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Showing results for 'Complications'.
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There's plenty of potential issues that could happen with anything and there's always a risk any time you have a medical procedure. However, the bottom line is you have to do what's right for you. I can tell you that the majority of issues that occur come from the patient being non-compliant with post surgery instructions. Band slippage usually occurs when someone isn't eating properly or they're throwing up too much, etc... (again all signs that they're not eating properly.) These are things people won't admit to, they'll blame the surgeon, the band, etc... and while there are SOME cases of of malpractice or faulty equipment the majority of it goes back to non-compliance. Flips that's questionable, if again the patient is non-compliant with lifting restrictions, etc.. it's possible they tear or loosen their stitching during the healing time and don't see the result of it until after. Remember that 90% of the people who have the surgery have issues and problems with food and accepting responsibility for their own actions so they'll be quick to blame the band, doctors, anyone but themselves. I am 1 year and just shy of 3 months out and not a SINGLE complication. Not one. If I throw up, I KNOW it's because I ate too fast, didn't chew enough, etc... Sometimes I get stuck because I'm not open, again I know this happens at times and comes with the territory, however they tell us to sip something warm if we haven't eaten yet to open us up. So that's my issue. I researched this for 5 yrs before I did it, feeling surgery would be my absolute last resort. When I became truly informed I realized it was a tool and not a way to do it for me, unlike bypass. All that being said ultimately it's your decision. I've done it both ways, with or without the band, the difference with the band is while I haven't had a HUGE weightloss like some, I haven't gained, which is my main concern. I feel like this is one of the best things I've ever done for myself.
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I think being aware is one thing, knowing what could happen is another, and believing it will happen to you is different as well. YES being banded comes with plenty of chances of failure, complications, slips, flips, erosions, and so on. Any WLS surgery comes with complications. Are your chances of developing complications highly decreased if you work with an experienced and well educated bariatric surgeon? Yep. Are they decreased if you follow the rules? Of course. It comes down to how much risk you're willing to take. Are you willing to risk trying to diet and exercise on your own? Is having WLS a risk you want to take? I was young when I got banded, 18, and while I knew about all the risks, I also knew I couldn't do it on my own. While I was never a huge yo-yo dieter or someone who spent ages and ages trying to lose lots of weight, and the fact is that I did not WANT to become a yo-yo dieter or someone who went into my late 20s still morbidly obese. Being fat had changed my life for the bad and I was tired of it. My main problem was portion control and the band was advertised to do such. Has it? Definitely. I'm down 112lbs in 9 months. But along with success stories comes even more failures. My advice to you is to weigh the pros and cons of surgery. Whether it's the band or the sleeve, sit down and really think. If you decide to wait, why don't you try to do diets that bandsters or those who are sleeved follow? Maybe put yourself on a cup of food a meal diet along with exercise. Will it be harder without WLS? Surely. But you could at least relate to us who have had WLS and can come for support. Good luck with whatever you decide Do what is best for you.
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Hi Everyone, I’m rather new to the board, and I’ve been posting on the ‘Newbie’ Forum, to get a feel for what others are thinking in the planning of WLS. I see that we pretty much all share the same concerns for the most part. I wanted to get myself on the General Forum now, as I’ve got questions for the ‘Lap Band Veterans’ to answer for me – as only you can! **I have to say that I just went to the Before/After pictures Forum, and have tears streaming down my face with happiness for all of you. I can only aspire to have my pics posted some day soon! You’re all heros to me, and I hold each of you in such high regard – as I’m learning that this whole journey takes Nerve, Perserverance, GUTS, Stamina (shall I go on!) As I’ve said, please forgive me in advance if I post any questions that may seem ‘stupid’…but if I knew the answers, I wouldn’t ask. I’m using the search tool on this site; it’s fantastic. A bit about me: I’m 36, overweight, one co-morbidity – High Blood Pressure. I just had my first live forum with the doctor that I’m considering here in NJ; Dr. Abkin from Morristown. I went to the hotel for the forum that focused a bit more on Bypass than Lap Band. I had dozens of questions, but couldn’t get them all answered in two hours! I am scheduled tomorrow for a meeting with my General Doctor, who will then refer me onto a Nutrionist and Pscyh Doctor. Right now I have Aenta who requires 6 months before surgery. Next month my employer has Insurance enrollment, and I’ll be changing to Blue Cross or United; as per the “Insurance Pros” at my Surgeons office – since they approve nearly automatically. (WOW, I’m long winded – sorry!) I will have all my ‘pre’ stuff done before 1/1/07 – then I can work on scheduling my consult with the doctors; and onto Band Day! I know it seems rather premature for me to be doing all of this; but I think doing this slowly can help me prepare better mentally. The one question that I have for you Veterans is this: Other than complications, what can I expect after surgery, that I probably haven’t read about yet? I think now I put so much emphasis on ‘getting together for dinner’; I fear that I will cry at some point when I realize that I can’t just go out and do that with my boyfriend, mom, etc. Sorry for being long winded…but I am so excited to have this forum to help me!!! :faint:
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I got a form from my surgeon to apply for a FREE attorney (Walter Lindstrom)to assist with the appeal! I would've paid for one but free is even better. I'm a pessimist so we'll see if it is truly free and how well it works. I am 38 BMI with United Healthcare and got turned down flat with no explaination in the denial letter. It is a covered benefit under my husband's plan. I have never prayed so much in my life for something! My husband and I decided that if I can't get insurance to pay for it, I can't do it. Even though I could charge the operation, I'm more afriad of complicaitons. The thought of complications wiping out our savings (we have 3 kids) is just too risky for us. Waiting on this process has been overwhelming. It's really all I think of--am I going crazy?
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Top Doctor's Opinion re Revision options-Posted on Complications Forum
Ivy Verde replied to Baba Wawa's topic in Revision Weight Loss Surgery Forums (NEW!)
I'd put my money on a world renowned surgeon, personally. Most people find out that what he says about the band is true. I know I found out the hard way. She posted in Band Complications forum and was attacked for it. It's wrong. -
Top Doctor's Opinion re Revision options-Posted on Complications Forum
mrsto replied to Baba Wawa's topic in Revision Weight Loss Surgery Forums (NEW!)
At least if there are serious complications, the procedure can be reversed; lap band removed & you're on your way. Can't say that once 75% of your stomach is removed, or your digestive system has been rewired. My surgeon is not a huge fan of the band, either. I don't know that many bariatric surgeons are. But even with all of its potential ongoing problems, it's STILL less risky than the other options. I remain hopeful..... -
Im not 100% sure about their reason for upper GI. But my surgeon requires it for all pts. I believe bc they want to make sure there aren't any hernia, or other problems that could complicate surgery.
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Thank you everyone!!!!! I made through with no complications or leaks I was in a lot more paid after really bad back ache and this tube in my nose stabbing the bck of my throat but its out now is got up to walk around and everything is good still a little soar n pain on my left incision....thank you all for Ur blessings
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If I am honest with myself....
VSGAnn2014 replied to Leesa926's topic in General Weight Loss Surgery Discussions
I think if you're going to have WLS, you really have to be all-in to make it successful. Yes, there are WLS complications for a small minority of patients. Yes, WLS is expensive -- sometimes also expensive when you have insurance. Yes, WLS is permanent and changes a lot of things about what you can eat and drink, when you should do so, how much you can take in at a time, the supplements you must take, etc. But if all goes well (and it does for most patients), WLS can change your life so positively. Still ... if you're not ready, please don't do it. Your situation is different from mine. And if I'd been in your situation, I might well feel like you and "try another time like hell to change my lifestyle permanently." You've got a 5% chance to take off your excess weight and keep it off for a year. And if it doesn't work out for you, you can re-think WLS later. (This is NOT a snarky post.) -
Lapband with plication
Tonya Board Blakey replied to planningband07's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
Hello ladies. I also had the Iband surgery ( imbricated lap band ) my surgery was July 12th and I am almost 7 weeks post op. I can relate to a lot of what you all have discussed????i.e. Gas pain, constipation. But I never was nauseous! Thank goodness. But I am hungry!! In 6 weeks I am down 23 pounds. I have not had my band filled, but may have to ask my dr. for a fill. Anyway, no complications for me, I am now super comfy and back to normal, I exercise also. So... I think that as long as 2 pounds a week are coming off, I will get about 80 pounds off who knows. Slow and steady is what is happening here. I hope you all are recovering well. And would love to stay in touch, I don't know anyone who has had this surgery. -
Hey! Just introducing myself :)
eporter replied to eporter's topic in Tell Your Weight Loss Surgery Story
Thank you!! Yes I’ve seen so many people who say they wanted this so bad, regretted and now are grateful for it. As well as the other way around, were scared but ended up with no complications and hardly any pain. I’m a pretty strong person and have a great support system BUT I know this is a life change and I pray my strength continues mentally. I’m trying to prepare myself for “the worst” (as far as healing, pain, learning to use my new tool, transitioning into a new phase, etc.) but hopeful for the best experience! -
Obstacle 2: Sleeve Prices Vary
Disney replied to SandSandles's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
Just a thought, local is not always better, even if the price is the same. Research the local Dr's you might look into (if you come up the the 9000) because some surgeons are not nearly as experienced as others. Dr. Aceves has done well over 1500 sleeves and the local surgeons I checked into where I live had done 40 and 150 at the time I was looking into surgery. I agree with others who said really research each Dr before making a final decision. I wanted to have my surgery in a Hospital, not a clinic. You may be fine with either and that's great. I just wanted the 'one on one' with my Dr. and I got that (actually had 2 Dr.'s checking on me) every day I was there. I know there are many here who have had great experiences with Almanza with no problems whatsoever. I just didn't want to be that ONE patient that had a complication and so I chose Aceves to have a Hospital with a full Emergency Room just in case. That's just the kind of luck I have, so that was my thinking. I had a great experience with Dr. Aceves and could not recommend him more. He went above and beyond and I am glad I chose him. Good luck with your decision. -
Question for the bandsters with great success...
luv2laugh replied to ccweeks's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
What a great post! I've had pretty good luck with the band. I've lost over 80 lbs since I was banded 2 years ago. I recently was rebanded because of a complication. I'm hoping starting from scratch will give me a jumpstart so I can loose another 40 lbs. Exercise has definitely been key for me. I have recently gone back to work, and find it hard to fit the gym in now. Once my doc gives the ok, I'm going to try and do my daughter's Wiifit @ night. The band is a "tool"... I do know a lot of people who have not lost a lot of weight after being banded. You have to be in the mindset to eat right and exercise. It only limits the amount you eat, not what you eat. It's very easy to cheat around it. Knowing your triggers, and staying away from them are key too. good luck! -
You are so positive. I am only post op day 4 and cannot stop reading about complications. I think I am going to drive myself crazy. I know that only God knows what the future holds but I cannot wait to be past 10 days when my doc said I would be out of the woods.
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Stupid mistake 8-days post op!!
KelinTx replied to bottlerocket's topic in POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I guess my ultimate question is.....Were you not given any post-op diet instructions? Any literature at all regarding your after care and what is permissible to have during each of the post-op phases? If not call your surgeons office and ask for some, if so follow what they have given you. The dietary restrictions are not meant to be a punishment, they are there to protect you from hurting or damaging yourself or your band and to let it heal properly so that you can make the most of your new tool. By not following the rules you do put yourself at risk for complications. -
Did anyone here sheat on the pre op liquid diet?
SarahS replied to warrior68's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I did not have a liquid pre-op diet. They just wanted me to do a reduced calorie diet to "shrink" my liver. They didn't even suggest high protein, low carbs, they never have even for post-op. He said my liver looked fine during surgery and I was 356 pounds at surgery date. i had no complications during surgery, very little bleeding and didn't need a drain! But, I think I was pretty healthy going in to surgery even with such a high weight. I didn't really stick with any diet pre-op but I did try to cut a few things out and not eat as much. I am sure I was consuming 5-6000 calories before my surgery on a typical day. I did eat Taco Bell and McDonalds a few days before surgery. I just felt like I needed to enjoy those things one more time since I was never going to eat them again. Probably a bad idea and irrational thinking, but luckily my surgery went fine and I healed fine and I have had to complications. -
Dear Moonrider, The CNA's have a very difficult job, I respect them for all they do, often with little respect, and certainly not enough monetary compensation. I wish you success and may be worth remembering...don't do anything about excessive weight, and it is most certainly a premature death due to all the complications that will eventually "get ya".
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Help! My surgeon says she will only perform gastric sleeve.
catwoman7 replied to crpowers's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
the sleeve is an easier, less complicated surgery and some surgeons are more comfortable doing that one. If you want bypass and she won't do it, you can always go to another surgeon. Yes - there's a greater risk of complications with a bypass, but the risk of major complications with either surgery is pretty low. I've been hanging around on bariatric surgery sites for around seven years, and yes - although some bypass patients need iron infusions because they don't absorb enough iron from oral tablets, I would say that's definitely not the majority. I went with bypass because it has a longer history and I had GERD. I've had no issues with it and have been very happy with my decision. -
The pros and cons are important to understand. I love the idea of wiring them all down and using that to make your decision. I have surgery in a few days and I'm very nervous about it. I have been obese my entire life and have lucked out so far in the health department but this weight will catch up with me. I've seen the complications of obesity and to me they are much less desirable than the surgery. I've know many people who have lost their legs because of diabetes and hypertension. I've had great friends die from diabetes and hypertension. I've seen people on dialysis because their kidneys shut down because they were diabetic and hypertensive. I have a friend that had a heart attack at age 38.....she is obese and her lifestyle is the cause of this heart attack. I'm more scared of becoming one of these patients than getting the gastric sleeve in a few days. I'm scared that my kids won't have a mom for much longer if I don't have the surgery.
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I received a lap band in 2009 (had complications with it and had to have it removed in 2010) and now getting a sleeve on the same date, July 9. I can tell you from experience, the pain is minimal. If you do experience discomfort, you will be given pain meds to minimize it. Gas pain is probably the biggest cause of discomfort from this type of procedure, although not as common as in years past. If you experience this type of discomfort (pain in your chest, shoulders, back, etc), walk as much as possible. This helps to disperse the gas. I can tell you that this surgery is a very safe, not only as a patient, but as a medical professional. I am a Surgical Technologist and can attest that this procedure is extremely common and safe. There a many abdominal procedures that use a laparoscopic approach and patients tolerate it well. Your experience will most likely be a good one. When you return home, you will have a new life to ahead of you. This is my third trip to the operating room (as a bariatric patient) and it's well worth it! I am so grateful to have this second chance. Good luck to you all and God Bless!
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Oh Becky, how wonderful for you at one week! :whoo: I am at one week today, and only put clothes on yesterday for my post-op visit. Goodness! Somehow, I don't think my results are "normal" since there is NO WAY in this lifetime that I could walk yet. There were some minor complications that left me in surgery for three hours so maybe that's why I'm still so sore, especially around the port. It feels like a girdle would make it feel better! (Does anyone even remember a girdle????) I feel some better today, so maybe by the weekend... You give me hope!!!! Thanks, Picklebritches
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I am nervous please calm me down
dreamer69 replied to tcbgirl's topic in PRE-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A
I'll put your mind at ease... NOBODY has ever died from a lap band surgery.... lol... I'm sorry for laughing but awwww there is NOTHING to be worried about... Trust me, all will be well when you wake up. I have researched this surgery over and over and asked more then one doctor and they all stated no one has ever dead... Even if you do get a blood clog, it can be detected and fixed right away. You'll know if you have a blood clog because you'll be in extreme pain, it hurts like hell. But why think negatively? Think positive! It’s perfectly normal to be scared or nervous but to think that you'll die? Don’t be silly girl.... Me on the other hand, my surgery is on 4/2 and I've never been so HAPPY and excited!!! Whether I die, get some complications or etc, I know that FINALLY I'm taking actions towards my obesity. You have to look at the bigger picture here. Where do you see yourself in the end result? Stay positive! Best, Chris -
SLEEVE TO BYPASS REVISION. I apologize in advance if this is not where I post this at. I have been sleeved for 21 days now....and now I may have to have the bypass within 2 weeks. I never had actual GERD before but have had GERD ever since the surgery. I don't have any vomiting at night like others have mentioned...but it restricts me from now getting any food but cottage cheese in and only about 20 ounces of water. I'm not talking like the tiny acid I used to get with eating a whole pizza and then laying down ...I'm talking like punch you in the stomach pain & sizzling noises all day long in my throat. I boil acid all day long. It's not excruciating...Its just not good on a sleeve and I'm scared It will eat through my staples or hurt my small pouch even more. I was 270 day of surgery and weighed this morning at 238. I'm losing weight like a champ but it's because my intake is super low. I saw my surgeon on Friday and he raised my Nexium but said that if in 2 weeks I was still having the Gerd that he was going to do a sleeve to bypass revision. Has anyone had a sleeve to bypass revision? If so I would love to hear about your experience. Good or bad. I've googled many posts but can't get straight forward answers. How was the pain? Did you have complications? And how is your quality of life now? Tia
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Though my complications weren't anywhere near as bad as yours, I had a tough time and my dr has been doing this for years and he told me I was his first to have complications like I did. I was so angry because it seemed everyone else sailed through with no problems and I was so sick. Why did I have the rotten luck? Or what did I do wrong that I screwed this up? Of course before all surgeries we are told the risks. All kinds or horrible things, including death. And I was scared of complications. Everyone said no matter what they went through, they never regretted it. Well I did. I regretted it for a while. Buuuht... Now I have almost fully recovered, my diabetes is in check, my weight is going down, my energy level is going up. I feel better, the only real problem I'm having now is I'm having trouble keeping food down sometimes. But even that isn't too bad. When I was going through the worst health problem of my life, I couldn't find anyone who had been through what I had been. Well maybe we can help others who have issues with their surgeries. I'm sorry for what happened to you. It sounds like you have a lot to deal with but thank goodness it wasn't the alternative.
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Austin, Texas - how did you choose your surgeon?
MIZ60 replied to EB2015's topic in Weight Loss Surgeons & Hospitals
I live in Central Texas and my surgeon was Dr. David Provost at Baylor Scott and White in Temple. He is a bariatric surgery pioneer in TX and has been doing bariatric surgery for many years. After meeting him and checking his credentials (I am a nurse practitioner so I investigate every health care provider I see 🙄) I felt very comfortable with him and had absolutely no post op complications. I had the sleeve in May 2018 since I never had any significant reflux. I think the reflux is the main reason people get conversion since you don't want to be on prilosec long term and you don't want chronic inflammation of your esophagus. There are a couple of others on here in maintenance who had the sleeve converted to bypass and have done very well so hopefully one of them will respond.
