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Actually, I think if you are having doubts you should postpone your surgery. It's like getting married. If you have doubts, don't do it. And with a sleeve, there is no divorce. That said, I'm reasonably satisfied at 7 weeks and glad I did it, although I am having some complications. The sleeve is a great tool, but it is not for everyone. Good luck.

I too have kaiser and they informed me of all the possible things that could happen that you mentioned. I'm sorry you had to experience them all. I'm on my 5th week no complications and I was up walking around the same day as my surgery. I have some nausea right after eating but other than that the hardest part for me is drinking 64 oz of fluids a day. I'm glad you're doing better.

I haven't been on VST much the past few months, I moved most of my activity over to MyFitnessPal. However, today is my one year "Surgiversary" and I have so much to be thankful for. I lost 81 pounds, from 274 to 192, and still losing (verrrry slowly now). I went from sizes 22/24/2X to 8/10/M, bra size from 42DD to 36C/D(treated myself to a fitting today, yay!). I lost a full shoe size. I lost high blood pressure, hypothyroid, plantar fasciitis, and Vitamin D deficiency. I lost pain in my hips when laying in bed. I lost being out of breath constantly and being drenched in sweat with the slightest exertion. I lost excruciating back pain that left me with a possible permanent limp. I gained strength and stamina (from working out at a gym). I gained the ability to push myself through first Water aerobics, then elliptical, then strength training, then spinning, Pilates and yoga. I gained (most of) my self confidence back. I gained more energy than I've had in my entire life - and I'm almost 43! I gained the ability to buy clothes from any store I want. I gained the joy of not being too embarrassed to have my photo taken. I was very lucky and have had zero complications. I've never gotten sick. I credit this to following doctor's orders! I'd still like to lose another 10-20 pounds, but it's ok if I don't. I have some jiggly skin and cellulite, but nothing I can't live with. I couldn't care less about plastic surgery. If hubby doesn't care, then I don't either. I did lose some hair but not too bad. I seem to break out with acne a lot more. So, that's me in a nutshell. My hubby and I are celebrating with a little champagne tonight, and tomorrow I'll be back at the gym for spinning and yoga, and recording all my food on MFP. VST was an amazing lifeline for me pre and post surgery and I'll always be grateful to all of you for your support, honesty and assistance. Onward and upward!

Saying "don't ever believe what some people say here" kind of pisses me off. Are you calling those of us with no complications liars? I hope not. I had no issues at all. I never vomited, was able to walk around freely, and had very little pain. I am sorry you had issues, but not everyone does.

That would be me! I'm getting banded March 25th too. This is round two for me, first try ended with removal about a week later because of a surgical complication. This time I'm keeping it! I'm really looking forward to a no drama surgery! Always Hunzi

I have that fear, it's my second biggest fear (first being surgical complications). Also, of everyone I've known to have bypass personally, none have lost significant weight. I understand ita how you work it that determines success. And I don't know these people so intimately that I could say if it's their fault or the surgery.... How I cope... I go in my hole and do me. I focus on what the doc/nut set for me and forget everyone else's progress, comments and suggestions. I work based on the truths I know about what's good for me and my body.

Hi, everyone! I need some advice from you guys relating to the gastric band. I am terrified of the gastric bypass and losing half of my intestines (well, not losing them just "bypassing" them), but my starting weight is 390 and the posts all state that the band will help you lose about 40-50% of your excess weight. That would only put me at 270 lbs post surgery after a year! how the heck am I supposed to get to 150??? that's crazy! I am trying to get informed more--I am supposed to have the surgery within the next 2 months. It seems like there are less complications than the bypass, but only 1/2 the weight loss. Any recommendations? (As a side note, I started at 420 lbs and am down to 390 after 6 weeks of a nutritional program that I am on). Help me out, guys!!! Newbie in NC

Hi Tracy, When you say you have good and bad days, are you referring to restriction/tightness, or with your food choices? I think you mean the first, but just wanted to make sure. It's funny... I never noticed feeling tighter during my period UNTIL last month. I had been filled to 9 cc earlier in the month. That 1 cc made a big difference. I couldn't get food down and I had chest pain. I couldn't experience that every month, so my doctor removed the 1 cc, and now I'm at 8 cc again. I'm a little disappointed because that extra 1 cc made a good difference the remaining weeks of the month. I admit all of my choices aren't the best choices. I've never noticed more restriction during periods of feeling run down or tired. I'll have to pay closer attention to this. Stress is a possibility for me. I was under tremendous stress during my last period, which was the ordeal I explained above. As soon as my doctor removed that 1 cc, the chest pain subsided. Just make sure this isn't happening to you too frequently. Living with a band that's too tight could lead to a complication.

True, but there was never any doubt that Dr Aceves was a great vertical sleeve surgeon, and as this is a vertical sleeve forum it would make sense that he'd have great reviews here. I just don't know if he's a great DS surgeon, from what I know it's a MUCH more complicated surgery, but I have not had it done myself, I chickened out at the cost But you may have more luck on the ObesityHelp forums since they're not geared to any one surgery like this one is.

There are tons of positive reviews on this and other forums of Dr Elias Ortiz. In 5 weeks post op and he still checks up on me. I had absolutely no side effects. A lighter me will baby you in TJ. Abraham and Orlando are always available and they plan outings to local shops. Dr Ortiz and Dr Hernandes check on you every day. Multiple times in The hospital and multiple times in The hotel. I would not choose another surgeon in The US even if the cost were the same. Eventually he will have a leak bc they just happen but as of now he has never had one. Also, read up on the various forums. Most of the problems come from the US. I keep touch with many alighterme patients and we all feel great. None of us had complications and are able to eat and drink comfortably. I feel so lucky to have used them. And like I stated, Dr Ortiz still keeps in touch and answers questions. They also have a post op care c coordinator, Ronda, that calls once a week to discuss the different stages of diet. All around first class service and surgery. Bob

My sleeve, I don't think it will kill your chances. Just follow the plan from now on. I believe you have enough time to empty your stomach. Salonboi my doctor has cancelled surgeries the day of surgery if patients have eaten too much. They know and put us on the pre op plan for a reason. Mainly to prevent complications and shrink the liver. The size of your liver is determined in proportion to your body. They assess the situation beforehand when they put you on your plan.

Hi all! I was banded 11/12/12. -45 lbs. no complications thus far but right around my port my skin is making a circular indent in my skin. Its not apparent lying down just when standing or sitting. Please! Does anyone know what this could mean!?

This doubt and fear seems to be just a normal part of the preparation process. Do as they others say, go to the information session and listen carefully to what they say. Don't cloud your mind at that time with doubts.... really LISTEN. It takes most of us a while to wrap our heads around this thing... cutting out a huge chunk of a major organ... fear of complications... fear of not waking up... fear of death...fear of ending up worse off than when we started... Keep seeking information, it's the key to a solid decision. Good luck!

You all are so amazing. I didn't realize there were more replies on this thread as I am still getting used to this site. Noob! Kindle, thanks for the info. I will read her posts to see what happened. One surgery with complications doesn't surprise me, or put me off but if post op contact is bad then....as it stands right now I am having trouble getting hold of anyone at the hospital to ask questions. It's bizarre - the main voicemail box is full so I can't leave a message, and the person who did respond via email said they were travelling and would contact me within 48 hours and it has been a week. I have emailed several times since. This is not inspiring confidence. Is there a place to put a personal weight loss thread so one can keep adding posts and not have to have a separate blog? Stacy - You raise some good points I had not thought of (and I will check the youtube videos...good idea). 1. Do most of these places provide private rooms? 2. How many surgeries a day does the doctor perform? 3. Does the doctor speak English (I assume most do). Happy - congratulations on your loss! How did your doctor know he had a good reputation? Do you know, by any chance? I am just asking so I can maybe consult similar sources. Covatila - indeed, you are human - and it is hard to do 100 percent, you know? I am glad to hear you have adjusted so well. I see it has only bene like not even 2 months for you and you lost 70 lbs! Wow - is that even possible? I must be reading that wrong. Ahh ZMDH, you have been such a font of useful information (like everyone has!) 1. Ok, I will avoid the independent booking agencies - your assessment sounds reasonable. I would much prefer to have a coordiator out of the doctor's office. 2. How do you qualify for in house financing - any idea? The PDL website said you need to have a bank account and a credit card. I am pretty sure it is more complicated than that lol. It's not a lot of money to pay anyway - but still, I have to come up with it and the time slot to have the surgery that works best for me is June (ish). 3. Ok, I will just ask for what possible hidden costs. I am thinking of getting some dental done down there as well. I usually have it done when I travel overseas. 4. I have a best friend that is graduating a surgery residency. I should ask him to check out the pictures. Wow you actually checked supply line origins and manufacture history? Wow - I don't even know what that would tell you but adding it to my list lol. WOW. You should make up a checklist for people to ask each doctor. Would you?! That would be so awesome. We could work on a google doc together if you want. I would love to see your posts on the research process. I saw one and it was loaded with information. Would you mind telling me what made you uncomfortable with Jerusalem Hospital? I am definitely going to check out your doctor and the others people have mentioned. Cost due to the time factor is an issue for me. I am hoping I can find one at a reasonable price that I am confident with. --------------------------- Ok and I came up with a few more questions. -Do most of these places provide private rooms? -The surgeons in the usa are concerend with sleep apnea being diagnosed prior to surgery. I have never been diagnosed with it but is this something I should check before going down there? What about cardio tests that they ask for in the usa? - Do the doctors put your legs in the pressure things to avoid blood clots? - What is it like flying back so soon after surgery?

Hey! I got my date too! June 17. It's a Wednesday, so barring complications, I should be out by Friday or Saturday. I'm a revision from band to RNY, doc says he does his in one shot most of the time. I hope I'm one of those times. Then I got hubby for the weekend, yeah! I CANT WAIT!!!!!!

Hi Everyone, I am new on this website, and this is the first time I am writing on this forum. I had pretty much decided to have surgery with Dr. Perez in Cancun, but I am having second thoughts because I cannot verify any of the Medical Associations claimed by any of the Medical Tourism websites. I have been able to very that he is a Surgeon in Mexico. But it just bothers me that they claim he belongs to all these associations, and I cannot verify that information. I am not saying he never did belong to any of them. Just that I can't verify that information to be current as of now. Did anybody else have these concerns? For those in the medical field; should this be of a concern when choosing a Doctor? This is what I am talking about: Boards and associations International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders Mexican Board of General Surgery, Mexico City Mexican Association of General Surgery, Mexico City Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery Latin American Association of Endoscopic Surgery Mexican Association of Obesity surgery I know some have had the surgery with him with no complications. Maybe I'm just very nervous about having surgery in another country! I really would appreciate your feedback on this. Thanks!

I have to say that if you are looking for a UK surgeon to do the op, you'll be hard pressed to find one, as you BMI is less than 35 at the moment, the guidelines for doing WLS are BMI of more than 40 with not co-morbidities (weight related health problems) and BMI of 35 or more with co-morbidities, so you'll have to gain a bit more weight (15st 2lb makes your BMI 35.2) and have a weight related problem to be considered. My BMI was 38.5 when I first decided to have the op and 43 by the time I'd saved up enough money to get it done, scarily that was only 6 months! I've been banded now for 17 weeks now and have lost 3stone and 4lbs so far. I'm delighted with my progress and have to say that the consistency of my weight loss has been down to the band.... Yes I can diet, but my attention span is around 8 weeks so I'd be back on the gain path by now. My band has stopped me falling from grace and although I've tried to binge.... it's not been possible and I've paid with my head down the loo! I'm learning and it's not always easy, but I don't regret having it, despite having the fills from hell! the op itself was a dream, no bruising, no pain and I was back at work 5 days post op, but that's because i don't have a physically demaning job. If you do a lot of lifting then it would be a longer recovery time. You should ask how many of these ops have they done Is there a pre operative diet? What is the weight loss average of the patients What sort of changes will I have to make to my life to be successful What complications can happen, can they be fixed If things go wrong, how much will it cost to put them right. Where will I get fills... what's the protocol? Do I have to pay for them? I hope that this helps a bit!

Something that's been nagging at me since surgery.... I miss being able to chug water. Badly. I'm almost 5 weeks out from surgery, and still can barely hit 40oz of fluid intake a day. That being said - that amount is double my intake from the week before, when I discovered how wonderful straws truly are. I thought all liquids gave me the burps; instead, I can drink pretty much everything now burp-free, provided it's through a straw. I had pre-employment paperwork today for a new job, and while I was filling out the mountain of legal stuff, the woman casually asks for me to give a urine sample for drug tox testing....and I secretly panicked! I had been sip sip sipping along on my water all morning, but I was no where near prepared to give 50ml of urine on the spot! Heck, I'm lucky to pass 200ml total on any given day! Yes, I'm chronically dehydrated since surgery, and it sucks. In the past, this would not have been an issue. I was notorious for being able to chug a full liter of water in under 30 seconds as a pre-op. Now it takes me the better part of 6 hours to get down one of those 16.9oz bottles. WTF. After 3 hours of drinking as much as I possibly could, I was only able to produce 20ml of urine...they sent the test bottle off anyways, but I have that sneaking suspicion that I'll be required to retest. See, little things like this nag at me as a post-op. I was prepared to possibly not be able to eat red meat/steak again, so I spent quality pre-op time eating a TON of beef, and I was ok with that going away. I had no idea I'd end up lactose intollerant...to the point where I wake up at night, covered in sweat and dreaming of cheese, to the point where I can taste it in my mouth!! The social aspects of food are hitting me hardest. I suppose that this is normal for everyone. I've been lucky in that I have been somewhat isolated from other people for the last month, but food advertising is everywhere, and it makes me want to strangle people. If I have to see one of those Pizza Hut ads for that damn CHEESY BITE PIZZA one more time, I swear I'll go postal!!!! Bread and cheese! I'd rather have it than sex! ....at least, I think I would. Truth be told, I'm not even sure if I would really enjoy it anymore. And that's what it comes down to....food hold absolutely no enjoyment for me any more. I can't think of anything in my food choices that tastes GOOD right now. Some things are more tolerable than others, but there is nothing that I truly savor, and it makes me sad. I'm sure the fact that I'm "stalled" does not help matters. I chose to consume a small amount of something I shouldn't, and gained 4 lbs of fluid overnight...which has stubbornly clung on for the last 3 days. And now I am terrified to eat pretty much anything. Worried that I went in debt and nearly died from complications...all for 42lbs of weight loss, which may or may not stay off. Ugh, frustrated. I'm at that point where I'm not far enough to see positives (no, I haven't lost any clothing sizes or had any NSVs yet), but buried in negatives, and it's hard to see when things will improve.

I used dr Kelly August 2012. A lot has changed with workers then, but I have had zero complications with my surgery.

I have some fears of having the surgery done now that the date is approaching. I have heard so many people say I can't eat this or that they now have to go to the bathroom to cough-up something that they just ate. How many people actually go through this on a daily basis? I do understand that everyone is different. If anyone has had a similar experience? As for the surgery, I do understand that there could be complications as with any surgery.... Have any of you had secondary infections, or any wound leakage or any other complications with the surgery? And as far as the diet following surgery were you absolutely hungry or not? Is there anyone that has there band in over 5 years or longer? Thanks so much!! I do go to the lap band support groups, I'm just not sure if some of my peers are following the guidelines laid out by the dietitian and the doctor.

Today's my 4 mos anniversary of being banded... Total weight loss 81 3/4 lb. - since surgery 48 3/4 lbs. I am still convinced this has been the best thing I ever did for myself, my life, and my family. Since 1/22/09 my health has taken a nose dive... whooping cough, inflammed brochial tubes, (6 weeks), just feeling better and kidney stones hit with lots of complications including two stays in the hospital 3 day and a 8 day. Infection in my blood, surgery on stones, and pnemonia. A very sick cookie. I know you are wondering where I'm heading with this...NSV - Not being able to exercise but craving, yearning, wanting (in the shape I was I won't use dying) to EXERCISE what a change in my thought process. My LBS has been awesome...visited me in the hospital both times admitted. Dietician has also visited me in hospital. They have given me such support ... I know I am and will continue to be successful in my new lifestyle change. Through all the illnesses my primary concern was my band...it has come through like a trooper. I'm still very protective ... which is good because it helps me make good choices and follow the LB rules! I'm really beginning to realize what all the talk about it being a TOOL is about. I have to make my food decisions and can make good choices. Still measuring all my foods. DH has bought me the Wii/Wii fit and a sport's watch to monitor my heart rate. I did fudge a little (dr. has not released me to do any exercises yet except minor 5 to 10 min. walks.) and tried some of the balancing games and I did try the Basic Step Aerobics(laughed with DH more than anything because I have no rhythm - can't figure out right, left, front,back - out of 85 steps I got 13 and this was on the beginner! Another NSV - realizing my DH is there to be supportive and that I can handle his help. I am nothing but grateful for having my best friend travel by my side on this journey. Have you begun to see a common thread through my rambling.... My most important NSV is my MIND SET. I am beginning to BELIEVE I am changing my LIFESTYLE. In the beginning of my journal I wrote, "I am dedicating this journal to a lifestyle change: From Living to Eat to Eating to Live!" I believe I am on my way to doing that! PS - I could actually buy a top today at the local Walmart store and only pay $8.00 instead of the only store for plus size women I've had to shop at for the past 10 years! What an anniversay present! Keep the faith! Deb

Yep - brought back bad WW meeting flashbacks for me! LOL. I like the idea of an addiction therapist and a group session where convening is rotated. Nice - I'll start doing some looking around here. And I'm going because I've read those same studies! I want to find a group i'm likely to at least be willing to go back to, even if not always anxious to. It was good hearing people both talk about NSVs, losses, anniversaries AND frustrations and stalls and regains - even complications. All the same as is on this site pretty much, but in person. I can see though that you all are definitely where I'm more apt to turn! Thanks for letting me rant and rave!

My psych eval was super easy and I had the nicest psychologist (who has had WLS, so that was extra great). My eval was scheduled for 2 hours, but it took less than 1 hour. She asked me basic questions about what have I done to lose weight before, what are the potential complications of surgery, what do I feel the outcome of surgery will be, etc. She also had me answer random questions like what is 8745 backwards, draw a circle inside a triangle, and other odd things like that. I asked her why she did those and she said it was to demonstrate that I can follow directions. She also asked about depression, anxiety, etc. I have some anxiety, but it wasn't a problem as I'm still a functional person . In all, it was a very pleasant meeting and I knew immediately that she'd approve me for surgery. Try to not stress about it.

Aftercare would be mostly fills and possibly an unfill. But if you had any post op complications it would be nice to know your surgeon is close by. Occasionally, people have an infection at the port site after surgery, that would be an example of an aftercare need.

If my insurance would cover the surgery, I would be going that route as opposed to going to Mexico. It is not because I am worried about going to Mexico at all, but having your surgery in the States allows for more continuity of care (ie follow up with your doctors and being monitored closely after discharge). In addition, if you have complications, your insurance would pay for those. While Mexico sleevers can go to the ER if we have complications and will be treated (the Federal Law, EMTALA states anyone going to an ER must be treated), we would likely have to pay for that out of our pockets. An ER visit is very costly and I am praying I do not have to visit one! Also, in my opinion, the counseling and diet is really important. Even though I am going to Mexico, I am paying for counseling out of my own pocket to make sure I have a clinical support person to help me with my issues with food and overeating. I use Betterhelp.com and talk with my counselor online whenever I want. I also considered surgery for about 4-5 months prior to putting down my deposit. For me, cutting out part of my stomach was a huge decision that I talked about with my family, my counselor and my friends. LOL none of them were in favor of the surgery, but talking with them still helped I would suggest thinking about this carefully and maybe making a list of the pros and cons of just paying out of pocket VS going through the insurance. Also add up the costs. I am paying 4600 for my package, I used miles + cash for my air ticket (which would have cost $800 but I only spent $200) and have bought about $400 in supplies...like Protein shakes, neosporin, bandages for home, post op Vitamins, etc. So, in the end, I am looking at about $5200 already. But, Whichever path you choose, I wish you good luck! Cheers!