Question:
Any VGBers out there that can share their experience?

I am now considering VGB and just wanted some input. Thanks!    — pamela1 (posted on February 5, 2003)

February 5, 2003
Hi, I am one week and one day post op VBG. So far I feel great and have had no problems. Surgery was about one hour. The incision is about from the bottom of my sternum to about two inches above my belly button so obviously I had an open but some VBG do have laproscopy, my surgeon preferred open on me. I did not have to have my gall bladder removed either. I have fourteen staples but I don't mind at all. Next week at my two weeks post op the staples are removed. I have not experienced any hunger thus far except head hunger when my teenager brought nachos home from Taco Bell but I just remembered how many of such meals contributed to me being obese. I know losing weight tastes great right now. The full liquid diet I am on is creamed cereals & milk, creamed & strained soups, sugar free yogurt without fruit, no sugar added carnation instant breakfast, non acidic juices, sugar free jello & popsicles and lots and lots of sips of water throughout the day to include iced & hot tea as long as it is decaffeinated. My energy level is incredible thus far. After six weeks I start regular food that is blended. Six weeks after that I am on a semi regular diet only eliminating very seedy, or fibrous fruits, vegs, and meats that may find it difficult to make it past the silastic band. I do not own a scale yet because I want to now center my life on health not weight but I can already tell that I have lost weight. I will way myself periodically at the doctor's office or at work when I return. Good luck on your decision...VBG was just right for me. I am 50 yrs old.
   — Alma W.

February 5, 2003
18 months PO SRVBG lost 120 lbs in the first 9 months to be at goal ...been stable since then had hernia repair tt on Nov 13....5'3 started at 252 now 132 size 28 to 10 (some 8) very happy with my choice e mail me if you have specific questions
   — bekka K.