Hello to the sisterhood of sleeves, I'm sure there's a few bothers too! I've been asking questions, and getting great responces from

very helpful people. I'm 48 @ 235 lbs. with a BMI of 39. The last time I was a normal weight was in 1981 the year I got married the 1st time. After 2 babies in two years, my weight started growing and

has never stoped. I'm relatively healthy, with the acception of the normal problems that come along with carrying and extra 100 lbs around everyday. I have back problems, and I see a chiropractor regularly. I have hypertenion occationally. And I have high triglycerides. At my best I weighed 135 lbs. I would love to be there again. I think it is possible now, because I see it here among the photos and stories. I've been wanting this for a very long time, and I finally have the oppertunity to get it done, thanks to my wonderful Grandfather. He didn't know it at the time, but he left me the means to change my life, in the best way possible. Thank you Paw Paw.

I have a wonderfully handsome husband who accepted me just as I am, 7 years ago @ 225 lbs. I also want this for US, to make our life together even better that it already is. I can see nothing but good things for my future.

I dream of the day, when my legs no longer rub together and create blisters. When I can actually cross them, instead of crossing my ankles. When I can paint my toe nails without having to be a contortionist. When I can bend down and tie my shoes without having to hold my breath. When I won't have to be embarrised to buy cloths in the PLUS SIZE dept. When I can look in the mirror and like what I see. When the size of my body doesn't limit my sex life.:thumbup:

When I want to be in photographs, instead of running from the camera. When I feel pretty again. I long for these things so badly.:blushing:

With the support of the ladies here, I feel anything is possible.

I look forward to my journey

Judy

I think it's a great website, but it doesn't answer specific questions. When I get to the plastic surgery stage, if I can't get it covered by insurance (which my insurance will cover some stuff if I document everything, and get the referrals), I plan to travel outside the US for those procedures.

Good luck in your research, and let us know if we can help in any way possible.

I'll throw this out there. Now that I can eat normal food, I don't miss fried foods at all ! ! !

I can't wait to get to that point, I'm sick of eating fried everything, and sweet everything. I'm a foody for sure. Just LOVE food.

Please explain what Bougie is please?

That is the tube that is used to determine the opening size of your stomach after the procedure is done. The opening is usually a little smaller due to stitching, etc.

Most surgeons are using a 32F or 34F bougie. It's a measuring tool for them to ensure the most restriction possible. I have heard of some surgeons using bigger bougies, but the patients quit losing after 4-5 months because they could eat more.

At 4 months out, I can consume 2-3oz of dense Protein (meat), or 4-6oz of mushy/soft foods (yogurt) and my surgeon uses a 32F.

I just emailed the facility and asked all these questions, I'll see what I get in return. I asked for phone number for one on one Testimonials. THANK YOU !!!

I find out his surgical stats.

How many sleeves has he done?

Leak stats?

What size of bougie does this surgeon use?

How many leak tests are performed?

How long has he been doing bariatric surgeries all together?

Also, ask about the facilities/hospital. I have certain requirements just for my own comfort level and peace of mind. I would never have surgery performed at a "surgical center" and in some countries (Mexico) they certifies these little in and out facilities as hospitals. For me that is not enough. I want an on-site ICU department, not just ICU capabilities. I want a blood bank on hand, not a place that can have blood delivered in a matter of minutes. Price is great, but sometimes, you get what you pay for. I know in this economy money is a huge concern, but it's surgery, major surgery at that, and I think there are some amazing surgeons out there with great prices, but just research, research, and do more research when you think you have it all figured out.

I would also look on obesityhelp.com for his patients. Message them, ask them for the good, bad and ugly of their experience.

Most surgeons are using a 32F or 34F bougie. It's a measuring tool for them to ensure the most restriction possible. I have heard of some surgeons using bigger bougies, but the patients quit losing after 4-5 months because they could eat more.

At 4 months out, I can consume 2-3oz of dense Protein (meat), or 4-6oz of mushy/soft foods (yogurt) and my surgeon uses a 32F.

WOW, I had no idea, still SOOOO much to learn. I definately want a small bougie (strange name for a tube) anyway, it seem like a measuring tool. Plus compaired to what I eat now...a 2 cups full would be better. I over eat way too much. Like tonight, I had baked salmon and steamed potatoes, sounds good right, but then I had fried okra, a yeast roll, bread pudding and 2 glassed of sweet tea....

I NEED this surgery.

where did you have your surgery done, I was thinking of Dr. Ballanger in Gonzalez, La. Heard of him?

WOW, I had no idea, still SOOOO much to learn. I definately want a small bougie (strange name for a tube) anyway, it seem like a measuring tool. Plus compaired to what I eat now...a 2 cups full would be better. I over eat way too much. Like tonight, I had baked salmon and steamed potatoes, sounds good right, but then I had fried okra, a yeast roll, bread pudding and 2 glassed of sweet tea....

I NEED this surgery.

Judy - not 2 Cups - 2 Oz.! (but that all sounds good - especially that yeast roll ... mmmm.) I don't even buy bread anymore.

where did you have your surgery done, I was thinking of Dr. Ballanger in Gonzalez, La. Heard of him?

My band surgery was performed by Dr. Nye in Pensacola, FL, and my revision to sleeve surgery was performed by Dr. Michael Michel at Eglin AFB, FL. My husband is active duty Air Force, and both procedures have been covered 100% by our insurance.

I haven't heard of that specific surgeon. There's a couple of ladies from LA on here, Ash, and I can't for the life of me remember the other member. You may contact Ash (hit member list link at the top and find her, shoot her a message on here to find out who she used).

You might be thinking of Cajun; however she used Dr. Aceves. I think there are a few others, too from that area.

I realize it's two oz.s, post surgery. I was saying 2 cups (right now) would be better than what I"ve been eating.

Judy,

You can see Dr Bellanger's statistics at Bariatric Surgeon Profile - Drake Bellanger, M.D.

It looks like he has done over 300 lap bands but no VSGs are listed. Maybe it is not an updated list and you could call and ask for more information. That's all I know.

Welcome Judy!

This is a wonderful site --- glad you are joining us

Hi Judy, I am not sure how I missed this thread. At any rate, I just wanted to say hello. I see you have already received some wonderful advice. We have the greatest members here!