(Gastric)Bypass or a Lap Band after a (Cardiac)bypass

Don · April 30, 2009

(Gastric) Bypass after a (Cardiac)bypass

God must have heard me wrong. I went through all of the steps and was approved for Gastric Bypass Surgery in June. All he heard was that I wanted a bypass.

March 4th, I went to the ER with shoulder blade pain. (I had googled it and came up with only gall bladder and I had mine out in 2000). I had been playing the piano a lot and at the computer a lot (and I have bad arthritis in the neck). So I figured I would get a pain pill or a shot and go home.

The next thing you know I am on an EKG then an ambulance to the next town where they have the heart stuff ( catheter lab etc.) Two days later I have a triple bypass. I believe I am having a better than average recovery ( no depression, no cognition problems. no infections, etc.)

They told me at my Bariatric Surgeon's office that I would need cardiac clearance. I am certainly not going to have it done the first of June. I have lost 19 pounds since the operation, so I am right at the cusp of the 35% BMI.

I have a feeling, if I do have an operation, it might be for the lap band, as it wouldn't be such a stress on the body.

Anybody have experience with this???

Don

Danimal · April 30, 2009

Well certainly the worst is behind you and take care of your new chance in life. I don't have the full experience to provide a recommendation, just yet. Only my opinion.

I had my heart bypass 4 years ago at the age of 48. Certainly livable but something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. I was 278 lbs and my doctor told me if I didn't change my ways, he would see me again in 10 years and the out come would not be so good. Strong message that scared me to death.

I was able to get down to 238 but after about 4 months after my heart surgery, I wanted food. Before that, I only ate because I was suppose to. Well once again I lost my control and and reached 299 in December 08.

I have researched and researched. I watched friends who went through gastric, and have decided on the lapband. My reasons were less stress on my body and this came recommended by my heart doctor.

May 4th, 2004 is a special day now in my life. It was the day of heart bypass. May 11th 2009 will be another special day for me. The day I become banded and receive a tool that will allow me a chance to live longer. My goal is not to go through heart bypass again.

Good luck with your decision and all the best as you still recover.

Dan