New to site

Hi Everyone, i'm new to this site and looking forward to sharing stories!  I'm a pt of Dr. Ryder and saw her for the first time on 1/29.  I've got approval for the realize band and all testing done except final consult about sleep study (which I passed the 2nd time!) and some bloodwork and EKG.  Just wondering how long people take out of work on average...i've heard lots of different things.  Thanks

Hi Jess, welcome to the site.  Congratulations on your decision on having WLS.  You will get all kinds of support and answers to your questions right here.  I did not have the band done, but I have heard peoples say they go to work about 2 weeks after surgery.  However, it depends on each person's experience and what kind of job you have too.  Good luck and hope to hear more from you.  Eldy

Thanks Eldy!  I've been thinking about this for about 2 years and now that it's finally happening i'm getting anxious:)  

Hiya Jess!

Welcome to our Home-Away-From-Home!

As Eldy said, you'll get lots of help and encouragement here. We need more bandsters on this site!

Please feel free to ask any questions you may have and offer support yourself!

I'd like to make two recommendations prior to your surgery:

--Get all your measurements! Neck to ankles! Then measure each month after surgery!

--Get before pictures taken of you! Front, back and each side!!! And carry them with you where ever you go!

You'll appreciate them after you've lost some weight!

Glad you're here!

Jules

Thanks Jules!  I'll definitely do that:)  Although I don't even want to imagine what those measurements are!  I don't even get on the scale unless i'm at the docs! 

Hi I just was wondering if u new the what the difference's between the two different bands that r out I am just starting to look in to them and needed a little help. Any input would be great I have a appt on july 1 with a Dr. in johnton and just wanted to be perepared. Thanks Deliah

I had lap band a little over a year ago.  I had it on a Tuesday and really felt well enough to return to work the following Monday, but I work at a computer.  I know others who have been out several weeks.  I had a pretty easy recovery and was back to horseback riding in 3 weeks.  Once I left the hospital I never took pain medication.  I think everyone's experience is a little different, but the band is an easier recovery than the RNY.  Julie gave great advice about the measurements and the pictures.  I didn't think to do that and I wish that I had!  I have a hard time judging how long it has taken also.  Even from one MD appointment to the next now I don't remember what I was at the last one.  I know that I have been slowly but steadily losing still, but I haven't kept good records.  I didn't have the Realize band, and I really don't know what the difference is.  Good luck and keep posting your questions!