Question:
Lap Band after Gastric Bypass?

In 2001 I had an open RNY and lost approximately 200 lbs from a size 32 to size 11. But for the past year I've been unable to get full and have gained approximately 100 lbs. No matter what I eat, I do not have any type of 'full' sensation. I am trying to determine whether the lap band would be an option to control the fact that my stomach empties so quickly tht I cannot get full. My original surgeon has since retired. Please help me if you have had this procedure done and what Dr. performs this variation of a revision. Thanks! Teri    — g W. (posted on February 4, 2007)

February 4, 2007
hi there- the problem as I see it is, you are trying to get full, when in fact, a post op is supposed to eat only until satisfied, and or only the amount allowed, which by most surgeons-nutritionists recommendations are half a cup of food 3 times a day-per meal. ( that is half a cup total food per meal which would include your meat, vege, salad etc, that is total, not half a cup per each type of food ) What happens to post ops, who are several years out-they ( i will add myself, although I still weigh and measure all my foods-at nearly 3 years post op ) become complacent, and tend to forget the rules. 100 lbs weight gain in a year is way more than normal, and perhaps you should have some tests taken. Just remember, the rules you were given early post op, are forever. No matter how much you Can eat, you still have to follow the pouch rules, and stop eating when you have had an intake of your half a cup of food. This seems to be an ongoing problem, as it is the subject of the majority of these postings. Its not easy-believe me, but I have been very lucky in that I am never hungry, and it wouldnt matter if I were, I refuse to eat more than allowed. I have lost a little over 230 lbs, and have stayed within 3 lbs up or down since approx 10 months post op, but its because I follow all the rules, and its become so easy to do, because I love being this thin, I love all my new clothes and my new look- I would never forgive myself if I messed up at this late date. As for a lapbanding-it can be eaten around just as any of the other types of WLS. Perhaps a revision of the RNY, and putting your pouch back to its usual 1 oz post op size would be a better answer-as long as the rules were followed. Don't feel bad, it happens to over 80% of post ops, because we tend to forget, because we feel so normal. Just remember, the program is for life. I am a retired general surgeon, and had my wls late march 2004-and know if I let myself forget, I might eat more than my half a cup, especially if its a soup. Its just something we have to stay on top of 24/7-i think you would agree. I sincerely hope you check into a revision as I believe its the best way for you to get back to your basics. Good luck on whatever you decide to do, but in the meantime, go back to eating your allowables only, weigh and measure your foods, get in all the protein necessary, get rid of any unnecessary carbs, sugars and fats, and I bet the weight starts to come off once again. God bless Cindi 3.24.04 -230# and holding
   — DollyDoodles

February 4, 2007
I would agree with the first responder. Going back to the basics is the key in helping you manage your weight. You should not be going for a "feel-full" feeling. Regardless of how full you feel, eating the half-cup's worth of food is the guideline that should be followed to ensure continued weight loss and a healthy lifestyle. I also want to echo the first responder's statement that it is not easy to do. I have not had surgery, though my date is only a month away, but I had to lose 30 pounds before my surgeon would operate on me. He provided me with a 1,200-calorie food management plan that has been wonderful. My food is moderated. I have learned to read labels; I am now a conscientious shopper. I exercise three times a week rigorously. The best thing that my surgeon could have done for me is to show me how to live a healthy lifestyle. I now sincerely believe that the surgery is only a tool to help me continue the progress that I have been making. Go back to the basics. Eat in accordance with the plan that you were given, and I am confident that you will will drop the pounds and also feel good about your health! Above all, don't feel bad about your predicament; change it.
   — Xavier Smith