Loss of my band

After 4 years of having my band, i had it removed this past week. I went in for an unfill because of massive heartburn/acid reflux. My NP couldnt get any more then .5cc out. So we set up for fill under fluro. Never made it that far! just a few hours after my fill, i started to feel like something was poking me from the inside. almost like i had swallowed a piece of plastic and it was siting at the opening of my stomach. they had me come back in to do an xray. the xray showed that my tubing was kinked and pulling down on my band. I did an UGI just to make sure that there wasnt massive slippage. the UGI came back ok but the surgeon did not like the way the tubing was. they were finally able to get all the fluid out but that didnt help. the pain of the poking finally got to me and i begged for removal.

Now what do i do??

I am so scared to even eat for fear of gaining weight. It wouldnt be such a big deal because we will be meeting in 2 weeks to go over the options i have. but what i am freaking out about is that i am getting married in 6 weeks! and my dress was "snug" the last time i tried it on. what happens if i gain even 5lbs? this dress will not fit me! i am freaking out! plus i cant go back to the gym for at least 2 weeks. how can i do this without my tool there beside me to help??

Now i am somewhat stuck between a rock and a hard place. i dont know if my insurance will cover the bypass even though i have had the lap band removed. they might still consider it a "conversion" which has strict requirements to get it covered. Do i even want to go thru that again or try to do this on my own. i dont want to see myself back at that starting weight that i was.

thoughts? suggestions?

HUGS!!! You are in a very difficult spot, as you know. I am sorry you have to go through this. First, take a deep breath. OK, now let's see. Are you on liquids right now after this surgery? Lot's of shakes should help avoid weight gain. Then go to grilled chicken and fish, veggies and salads with lowest cal dressing (think spritz).

Call your dress fitter and ask if there would be any emergency measures that could be taken if you gain a few. You never know if you don't ask.

I too would be in a panic if I lost my tool but you have learned many things in the past few years. Rely on them now.

Many insurance companies will cover revisions if medically necessary. A failed band like yours may well qualify. Research all options carefully since bypass is not the only good option.

Don't let this overtake your hapiness and anticipation of your wedding. This is not what is most important in life.

Good luck to you, and all happiness,
Sue

Hugs! You are not alone. There are tons of people out there with failed bands. Till you can get a revision just try to follow band rules. High protein, lower carb, sugar and fat. No drinking with meals or 30 mins. after.

And..........CONGRATS ON THE WEDDING! :-)

I would find how many calories you burn at resting.  And, count all my calories and measure to either lose more weight or stay the same.  The wedding should help keep you motivated.  Only you can answer the question what now?  More surgery?  Nothing is hundred percent you still have to measure and count calories so at least now you can try and see it that will work for you or if you need something else.

Good Luck! 

Nance     

HUGS... does your dress have a corset back? If not...http://www.perfectfitpatterns.com/patternlaceeis.htm I ordered mine because I wanted a corset back rather than zipper... took my MIL 10 minutes to sew it in, and it was awesome. Karen is the contact lady and she was great to work with as well.

What a great idea.  Smarty.

First of all, congratulations on the wedding.

Second, you have two choices.  Either get the wedding dress altered as close to the wedding as possible or figure out how you can avoid gaining weight.  My best guess would be going on protein shakes until the wedding.

Does your BMI qualify for WLS?  If not, you probably are going to go through an extremely frustrating situation that I would suggest you put off until after the wedding.  Under the best of cir****tances, planning and executing a wedding is stressful; don't add to it, if you can avoid it.

I would categorize your band removal as emergency surgery.  Your insurance may consider this.  I'd recommend you review your policy closely.

Well I've been empty for ovwerr a year and haven't gained, in fact lost once I could start eating healthy food again. I go low carb and use lots of lettuce to fill me up. Like others have said hopefully the wedding will keep you motivated, just don't let stress get to you! Wishing you the best on getting a revision ok'd!

 HUGS!!! I am so sorry you are going through this I know it must be rough.   Do your best to stick to your high protein and low carb (I know I'm preaching to the choir) Its not gonna be a walk in the park, but I believe in you. Hang in there, don't let any little cheat in...NOT ONE little carb...that's where they get me...the "little carbs".  It wont be tons of fun but it will be so worth it in the end.  Feel free to message me if you need encouragement or just an ear to chat with. :)

....just keep swimming
Swoosh

I'm so sorry to hear this has happened to you. My fingers are crossed that your insurance understands that you need a surgical option to keep your weight in check and that they easily let you revise to whichever you choose later on.

For the time being, go low carb! You cannot gain weight if you're not eating sugars and starches. Eat lean proteins and a green vegetables only. If you think about divirging, remember your wedding dress.

Or, I'm sure you've seen the ads for it, but have you ever tried "Medifast" ? Their meal replacements are pretty good tasting for something so low calorie and high protein. You can order them online and you will not gain weight if you stick to eating what they recommend (5 meal replacements per day plus one lean protein/green vegetable real meal). 

Most of all, heal up for your wedding and enjoy that day!