PCOS Message Board - View Single Post - Have you had Lap-Band surgery?

terilynn112 · 10-30-2008, 09:30 AM

I'm the newest lap-band cyster I think> At least on the wlsdivas. I've had my band now for 6 weeks.

1. What were your PCOS symptoms before surgery? I had insulin resistance and type two diabetes. I had skin tags (I had them removed again), facial hair, and of course was morbidly obese.

2. What are your PCOS symptoms now, after the surgery? My sugars are awesome... completely off meds. My insulin resistance also seems better as I'm loosing weight with little effort.

3. How long before you noticed PCOS symptoms (besides weight loss) disappear if you did? My diabetes was instantly better, but I was really mild. I now control it with exercise, and the "diet" we banders have.

4. About how many pounds a month did/do you lose after the surgery? Since the surgery I've lost 14 pounds. I'm kindda stalled, because I'm over due for a fill.

5. Would you do it again if you had to? Absolutely. My only regret is not having it done sooner.

6. What was/is the hardest part about the surgery and/or life after surgery? The post op diet was ok. I got tired of the liquids, and then the mushies (puree's) before I was allowed to move up. Learning to not drink while you eat and for half an hour after. That was probably my biggest stumbling block.

7. Was there anything you had to do before the surgery? I had a whole bunch of tests I had to go thru. Sleep study, dietitian (x2), psych consult, endoscopy, and I had to loose 5% of my weight... 13 pounds.

8. After the surgery, were there a lot of doctor visits? If so, what for? I had some, because as is my dumb luck, I had a minor skin infection. Bacitracian worked well curing that. Normally my surgeon rechecks the wound at 2 weeks post op. Then at 6 weeks (mine is at 7) a first fill. Then monthly checks for the first year. Then it's every 6 months, unless you need a fill/unfill. A fill is where they add saline to your band to add more restriction. An unfill is where they take a tad out.

9. Were there any complications? Just that little infection. The surgery itself was easy. I was home the same day. I did have some gas, and used gas x. I was back caring for my twin 2 yr olds, and older son the same day. I had help the first night. Neice left for cigarettes and never came back. So I ended up on my own earlier than I would have liked, but it wasn't bad.

10. Any other information, advice or suggestions? Make sure you have a blender. That will come in VERY handy. The protein shakes taste better when they aren't lumpy. Also that makes puree-ing things so much easier. I have made my blender a constant on my counter top now.

Seriously my only regret is not having done it sooner.

teri