The Journey Begins (Pre-Op Testing) !!!!!!!

Hi Robin have you considered both pros and cons to the different surgeries. I chose the lap band because of a quicker recovery, not major surgery and there's no dumping. But I will need alot of self control when the time comes when i can eat anything including sweets the good thing about that I'm not a big sweet eater so I thought of all this before making my decision. I was banded 4 days ago and so happy I did. If you have any question please feel free to email me I will try to help any way i can. I'll be praying for you during this overwhelming time

Hi Annie, Thanks so much for your prayers they are so welcomed.  Because I have another condition that requires me to take steroids, at times,  and will not be eleviated by having the surgery.   I was told by Dr. Ryder that the Lap-band is not the best choice (it requires crushing pills) and steriods are not to be crushed.  I am going to take one step at a time and having you and others to talk with on the message board is such a blessing (it's encouraging to read the different messages).  I know I will get through this hurdle I am facing now. Thanks, Robin

On December 16, 2007 at 1:29 PM Pacific Time, AnnieO wrote: I chose the lap band because of a quicker recovery, not major surgery and there's no dumping. With the band there can be dumping. Foods have to be chewed well and some particular foods are just not tolerated per individual (dried, doughy, etc). I was given a list from my surgeon of many of the problem foods for the LapBand.  Dumping can and will cause slippage of the band.  Robin is expected to have the RNY...

Oh don't get me wrong I'm not saying the band is that much easier. Like I said people should research all pros and cons of everything then decide which is personally best for them. I researched and talked to the dietician and the surgeon and know all about certain foods that might not be tolerated and cause the band to slip. But they assured me if I follow their instructions there should be very little problems.

At my initial visit with Dr. Ryder she did explain the differences between the two procedures.  I am not a candidate for the Lap-band because I have another condition that requires steroids.   With the lap she said you may  have to crush pills and the steroids you not suppose to crush.   

Congrats Robin, Its an exciting journey and ohh so worth it!

Thanks Angela!!!!! Robin