My first post - a day which will go down in history, I'm sure!

I decided several months ago to pursue the Lap Band, but after looking into it more convinced myself it wasn't for me. Instead, I found VSG - a procedure which seems to suit both me and my family much better.

I am the type of person who researches everything out the wazoo. Before I purchase a new toothbrush I have to go online to see what type of bristles are best for my teeth, what angles suit my gums, how hard the bristles should be, the advantages of sonic vs hand-held, etc. - so you know I've done my homework on this.

Here's the thing...so far I have yet to find anyone who regrets having it done.

Now maybe I'm not looking in the right places, but I think I've done a pretty thorough job here. Even with the complications I've seen some people experience at first, it seems not one of them would have wished they hadn't gone through with the surgery.

That says a lot to me.

What also says a lot to me is the fact that my surgeon would choose this surgery over any other WLS if he had to personally have WLS for himself. I asked him that very question when I went to the informational meeting.

Of course, he also said he would trust himself to do the surgery in a heartbeat as well, meaning he's a bit cocky. Not so impressive. :001_tongue:

He's young. I forgive him.

At any rate, I have my first appointment with him tomorrow to begin my own personal journey. Aetna is my insurance, and I've been told they will cover the surgery if it's medically necessary. With a BMI of almost 40, sleep apnea, arthritis, asthma, and what my PCP says he'd call fibromyalgia except that I'm not depressed enough, I'd say it was. We'll see what they say.

Any advice, hints, criticism or words of wisdom are more than welcome. Thanks for letting me join you!

Christabel

Hey Christabel and welcome.

I had both the band and the now the sleeve. I'm one of those that had severe complications, but I would do it all over again to live the life I'm living right now. Well, I am frustrated that I lost this week since I'm in maintenance mode. But, besides that, I'm truly loving life.

I love cocky surgeons, I don't know why, it's probably because I'm pretty cocky myself.

Best wishes with your appointment tomorrow. It definitely sounds like your history would deem the surgery "medically necessary".

Stay positive, mentally, emotionally, and physically prepare for surgery. I know a lot of patients forget they operate on our stomachs not our brains. Ask a slew of questions, and know that you are making the best decision to help you achieve a healthy, and happy life.

Let us all know how your appointment goes tomorrow ! ! !

christabel,

Welcome to the sleevers world...your post made me laugh, I love your sense of humor!

Even though you are not planning to go to Mexico for your surgery, due to your most impressive inquiring mind you would probably find it helpful to read the post on researching mexican sleeve surgeons. It applies to any surgeon for the most part. Look at this link: Researching Mexican Sleeve Surgeons

By the way, what's the best toothbrush?

Hello,

I had the surgery in Dec 5th ,2009. When I woke up after the surgery , they only thing I was saying " I wish I didnt have it " I hate hospitals .....anyway on the third day I was walking but sitting and getting up were uncomfortable for a week. I started my journey with 356 lbs and now I am 299.2 and my energy is great. I am the cook in the house and I taste all the food I cook , one bite and its going ok. u will know ur limit and how much to eat by urself as U will throw up whenu overeat. cottage cheese was and still my favorite food that gives me protien ,satisfation.

good luck

Welcome Christabel! I wish you luck today at your appointment and hope your insurance approval process goes smoothly. My surgeon too feels this is the best wls option and wishes more insurance companies would cover it. Keep us posted on how things go today.

Welcome Christabel!

VST is a great website of caring, helpful people. You've come to the right place to research and ask questions. Good luck at your appointment today!

My first post - a day which will go down in history, I'm sure!

I decided several months ago to pursue the Lap Band, but after looking into it more convinced myself it wasn't for me. Instead, I found VSG - a procedure which seems to suit both me and my family much better.

I am the type of person who researches everything out the wazoo. Before I purchase a new toothbrush I have to go online to see what type of bristles are best for my teeth, what angles suit my gums, how hard the bristles should be, the advantages of sonic vs hand-held, etc. - so you know I've done my homework on this.

Here's the thing...so far I have yet to find anyone who regrets having it done.

Now maybe I'm not looking in the right places, but I think I've done a pretty thorough job here. Even with the complications I've seen some people experience at first, it seems not one of them would have wished they hadn't gone through with the surgery.

That says a lot to me.

What also says a lot to me is the fact that my surgeon would choose this surgery over any other WLS if he had to personally have WLS for himself. I asked him that very question when I went to the informational meeting.

Of course, he also said he would trust himself to do the surgery in a heartbeat as well, meaning he's a bit cocky. Not so impressive.

He's young. I forgive him.

At any rate, I have my first appointment with him tomorrow to begin my own personal journey. Aetna is my insurance, and I've been told they will cover the surgery if it's medically necessary. With a BMI of almost 40, sleep apnea, arthritis, asthma, and what my PCP says he'd call fibromyalgia except that I'm not depressed enough, I'd say it was. We'll see what they say.

Any advice, hints, criticism or words of wisdom are more than welcome. Thanks for letting me join you!

Christabel

Hi and welcome, first off make sure that "cocky" young doctor of yours has done at least 300 of these sleeves and what is his leak % . . . if he can't answer these 2 questions, maybe you need to look elsewhere. . .good for you doing your research on everything. . . even toothbrushes!:smile: Keep us updated and keep posting. . .

Thanks everyone, for making me feel welcome!

And Cajun? It's Sonicare, hands down. :smile:

The appointment is at 3 today Central time, so I'll report after that.

That is, if I don't have to go home and change my pants first. I'm really excited.

Wear a little pad...less laundry! (grin)

Welcome lurker. I have to admit - I LURKED for a while too I hope that your appointment goes well today, and that you can move from being a lurker to a loser.