So my surgery was on May 8 and my doctor doesn't believe in giving fills unless you are struggling to lose weight even though you're following the program or your satiety doesn't last long. so I haven't had a fill yet in almost two months. although I understand why he wants me to try to lose weight on my own I feel like if that had been possible I would've done that in the beginning and had saved myself from getting the surgery in the first place. I understand that the lap band is a tool but because it isn't filled I don't feel as though I'm able to use it as a tool to the fullest extent. Maybe I'm just whining but I feel pretty discouraged about it.

So, apparently you weren't aware of your doctors protocol? I don't blame you. I disagree with your doctors aftercare program. I've seen others post similar stories before. Hard to understand how they became bariatric surgeons and haven't the slightest clue what we're going through?

I've posted this before, but, sometimes you have to be assertive with these docs. Demand a fill. Don't be afraid. It's your life and there's no reason to be miserable in Bandster Hell.

tmf

I practically begged for a filling he still said no. I just kind of thought that after the two weeks of solid that I would get one so I mean without the fill it just feels like a diet. If I feel like it's a diet what's the difference between any other diet I've been on? that was the whole reason I got the surgery to help with my binge eating and be happy with smaller portions. I don't know what to do seeing as I Already begged.

Change docs if you can. And then go to healthgrades.com and give him a lousy rating.

Averiex I agree with TMF in this case for sure...the band is of course an instrument to assist us with WL, however, if its just there with nothing in it-it is merely a decoration. I know that my first fill wasn't until my 7th week Post-Op, but I have been getting fills every 4 to 6 weeks...if he can't do what he needs to do I would find another provider and let him know why I changed!!! This life change is hard enough without a provider willing to work with you on it. I am sorry you are having to deal with such a person...you might want to post his name on here as well...so others don't use him either!!!

The Dr, should be your number one asset in the help you need to continue to be successful. If he is not going to do his job, consult with another doctor to make sure of what you need and move on. I totally agree with the above people, if you are unsatisfied with him share the news with healthgrades and so on.

Goodluck, fight for yourself, you deserve it!

Colleen

The band is not effective until it is filled to the right level FOR YOU. Some people need no fill at all. Some need a lot. I'm on my second fill and I may stop here for awhile because it feels right. Please don't be intimidated by him into suffering needlessly. Let his office know you will be changing providers unless you get a fill. If you can't say it to his face tell the nurse or office staff.

I totally agree with everyone above. Good luck and keep us posted on the outcome.

Edited June 24, 201412 yr by Lady VS

I totally agree

I'm getting my First fill 3 weeks out and the office scheduled my fills every 2 weeks for a month to try to get me to my green zone. That's what I'm talking about. Lol

Thanks everyone for responding. I have an appointment with my doctor on Thursday and if he doesn't give me a fill then I think I will definitely have quite the argument with him. I understand I need to do the work such as exercising and eating the right way but I also think that the band is a tool and if he isn't going to fill me then I'm not able to use my tool. So again thank you everyone who agreed and just reiterated what I was thinking anyway! This sad pug doesnt want to be sad anymore!