jmunks2000

I didn't have anything fascinating, but then again, I didn't go around family with the tempting food. It's good to hear you resisted a slaw dog (is that's what's it's called)?

I keep telling my mom to go ahead and at least get the ball rolling so she won't be stuck in that situation. I contemplated surgery for many years and once I finalized my decision, I had to wait too! I hated it but the time flew by really quickly. Good luck. Stay the course, it is worth it!

I was required to have a pre-op. Knowing what I know now, I would have done it regardless of the doctor mandate. You will be on a liquid post-op diet and so you might as well get used to the shakes and such. Plus, a good protein shake supplement will be beneficial to you to ensure you get enough protein snd really see good results. good luck to you.

I think it is just an allergic reaction as well. I had itching around the stiches and still do sometimes although I had my surgery ten months ago. However, red or inflamed skin is usually a sign of a skin reaction.

I'm glad you've gotten all the resources to get you ready. Most do have to visit the three specialists and it is usually done in the same office. If not, they recommend someone for you to see. Best of luck to you.

Congrats, I'm there with you. We made it!

My favorite is Smoothie King Gladiator Shake!

I was weighed after I undressed

GOOD TOPIC! In 2004 and in 2008, I was considering the bypass. I was adament about it. Both times, surgery was postponed because I became pregnant. In 2008, my surgeon was an advocate for bypass more so than lapband. It was very apparant, similar to your doctor. Of course the bypass costed more than the lapband. Bypass was the surgery I wanted so I didn't mind that he was bias. However, when I went in for my pre-surgery appt, he learned that I had anemia. He suggested the lapband as a better solution. Of course I wasn't trying to hear that. I wanted quick results....5 pounds a week gone, not 1 pound. I was furious and toyed with the idea of deciding to find a new surgeon. This is when I discovered I was pregnant, again. That is why my anemia was so bad. I took it as God's way of telling me NO bypass. I started the process over in 2009, this time for the lapband. I had my surgery 2/25/10 and I'm very happy. I know the results are quicker most times with the bypass but weigh your other options (the ones you already mentioned) too. If you decide to have the bypass, let it be because you want to, not because your surgeon's persuasion.

I agree. My doctor DID require the pre-op but even if he hadn't, I would have done it anyway. It totally prepares you for what is to come and I don't consider it a waste of time. I lost 17pounds on it and my weight was slow initially following the surgery. However, looking back at it and knowing about the liver shrinkage and Lord, the mental preparation, I could not imagine omitting it. Most of the most successful people follow the standard pre-op and post-op diet.Best of Luck! The pre-op diet also give you time to adjust mentally to the changes that are coming. Resisting the pre-op diet can be a sign that you are not mentally ready to change your eating habits. I think its needed to reset your thinking about food, I have a total different mindset about how much food is normal than I did pre-band, my concept of what a body requires to sustain itself was very distorted.

I was prescribed liquid Loratadine Hydrocondone (generic for Lortab). I'm sure you can tell your surgeon what meds don't work well with your system. Good luck:)

Ny insurance and doctor had similar requirements. They said 10% and 10 pounds so I was always unclear about which one to follow. I actually lost 17 pounds two weeks before surgery (more than 10 pounds but less than 10%). I drank Gladiator Smoothie shakes twice a day and one meal which was usually green salad and baked fish or some other type of lean protein. This shake has 45 grams of protein so it is an outstanding supplement. You can use them post surgery and henceforth after the band so you can be sure to get the required protein in daily. I made my shakes with ice cubes and frozen fruit. My doctor didn't allow any dairy products or sugar. It was pretty strenuous but well worth it. Little to no carb consumption. Good luck.

You look grea!!!!. I've been trying to post my updated pics to a blog like you've done all night. Can you message me with directions? THX. Keep up the good work!

I used Dr. Hollis. I had my surgey in February of this year. My bestfriend used him last November (2009). He comes highly recommended. The only downside is his assistant. She is unfriendly...pretty much rude, most of the time from my experience. Oh yeah, and there was a 400 dollar charge that went directly to her since she is not a network doctor with most insurances. I was not informed about that until after I paid my bill/copayment and later received a bill from Hermann. When I realized the doctor's office overcharged me, I tried to receive my refund so that I could pay the hospital. This is when I found out that the money went to her for her services.Other than that, I absolutely love Dr. Hollis and the rest of his staff....and of course True Results!

I'm sure many of us have had our share/shed of tears. Like others said, there will be many. I've had many. I remember when I wanted to back out. I remember ppl criticizing me for "taking the easy way out". By this I mean having weightloss surgery. It is not an easy way out. It is is tool to help get to the thinner you. Now my only regrets are... I wish I'd done it sooner!!!! Good luck. You're making a great decision.

I've eaten popcorn succesfully but I eat very little of it. My weakness is not Reeses pieces....it is Reeces peanutbutter cups. It's the one thing I HAVE to buy and hide in my nightstand. I buy the mini's so I can have just enough to cure the craving...which is two sometimes three. It was funny reading this post....seeing how so many have the same weakness. I thought I was alone.

Good luck and I'll see you on the other side (Bandland)!

yes, my pre-op plan was similar to what was mentioned. I had two protein shakes a day. My one meal would be green salad with some type of lean meat, no dressing. No carbs whatsoever. My doctor was pretty strict but I lost 17 pounds in two weeks so it worked. Good luck with your surgery and I'll see you in bandland!!!

malexander is correct. I was stuck at 205.4 forever, just trying to make it to 199. When I stopped watching the scale, I sporadically jumped on it at work one day and was at 194. Not only did I make my goal, I surpassed it. So onederland is anything in the 100's. I'm rooting (or however you spell it) for all of you that have that onederland goal....... and check out my new pics. Thanks everyone!

I want new sets of undergarments. I have lost over sixty pounds and my "girls" among other things are gone. I am waiting for the Victoria Secret January event. I've always wanted to shop there and now I get my chance. Also, I want sweats outfits and Bath and Body Works items....although I already visited them. Oh yeah, a new pair of boots too!

Ditto, I just order a side salad and some ala carte meat or a Soup.....or I share a grown up plate with my six and two year old daughters. Kids meals are usually gross!

I am dearly sorry! I have fallen off the train when it comes to visiting this site. I love this site but this semester of school and work has completely consumed me. On a good note, I am still extremely happy with my band. I have reached onederland!!!! It seemed like a dream but I'm here. Plus, over Thanksgiving, I learned that I can eat cornbread dressing:rolleyes: . In fact, I have tasted a bit of everything and have not had any problems. I still have not slimed or PB'd. Although I feel like I can eat whatever (rice, pasta, bread) I simply choose not to except the occasional pinched bite of one of these things. Okay so now I have to go read blogs and see what my bandsters have been up to. Later

I'm glad to read that you're heading back in the right direction. I was divorced back in May of this year due to a cheating spouse. He wants me back of course....they always do, but I don't think twice about it. We were actually separated two years ago (before my surgery) but the divorce just became finalized. I am happier, my children are happier, and I got a new man who loves them and me! he was there when I had my surgery and has been so supportive. Keep me posted and you will remain in my prayers.

Yay! You Go, girl!!!

Awesome posts! You all have given me more things to love.