RNY to Realize Band

Hi Everyone,

I previously had a RNY back in 2003 (in San Diego) and lost over 146 pounds.  This weight stayed off until late 2008 where I have slowly gained back 40 pounds.  I have and still eat the right food, however I was hungry all the time.  After finding a doctor in the area (I had moved to San Francisco, CA) he suggested a stomaphyx.  He told me this procedure was not proven, but it could help with my stretched stoma.  I had this done in 2009 and was amazingly happy, when I dropped 22 pounds.  Unfortunately, all this weight didn't stay off and after seeing several surgeons in my area (moved again to Los Angeles, CA), I was told that having a band would aid in restriction for my stoma.

I am having surgery tomorrow and could really use a place to share my journey and get feedback from others who might have this experience too.  Actually, any positive feedback would be appreciated at this point.  I am a little scared because I have had a lot of surgeries and there is a lot of scar tissue for my surgeon to cut through tomorrow.  Fortunately, he wanted to keep me in the hospital because of this, so they could see how I was doing.

Scared and excited, this is the first time I have felt this way.

I hope your surgery went well.  I would be scared as well.  I applaud you for staying on the journey.  Good luck to you.  I look forward to hearing about your surgery.  Be blessed. 

Hi...My name is Pat...I'm seriously thinking of having the Realize surgery done if they wont hold my age against me....I'm 75 but think like a 55 yr old...I'm soooo curious about what you had to drink or eat 2 wks before your surgery....Did you spend the night in the hospital?   What is your diet like now?   How do I join the group of people on line of Realize patients...Well, that should keep you busy for awhile ( ha)   I really would love to hear from [email protected]

Hope all went well!! 

I've had my band for over 3 years, and don't regret a single day. But as you know, it's not easy. Every day is a battle.

Just know we're here to help you fight the good fight.

Thanks everyone, the surgery was a success with some minor complications.  I knew there would be issues due to the scaring that I have from previous surgeries.  My surgery took over 4 hours, he had to use 6 incisions to get the scaring out and I had a hernia, which the surgeon repaired.  It was quiet painful, but I think that is mostly due to the gas they fill your belly with.  I am still having some issues getting up and down.  Sleeping on my back is a chore too, but I am doing it.  I came home Tuesday night and I weighted myself, I was at  219.8, obviously weight gain from swelling.  I am now down to 215.6, and I am looking forward to seeing actually weight loss not swelling loss. :)

I noticed it is so different with the lap band, as the liquid doesn't back up like it did when I first had my RNY.  I like the full feeling though, it has been forever since I have felt that way!  The woman at the office said they don't do the first fill until a month out, which I thought was a bit odd, but I am okay with that.  I feel restriction now because the liquids actually stay in my stomach instead of floating through.  I can't imagine how it will feel with more restriction.

I am excited and looking forward to each new day.

Thank you for the positive feedback!

Victoria

Thanks for the update. Glad to see you're doing ok.

Keep us posted, and know we're here for you.

Victoria,
  I am so glad everything went well.  Wishing you lots of luck.  Keep up the good work and keep us all updated.