Hi,

I'm at the beginning of this process. So far I've watched 1 informational video from a local surgeon, Dr. Anita Courcoulas, and read a little on the internet, and that's about all I know. After finding this site today, I followed a link to the vertical sleeve site, and was confused and dismayed to see so many people there complaining about the LAP-BAND®® and claiming that the VS was the better way to go. The only thing I'm sure of is that I'm not interested in the RNY.

Since I live in a city known for medical expertise, I think I can rely on the surgical practice I picked; they're experienced. I filled out a questionaire and someone from the office called and gave me the option of attending classes at Magee Hospital or having my PCP monitor my six month pre-surgical efforts. I picked my PCP because it's cheaper and easier to reach, but now I'm afraid she won't have the experience with WLS to advise me about all the many details. She is a good doctor, though, and takes time to discuss matters very well with me.

I need to spend some time going over this board and the VS board, also, to get a feel for the experiences of other people.

It's the beginning of a long and confusing journey, but one that I hope will lead to a better life.

Update:
It's now the end of April 2014 and my surgery is scheduled for May 20. My insurance required five months of eating 1400 calories, recording everything I ate and turning in a food diary at monthy weigh ins. I decided to do this at my surgeon's practice at the hospital instead of my PCP and it worked out well. I met with a nutritionist each month who reviewed my diary and gave me advice.
I had a ton of pre-op tests, upper and lower GI, cardiac, blood work, etc. and was pleased an surprised to find that everything is really good despite my age and weight. My main problem is severe arthritis. i have bone spurs and stenosis on my spine and severe sciatica on the left. My right leg is very weak due to a surgical mishap; Seven years ago a surgeon crushed my sciatic nerve during hip replacement and I wear a brace. Most of the time I use a wheelcahir, so my exercise has been very limited. But the good news is I'm not diabetic, and I have no heart problems. I have low cholesterol. My main reason for having surgery is that I hope that with less pressure on my spine, I might have less pain and be able to walk more.

Hello! I went thru the same thing when deciding on WLS. I did eventually decide on lap band. My surgery was March 20, 2014 and I couldnt be happier. You will find that there are pros and cons to all WLS so it really depends on your research and whats best for you personally. I didnt see in your update what you decided on but I know that all will work out for you if you go into it whole-heartedly. Keep me posted.

@@Bmjohnson I'm getting banded and of course I'm having a major case of the nerves right now, three weeks away from the surgery. If you noticed the dates of my posts, I first investigated WLS in 2009 and decided it wasn't for me. Needless to say, things only got worse over the years and I've finally wised up to the idea that I'll never do it by myself.

I'm really glad to hear from someone a month out from banding and I'd love to know how you progress. You must be about ready for solid food now? So glad to hear you are happy with your band.

I was banded April 11, 2014! I also think it was a great choice for me! It's hard at times and I ask myself once in awhile why I did it!! I always tell myself I need to do this! I'm worth it and I will be healthy! It will all be worth it!! I've lost 25pounds already and can't wait to keep peeling it off! Good luck!

Your mobility will be greatly improved with less weight. You will inspired to keep losing because you will feel sooooo much better! Best Wishes!

I went to the dr. yesterday and 6 weeks post op i am currently 26 lbs. down. yea!!!!!!!!!!!!!! the worst part for me was the liquid stage but hang in there because it passes and it will be worth it.

i had lapband last july and have lost 70 pounds so far. I was wondering if anyone is having issues with burping since being banded i burp alot more its not uncomfortable just was wondering what i could possible change to burp less. That is the only thing i can wish i could change