Jump to content
×
Are you looking for the BariatricPal Store? Go now!

Anyone else feel like you won't be successful with VSG after failed lap band?



Recommended Posts

I got the lap band 6 years ago hoping it would be the "be all end all" of my weight loss. I did well the first year and lost 60 pounds. But, I had a prolapse and had to have surgery again. After that point, I gained back the weight and never could seem to lose it again. I felt like such a failure. I knew that the reason the band didn't work was because I didn't do what I was supposed to. I ate mushy foods that were easier on my band so that I didn't have the discomfort.

Fast forward to November 26 and my revision from band to sleeve. I lost 3 pounds pre-op and another 15 within the first few weeks after surgery. I've lost an additional 12 since then. I'm 2.5 months out with a total loss since surgery of 24 pounds. Can't say I'm thrilled with that. I'm eating what I should but find myself wanting sweets and other treats. I've indulged a few times with unpleasant results. I'm working out and trying to drink all of my Water. Perhaps I'm just a slow loser.

But, I can't shake this feeling that I'm a failure in my weight loss journey. I failed at the band, could I fail at the VSG as well? I did so much research before I decided on this and it looked like everyone loved it and did well with it. Why aren't I?

Does anyone else feel this way?

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I had the band put in 7 years ago. I had a slip and they repositioned the same band. About 2 years ago the pain started again. I had the band removed this past Sept. And had the sleeve done on Jan. 28th. I do not feel that I failed with the band. I lost my weight with it and gained it all back but I feel that the band failed me. I think the band has to many problems to still be on the market, but it is.

As far as the sleeve I have had it for two weeks. The first week I lost 8 pounds and the second I didn't lose any. It looks like it is going to be a slow process. I am following the plan but it is going slow. I also have a taste for sweets but am not indulging.

I think you are doing good. You have lost about 2 pounds a week. It sounds like a healthy loss. You still have a good six months to lose the weight. I know it is discouraging when you hear other people are losing such large numbers. I to feel this way. I also am afraid it isn't going to happen for me. I am just going to keep doing what I am support to do. I hope you don't feel like a failure because you are not. The band failed you and the sleeve is working it is just slower than you thought it would be. It's going to work just be patient. I need to take my own advise too.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I had my band for almost 4 yrs before it slipped. Had a revision in July 2013. I've now lost a whopping 24 lbs in 7 mths. Most of this was the first 2 mths. I've been tossing the same 2 lbs back and forth for 5 mths now.

I learned how to "eat around the band" therefore learning to "eat around the sleeve". I'm hungry often, only able to eat a few bites, but hungry again 90 mins later. I know if I focus on those last 18 lbs I have left, they'll eventually come off. I prided myself so much on my weightloss virtually "work free", meaning I eat whatever I want, just much less of it that I feel jipped having to actually work at it.

I've got to stop thinking that wls is the magic bullet I thought it was. The last 18 lbs aren't gunna come off without some hard work.

Is this kinda where ur at 2?

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I had my band for almost 4 yrs before it slipped. Had a revision in July 2013. I've now lost a whopping 24 lbs in 7 mths. Most of this was the first 2 mths. I've been tossing the same 2 lbs back and forth for 5 mths now.

I learned how to "eat around the band" therefore learning to "eat around the sleeve". I'm hungry often, only able to eat a few bites, but hungry again 90 mins later. I know if I focus on those last 18 lbs I have left, they'll eventually come off. I prided myself so much on my weightloss virtually "work free", meaning I eat whatever I want, just much less of it that I feel jipped having to actually work at it.

I've got to stop thinking that wls is the magic bullet I thought it was. The last 18 lbs aren't gunna come off without some hard work.

Is this kinda where ur at 2?

Yep, it sure is. But, I do feel like I'm working at it. I ate around the band by eating slushy foods. I am eating solid sources of Protein but, like you, I'm hungry within 90 minutes after eating. I wonder if I'm going to sabotage myself with the sleeve like I did with the band and I SO don't want to.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I was banded for 10 years and had the same fears. Look at my signature and profile to see my success! You too can do it. But it is work. I used the lessons from that "failure" to help create my success. I am so glad I took that leap of faith! !!

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

24 pounds lost in 2 1/2 months sounds great to me! Try to focus on the positive and give yourself credit for every good decision you make through this. Sometimes when we worry about failing we actually bring it on.

I have a similar history and have similar worries about failure. I am trying to prepare myself for losing slowly and just focusing on the longterm and establishing and maintaining healthy habits. No one is perfect all the time, the trick is getting back on the horse after falling off. Wishing you well!

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

24 pounds lost in 2 1/2 months sounds great to me! Try to focus on the positive and give yourself credit for every good decision you make through this. Sometimes when we worry about failing we actually bring it on.

I have a similar history and have similar worries about failure. I am trying to prepare myself for losing slowly and just focusing on the longterm and establishing and maintaining healthy habits. No one is perfect all the time, the trick is getting back on the horse after falling off. Wishing you well!

Thank you so much. You are very right about looking at the positive. Sometimes I have a hard time doing that. :) Thank you all for all of your words. Just reminds me what I need to do and what I need to look at!

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I was banded for 10 years and had the same fears. Look at my signature and profile to see my success! You too can do it. But it is work. I used the lessons from that "failure" to help create my success. I am so glad I took that leap of faith! !!

I have to agree with CGJ, I had a lapband 5 yrs ago and only lost 60 lbs. It was extremely hard and very painful and the vomitting and reflux problems almost scarred me internally. I had to fight to get my sleeve, I wanted to give up but I knew inside that I was worth fighting for. When i finally got approved for my sleeve I knew it was the 2nd chance and I need to make it work for me. Yes, I have hit stalls just like others but it wont keep me down. Dont let the small stalls get you down push on towards your own victory. Many here have had revisions and it may take a little longer but you can do it!!

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I was banded in 2005 and did lose 100 pounds.. Then my band slipped and I gained it back....I had revision on 11/27/13. I've lost at a good pace but recently found myself eating more and making some poor choices. I'm not afraid of failure but I am afraid of not getting to my goal. Those are two different fears I guess. At this point, I view the revision as a success as I have lost about 65 pounds. I want to loose more and I need to find the motivation to persevere. Some times I'm just like, "aIl I want is a frickin cookie". But there have been times, I've had a bite of said cookie and I think it wasn't as great as I anticipated it to be. So I guess those kind of experiences let me know that my craving isn't the same as it had been. If I have just a small bite, I'm happy with that and I can move on because it often isn't as good as I thought it would be.

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Hi everyone,

I'm new to the posting, usually I read and don't respond...

I was banded in 2006 and will soon have my revision to VSG February 27th. I'm kinda scared and hate to have to learn a new way of life. I can't seem to get my fills past .5 in my 4 cc band, when I try I'm very sick, vomiting etc. can't even swallow my saliva. I know my band is stretched, seen it on X-rays. I went 30 days with no fill trying to get it back in place and gained 30 lbs. I'm back with a fill and lost a few pounds but still have 25 to go... X-rays still show it to be stretched...So I'm tired of fighting with it and. Nina, my Dr.'s Assistant assures me I'll love the sleeve. Do y'all like the sleeve better than the band?

I went with my sister when she got the sleeve and she was in so much pain after surgery and also sick.

How did y'all feel after surgery?

Thanks for your time...

Rena

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

I have had my lap band since 2007 and never was a big weight loser with it.all I have done is put on more weight. But tomorrow I will meet with my doctor and discuss what will be my best option. I'm really pushing for a sleeve but now I'm wondering about it. Why? All because I seen that Rosie O'Donnell had it done in July 2013 an only have lost of a total 40 pounds. It's been 7 months! It seem like she shoulda lost more by now. That why I'm wondering if this procedure best or if gastric would be better!!!!!

Share this post


Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now

  • Trending Products

  • Trending Topics

  • Recent Status Updates

    • Doughgurl

      2 days until I fly out to San Diego to have my Bypass Surg. in Tiajuana Mexico. Not gonna lie, the nerves are starting to surface. I don't fear the surgery itself, or the fact that I'm traveling alone, but its the aftermath that I'm stressing about the most, after this 8 week wait. I'm excited to finally be here, but I am really dreading the post surgical chapter. I know its going to be tough, real tough and I think I'm just in my head to much now that the day i here. Wish me luck, Hopefully I'm one of the lucky ones, and everything goes smoothly. Cant wait to give an exciting update,. If there is anyone else have a June bypass or even a recent one, Id love to have someone to compare war stories with. Also, anyone near San Antonio Tx? See ya soon with the future me. 💜
      · 1 reply
      1. Phil Penn

        Good Luck this procedure is well worth it I am down to 249.6 lb please continue with the process..

    • LeighaTR

      I am new here today... and only two weeks out from my sleeve surgery on the 23rd. I am amazed I have kept my calories down to 467 today so far... that leaves me almost 750 left for dinner and maybe a snack. This is going to be tough for two weeks... but I have to believe I can do it!
      · 0 replies
      1. This update has no replies.
    • Doughgurl

      Hey everyone. I'm new here so I thought I should introduce myself. I am 53y/o and am scheduled for Gastric Bypass on June 25th, 2025. I'm located in San Antonio, Texas. I will be having my surgery in Tiajuana Mexico. I've wanted this for years, but I always had insurance where bariatric procedures were excluded. Finally I am able to afford to pay out of pocket.  I can't wait to get started, and I hope I'm prepared for the initial period of "hell". I know what I have signed up for, but I'm sure the good to come will out way the temporary period of discomfort and feelings of regret. I'd love to find people to talk to who have been through the same procedure or experience before. So I look forward to meeting you all. Hope you have a great week!
      · 2 replies
      1. Selina333

        I'm so happy for you! You are about to change your life. I was so glad to get the sleeve done in Dec. I didn't have feelings of regret overall. And I'm down almost 60 lbs. I do feel a little sad at restaurants. I can barely eat half a kid's meal. I get adults meals often because kid ones don't have the same offerings at times. Then I feel obligated to eat on that until it's gone and that can be days. So the restaurant thing isn't great for me. All the rest is fine by me! I love feeling full with very little. I do wish I could drink when eating. And will sip at the end. Just a strong habit to stop. But I'm working on it! You will do fine! Just keep focused on your desire to be different. Not better or worse. But different. I am happy both ways but my low back doesn't like me that heavy. So I listened (also my feet!). LOL! Update us on your journey! I'm not far from you. I'm in Houston. Good luck and I hope it all goes smoothly! Would love to see pics of the town you go to for this. I've never been there. Neat you will be traveling for this! Enjoy the journey. Take it one day at a time. Sometimes a few hours at a time. Follow all recommendations as best you can. 💗

      2. Doughgurl

        Thank you so much for your well wishes. I am hoping that everything goes easy for me as well. We don't eat out much as it is, so it wont be too bad in that department. Thankfully. Also, I hear you regarding your back and feet!! I'd like to add knees to the list. Killing me as we speak! I'm only 5' so the weight has to go. Too short to carry all this weight. Menopause really did a doosey on me. (😶lol) My daughter also lives in Houston. with her Husband and my 5 grand-littles. I grew up in Beaumont, so I know Houston well, I will be sure to keep in touch and update you on my journey. I may need some advice in the future, or just motivation. Thank You so much for reaching out, I was hoping to connect with someone in the community. I really appreciate it. 💜

    • Alisa_S

      On day 4 of the 2 week liquid pre-op diet. Surgery scheduled for June 11th.
      Soooo I am coming to a realization
      of something and I'm not sure what to do about it. For years the only thing I've enjoyed is eating. We rarely do anything or go anywhere and if we do it always includes food. Family comes over? Big family dinner! Go camping? Food! Take a short ride or trip? Food! Holiday? Food! Go out of town for a Dr appointment? Food! When we go to a new town we don't look for any attractions, we look for restaurants we haven't been to. Heck, I look forward to getting off work because that means it's almost supper time. Now that I'm drinking these pre-op shakes for breakfast, lunch, and supper I have nothing to look forward to.  And once I have surgery on June 11th it'll be more of the same shakes. Even after pureed stage, soft food stage, and finally regular food stage, it's going to be a drastic change for the rest of my life. I'm giving up the one thing that really brings me joy. Eating. How do you cope with that? What do you do to fill that void? Wow. Now I'm sad.
      · 1 reply
      1. LeighaTR

        I hope your surgery on Wednesday goes well. You will be able to do all sorts of new things as you find your new normal after surgery. I don't know this from experience yet, but I am seeing a lot of positive things from people who have had it done. Best of luck!

    • Alisa_S

      On day 4 of the 2 week liquid pre-op diet. Surgery scheduled for June 11th.
      Soooo I am coming to a realization
      of something and I'm not sure what to do about it. For years the only thing I've enjoyed is eating. We rarely do anything or go anywhere and if we do it always includes food. Family comes over? Big family dinner! Go camping? Food! Take a short ride or trip? Food! Holiday? Food! Go out of town for a Dr appointment? Food! When we go to a new town we don't look for any attractions, we look for restaurants we haven't been to. Heck, I look forward to getting off work because that means it's almost supper time. Now that I'm drinking these pre-op shakes for breakfast, lunch, and supper I have nothing to look forward to.  And once I have surgery on June 11th it'll be more of the same shakes. Even after pureed stage, soft food stage, and finally regular food stage, it's going to be a drastic change for the rest of my life. I'm giving up the one thing that really brings me joy. Eating. How do you cope with that? What do you do to fill that void? Wow. Now I'm sad.
      · 1 reply
      1. summerseeker

        Life as a big person had limited my life to what I knew I could manage to do each day. That was eat. I hadn't anything else to look forward to. So my eating choices were the best I could dream up. I planned the cooking in managable lots in my head and filled my day with and around it.

        Now I have a whole new big, bigger, biggest, best days ever. I am out there with those skinny people doing stuff i could never have dreamt of. Food is now an after thought. It doesn't consume my day. I still enjoy the good home cooked food but I eat smaller portions. I leave food on my plate when I am full. I can no longer hear my mother's voice saying eat it all up, ther are starving children in Africa who would want that!

        I still cook for family feasts, I love cooking. I still do holidays but I have changed from the All inclusive drinking and eating everything everyday kind to Self catering accommodation. This gives me the choice of cooking or eating out as I choose. I rarely drink anymore as I usually travel alone now and I feel I need to keep aware of my surroundings.

        I don't know at what point my life expanded, was it when I lost 100 pounds? Was it when I left my walking stick at home ? Was it when I said yes to an outing instead of finding an excuse to stay home ? i look back at my last five years and wonder how loosing weight has made such a difference. Be ready to amaze yourself.

        BTW, the liquid diet sucks, one more day and you are over the worst. You can do it.

  • Recent Topics

  • Hot Products

  • Sign Up For
    Our Newsletter

    Follow us for the latest news
    and special product offers!
  • Together, we have lost...
      lbs

    PatchAid Vitamin Patches

    ×