Hello all! I am very excited to find this site. I've been reading threads here and researching the sleeve for a while now.

I actually had a consultation last week with a surgeon for the lap-band, and he asked if I was interested in the sleeve. At the time, I was not sure, but now I'm thinking I'd rather do the sleeve than the band. Since my appointment, I've spent most of my time online reading forums and researching, and to be honest, I have come very close to scaring myself out of the band.

I'm having to self-pay anyway (and the band and sleeve are the same price where I'm going), so of course now I'm freaking out about band complications and where in the world I'd get the money for them if they arise.

My main concern with the sleeve is whether or not it is safe to get pregnant sometime after goal. I've been married a year and it's very important for my husband and I to have a family, so if the sleeve would get in the way of that, I guess should choose the band. Does anyone here know anything about that?

I'm waiting on a call from the surgeon's office so I can ask some more questions. Right now I'm really leaning toward the sleeve.

Oh, also what about recovery time? My doctor said it was about the same as the band. I am out of school for the summer, and will probably have the surgery done next month. I need to be in a wedding on August 1, so I'm curious how long it takes to be up and moving after the surgery.

Thanks in advance for any replies or help/suggestions you guys can give!

Aaaannnnddd, the past few days have made me REALLY excited about having WLS.

I'm 32 (as of yesterday), very tall (6'2"--which means as a female I stand out as a freak anyway), and my bro-in-law got married yesterday. My size 26 dress was tight, the reception was outside and I was miserable (so was everyone else), and my feet hurt 30 minutes into the reception! My new sis-in-law is as gorgeous as ever, and God love her, she included me in everything even though I wasn't a bridesmaid. Anyway, between her bachelorette party, bridesmaids luncheon, rehearsal and wedding, I can't wait to JUST FIT IN already. I took a picture last night that I plan to use as one of my before shots. I am SO READY for someone to call me back and schedule a surgery date. Let's DO THIS! :thumbup:

You just took a big step forward to a new life. That takes courage and alot of guts (no pun intended) Good luck and keep us posted on the process, we will give support and answers to alot of your questions

:thumbup:Congratulations. I love your positive attitude and outlook ... you'll do great! Keep us posted when you get your date and with any other questions you have.:confused1:

I am new here, I have a band currently, awaiting to see if I am approved through insurance for the sleeve. I had surgery January 2006 and lost weight, was doing ok, (mind you that was my second band, due to complications with scar tissue the first time) anyway, I got pregnant December 2006 and after delivering her I have had nothing but problems. I can not lose a freakin' pound (aside from the baby weight), I have been the same weight since getting pregnant. After 2 upper GI's they have found that my stomach is all twisted up over my band, they are assuming it is from being pregnant. I am scared of the sleeve due to the leaks going from band to sleeve, but I am also ready for a new start. I am hoping I am approved so I can move on to the weight loss path again! Good luck to you!

Well, this is it! I am leaving early in the morning. Have to be at the hospital at 5:30 a.m. and I live an hour and a half away. I'm excited! Will post when I can...Thanks to everyone here...your advice and stories have really helped prepare me for this!

Amanda, good luck tomorrow! This is the start of your new life. Let us know how you are feeling as soon as you are up to it.

You'll be in our thoughts and prayers and soon you'll be a sleeve sister and on your way to a new you!

So ... how'd it go?

Amanda, I'm wondering how you are doing. When you feel up to it, please post and let us know how everything went. I've been sending up prayers for you and your surgeon this morning..

Thinking of you.

Penny:biggrin0:

Amanda, Everyone is waiting to hear how yuo are doing. We are all with you in prayers and spirit.