Anything you can tell me GOOD or BAD?

Hello I'm fairly new to this board, and was considering the LAP BAND but after careful consideration I have decided that would not be the way for me to go. I have read a lot of info on WLS and have been to a seminar and I have my consult scheduled for Sept 22nd. I'm a little nervous about this which I'm sure is normal, but I also have anxiety which intensifiys the nerves just a bit. Anyway if there is any advice anyone can give me about this whole process I would be greatful. Thanks so much Donna

Hi Donna, I'm Gwen and had lap RNY with Dr. Voellinger almost 18 months ago. I started at 264 and now weigh between 132-134 depending on the day. I think you're normal to feel nervous and anxious, it's a life changing surgery. If you've been to the informative seminar about the different types of surgery then you should also attend a support group meeting. There are people there in all stages of the process, pre-op and post-op. Southeast Bariatrics has one and also Presbyterian hospital has one on different Mondays. I still go to them and always learn something plus the support is always helpful and now at this point, I'm able to give input to help someone else. For me, it's been the best thing I ever did for myself and my family and I even had some minor complications for a couple months. I would do it again every year to stay this way. I feel great and can do so much now that I used to couldn't, and clothes shopping is so much fun now!! I know it's not the right decision for everyone but for me to loose 100 pounds and keep it off without the surgery, was slim to none. Also, Dr. V is great, I love the man and so is his staff! Good luck on your decision. Email me if you need [email protected]

Hey Donna! I had an RNY with Dr. Voellinger 3 months ago (I have lost 75 lbs!!!). I looked into the lap-band, also, in the beginning. But, I knew that for me, I needed the malabsorbation component to make my weight loss successful. Just having to limit my portions was not going to be enough...I could still eat small amounts of cake, chocolate, etc. (all of those temptations that sabotaged my weight loss every time). I knew that I needed to "NOT" be able to eat certain things. The surgery has not only changed my life, but I think it saved my life (or quality of), as well. I still need to lose 65 lbs. and I can't wait! This is such an incredible journey! I wish you the best on your decision. You are definitely in good hands with Dr. V. Let me know if you have any other questions! Susan

Susan Thank you so much...75lbs in 3 months that's great. Have you had any problems at all since your surgery? Donna

Hey Donna, Sorry it took me so long to reply. I feel very blessed in that I have not had any complications! Although a little tired for a week or so (from the surgery), I was up and moving from day 2. Actually, the only problem I had at all was that one of my incisions got infected (on the exterior - no open wounds or anything). I have had no food intolerances, etc. I have had one dumping episode - I ate chicken terr. from a Japanese resturant WITH shrimp sauce. Although I did not have very much, I think it was the sauce that got me. Oh well, I will just stay away from that for a while. My sister-in-law had surgery with Dr. V. 6 weeks after me. She has had a little more trouble because they think she may have a stricture. Hopefully that will be taken care of soon. But, she will still tell you that she would do it again. I wish you the best with your journey. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Dr. V. is awesome!!!!! Susan

My BMI was close to yours at my time of surgery. Check out my profile. I have NO regrets with my RNY. I was offered the Lap Band but stuck with my original decision of RNY. Jen 243/152/143 5'4"

Jen WOW you look awesome I bet you feel wonderful, what an accoplishment. CONGRATS! Donna

Hi Donna- I am going to see Dr. Voellinger on 9/19 for a first consult! After doing my research, I think I would like to have VSG (vertical sleeve gastrectomy) over the LapBand or RNY. Dr. V does the VSG as well, so I am going to talk with him about it. For me, I don't want the LapBand (too many issues with fills, overfills, underfills,port issues, etc.) and I dont want the nausea/vomiting component of RNY. I can control myself on sweets ok, but it's overall volume that I need restricted, and VSG accomplishes that. It also reduces the hunger hormone Ghrelin because it removes a large part of the stomach (which is where it is produced), so that is the procedure that is tops on my list. There is a VSG board here on OH if you're interested to learn more, the ladies there are wonderful! Good Luck with your decision! Stefanie

Stefanie Thanks you and best of luck with your appt on the 19th Donna

From what I have read the lapband is excellent if you do not have a lot to lose.. its also being used if people are super obese and need to lose weight to have RNY. If you go to a seminar and talk to a surgeon I think that would help you make a decision. As a side note many insurance companies do not cover the lapband so that could make your decision easier for you! I had RNY on June 20th and havent had any problems! I have felt wonderful the whole time and havent gotten sick or dumped once. I eat pretty "normally" and there isnt much I cannot have at almost 3 months out. My only frustration so far is my weight loss seems to be "slow" to me. I checked a few charts online and spoke to others who had 100lbs to lose and it seems Im right on track! Hard to hear about people losing 75lbs in 3 months when I *may* break 40lbs by my 3 month mark. Eitherway I am still very happy at this point.... just nervous to see what will happen when the "honeymoon period" ends! Good luck with your decision and hope this helps!