Hiya,

Almost two years ago now I had the LapBand surgery done. I did a lot of research back when I was looking at bariatric surgery and I had chosen to go with the band over bypass for several reasons. Have you thought about the band as opposed to the bypass?

Top reasons why I chose the band over bypass:

1. Less evasive

2. Quicker recovery

3. Reversible

4. Adjustable

5. Less expensive

6. If it didn't work then it could be removed and at that time I could get the bypass

Now with that said I lost about 100 lbs the first year. It was not easy and I still have more to lose but I am completely happy with my decision. My wife now wants the band for herself and when we're able to we will make that step for her. Weather you get the band or the bypass both of them you still have to do a lot of work. You can never have carbonation drinks again. That means no beer, soda pop, soda water, Champaign, sparkling wine or juice, etc.  You have to get out and exercise daily. Simply start by walking and cutting the soda out of your diet. And really you have to learn how to eat.

One of the biggest things that I didn't like about the bypass is that cuts your stomach to a very small pouch and then is re-attached passed the duodenum of your small intestine. Because of this your lose the ability to completely digest certain foods and loose absorption of needed vitamins and minerals that occur in these areas that are now no longer a part of your digestive system. This is why people who have bypass surgery are forever on vitamin supplements. With the lapband all of that is still intact, in place, and being used.

One last thing if your insurance is covering it but your surgeon is pushing the bypass then ask him why he wouldn't do the lapband. If he says cause you weigh to much that's completely wrong. When I had my surgery I weighed 485 lbs. and had a BMI right at 60. I was on two different high blood pressure medications, along with a heavy diuretic, and two other medications due to the weight problems. Within 3 months after having had the surgery I was off of all the medications.

No matter what you decide you should be able to find support both online and in your local community. Good luck to you!

 

     I was 160 lbs. and going through early stages of menopause. I was having terrible migraine headaches several times a week.  My doctor put me on medications to prevent them.  I gained 100 lbs. in just a few months. Then for the next few years, I would lose and gain but not get it all off. I became diabetic, had difficulty with breathing, I had bad arthritis, and walking was difficult.  

    My Gastric ByPass surgery was done in December of 2006. I lost 126 lbs in 11 months. I initially weighed 260 lbs. I was 5'3".  Shortly after being released from the hospital my husband changed jobs and moved to another state. My condition became pre-existing with the new insurance company, so I could not afford to see a Bariatric doctor. 

     There are many different ways to treat a gastric bypass patient from regular patients, my new primary care doctor did not know about. For now we are without health insurance.  I have not been able to find a support group.

     Does anyone have any information on an online support group? My husband is a traveling nurse. We have moved several times. At least I could have regular support online.

    The problems that I am having are with anemia and shortness of breath. I am very exhausted most of the time. I now weigh 136 lbs. What supplements can you recommend. Re: Protein shakes, vitamins, etc.  What ones taste good and where can I buy them.

    Would anyone be interested in e-mailing me who has had the surgery or who knows about the follow up care/routine.  I had the Roen-Y Gastric Bypass.  I need to get my strength back again to be able to function.

    I would appreciate your feedback. 

Thank you very much!

mikoandbenji

Dear Gitano:

        Thank you so very much for the information on the support group!!!!!

I am VERY greatful!

mikoandbenji