Hello all, I'm thinking about getting banded. I've looked into it before, but I decided against it for a few reasons (see below). I'm gained more weight since then though, and it's being a complication and complicating other problems, so I'm back to thinking about it. I've got hypothyroidism; I don't know how long I've had it but it became apparent after my daughter was born. I've also recently been diagnosed with PolyCystic Ovarian Disease better known as PCOD or PCOS. While my general MD is understanding of this most doctors say the 'simple' solution is to lose weight. I'm hoping that it will "go away" with weight loss. I try to exercise, and at times have some success, but everything's sore! and I'm really prone to hurting myself.

My reasons for not wanting to get banded are fears of complications, the potential cost (I've got Medicaid) and a strong fear of general anesthesia. I'm a wuss

However, I know that I will have to exercise still. I'm hoping some of my common issues with it will go away with a bit of weight loss, just something to get me started you know?

Anyway, some questions...

Has anyone had issues with "loose skin?"

Anybody know if a Dr. might do this under a spinal anesthesia? (been there, done that for c-sec)

How long does the surgery take?

Any doctors recommendations for the SE Michigan area?

Welcome Mithotyn, Don't have answers to any other QUESTIONS BUT THE AVERAGE SURGERY TIME FOR THE LAPBAND AT THE HOSPITAL I'm GOING TO IS 37 MIN. Everyone I've talked to that's had surgery there have said everything went well. Good luck in your journey.

I have hypothyroid, and PCOS......... my surgery was 45 minutes and I was off work for 2 days...........

I LOVE LOVE LOVE my band............. and today I'm wearing a pair of size 12 pants and a size large shirt! PRICELESS

This time last year I was sad, miserable and busting out of size 24's.

I beat myself up for two years........... I chickened out of consults and seminars.......... finally I got the nerve, got the approval and never looked back!

I have hypothyroid, and PCOS......... my surgery was 45 minutes and I was off work for 2 days...........

I LOVE LOVE LOVE my band............. and today I'm wearing a pair of size 12 pants and a size large shirt! PRICELESS

This time last year I was sad, miserable and busting out of size 24's.

I beat myself up for two years........... I chickened out of consults and seminars.......... finally I got the nerve, got the approval and never looked back!

i am smiling right now cause of the post you wrote....

so excited for you, and me soon i hope...smiles

your results are awesome, looking forward to having a lot less fat and a whole lot more health myself!

Welcome Mithotyn!

I will try to answer your questions. :thumbup:

1. Yes, many people have loose skin after losing a significant amount of weight. If you go back to the main page you'll see there's a section for Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery. When you are obese for a long period of time, sometimes your skin just won't shrink back with weight loss. There are a lot of factors there, including age, genetics, etc. I worry that I will have this issue, but I will cross that road if I come to it. Some say that staying hydrated and exercising can help.

2. I don't think so. I have never seen that mentioned. But that would be something to bring up with your surgeon, of course.

3. It depends on the surgeon, your anatomy and whether you have complications or additional things like a hernia repair. Mine was about 45 mins.

4. There is a thread for Michigan here that you could try asking on. Also try a search or the "Doctors and Hospitals" section.

Good luck!