Lap Band at RWH

Hello, I am wondering if there is anyone else out here who has had lap-band surgery at Roger Williams Hospital, who would be willing to share there experiences good and not-so-good.

Hi Marisel, I had the lap band surgery at Roger Williams and have been very successful with it. I also work at the hospital so I can answer any questions you may have any time. Best Wishes, Stephanie

Thanks Stephanie, I read your profile and have to congratulate on your success!! It's nice to know that someone local is having great success with the surgery! I have just one question, if you don't mind- What has been the hardest thing to deal with after having the lap-band surgery?

For me personally...immediately right after was 'head hunger'. This is getting the urge to eat something because you see it or smell it. After you have the band, you will be on liquids then puree, until you can eat normally (same diet for bypass patients). Every TV commercial is for pizza, fast food, bread. My advice...try to keep occupied by reading things like fitness magazines, get outdoors, go browsing (don't buy because your size will change) for clothes, get a manicure. For me right now...it's learning that this is a 'tool' and not the sole reason for losing weight. In other words, in order to keep healthy, you have to eat the right things and portions. One of my guilty vices is Cheese Its. When you get your band filled, you are going to have restriction. You are going to want to eat things that you know will pass through the band without blocking the passage way (ie evil Cheese Its). Although they will pass through, you're not going to lose weight. So, what you have to learn is to think of it as a 'guard' of sorts, but make sure that you control what your intake is and portion size. Don't over eat to force the restriction. This will casue you to do what's called 'productive belching', and in the middle of lunch in a restaurant or work, this is not fun nor is it graceful. You'll learn this as you go along. There is a lap band forum on this web site that was very helpful to me post op as well. I learned a lot about things that you will find almost everyone has gone through. If you need anything else just let me know...I'm with you all the way. If you have your surgery, you can ask for me at the hospital and I will come up and visit you if you'd like. Just ask for Stephanie the ER Nurse Case Manager. You can tell Dr Pohl too and he will contact me to get in touch with you. Best Wishes Marisel, Stephanie

Thank-you for sharing Stephanie!!- I will have to remember these things!! I really appreciate it!!

i had roger williams hospital every one there was very good to me and the only problem i had was it took all day for me to get a bed there were very busy that day had surgery at 7:30 am didnt get into a room and bed until 10:30 that night was in recovery all day but i would do it all over again in a second for the beneifits of the weight loss if you have any other questions feel free to email ciao for now ...Davet