New Here - Meeting with Surgeon Next Week

[want2bthin 93]

I am so glad to have found this forum - especially for Band Revisions. I have been considering the sleeve for some time but have just begun to act upon it. I had LapBand surgery in March 2006. I never did lose much weight - 44 lbs at the most. I did well for the first 9 months or so and I completely fault myself for not having more success - but there were many personal and medical contributing factors as well.

In any case after going to two different surgeons for years and having numerous fills and unfills, it has taken its toll - at this point I have not had a fill in probably close to two years however I know I still

have restriction because food still gets stuck and I can only eat 1/2 a meal. Like so many others I am sick and tired of being embarrassed at restaurants - having to excuse myself from the table with a panicked look

and hoping that no one is in the rest room (I travel a bit for work) amongst other things. My husband says everytime I get stuck - 'why don't you just get that thing taken out of you!' I've gained back all but 12 pounds. I started eating around the band and essentially sticking with soft foods; ice cream always soothed my throat after stuck incidents (and beyond that). While many people have trouble eating Pasta with the band, I never did and that became another food which was much easier and less risky of getting stuck then meats.

I know two people who had the sleeve for a few years now and they did fantastic and have kept the weight off - and I would guess that one of them lost 250 lbs or so though I never specifically asked her. I like very much

what I have read here from those who have gone through the revision. I like that the as part of the sleeve surgery the portion that contains the ghrelin hormones will also be removed. I've never been willing, no matter how desperate I've been to have RNY -- though I expect if I had co-morbidities that needed immediate attention I would feel much differently.

I have just moved to the Orlando, FL area (from NY) and started researching surgeons. I went to a seminar held by Dr. Marema last week and was very impressed. Their office took my insurance info and set up an appointment to call me today to tell me whether or not my insurance (United Healthcare-Choice Plus) would cover it and what my expected cost would be. I already have an appointment with Dr. Marema on Tuesday because I discussed with them that I am very concerned that with all the vomiting over the years that my esophagaus (sp?) may have become damaged. They think that it may come down to him writing a letter of Medical necessity to get me approved without having to go through all the usual requirements. They did call right on time today and told me I would be covered by my insurance and what my copay would be. Even though I am hoping not to have to go through any six month diets (haven't I technically been on a weight loss plan having the Lapband for 6+ years now?) the soonest I will schedule surgery is September due to some work coverage issues and the fact that I'm booked on a cruise over Labor Day and would be concerned about medical let alone eating issues. I don't mind if they send me for the Psych and other tests again as long as the wait doesn't drag on and on.

I'm interested in hearing from others who qualified for surgery quickly due to band issues. I can honestly say that I am concerned over my esophagaus, sick of food getting stuck, I have severe plantar fascitis and can hardly walk at times - have gotten cortizone shots for years and am now talking with the podiatrist about surgery for that. My BMI is 49.4. I do not have high blood pressure, diabetes or any major comorbities - though I occasionally have reflux.

I really want to make a fresh start. I know the mistakes I made with the Lapband and I won't repeat them. On the bright side I know what to expect in terms of eating plans, etc. Actually my usual Breakfast for years has still been Greek Yogurt. I am looking forward to not having an appetite because right now I may fill up fast with Protein but will be completely starving within 2 hours.

Appreciate all and any advice. Thanks so much to all those who respond.

Susie

[wishes 125]

Welcome, Susie. I just wanted to say congrats on finding the forum. Everyone is so sweet here, and ready and willing to offer support and information. Ah, UHC Choice Plus, I am working with them too. Hope you don't have to go through the 6MPSWL, and that this is a quick approval for you. Good luck!

Also, welcome to the Sunshine State! Where the sun never quits, lol. I hope you love it here. Just a side note from an Orlando junkie (my mom lives there so I visit a lot). The Universal Studios Annual Pass is a steal! Tons of places to walk, City Walk is pretty much free, and who says no to rollercoasters? I know the people who can answer your questions best will be ready to answer as soon as they read this, but I just wanted to chime in. Welcome again!