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Losing slower (1-2 lbs a week I mean) usually means not as much skin sag and also statistics show you keep it off longer. Can you see about changing drs or bringing those kinds of things up to him? I wouldn't do well with that pressure and I'm working hard to follow every single rule.

Do you have any suggestion on what you would of done differently if you would of known then what you do now. Any suggestions on anything to do with the surgery, weight loss, diet, loose skin...????

Well the day you prayed for, worked so hard for is almost b here. Try to get some rest tonight, I'm sure by now you have all the loose ends tied up at home, right? Okay tomorrow get up and go to your facility with firm conviction of the rightness of what you're doing, hope in your ❤, belief in your surgeon and their staff and plaster a great big_(1 step below S***eating grin) smile on your face, it is YOUR DAY, you are the STAR OF IT ALL.! But today do something I failed to do, take measurements all over your body, this is the LAST TIME you will be THIS SIZE! Yes, hips, waist, around "the Girls" but also upper and lower arms, wrists, thighs, calves and ankles and around your neck. Don't have to share these with,anyone else, these are a point of reference for the future! When I started losing, first places were forarms, wrists, face and neck, now Much of the rest is getting thinner but that was my first areas. And if you can and have someone help ing, frontal, back and profile pictures. Later when you look at them you will be gratified by your changes. I wish I had taken more pictures of the people at my hospital, they all treated me so fine and it would have been like a pictorial autograph. I have tried and tried to get a picture of my Dr Needleman, finally almost 6 months after meeting him,i got one in what I call his natural plumage, Scrubs, I had an unexpected rehospitalization November 28- December 5th and i got it Then! And promise you will update us when you make it safely(as You Will) through your surgery! Auntie Frustr8 will be Waiting!

I haven't had surgery yet but was planning on having the lap band. However when I went to the first meeting with my surgeon he suggested that the rny would be better for me. I have insulin resistance and like 140 lbs to loose. I was so confused. So I did all of the research and asked a lot of questions and made a pros and cons list. I made the decision to have rny. For me it is the best fit. I don't want the maintenance that the band requires. I don't want to be able to absorb the high calorie foods that I'd be able to with the band (like ice cream). I don't want to worry about erosion or slippage. So for me this is the way to go. I wish you luck with your decision. It is a hard one I know. But you'll be OK.

hi, Officeslave (that moniker evokes all kinds of images that fit where i work too--made me smile.) my surgeon helped me set expectations early-before he agreed to do my surgery, in fact, made sure i understood that weighting myself athome was "bad" and that i should adjust my expectations to 1-2 pounds per week on AVERAGE. he taught me that losing more than that was not healthy for my body, as mhazelrigg said, that the skin and hair and all that needs the time to "slim down" to continue to fit also. i congratulate you on your 37# reduction and hope that you will become more regular in your exercise. i walk every day--even only 20 minutes and not, necessarily "vigorously"--but EVERY day. it MATTERS. i play tennis (well that's what i call it--i'd never be mistaken for Chris Evert) once a week with a tennis ball machine. it keeps me moving and doesn't criticise my swing... :biggrin2: the nice thing about walking and tennis is that they don't require any significant $$ to do them and you don't have to go to the gym... you're really doing well--give yourself a break.

I was banded yesterday, and wanted to share with everybody about a very neat little gadget that I got before leaving the hospital. My Dr. said that they go to great lengths to try to ensure that you are not nauseated, and I now believe it! By the way, I have absolutely loved my Dr. He has been so great! Anyway...You may have heard of it, but I had not, and I just think this is the greatest thing since sliced bread. :cursing: It's a band that looks like a watch. The face of the band is worn on the wrist and when turned on, it releases low level electrical pulses that you feel in the palm of your hand and in your middle fingers. There are two little electrodes that touch the skin and it comes with a tube of conductivity gel that you rub on your skin before putting the band on and then you add more about every 3 - 4 hours while using the band. The band has 5 different settings and this thing really works. I have taken 1 pill for nausea and the rest of the time I have just turned on my band. Love, love, love it! Too bad I didn't have something like this when I was pregnant.

I went back and forth with wether or not to tell my co workers. I thought about it at first, I didn't think it was anyones right to know, but the way I figured it. It wasn't like I was able to hide the fact that I was fat, and my co workers were professional, respectful, everything you would expect before I got the LB, so why wouldn't they be happy that I decided to do something to become more healthy and loose weight? So far I've had nothing but support, and those "I have a friend who has the LB, or I know someone who has the LB". But it is a personal choice.

Welcome. I totally agree with everyone, even though I haven't gotten the "easy way out" mantra thrown at me. However I sometimes criticize myself for not being able to loose weight the ""normal" way. Giving my son a life with a healthy mother is what I've decided to choose and I think my turning point was when my weight continued to tip the scale and several health issues began to stack against me. Two years ago when I found out I had hypertension should have been the wake up call, but with sleep apnea and diabetes side by side, the wake up call became a bullhorn tearing out my eardrums. So here I am, proud and ready that I've made the decision to become healthy for me and no one else...so I guess that is the easy way out for me, and the hard part will follow !

OMG! there are so many but I can't think of any! Changing ring sizes 2x None of my old clothes fit me new pants that I bought 2 months ago are baggy I wear m shirts size 10 jeans size 8 pants 1 of my favorite M blouses is a little toooo big. More energy loosing in inches more room in seats The person I'm working with is tongue wagging all the time and telling me how good I look. And there's a lot more. I'm truly grateful that I had this procedure, it has changed my whole life.

10/2009 Take a good look. This is what Morbid Obesity looks like. Let me preface this by saying that at first I was going to keep it all a hush-hush big super secret squirrel secret. But I figured blogging would not only help me chronicle my journey, but serve as a sounding board. Of course I run the risk of opening myself up to criticism and negativity. But I figured…they talked about Jesus they’ll talk about me too. And what’s more is – I really don’t give a rat’s sweaty nads. *shrug* With that said… I’ve never had a problem with being full-figured. In fact, I’ve embraced it. It’s a part of the me that I’ve been proud to be. Even flaunted my curves. And its not like I’ve been starved for attention. Most…well, a lot (only basing on what I’ve been told) of men (women too) think that I’m (are you ready for this?) SEXY. I’m not bragging at all…but can you imagine? Me, at 298lbs…on a 5′3″ frame. What doctors frown at in disapproval. What some people in public look at in disgust…but yet others…desire. To this day. As recently as an hour ago. 8/2008 *smh kinda confused* Admittedly, I’ve thought the same thing for a long time. My self esteem has remained in its proper sometimes over-elevated place. The men folk (husband included) never seemed to have had a problem with it, so I never had a problem with it… Until now. I’m at my biggest ever. Almost 30lbs more than I weighed when I was 9 months pregnant (2 years ago). I’m uncomfortable. I don’t like what I see in the mirror any more. My feet hurt. My knees ache. (ironically enough, the VERY reason why working out has been such a chore – that aside from time: 9-5 job, jewelry biz, almost 2 year old daughter, and a hubby that works nights/weekends). And now, my once high (sometimes too high) self esteem has taken a nosedive. So what to do?? 9/2002 I’ve done the diets, the shakes, the cleanses, the “lifestyle change”, the pills, the work-out regimen, etc… Something has to be done. NOW. So after about 6 months of mulling it over, I’ve opted to have the LAP-BAND®®® surgery. In fact, that’s the entire reason for this blog. My goal is 75-100lbs. Realistically, at 200lbs, I’ll still be +size…but ALOT better off than I am now. I’m making a decision to better my life, and thereby, my family’s life. I will learn healthier habits to pass on to my daughter and share with my husband, as well as actually be around a lot longer to see her grow up, and grow into the olden golden years with her daddy. This vixen, is about to change her game up, for good. I have my physical exam and initial info session at the Bariatric Surgeon’s office on Monday. Then comes the consult to chart the path forward, counseling, etc. I will join the Million Pound Challlenge to help get me started on the right track. But that’s Monday – and it’s going to be a life-changing day. So this weekend, I’m gettin it in. *lol* I’m gonna eat what I want…probably for the last time (at least for a long time); Celebrate my 35th bday (late, bc of all the snow) and celebrate in anticipation of a new life and a new, even sexier, healthier me… I’m excited. I can only pray that by sharing this journey, it will garner some support & encouragement from friends, acquaintances, and strangers alike. But even if it doesn’t, it’s no skin off my teeth. I’m CERTAIN that my words will touch or encourage SOMEONE out there. 1/2010 Beauty can be found at ANY size. From a size 6 to 26. However, HEALTH cannot. And that’s all its about for me. Taking off some pounds to add some years to my life. Phine, re-defined… *sexy grin*

I have referred several friends who have weighed less than 100 lbs to have lap band surgery. One only needed to loose 40 lbs., but it had been the same 40 lbs. she had been carrying around for 15 years. One friend needed to loose 60 lbs. and one needed to loose 55 lbs. I needed to loose 98 lbs. which is what I have lost since my lap band surgery. My insurance would not pay either. It was $15,000 where I live so I went Tijuana and had mine done. I love my band and it has been an awesome experience.

Wow! I can't have raw veggies until 4 months. I would peel the skin at first if I were you. Enjoy!!

I started looking into this surgery because I was pre-diabetic and starving all the time. Like I just finished a huge meal, and my stomach hurt, but I still wanted to eat and eat and eat. My hunger has been increasing and getting worse over the past 10 years, along with gradual increases in my fasting blood sugar and other symptoms of metabolic syndrome like skin tags. My dad has diabetes (and got it when he was about 5 years older than I am now), so I knew what was coming. The thing that really excited me about the surgery was that it provides a mechanism to reset your metabolism, to actually CHANGE your hormonal balance and your set point so that you naturally feel satisfied at a lower weight, and eating less food with less hunger. Now I am 2.5 months out, and I really feel it working - with the smaller stomach, it gets full faster, so ghrelin (a hormone that your stomach makes when it is empty that makes you feel hungry) starts to DECREASE quickly after you take your first few bites. Studies show that ghrelin levels are about 50% lower after bariatric surgery than before. And that has an effect - you really, seriously, truly feel much less hungry, even though you are eating way less. In contrast, normally when you go on a diet, your ghrelin levels INCREASE compared to when you started. Studies show that after a 3-6 month diet without surgery, your ghrelin levels will increase by 50%. And that has an effect - you are much more hungry and so you want to eat even more and gain the weight back - it may even make you feel like an addict! Since before my surgery, I would often feel hungry even when my stomach felt full, I can totally see why you'd be scared that you'd still feel really hungry even when your new small stomach is full. And I can tell you from experience - being hungry with a full stomach feels miserable! I can see why you'd be scared of that! But I really want to assure you - the surgery works as advertised. You will feel satisfied, even when you are eating way less food than before. For me, the change in my hunger is like night and day - it's amazing!

My first mini goal is loose another 20 pounds by month 2 post op.

Hi Nurse Katie: First off congratulations on your new life!:laugh: Second: Please concentrate on healing and do not worry about what your eating because right now it has no bearing on your healing. You will loose and gain :smile2: during that time but don't worry! My doctors told me I could gain 2 to 5 lbs during this time, no matter what you will be making healthy choices so you should be fine. I did not gain but I did not loose and all I did was choosing healthy. Once 6 weeks have passed and you have had your first fill, then concentrate on calories and plateaus. Third: Once you do hit a plateau it can be one of two things, a) you are doing the same exercise and your body knows it, so change up exercise routine weekly or :wink5: you have too little calories, if that is the case increase your calories by 100 and give it two days the scale will tell you! Take care and good luck!

Well, I think it depends on what you're exactly looking for...Personally, I'm leaning towards the band (ins pays for both, but I'm praying for band approval). I'm 35 years old (bmi 45.5) and looking to POSSIBLY have one more child. The research I've seen on line stated that there's LESS likelyhood of a problem pregnancy w/the band since it can be adjusted for the nutritional needs of the mom and fetus. Also, since the weight loss isn't as fast as w/the bypass, I'm hoping less chance of loose skin too. I also know it's less envasive and less time I have to recover. I have 3 year old that I can't keep up with now, plus being out of commission for a 4-6 weeks +, I can't really have that. :preggers:

I am just DONE. Not only is my BMI too "low" (34.4) to qualify in the US, but my insurance wouldn't cover it anyway (Tricare). I have lots of questions... What was your process like? Where did you go? Private pay or insurance? Worth it? Do you feel like the lap-band was a last-ditch effort to be a normal weight? Did you approach your family practitioner about the lap-band and what was their response? I'm scared to even approach the subject with a family doc. The last time I went to be seen for my weight the doc told me to go on a diet. Well DUH!!! As if I had never thought of it or done it before. I'm afraid a doc will laugh in my face if I ask about the lap-band because I only have 85lbs to lose. Okay, I had 120 to loose so more than you but my bmi was 39.9 and my insurance wouldn't pay a dime. I went to the man who's done more than anyone in the world, Dr. Zapata, Dr. Sanchez in Monterrey, Mexico. It was the best decision of my life. I lost 80 pounds the first 12 months and am still losing. I've been banded 13 months. I love my band. I could never have lost it without the band. I had tried everything. I ask my PCP first and he was all for it. Then I started researching who had done the most and who had done them in major trauma hospitals and not clinics and that's how I made my decision. I paid cash and it was 8000.00 and that including everything. PM me if you have any questions. This is the best place in the world for info and support. Welcome, Hugs, Sherri Jo

Hello I am almost 3 years out....lost most of my 100-115 (depends on the month) pounds in the first year. Have been kind of stagnent in the WL department for about a year and half....first did not have insurance that covered fills and had to pay out of pocket...I have a fickle esophagas(sp) that if my band is the least bit tightened too much at once spasms and I have to have an almost immidiate unfill. Have about 4.1 in my 11 cc band right not...going for a fill tomorrow...found this sight and looks like a place I need to be....need to get my head in the game for several reasons....guess I am sick of beating myself up and ready to do this thing!! Primary reason is to get invitro...Doc says I need to be at 35 bmi to get best results and since I am only 20 pounds from that should be no sweat right???? Well you would think and that was June and here I am October and still gaining and loosing the same freakin :mad:7-10 pounds...So hopefully talking to others that feel my pain will get me to do what I need to do! Thanks for listening to my rant! bandsterintn!

Ok, I have been dealing with my weight for the last past eight years. 2 years and 28lbs ago I attended the seminar for gastric bypass. At the time I felt that the procedure was a little to drastic for me and never pursued it any further. I am starting to have soooo many issues surrounding my weight like sleep apnea, acid reflux, and recent knee issues. The acknowledgement of being tired and short breath all the time has encouraged me get back to trying to loose the weight on my own. I am now looking for alternatives so this disease doesn’t get the best of me. I am currently 5'0 and 228lbs. After reading information on the lap band, I am thinking this is the route for me. I welcome any advice from anyone who is willing to share. I will keep you guys updated in my progress.:thumbup:

I am a low BMI'er. My recovery was easy...no complications. My weight loss was fairly quick and steady. I hit goal in 6 months and am now 20lbs below that. Today is my one year sureversary. Some people here say that low bmi'ers loose weight more slowly...and that is somewhat true. You will not loose 20 lbs in one month, but you will reach goal sooner. In the first few months I was loosing apx. 10 lbs per month. Then it slowed to 8 for the majority of the middle months until I hit goal, then 2-4lbs lost per month since then. I am now 20lbs BELOW goal. Started at a size 16ish. Am now in 0's. It's been a pretty amazing transformation.

Butterflyhigh thank you for your response to my post! I figured it would be harder to loose weight because of the lower BMI, I'm not that far away from u in my BMI ???? I just haven't found anyone who is close to my BMI. I'd love to talk to u in more detail about your journey. As I think it will be close to the one I am facing. If u want to u can email me at tiarowley@me.com. I would like to here from u! Thx so much! ????

Not that this will help much but I use Body Media Link, I love it. It is the only one that measures calories burned thru your skin temp along with steps so it counts all your activity your doing whether its doing dishes or riding a bike...I say it wont help you because it does not have a HM yet they are coming out with a new improved smaller one called Core2 but still waiting on that. Also there is one called Basic I think that is the only one you dont have to wear a strap to monitor your heart rate but last I read people said that did not do so well ....good luck

looking good!!! im still struggling to loose the other 50 lbs...it may take me alot longer. it may help if i stopped eating halloween chocolate how is the singing going??

Good Afternoon, I had my procedure on 9/14/05 with Dr. Rodriguez at Methodist Hospital in Dallas. I did great the 1st 8 days - lost 13 pounds and for the past 4 days have lost nothing. Also I now feel like I don't have any restrictions. It's a little frustrating and depressing, but today is not over with yet. I have enjoyed reading your postings and would like to have feedback regarding this situation - is it normal? I heard from one of my newly banded friends that usually the Dr. does not fill your band initially but does that on your first visit. To tell you the truth I didn't even ask about that. I was told that after the swelling goes down the band will feel a little loose and when I come back into the office to let them know and I will probably need a fill. Sorry - but I'm worried. You know I had surgery to fill full fast. Thanks, Kim B