tammyj

Well it doesn't seem like many of us are still here even though we are at the 5 year mark. It's so hard to believe we have come this far. Well it hurts me to say that at almost 5 years in...my band has slipped. Despite everything, I have truly enjoyed this journey. I would not be where I am now if it were not for my band which is why I am so afraid of losing it. I go for a second upper GI in two days to take a look at the band again. I am hoping and praying for the best.

Even though our forum has wittled away I still remember so many of you and the triumphs and disappointments we have shared. I hope all of you are doing well!!!

Thanks everyone! I feel great!!! 10 days post op and I already have most of my energy back. The first few days were tough but soooo worth it!

Posting another pic taken today at 10 days post op.

Yes he did! Thanks Sue!

4 1/2 years later, I finally had my Tummy Tuck done on Oct 12th. I knew that eventually I would have a tummy tuck but I did not want to have it done until I was closer to my goal weight. The last 25lbs were the hardest to lose, but I made it! I am so happy with my tummy tuck results! I hope the pics post okay.

Happy and Healing! :success1:

Okay my tuck is scheduled for December 13th. My PS has a LOT of experience with ports and he will be moving and repositioning mine. He said I can get it unfilled before surgery or leave it, it's up to me.

Now if I leave it filled will anything from the surgery cause it to swell?

Also, I've been reading on the net and I found that most PS's recommend arnica tablets and bromelain to help with healing. I can't swallow anything bigger than a birth control pill most days. I can't even swallow a Tylenol unless it's a round shaped easy tab.

Did you take the Arnica or Bromelain?

Should I get a minor unfill just in case?

I did not have my band unfilled and I have not experienced any swelling or tightness around my band. I am only 9 days post-op so I could be talking to soon. I bought Bromelain, but I try to avoid swallowing pills if possible. I took the Bromelain one day, but the pineapple juice seemed to work just as well to help the swelling. Bromelain is in pineapple. Just make sure you get the 'not from concentrate' pineapple juice or eat fresh pineapples to get more of the nutrients.

Good Luck with your upcoming surgery!

i get sores under my tummy and boobs,will medicare cover the procedure?

Medicaid covered my panni removal, but I had to pay for the muscle tightening involved in the Tummy Tuck. This reduced my cost because medicaid covered the anesthesia and hosptial stay.

HELLO ALL!!!

I know there aren't many of us left from this group, but I thought I would still leave an update while I'm here. I went through a slump for quite some time with my band. The first year was great, but year 2 and 3 was very discouraging. I was back and forth with fills and gaining weight. At one point I even thought I had a leak?!? After I while I just gave up and stopped going back for fills because nothing seemed to be working. I decided to work with what I had. Year 4, things have really turned around. I still have not been back for a fill in well over a year. I started taking phentermine in January of this year. It helped control my appetite and I lost 10lbs. I was happy with that. I was exercising, but not consistently. In the past 3 months I started taking classes at the gym instead of working out on my own. The classes have really made a big difference!!! I started out doing Zumba. I lost a few more lbs but nothing significant until I started taking a Body Pump class. Then the weight just started melting off and I lost another 15lbs. I am now 4lbs from goal. I do Body Pump 3x a week and Zumba 1 day a week. I still take phentermine, but I scaled back to every other day. I am now scheduled to have my Tummy Tuck on September 30th. I told myself that I would not have it done until I was closer to my goal weight and now I'm almost there. I am very nervous about the surgery because I know it will be very painful. I am still very grateful for my band. I don't know where I would be without it!

At 4 years banded, I know most of us have experienced some trying times at one point or another as I have read in your posts. Hang in there ladies, it can get better. I had to step out of the box and try something different to get things moving in the right direction. The band only took me so far. Even if you don't go any further, just think about where you COULD be as Karen stated. Be proud of yourself for coming this far because we have come a long way!

Be blessed ladies and take care!

Tammy :-)

Oh Barb, I am so sorry to hear that you need to have your band removed. That has always been a worry for me. Hopefully the sleeve will be a better option for you when you are ready for it. I don't check back here very often, but I often wonder how all of my band sisters are doing. Please check back and let us know how you are doing after surgery for those that get a chance to check in. You hold a special place in our hearts as well )))

Hi Everyone! It's so good to see some of you here 3 years later!

Today is my Bandiversary and I started thinking about you guys and my journey the past 3 years. I must say I am very happy with myself and my band even if I don't lose another pound. Right now I weigh 195lbs. My lowest weight after banding was 182lbs and my highest was 210lbs. I've had some problems, but overall I am happy with my progress and still in love with my band!!! :wub:

Hello Everyone! Glad to see our thread is still alive with no help from slackers like me! Of course I come back only when I have problems....:crying:

Well, I went in for a fill last Monday only to find out that my band was empty again. I have a leak somewhere...:thumbdown: The good news is my Dr. finally acknowledged that there is a problem and will run some tests in 6 weeks at my next appt to find out where the leak is.

My current problem is I was filled to 1.5cc last Monday and was absolutely miserable all last week. I was barely getting down liquids, threw up twice, chest pain, etc. I tried to stick it out since I have a leak figuring this tightness will not last very long. On Friday, just when I thought I couldn't take it anymore I called the nurse. She advised me to go to the emergency room if it was unbearable or I could come in on Monday to have some taken out. I decided not go to the ER on Friday and I actually felt pretty good all weekend. I was able to drink more liquids and have been eating a few bites of Protein as well.

The only problem is I have to sit up at night to sleep because I spit up whenever I lay flat. I know this may sound crazy but with all the weight I've gained and not feeling any restriction for the past 6 months I'd rather spit up at night then end up back at square one again with no restriction. All the pain is gone, I am able to eat, and the spitting up at night is subsiding as well.

To be safe, I know I should be going in today to have some taken out but I think I'm just going to ride this one out because this restriction and weight loss is fantastic and something I haven't had in a long time. Since I have a leaking issue this restriction will be short lived anyway until that problem is resolved.

Last Monday 210lbs...today 196lbs!!!!!!

Well, thanks for letting me vent!

Have a great week all!!! :biggrin:

Hello Fellow Marchies!

Just checking in to see how everyone is doing and to gain some motivation!

I am so frustrated and depressed right now. :wub: I went in for yet another fill on Monday and my band was empty again. This is the second time! Why is my band empty again??? My last fill was 1.25cc. My Doc filled me with 1cc this time (why only 1cc when my previous fill was 1.25???). I have to wait 8 weeks to have my band checked (insurance purposes) to see if there is a problem. I posted my concerns on the yahoo group the hospital's lapband dietician started and here is her response:

It is possible for the band to leak but very rare (<1% of the time); oftentimes there is variation +/- 1 cc (or ml) in your band due to air pockets (the band holds a lot of air in addition to saline). But don't worry the surgeons are experts in identifying if your band or port has a leak in it.

WTF??? 1cc is alot to lose from a 4cc band and when you only have 1-2cc's in your band. Somehow this just doesn't sound right.

I'm struggling with my weight right now and using appetite suppresants to keep it under control. I'm glad you guys are still here to keep me motivated cuz that other group sucks!

My5grlz,

Glad to see you here again! I think I remember your name on our original list of Marchies. You've done a great job...100lbs WOW!!! :tt2:

Jeni and Juli,

I'm so envious of you two! I bet you guys are some hotties now! I can't wait to see pics! :eek:

Mrs. Husker,

I hope are feeling better now... :ohmy:

Janine and Carol,

I see you! Way to Go on the exercising! Keep it up! :smile2:

Hey there Marchies!!! Just checking in to see how everyone is doing.

Jen...can't wait to see those pics!

Thanks Whitepants! I'm still exercising just having trouble resisting sweets! I'm a junk food junkie...always have been! I also work for an appetizer company and we just added a new dessert line and I just can't resist all the sampling we've been doing. Only 2 more weeks to my cruise...UGH!!!

Jeni,

I am looking at your pics in your signature...you have come a long way in such a short amount of time! You look really really good and I am glad to hear you are feeling like yourself again! :thumbup:

Juli,

Conratulations on getting your MBA!!!! :biggrin:

Whitepants,

Thanks for the tips! I've used both FitDay and Sparkpeople before. My problem is not knowing what to do it's just finding the motivation to get off my butt and do it. I am working out again and following the lapband dietician's meal plans...I just need to stick to it. I am going on a cruise in 3 weeks so that's giving me a little boost...I need to get into my white bell bottom jeans again!

Good Morning Marchies!!!

Just checking in to read everyone's updates!

I am feeling a little discouraged! These last 20lbs have been the hardest to lose, but I am determined to get back on track and start losing again! You guys give me the motivation I need! :eek:

Have a productive, high Protein, lots of exercise, lots of Water, fat burning, weight loss week!!! :thumbup:

Juli,

Thank you so much!!! I definitely feel like a different person and feel more confident! You are looking good too girlie! :thumbup:

Jeni...my band sister!

Yes, we made it to our second year!!! :sneaky:

I am so glad to hear your surgery went well. I'm sure it's no walk in the park right now but just think of how great you are going to look and feel when you are are healed. I hope you're doing better today!

Janine,

I am so happy that your second surgery is working for you!

I don't think having the surgery in March made much of a difference...maybe being able to get out and walk or bike in the spring was an advantage.

Other than the band, this site was very helpful to me. I forget how important support is in succeeding. Of course, exercise, lots of Water and Protein, and following the band rules made a difference as well.

I don't know what Zumba dance is but it sounds like a lot of fun!

Speaking of a rubber swimming tube...LOL!

I am seriously thinking about having a Tummy Tuck. I've been so obsessed with losing these last 20lbs and getting into those size 12 jeans but I'm not even sure if I really need to lose another 20lbs. It seems all the weight I lose now is in my face and neck and I end up looking like a chicken...LOL! Maybe 10 more pounds, a tummy tuck, and concentrate on toning and tightening other areas will give me the results I want.

Oh my Jeni!!! I just realized you are having surgery today and Juli your surgery is coming up soon. I am so excited for you guys!!! I know the pics maybe a little personal but please post your results if you can.

Congratulations to the both of you! I am sure your surgeries will be a success! :confused:

I woke up this morning and just realized that this month is the 2 year mark for us! WOW!!!! I had to stop a minute and think if I missed my date or not...I didn't, but I was close to missing it with only 3 days left to the 15th.

My first year was awesome with only one fill the entire year and the weight just fell off. The second year I was very frustrated with my Dr and my fills. I've been filled and unfilled more times than I care to remember. I gained some weight back and reached 205lbs during this time. I am proud that my current weight is now 194lbs even though I had reached a low of 182lbs. I never reached my goal but I still have hope. I think I've figured out what was going wrong with my band and my body (with no help from my Dr who thinks we are all just gluttonous pigs...but that's a long story). Dr. Bonomo moved so he is not who I am referring to by the way...it's the idiot Dr who replaced him. On a good note, my last fill went well and I will be going for another one on the 23rd.

I do worry about my band sometimes as I have one of the original smaller bands. Now they have new and improved bands which leads me to believe there have been more issues with the one I have because I don't think they even make it anymore.

Overall, I have no regrets and I am still so happy that I have my band! :w00t:

I see many of us have not checked in. I guess by the second year the thrill is gone and the band just becomes second nature almost.

Congratulations to everyone who has reached their 2 year mark and those to come! :confused:

Juli, Jeni, Whitepants it's good to see you guys are still here keeping the Marchies alive!!!

I will have to check in more often! :w00t:

I have some reading to do from this thread and the Sept thread to see how everyone is doing.

I'm doing okay...just need a fill and haven't taken the time to do it, but I will soon. This group always motivates me to get back on track.

What?! That's my girl Tammyj!! What's been going on Sista!!!?? It has been a minute since we've chatted!!!

Sheila

Hey Ms. Sheila! It has been awhile. We have come along way...it is amazing! You are looking sooo good...I'm trying to get like you!

How has your band been treating you?

My name is Tammy

34 y/o

Mother of 2 beautiful boy ages 5 and 11

Currently separated

Work as a Purchasing Manager

Banded March 15, 2007

Almost at goal, but may set a new one...maybe 165lbs!

Comtemplating a Tummy Tuck in the near future

So Happy To Be Banded!!!!!!

Jeni, the gallbrabber surgery is a simple procedure...no worse than lapband. 1 week after surgery you should be able resume your normal activities...no worries! :thumbs_up:

Thank-you Juli! I AM happy with the new ME! :thumbup:

OH MY Tia, that sounds really scary. I'm glad you are doing OK now and it wasn't anything more serious. Take care of yourself and your band! :lost1lbs:

It's been awhile!!! I've read through the July posts and it seems everyone is still losing and doing really good.

Jeni, my band sister, I am soooo proud of you! You look so awesome!!!!! I am sorry to hear you are having gallbladder problems. I had mine removed years before I had lapband surgery. There are many options, but the only one that is certain to correct the problem is to have it removed. Keep us posted on what you decide to do.

Tia, were we dating the same guy?!?! I just dumped a guy after 3 months of dating...same prob, broke or just cheap!

Well, I am still struggling with the same 5lbs. I've never really quite hit that 100 mark yet, but I will get there! I go for a fill on Aug 4th so I'm hoping to finally hit my goal by my 35th b-day on Sept 18th!

Hi Juli, Rosi, gkeyt, carol...great to see you all are still here!

Nothing new on my end...still strugling w/ the same damn pounds. :grouphug: I have to wait 6 weeks between fills for insurance purposes so that'll put me at June 23rd. I'm debating if I want to be filled that day since I will be traveling out of town for my family reunion June 27-29th, but then again it would be great if I could take off some weight before leaving. :confused2:

I hope everyone is doing well. I'm sure summer clothes shopping is a lot more fun than it was last year! I love thrift stores...finally able to find something decent in the smaller sizes! :thumbup:

LaLa, I wish I lived closer to the lakefront so I can walk and bike w/ you, but gas prices are ridiculous. I'll have to stick to walking in the boring burbs this summer. :behindsofa:

HAVE A GREAT WEEK MARCHIES!!!

Hi I am new to the thread thing. I had my lap band on March 12, 2007. I have lost 83 lbs. I have stopped losing for the last few months. Only about five pounds. Is anyone having the same problem? I am happy but my doctor wants me to be at 185 so that is 29 to go. I am not complaining because I am so happy being smaller. And I have almost a yer to reach my overall goal of two years but YIKES. I am struggling...... :eek:

WELCOME PATTI!!!

I think most of us are having the same problem. The closer you get to your goal weight the harder it is to lose. Stick to the basics...protein first, veggies, then carbs and don't drink w/ your meals. I think most of us have gotten a little comfortable w/ our bands and have forgotten the basic lapband rules. Try switching up your workouts and make them more intense. It may take alot of sweat and tears to reach your goal, but you can do it!!!

I agree, the last 20lbs have been a struggle.

I was asked to come and speak to the newly banded last night at the hospital. It was really interesting because they were all so excited! I remember that excitement in the beginning, but I feel the same way that my band and I have become "used" to each other. Going to speak to them last night actually helped and motivated me too. I am really grateful to have my band! :eek:

I can't get over this, but there was another speaker at the hospital last night and she was banded in July 2007 and has lost an amazing 180lbs in less than one year!!! I am still dumfounded!!!