What to expect after Gastric Sleeve?

[JerseyJules 862]

Well after doing some more research and speaking with my surgeon I have decided that the gastric sleeve is my personal best option. I weighed the complications VS end results and overall effectiveness with the fact that the Lap Band does not restrict appetite which is really what I need. The slippage and potential for needed removal of the lap band and the life time readjustments are just not what I want. I want to do this once and start my new life...Surgery rescheduled for Jan 12th..

[Proud2BMe 1,016]

@@JerseyJules

You beat me to it. I was going to recommend you speak to your doctor because a lot of people are making decisions based on either fears or what is less invasive but a doctor will be honest and tell you which surgery you really need for your level of obesity. I've seen some unfortunate cases where some extremely obese people got the band or sleeve based on their fears and not a doctor's recommendation and were ultimately not pleased with the results. For the extremely morbidly obese they really need gastric bypass. Those who are less than or a little over a hundred pounds overweight should really be looking at the band. Those in between the two would be better off with gastric sleeve.

[JerseyJules 862]

@@JerseyJules

You beat me to it. I was going to recommend you speak to your doctor because a lot of people are making decisions based on either fears or what is less invasive but a doctor will be honest and tell you which surgery you really need for your level of obesity. I've seen some unfortunate cases where some extremely obese people got the band or sleeve based on their fears and not a doctor's recommendation and were ultimately not pleased with the results. For the extremely morbidly obese they really need gastric bypass. Those who are less than or a little over a hundred pounds overweight should really be looking at the band. Those in between the two would be better off with gastric sleeve.

The ironic part is as I was in his waiting room there was a woman who was very obese and was scheduling the removal of the Lap Band...LOL..So it was sort of an omen to me..I need the initial appetite control to get me back on track and in the game..

[Zane's Mom 184]

@@JerseyJules

You beat me to it. I was going to recommend you speak to your doctor because a lot of people are making decisions based on either fears or what is less invasive but a doctor will be honest and tell you which surgery you really need for your level of obesity. I've seen some unfortunate cases where some extremely obese people got the band or sleeve based on their fears and not a doctor's recommendation and were ultimately not pleased with the results. For the extremely morbidly obese they really need gastric bypass. Those who are less than or a little over a hundred pounds overweight should really be looking at the band. Those in between the two would be better off with gastric sleeve.

I don't agree with you there. I think each person should make informed and educated decisions based on their unique situation. Just to throw everyone on one category is not right.

I considered the band but in my situation, I take medications every day, 5 rather large pills. I consulted all of my doctors (4) of them and I decided on sleeve because it did not change the actual size of the opening to the stomach so that I don't have to worry about the tiny opening that a filled band leaves.

Yes there were other factors but I was very comfortable with my decision no matter how many pounds I have to lose.

JerseyJules you seem to have weighed your options (take the pun or not) and made a great decision about a tool you will have for life. You will live, learn, and love your decision.

[Proud2BMe 1,016]

@@Zane's Mom

You can disagree all you want. However, you can't disagree that the statics are that with the band patients will loose on average 50% of the excess weight. With the sleeve it's 60% and with gastric bypass it's 70%. So it depends on how obese someone is as to which surgery is right for them. That's why I advised not making a decision based on fear or what is perceived to be less invasive and to consult your doctor instead.

[Proud2BMe 1,016]

JerseyJules, on 05 Dec 2014 - 12:00, said:

The ironic part is as I was in his waiting room there was a woman who was very obese and was scheduling the removal of the Lap Band...LOL..So it was sort of an omen to me..I need the initial appetite control to get me back on track and in the game..

Many band patients later have to revise to sleeve due to complications or ineffective weight loss.

[JerseyJules 862]

Many band patients later have to revise to sleeve due to complications or ineffective weight loss.

That was evident when I began researching it, and my surgeon confirmed it for me.. As nice of a guy that he is,I only want to see him in the operating room ready to slice in to me one time and only one time.... I think a 60% average weight loss is the target area I would shoot for. Im currently 305lbd after my shoulder surgery and sitting around and not working out for over 4 weeks. I know once I get active again I will snap back to 290 without any adjustments to my diet. So lets assume I'm 300lbs at surgery, the BMI says I should weigh 175 but I assure you I could never be 175 with my frame. At 240lbs I looked dead sexy...If I hit 220, I will be the stud muffin I was in High school..lol...So anywhere in that window of 60% puts me in my 230-220 goal weight...Keep in mind I am already much more active than the average bypass candidate so dropping down and staying there will not be an issue I know it..

[Proud2BMe 1,016]

@@JerseyJules

You should be fine with sleeve. I'm in a similar situation. I'm 350, gained like 60 extra pounds after quitting smoking and suffering some heart palpitation that caused me to not be as active as I once was. My idea weight is supposedly 170-177, depending on what scale is used. I did once manage to get down to 170 but everyone said I looked sick and that it looked like I had AIDs. So I won't shoot for that low. If I can just get below 200 I'll be happy.

[Joshua Barbour 22]

JerseyJules, I've been reading and am interested to see if you had your sleeve already? If so how far have you come? You and I have VERY similar stories. i'm 5'10" 290 and very athletic. Lots of muscle on my frame and a strong core. I can do about 10 pushups no problem and can plank for about a minute at a time a few times. I do not want to be skinny, BUT i want to be healthy. So far I also have NO weight related health issues - except pre-diabetes and have had some tennis elbow injuries. My sleeve is this coming monday and i'm going to TJ to do it, I have gone to no classes or had any pre prep with doctors. I have never had surgery and am very nervous....

Can you tell me how it was?

[mrrugby 2]

Hi JerseyJules.

Just wondering how things turned out for you.

I read your intial story and it was like reading my own life history. I also did my own research and in the end opted for Gastric Sleeve. It has not been a regret so far. I am 3 weeks post surgery and down 47 lbs.

I would love to know how you made out.

Trevor