years post op and am down over 100 pounds. A couple weeks ago Dr. A. told me most of his patients are losing about 65% of their excess weight. I thought those stats were below national averages, and was kind-of surprised. Maybe he is just more realistic than the tv commercials are. I'm not sure. If you eat basically 3x a day, just large portions, lap band (with proper restriction) will work great. If you currently snack ALL DAY long, you will have more trouble losing, since you will learn quickly to eat around the band. Also, listen to Dr.A's post op advise and don't start solids (or any phase) early or you WILL stretch your band. I've seen this happen with others, and the weight just hasn't come off well for them. Those first weeks will be tough, but stay strong, and it will all pay off quickly.

I understand what you are feeling. I too was more nervous the closer I got to surgery day. The night before surgery I was still wondering if I'd made the right choice. At times in my journey I wondered if I'd done the right thing. Now I know, I did the right thing. I have my life back. My kids have a healthy mom, and my husband has a "hot" new wife. I fit in airplane and theater seats. I don't worry about flimsy folding chairs breaking under my weight. I fit in restaurant booths. I don't huff and puff going up steps anymore. My body doesn't ache like it use to. People don't stare or snicker anymore when I'm out in public. Life is GREAT! I'll never be a skinny mini, but trust me- I'm happy! If you have any questions, please feel free to call me. 410-252-3281. I'm in Lutherville. I wish I would have had someone to talk to in those early days deciding and / or post op. Joe, You are going to do great. Congratulations on beginning your journey. This time next year, you will be a different person. Start making your list of the things you want to do with your new body. I even hiked to the top of a mountain! I am so excited for you and your future. I'm wishing you all the best on your journey. It's going to be YOUR year!

Please keep in touch!

Kim