New and considering the sleeve!

So, I'm in the process of trying to decide which procedure is right for me. Insurance has an exclusion so finances do play a part. I'm working with a credit union for an approval to cover the costs.

I'm 5'5 and around 345 pounds. So, my BMI is 57-58.

I've never had a sweet tooth at all. I've drank only water since 2010. Still, I have a problem that I can't shake. I think it's from portion control and carbs (my enemy with PCOS) and lack of "good" exercise. Obviously it's hard to get a good workout in at this point. I've done Atkins before and lost some, but I just hit a stall point after 20 pounds every time. I don't have any co-morbidities yet except possibly borderline high blood pressure. 

Do you think the sleeve is a good option for me? I've heard the DS is the best for people with BMIs over 50, but I don't know if I can swing that price. 

Welcome!  You've found a great place to ask questions, vent and find lots of support.

If BMI was the only indicator for surgery type---yes, most everyone here would need to have DS. But that's just not the case. There are lots of things to consider, as I'm sure you're discovering, while doing your research.

It's certainly possible to lose the weight you need with a VSG. But like with any of the surgeries, it takes commitment and lifestyle change. We say that allot---but it's critical to success. With VSG, you'll find the restriction you need to help with the portion control issues. But you'll have to make those good food choices, take your vitamins, spend some time tracking and planning your diet and, yes, finding some exercise to do that is appropriate for your fitness level. As you're weight declines, you'll be stunned how quickly you'll be able to do more activity.

Do your research and as you have more questions, general or specific, feel free to ask away!

Elaine

edited to add--you might want to check this out. It was just posted on the VSG board.

http://vsgfaq.wordpress.com

I'm totally thrilled with my VSG, and I started out higher than where you are at right now.  I considered the DS, but after much discussion with my surgeon about the long-term issues that DSers deal with, I went with the VSG.  I know I could always "convert" to a DS if the need arises, but I'm convinced that I can get to my goal without it.  Only you can decide what is right for you.  Do your research, talk to your docs and make the right decision for yourself.

Hi,
   I had the VSG done. I am 5'4 and my starting weight was 374 pounds. I have been really really pleased with the VSG. Recover time was great, healed up good. I picked the VSG because it seemed the least scary to me. ( I had a friend who unfortunately had little success with her RNY, her own fault, but it still made me paranoid). The doctor was feeling I would have more success with the bypass due to my high BMI but was absolutely awesome about my decision to be sleeved. I've lost weight steadily, there's been some stalls here and there. He had felt that because the RNY, for some, takes the weight off quicker in the beginning I might have more success. I told him it took years to put it on so what the heck is the big hurry? I like that I feel more in control of what I am eating now. That horrible hunger and desire for huge portions is gone. I love how healthy I eat now and how much better I feel.
  If you have any questions please feel free to email me and I'll answer them the best I can.
Good Luck on your Journey!

 I think the sleeve is a great option if you can commit to a lifestyle change  and change your relationship with food. We all have our own issues, but there's definitely a mental aspect you have to think about and be willing to challenge yourself. The sleeve is good for helping with portion control except for donuts, chocolate and ice cream haha. Those melt and go right through :)  Okay, for me anyways, I have no restriction when it comes to those things (soft breads dont seem to fill me up much either). But I'm a year out, and I can still eat 3-4 oz of something dense or 1/2 a cup of something and feel like i might die if I take another bite. 


Just know that regardless of the surgery type - it's going to feel at times like you have to diet and exercise like normal people - especailly the smaller you get and the harder it is to lose weight! Fat used to melt off me - now, I have to put up a hard fight for each pound but its so much more bearable and a little easier without the hunger and bottomless pit that my doctor called a stomach. 


Welcome!

Everything said already is right on! Best of luck in your decision making! No tool is going to be the fix all. It will be work and will be ups and downs. But the rewards will reveal themselves as you go along! The more effort and work you put into it, the more you most likely will see!! I had the RNY and love it. I know it was right for me.

Hugs

I'll chime in so you can see my numbers with the sleeve. See my ticker below.  I love it!  I'm so happy that I did it.  I was completely at peace with my decision by the time of surgery.  And I took responsibility for following my surgeon's plan.  I have changed my lifestyle.  I feel so blessed and free.

Good luck with your decision. I hope you have peace with whatever you decide.

 Thanks everyone for the replies. I have about $5,000 saved up right now so I hope to have the surgery by December. I have a surgeon in my state  who does the VSG for $10,000. It makes me cringe to think about waiting that long, but it's the best I can do! I have pretty much decided on the sleeve. Thank you for all your help!

Can't you finance the remaining 5000$???