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Hi Walter, I haven't had my surgery yet, so you can take this with a grain of salt if you wish. The odds of you losing weight (and keeping it off) the so-called "natural" way is almost zero. A lot of people say you have a less than 5% chance of keeping the weight off non-surgically, but I've read other studies were the odds were worse than that - 0.015% for women, and for men it's closer to 0.001% (sorry, I can't find the study now, but I'll try to look for it). The human body, for whatever reason, will fight you tooth and nail to stay fat, if you are obese. The best book I've read so far about this is by Dr. Robert Lustig, called Fat Chance. If you prefer YouTube, my favourite videos about all things related to bariatric surgery are by Dr. Matthew Weiner. He explains things very well. You might also want to watch this HBO special, called The Weight of the Nation. If you want to see the effects of how bariatric surgery can help obese people, there's a great series out of the UK also on YouTube called Fat Doctor which focuses on real people struggling with obesity, and doesn't have the Jerry Springer-like feel of some of the U.S.-based shows. You say you are worried about the surgery, but honestly, for most people, the odds of anything happening to you are about the same as having gall bladder surgery or an appendectomy. And those are pretty routine surgeries. But remember - if you stay the weight that you are, any surgery will be a risk, as it is for all people who struggle with obesity. You listed quite a number of conditions that you suffer from -- two questions to ask yourself is, 1) do you want to keep suffering from them and know that they will only get worse with time? and 2) what odds are better for you, in terms of being around for your family - staying morbidly obese, or having the surgery and be given a real chance to not only lose weight, but to keep it off? Sorry to be blunt, but there it is. Is this a big decision? Of course it is. Could there be complications? Yes, but that's true of any surgery. However, I think most people who have had the surgery will say it was the best decision they ever made, and that they wish they had done it sooner. For whatever reason, sleeve or bypass (not lapband, which few surgeons do anymore do to low success rates and other problems) "resets" the body in many ways - within 24 hours to a few weeks to a few months after surgery, people may no longer be diabetic, get off high blood pressure or cholesterol meds, have no hunger to fight against (some forever, but most regain some sort of hunger pangs within a year and a half of surgery), and there can be major changes to your metabolism. Your taste buds will probably change, and you may find that certain foods that you used to like will no longer appeal to you after you've had surgery. Of course, there can be some negative side effects too, like food restrictions and gerd and dumping syndrome, needing gall bladder surgery, some depression (immediately after surgery, but I haven't come across any long-term stats about that), and sometimes addiction transfer (for example, changing your food addiction to something like alcohol addiction). I would really recommend to write down a list of all your concerns and talk about them with your surgeon. Finding a therapist would probably also help. I don't know where you are (I'm assuming the U.S.) so if you have insurance I'm sure you'll have to jump through a few hoops in order to qualify for the surgery, but that can be a good thing, as it gives you time to deal with your fears/concerns before having the surgery. Whenever I get worried about anything, my motto is: think of the solution, not the problem. I find it really helps to get my mind out of the self-defeating loop that will make the problem seem bigger than it is. In this case, I think educating yourself about the surgery, about anesthesia, etc. will help you feel better (or not) about having the surgery done. Good luck.

You should go to a bariatric doctor to see if all is well with your band and your stomach. Also, do some pondering on whether you are now ready to commit to living within the rules of post-bariatric surgery life.

A bariatric doctor would know. Here's a link to the symptoms: http://www.obesityaction.org/educational-resources/resource-articles-2/weight-loss-surgery/dear-doctor-i-think-my-band-slipped-what-are-the-signs What do you mean you're having trouble eating? What kind of trouble? What are you eating? Many people gain weight if their bands are too tight. They tend to gravitate to slider foods that won't benefit or aid in weight loss. Some people find it difficult or impossible to adhere to the band eating lifestyle and also eat the wrong foods and eat like a Bandster. A good doctor can help you get back on track but it's still your responsibility to follow through with the plan. Good luck and I know where you're coming from. I too gained weight the last 6 months but an adjustment has me back on track again.

Cigna does not require any weight loss. Hopefully your bariatric program doesn't either, but if they did I'm sure you'd already know that.

About the drinking and protein shake, yep! I was instructed to wait. The bariatric coordinator actually gave me a schedule of when I should "eat" my shake, then the 30 minute wait period, then when I can drink again. And how much I should drink. She was so strict about sticking to the schedule and it does make sense. Example; 8-8:30 am; Drink 3 ounces of protein shake 8:30-9 am; NOTHING by mouth 9-12; drink 20 ounces of water. Then it continues like that until 9pm. I think starting now just helps prepare for when you can have solid food.

I live in Alaska and there are only two surgeons in the entire state... if I'm correct one only does gastric bypass and the other does the different procedures but neither provider is considered in network so instead of 90% insurance coverage I will only have my surgery covered at 80%... my insurance only covers the first $30,000 at the 90% for in network and then 80% after the first $30,000 but my surgery would cost me 20% plus my deductible and the maximum out of pocket doesn't apply to bariatric surgery... I also know WLS is pricey in Alaska but I don't know exactly how much... I'm at a crossroads because I love the idea of having my surgeon local especially because I'm leaning towards SADI-S over VSG but I'm concerned going the insurance route will cost me more than just going to Mexico. Any advice or recommendations? I don't want to go through all of the testing only to find out I can't afford surgery locally even with insurance. Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

Yes. My insurance company Medica required it and for me there was no getting around it if I wanted it covered. I too had started with a doctor that was not a part of a center of excellence and had to switch. I will say I am very happy that I did because of the enormous care system put in place by my center of excellence. For me I think it was a blessing. So much so that I have moved states and insurance companies and bought insurance that has my center of excellence in another state covered in network. I just did not want to change because they are so good. So now, I drive 6 hours for an appointment but am thrilled with the care and level of service I get because they are a center of excellence. Some of the benefits for me were: a team of bariatric specialists who many have gone through this surgery themselves. I have a nurse assigned to me and she herself had bypass 14 years ago, my nutritionist, psychologist, bariatrician and surgeon are all right there in the clinic and speak to one another. . The clinic is set up for bariatric patients in a way that makes it more comfortable. Larger chairs, examine rooms, equipment. Even the hospital where they performed my surgery. They have a bariatric wing, each bariatric suite private. I was shocked how well I was treated and how comfortable they made me. I am not sure if they are all like that but I know they had to earn their status. I hope things work out for you and you are able to work through it in a way that makes you happy.

I was Banded at HENRY FORD HOSPITAL. Center of Excellence in Bariatrics. Detroit, Michigan. By the Chief Surgeon. The only one to ever touched me. was my Surgeon.

Aetna PPO is exactly what is on my mind too! I had my psych eval today. My BMI is just at 40, but I have a lot of problems with my knees, so I'm hopping that will get approval. The surggeon's office was very upfront with me and advised that Atnea is one of the most difficult insurance companies to get approval from, but eveyone has promised to help me. I was assured by the all the staff that everyone that has been though the bariatric program has been approved. My surgeon placed me in a program with diatician, trainer, etc. I have to "practice" the diet and foods/textures that I will be able to eat afterwards. That has really put everything in perspective.

Unflavored means no flavor added, not that the protein itself does not have flavor. You might try Bariatric Advantage. It is a full meal replacement, meaning it has protein plus 50% of most daily vitamins, not just a protein drink. Call to get samples first--always good with any protein mix.

Hi there, i enjoy the bariatric advantage products, they are really good for me. . I loved and still enjoy the chicken boullion cubes, you can get them with 1/2 the salt as well. . . 2 1/2 weeks is good. . . you will need the rest. . i took off that much time and was glad i did. . . . vitamins are good for you even if you don't have surgery. . . your not re routing your system like with the RNY but vitamins are good. . I still take my B12 sublingual (at walmart) vitamin D (gummies and RX) multivitamins (gummies). . . don't do gummies right away I just now started taking them (i'm 9 months out). . . I have a problem metabolizing vitamin D so i have to take prescription D and a over the counter. . .you'll find how to put the ticker on if you check out vertical sleeve assistance closer to the bottom the forum page. . . good luck! your going to do great!

I have cigna and I know they cover the surgery. I've studied their policy inside and out. Just to make sure my plan really did cover the surgery I called them today only to learn that my father's employer (who I am covered under for another year) has chosen to still consider bariatric surgery as "cosmetic". It sucks because I was so hopeful that I could finally get healthy and feel good. I know the surgery will cost them less in the long run...but is there anyway I could appeal to his employer? Anyway around this other than self pay?

the employer can only make changes to their plan off their renewal period if they have made a legal mistake (ie bariatric coverage is required in some states with different conditions per state). Their renewal does not coincide with your plan, so you could speak with the employer and ask them to consider adding this coverage for their next year. (You can also look at your state's legal requirements to be sure they meet the minimum...I've seen many occasions where people don't). We are self insured and this is the sort of thing we like to hear about from our team. Our goal is to provide the best coverage in the business, both as a benefit to our team's well being and for competitive reasons (helps us get the best people). So when we learn that we are lacking in an area from someone we look at how to make that work in our program. When I had my surgery we saw we were lacking in this area and will make the changes for the next period. We did the same for fertility and adoption benefits after seeing we were low. Typically employers go with a plan that is sort of standard, then add bits here and there as necessary. It's impossible to sit there and say "how much do we have for this and that" because it's overwhelming, so we get guided by our administrators. Which is where you come in Yes tell his employer. He may or may not make the change, but it's worth a shot. That said, this probably won't help you during this enrollment period. He can't just add the coverage for you as an appeal.

I think we all go into this with doubts and fear of failure. It is what many of us have experienced with traditional dieting our whole lives. A little bit of that fear is probably healthy. What has worked for me so far is to: Decide to do everything my bariatric team asked me to do, even if I thought I couldn't and/or if I was afraid. Follow my surgeon's instructions (pre- and post-op). Track my food. I use MyFitnessPal. Get at least 64 oz of Fluid every day. Get at least 100 grams of Protein every day. Avoid (for the most part) added sugars, starches, and fried foods. Take my Vitamins and supplements as directed. Exercise regularly. Practice eating mindfully, taking small bites, and chewing thoroughly. Participate in BariatricPal. Attend support groups when I am able. Weigh infrequently, especially in the first few months after surgery. Avoid carbonation and caffeine. Practice creativity. Manage stress the best way I can. Celebrate my successes: my favorite rewards are things like massages and mani/pedis. And, most importantly, embrace the inevitable stalls. Embrace the Stall http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/351046-Embrace-the-Stall

Hi everyone, I'm in the last week of this research now so I said I'd post here for anyone that has missed it and would like to share their bariatric experience. Have gotten a great response so far but I'm a little bit short on numbers so if you have some time to fill it out I'd be very grateful. Thanks so much in advance xx https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1eDZE0cIK8ChVCeWrsX1s-QMAshk5oLErL7c7q5Sk2Kw/viewform?usp=send_form

Yes, my doctor offers Bariatric Advantage Meal Replacements. On them for 15 days before surgery. Today is day 1, so far so good! =) Good luck on your journey thus far!!

This is from the Journal of the American Medical Association. It is entitled, "Prevalence of Alcohol Use Disorders Before and After Bariatric Surgery" at http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleID=1185618

There are two types of bariatric patients. Those who are chomping at the bit to get the surgery and get going, and those who have fear, cold feet, buyers remorse... however you want to put it. All I can say being on the other side for coming up to four years banded in January, is.....do it man! All the nonsense with timing, appointments, family stuff, personal stuff, whatever...is just that. Nonsense. Don't procrastinate my friend. Jump into the deep end. Believe me...you will be in such a better place a year from now. Why delay that? And so you know...I went into this kicking and screaming. I would have done anything to avoid it but my back was against the wall as I was heading towards a wheelchair full time. This is me just over a year ago and the before pic was easily 50 lbs. less than I was day of surgery. So..not only no wheelchair in that picture, but here I was riding a friggin' bike in preparation for a trip to London...which included a ton of walking. So believe me when I say that the grin you see is 'gen-you-wine' happiness. Time for you to have your happiness too. Good luck!!

I take Bariatric Advantage multi with Iron and A & K twice daily. I also take D-3, Zinc, Biotin, once a day and calcium chews three times a day.

Exactly what she ^^^ said. I am 5yrs out (today) and have been taking Vit. D, B12, B complex, Calcium and a Multivitamin ever since and will continue to do so. Not a bad sacrifice for all of the rewards I've received . Call your bariatric team about whether a surgery postponement will be necessary. Only they will know what's right for you and your hubby. Keep us posted. Prayers going up.

My BMI of 53 and my hypothyroidism were my only two health conditions. I worked with the bariatric team, attended 6 months of classes and documented my previous weightloss efforts. The doctor's office then built the case for me needing surgery and presented it to the insurance company and I was approved. I encourage you to work closely with the health care team as they are your greatest advocates with the insurance company. Had lapband surgery 10/12/16

Ifluty - Do you know someone that has had lapband surgery and their company insurance paid for it? If so, try to get a job at that company. Even if you have to take a pay cut, in the long run you'll be ahead rather than putting yourself in debt to have the surgery. Another option is take a loan out on your 401K. Interest rate is very low, you're very young, so you still have time to make up for it. But if you do that - find a bariatric doctor in your area that does a package deal where everything is included in one price. I'm a self pay because my company has a total exclusion with our insurance company for bariatric surgery. My doc does a package deal that includes surgery, hosptial, anesthesiologist, dietician and 1 year of fills for $15K. I took part out of my 401K and then also took a loan. I'll have the loan part paid back within 12 months. The 401K is no big deal for me because it wasn't that big anyway. It's my husband's 401K that we'll be counting on during retirement in about 5 years. I agree with what someone said in a prior response. DON'T put yourself in debt to have the surgery. Best of luck to you. I know how frustrating it is.

I appreciate it im at my wits end lol Sent from my LGMS330 using the BariatricPal App I do appreciate the recipes the only thing is I can't afford the bariatric stuff so I have to eat whatever I can I'm on disability and I live on a fixed income so it's kind of hard to buy bariatric stuff but thank you very much I appreciate your input Sent from my LGMS330 using the BariatricPal App I'm on a budget too so I really don't have a variety of foods to eat or to go get the Protein shakes they are so expensive so I basically have eggs veggies and drinks like G-2 or water that's about it. Sent from my LGMS631 using the BariatricPal App

I had a stomach bug which made me nauseated. Not to be too graphic but...I really needed to throw up and it was difficult. I felt a lot of pressure and a small amount of vomit did make it's way out. My band is fine and if it continued then I was definately going to take some anti-nausea meds. You can get lozenges at the pharmacy, or you bariatric doctor can prescribe a "real" anti-nausea med. So...for me I can still throw up post-band but it is a whole lot harder to do.

Last week many bariatric specialists convened in Miami. Here's the link to the agenda: https://spring.asmbs.org/schedule/. If I get time this week, I'll try to post links to the actual lectures. One focus: Periodic testing blood for "deeper" indicators of inflammation and potentially altered body chemistries, post-WLS. Ex: To help the "different" gut flora (bacteria), do pts need Probiotics on an ongoing basis? Also, should GBS/RNY, VSG and LB be done as an outpatient if the patient is uncomplicated, except for their BMI/weight? Hospitals will say no, as will hospital-based doctors. But does the patient need to bear that expense if they are otherwise low risk? (My VSG was done outpatient; anyone else? Did you do well?)