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hello Melissa, who a PVS is doing ur surgery and how did u get mercy hospital.. lol I'm from western mass and just had Fiallo do mine in Dec, but had it done at bay state. best of luck to u my husband had gastric bypass at mercy and was well taken care of..

Here's FYI for those that are interested! Advantages and Disadvantages of Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Advantages Reduces stomach capacity but tends to allow the stomach to function normally so most food items can be consumed, albeit in small amounts. Eliminates the portion of the stomach that produces the hormones that stimulates hunger (Ghrelin). Dumping syndrome is avoided or minimized because the pylorus is preserved. Minimizes the chance of an ulcer occurring. By avoiding the intestinal bypass, almost eliminates the chance of intestinal obstruction (blockage), marginal ulcers, anemia, osteoporosis, Protein deficiency and Vitamin deficiency. Very effective as a first stage procedure for high BMI patients (BMI > 55 kg/m2). Limited results appear promising as a single stage procedure for low BMI patients (BMI 30-50 kg/m2). Appealing option for people who are concerned about the complications of intestinal bypass procedures or who have existing anemia, Crohn’s disease and numerous other conditions that make them too high risk for intestinal bypass procedures. Appealing option for people who are concerned about the foreign body aspect of Banding procedures. Can be done laparoscopically in patients weighing over 500 pounds, thereby providing all the advantages of minimally invasive surgery: fewer wound and lung problems, less pain, and faster recovery. Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Disadvantages Potential for inadequate weight loss or weight regain. While this is true for all procedures, it is theoretically more possible with procedures that do not have an intestinal bypass. Higher BMI patients will most likely need to have a second stage procedure later to help lose the rest of the weight. Remember, two stages may ultimately be safer and more effective than one operation for high BMI patients. This is an active point of discussion for bariatric surgeons. Soft calories such as ice cream, milk shakes, etc can be absorbed and may slow weight loss. This procedure does involve stomach stapling and therefore leaks and other complications related to stapling may occur. Because the stomach is removed, it is not reversible. It can be converted to almost any other weight loss procedure. Considered investigational by some surgeons and insurance companies. __________________ Originally posted at www.lapbandtalk.com

I had my bypass Nov 7th and I have hit a stall. It's so depressing because I'm doing all the same things I did at the beginning and nothing is happening I have heard this happens to everyone but I truly hope it passes soon! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I'm a bit confused. Did you have revision, sleeve to bypass? You're showing marked as a sleeve patient and I recall you saying in another post a few days ago that you don't take vitamins, you just rely on a healthy diet to get your vitamins, which isn't recommended for bypassers. So the two posts are sort of contradictory, junk food vs healthy diet for vitamins. And also sleeve on your profile and now you're saying you got bypass two years ago. Can you clarify the details for us please? Thanks!

I drink normally. I don't chug but don't sip either. And my doc is one who says 3 meals only no Snacks. The point of the band is portion control; if you graze you can effectively bypass that and cause "failure". Some do snack, but many others are told not to. If I eat a healthy meal (and I can eat up to about a cup) I usually am full for about 6 hours. So no need to snack. When I want to it is 99% "head hunger", not because my body needs the fuel, but because I "want" the snack for whatever reason. The band doesn't make that go away (just the true physiologic hunger) but knowing I an not REALLY hungry helps. I'm also one of the lucky ones who can eat anything. White bread, red meat, dry chicken, whatever. As long as I take small bites (and for me that's about 1/2 to 2/3 of a normal bite size; it is NOT pencil eraser sized! LOL) and chew well, I am fine. It's great. Not everyone is that lucky, but it does happen!

Jas Lap band in 2012, revision will be December. Diet 1st time around involved counting protein, eating protein first, a lot a protein shakes... Had my nutrition "class" and they did not once mention protein. No joke. They believe it is an old school way of thinking. That as long as you eat real food, measured out, you will be fine. No shakes after week 2. No eating every 4 hours. Eat 3 meals per day, no snacking. I'm confused. I thought I knew what to do. Now I don't. What have you found to be the recommended plan? Sent from my SM-G920T using BariatricPal mobile app

I am sorry you are having problems. And sorry abut the possiblity of removal. Have you spoken to the doc or considered having a revision done to a sleeve if you have to have it removed ? That could be a possibility ? GOod luck ! Mindy

My direct inspiration is my Cousin who started in the low 400's, around 420 I think. She started about 8 years ago with the lap-band lost about 100 lbs and had trouble (band was malfunctioning and causing problems) and was revised to an R and Y around 2 years ago - she is now around 200 lbs and I have to say I know she works hard but she is not a fitness addict. I take inspiration from her for sticking to it and taking action when needed. She has kept the weight off even if she isn't a small BMI yet - that equals success to me.

post="4608452" timestamp="1520968788" name="Coppola bus 103" userid="336129"]I'm having mine at BMC . I'll get it done. I feel I should be rescheduled to a date sooner since this is a weather thing not a personal cancelation Sent from my SM-G955U using BariatricPal mobile app Mine was at BMC too— Dr Pernar Was a great experience HW 242, SW 236- (Bypass 12/20/17) GW#1- 199 [emoji736] (2/11/18) GW#2- 175 CW 189 5’6”

I have a theory that since VSG is having so many issues with revision due to GERD, that Mexico is now picking up MGB as a new surgery option. But what the hell do I know? 🤣 Hopefully the future successes with MGB in Mexico will catch on here in the US.

here's something to keep in mind. There's a big difference between a bypass and a sleeve. We do not have a pouch. Our stomach has hadthe fundis removed. The actual length of the stomach is no different than before surgery only the width. An NG tube wouldn't generally do anything to the sleeve.

Obesity: Major Factor in Infertility About 1 in 8 couples has trouble conceiving and carrying the fetus to term. The rate is far higher among overweight men and women. Obesity causes hormonal changes in both men and women. In men, obesity can lower testosterone levels and make sperm less healthy. The result can be trouble fertilizing the woman’s egg. In women, obesity can lead to a disturbed menstrual cycle. Even when obese women have regular ovulation, they have a lower chance of establishing a pregnancy. If they do, they may have insulin resistance that can cause miscarriage or other harmful outcomes. If you are overweight, you may have tried to become pregnant for years without success, or without being able to carry a healthy baby to term. Fertility treatments such as IVF can help, but your chances of success are lower when you are obese. Obesity and Pregnancy: A Dangerous Mixture Obesity can also make pregnancy more dangerous. The mother is more likely to have gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, or high blood pressure and damage to the kidneys. There is a higher risk of C-section delivery, overdue delivery, and infections. Your child may be at higher risk for birth defects, obesity, and diabetes later in life. Weight Loss Surgery to Achieve Your Dreams of a Healthy Family If you are dreaming of starting a family or adding to yours but you have been unable to, obesity may be getting in your way. If you have tried other weight loss methods and none have worked for you, WLS may be the answer. As long as you follow the necessary diet, WLS can help you get your weight down to a level that can support a healthier pregnancy. Weighing the WLS Decision Should you get WLS to improve your chances of being able to have a baby? It might be a good option for you if you meet the criteria: for example, if you have not been able to lose weight and keep it off with diet and exercise alone, if you meet the BMI requirements for WLS, and if you feel ready to commit to the required diet – for life. The next question is the same one faced by all WLS patients: which type of surgery should you get? Just like any other WLS patient, you have to make the decision that is best for you. The lap-band has the advantage of being completely adjustable, so you can get it loosened while pregnant in order to get more nutrients. However, many gastric sleeve and gastric bypass patients have healthy pregnancies, too. Finally, consider the time-frame. You should wait at least 12 to 18 months after surgery before planning to get pregnant. That’s because you are better off getting pregnant after you hit goal weight. As soon as you get pregnant, you will need to stop losing weight if you want to support the baby’s proper growth and development. Supporting a Healthy Pregnancy: Don’t Let down Your Guard After weight loss surgery, it is harder to get in all of your nutrients. Plus, surgeries like the gastric bypass can reduce nutrient absorption. To make sure you are staying nourished and providing the fetus the nutrients it needs for development, you may need a prenatal multivitamin and mineral supplement, plus additional vitamin D, vitamin B12, iron, folic acid, and calcium supplements. The amount of weight you gain is critical, but it may take some mental preparation to allow yourself to gain weight after the 12 to 18 months you just spent working to lose weight. Also, be aware that you may still have a higher risk for complications if you are starting your pregnancy at an overweight BMI. Your ob-gyn should monitor you carefully. You may need to educate your ob-gyn if he or she is not used to caring for WLS patients! A Healthy Foundation for Years to Come Of course, a healthy family isn’t just about the newborn. With WLS, you may develop long-term healthy habits that your children will pick up on as they grow up. You can teach them to love healthy foods and to beg to play outdoors – with their active parents! Some WLS patients get off track after hitting goal weight because there is less motivation and excitement during the maintenance phase. You have the advantage of having plenty of motivation. How much more motivation do you need than having many more healthy years left to enjoy your family and watch them as they fit the healthy habits you modeled for them into their own lifestyles? There are almost unlimited reasons to get WLS, and one of them is starting a family. If that’s one of your goals, talk to your doctor and surgeon about it. You may be able to achieve this dream more easily than you had dared hope.

Just heard from United Healthcare that my appeal has been denied for a revision to VSG. They already approved the Lapband removal but not the revision. I don't have the paperwork yet but the coordinator said their response was several pages long but amounted to that they felt I didn't have success with the Lapband so would not have success with another restrictive procedure. I feel there is no comparison to having VSG vs. Lapband and I explained that in my appeal letter (which was 42 pages in total since it included years more of medical records). I'm told my next step is to submit for a Level 2 appeal which will be reviewed by my employer (a major corporation). I've posted this on the band revision forum too but am just hoping for some encouragement and advice from others who may have been through the same thing. Thanks. Susie

i think my story might be of some help. remember we are all overweight because we all have eating issues. our brains are wired differently. i orginally went into surgery to have a gastric by pass. this surgery was deemed the most beneficial for me due to my many health issues including diabetis. i came out of surgery with a lapband. i didn't know much about the band just the mechanics. i was so disappointed. i cried in recovery. but as the months have gone by and i have seen where i am having the trouble even with the band i belive now the good Lord had my back. i think i would have failed at the gastric bypass, being one of those that lost the wt. quickly but than gained it back. the band keeps me in check. even when my poor unbanded brain wants junk food. it will keep me in check for the rest of my life. i can have it adjusted as the doctor and i see fit. the band and my type of eating disorder which was portion control is working for me. i am now a happy bandster. glad things went this way. i know i will be successful. why? the band controls the amount of food i can eat where as the by pass or sleeve does not. i know my personality, i would have been able to eat around those two surgeries. i hope you find this helpful. my advice is to research everything there is to know about all 3 surgeries. not just the sucess stories but the failures too. good luck on this road to skinniness

Whatever you doctor says, you have to go with the choice you can live with. I was scheduled for a bypass, but freaked out and cancelled it 10 days before surgery. The thought of rerouting my God given plumbing didn't sit well with me. And my next door neighbor had the bypass, and after a few years, ended up having the band put over it. My sister's coworker had the sleeve, and is slowly gaining a lot of weight back. She can't eat much at one time, but grazes on crap all day long. Imagine doing that after have 75% of your stomach removed. Scary stuff! I'm not trying to push you in any one direction. Only to say that compliance is key with any of these surgeries. Many of us are really good at it in the beginning, but as life moves on, old habits rear their ugly face. Banded, bypassed, sleeved.....whichever, we still have to fight the fight. Do as much research as you possibly can, and make an educated choice on the one you can live with. It is true that the aftercare on the other surgeries is nil compared to the band. But then again, the band is reversible, and the choice is available to revise to something later, should unrepairable complications set it. It's a lot to think about, but it's most important that the decision be yours, and not what someone else "thinks" you should do. Good luck!

I’m 2 plus years out of gastric bypass. I have lost all my weight plus some. According to the stats I’m under weight. I have ate absolute junk food to get my weight up. Just makes me feel like crap. Just to much sugar. I eat my fair share with in reason. My stomach seems not to be growing. So I can put more food in. I’m really starting to worry about other health issues that I tried to avoid by doing the surgery. I’m looking in healthy even I can see. When I’m 60 am I going to have issues maintaining or gaining then. I was not prepared for this. People are fully focused on how fast and how much. But not the bigger picture. I’m sure I’m not the only one dealing with this. People who are going thru this. I would like to here your opinion.

Yes I’m a vsg. No revision. I do not take vitamins my vitamin levels are normal.

thanks AdaGray -- I do have, I think, two severe co-morbidities -- HBP, which was initially resistant to treatment, but now seems to be working (after PCP doubled starting dosage). I've also learned from my endocrinologist that I was pre-diabetic a year ago. My PBP didn't say anything about that to me, and my endo thinks there's a good chance I'm diabletic now. I get my blood sugars tested next week. so, taking sudafed spikes HP? I didn't know that ... hmmmm. It's funny, but I was thinking that the stress alone was going to start driving my BP up! I was also desperate enough to think that I could stop taking my thyroid meds for a month and easily gain 20 lbs, which makes the whole point moot, because that would drive my BMI up to 40. I really really don't want to start at any higher weight, though, expecially since my bariactric surgeons are notorious for pushing gastric bypass over the band, and equally notorious for being ultra-conservative with the fills ... Anyway, thanks so much for the info -- please let me know how your approvals go. I am glad that my insurance doesn't force me to document five years back, as that would really be difficult for me. Good luck to you!

Welcome Minny, I wish you the best as you choose your path to WLS! My sister had the RNY gastric bypass and I decided that I just couldn't handle the thought of altering my GI tract permanently. She does have the "dumping syndrome" which helps her control her carb intake but it is important to know that not all people have this side-effect from the RNY procedure. I can tell you that I was a bread/carb addict prior to being banded and now I tend towards hi Protein foods as my body seems to crave them. My sister is also struggling with weight gain now that she is almost 2 years post-op as she can eat a pretty healthy amount of food and has learned how to eat just the right amount of carbs to avoid dumping. She is still very happy with her choice for WLS and she looks wonderful. I can tell you that there are a lot of adjustments with either surgery and both surgeries are tools and can be defeated. I still struggle with head hunger but love that my band is adjustable and that my body can absorb nutrients as it was intended to. Good luck and hope you will find all the information you need to make an informed decision. Darcy

Does anyone live in Ny and have Hip?? I work for the city and currently have GHI. However, as a single mom with 3 kids the co pays are killing me :blink: Im switching to Hip and that will take effect after the new year. I know 2 people that have Hip and were approved for a bypass. Has anyone that has Hip been approved?? Is there any special criteria?? I called Hip and the people acted like they had no idea what a lap band even was

does arizona state health care cover lap band or bypass and if so what do i need to do and what are the requirements and time line?

Hi Anissa! Congrats, you're almost there! Where are you having your surgery? I've definitely had similar thoughts-- especially ones about "not waking up." My boyfriend actually had gastric bypass 2 years ago and I asked him how he dealt with those thoughts. He said "the way I saw it, I was already dying." It's morbid I know, but it made me feel better somehow. This isn't something small, it's not something you're doing lightly or flippantly. You're doing it to get a new life really, and I don't think anyone would be angry at you for that.

OK, 3 months post op and I just wonder if any one else post op has had sudden anger, just anger period outta the blue, mass irritation or anything like it? I don't know how else to word it. Lately I feel so emotionally impaired. I'm not sad and its not close to my TOM. I just had a ugly crying break down to my husband about it today. He's at a loss. I have my 3 month apt tomorrow and I'm going to bring it up then. But right now I pray I'm not the only one and a freak. I try'd to look on line. I came to a few things about it for bypass patients. I know we are not very different from each other as in we both have WLS. But is there a difference the two bypass and sleeve when it comes to this? I don't have a history of depression. That said I have been on anti depressants twice. Once when my husband was in Iraq at the start of OIF. I was a mess and cry'd all the time. Justifies I think!! And then a few years ago, about year after I had our baby. I took something for a few months. Then was weaned off and had been fine. HMMM is that a history I just said I didn't have?? Now I just feel like a train wreak some day's. Am I the only one?

I get it. Went for band revision on 10/21/19 to do the sleeve. So until 11/30/20. I still found rare occasions for food sticking. Sleeve wasn't done last year due to scar tissue so that is why I had issues. Sent from my SM-J337V using BariatricPal mobile app

Hi all, I'm three weeks away from having my bypass done and, partly prompted by reading here, I've been thinking about what my ultimate goal is. I have the BIG goals that motivated me to take the step - a longer life, more activity and fun with my young son, but they're pretty abstract. Right now I don't have an absolute target weight, until 4 or 5 or so years ago I was around 220 (I have to convert from KGs so it is approximate) so my weight now feels strange and alien anyway. I imagine I would be good somewhere between 160 and 200, which his still a pretty big gap. Oddly I have clothes that I would like to wear that are much more of a motivation (some in my wardrobe some yet to be bought). Well, I am more of pictures than numbers kind of guy. But seriously, have people set out with a rigid weight goal and then realised they were happy at some other point? Does setting a low weight goal help or does it lead to anxiety? I would be really interested to know how some you approached this as we're obviously doing something that has a whole life impact. How did you find things that were tangible? Cheers, J