Guest guest Posted November 10, 2008 Report Share Posted November 10, 2008 I have had both. I hated the band, love the sleeve.On Mon, Nov 10, 2008 at 7:59 PM, sadiemijo <sadiemijo@...> wrote: I'm just starting my research but have decided on Dr. Aceves. I need to lose a total of 60 to 65 lbs. The permanence of the sleeve is a little scary but the hassle of repeated fills sounds a little inconvenient. My BMI is 31 and I have sleep apnea. I have found a great deal of info on the band but is there anyone who has had the sleeve who can give me some feedback? Thanks, J. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 10, 2008 Report Share Posted November 10, 2008 My BMI was barely 31 and I had the sleeve on 10/2/08, I've lost 18 lbs, and now I barely loose 1 lbs a week. I see that I will have to watch my calories going in...it's the liquid calories that are adding up. I am happy for my decision as my sleeping partner says that I no longer snore, my quality of sleep is improved, my ankle edema is not non-existing, and I am off all my diabetic meds. I still need to take my statins. I think you would be very happy with the sleeve as there is no band inside you, you feel full after 1/3 cup of food and you say "that is enough" push away from the table. I did this for my health and it is paying off big time, with improved energy and more clothing options as I get out my skinny clothes again. I am 51 yrs old and wish I had done this 5 years ago. I'm just starting my research but have decided on Dr. Aceves. I need to lose a total of 60 to 65 lbs. The permanence of the sleeve is a little scary but the hassle of repeated fills sounds a little inconvenient. My BMI is 31 and I have sleep apnea. I have found a great deal of info on the band but is there anyone who has had the sleeve who can give me some feedback? Thanks, J. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted November 12, 2008 Report Share Posted November 12, 2008 Bipley, how much was your revision from band to sleeve? Im so sick of sliming and burping and this seemingly constant abdominal pain, that im really considering the revision. Norm I'm just starting my research but have decided on Dr. Aceves. I need to lose a total of 60 to 65 lbs. The permanence of the sleeve is a little scary but the hassle of repeated fills sounds a little inconvenient. My BMI is 31 and I have sleep apnea. I have found a great deal of info on the band but is there anyone who has had the sleeve who can give me some feedback? Thanks, J. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2009 Report Share Posted January 4, 2009 Hi, Bipley (another great person on this site--she is an excellent resourse) wrote yesterday I believe that you there is no problem if you become pregnant with the sleeve. I am not sure what they say about the lap band--remember with the lap band there is a lot of aftercare involved and that all cost money. I consider the sleeve a tool to allow me to achieve the weight loss that I want. It takes work on your part by eating healthy and exercise too. There really is NO after care with the sleeve. There is nothing to be scared about--and you can take someone with you if you want to Mexicali. They can stay in your hospital room with you. This staff of doctors are so professional, caring and kind. The entire staff are outstanding. They are the BEST and you will never have any regrets as far as going to Mexicali. I wouldn't let anyone other that Dr. Aceves do this surgery. The 1st month is the hardest, and everyone on this site who has done the band or the sleeve will tell you that. Keep posting your questions reading what people have to say. This group of people are outstanding support for anything you might want to ask. The hospital is excellent and so very clean. They are cleaning all the time. This is something that will be life changing for you. Take care, Suzanne 217 178 125 Start Now Goal Sleeved 10/21/08 In a message dated 1/4/2009 10:54:02 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, theresalambert10@... writes: I have come to realize that I cannot lose weight on my own and I needsurgery. I don't know if I want a lap band or sleeve. I'm concernedabout after care with a lap band, there are not many doctors in myarea. I want a sleeve but it scares me.Can you get pregnant safely with a lap band or sleeve? Is there adifference in weigh loss? I can't afford surgery in Texas but I canafford it in Mexicali. What about after care? New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 4, 2009 Report Share Posted January 4, 2009 Ok, I know I am going to get slaughtered for this, but I am going to post something from another support group. The person who wrote it obviously has the band, as do I, so the viewpoint could be considered biased. She is a band nurse at a weight loss center, does fills, counsels patients and is very sharp. She is a a lot like Bipley in that she does not mince words and is likely to tell you exactly what she thinks. I have tried many times on this site to put into words why I chose NOT to have the sleeve. I have failed miserably at doing so. This passage sums it up for me in clear terms. I am not trying to persuade you one way or the other..............just adding more information so you can make an informed, educated decision. For the record, I was also done by Dr. A and had a perfect experience. I would not choose EVER to go to another surgeon. I would NEVER give my band up either. As someone else said "and when I die, they will have to pry my band from my cold, dead body." My sentiments EXACTLY !! Ok as for her quote....here goes: If my band failed I would have a gastric bypass (I think). It is asafe, proven operation. The sleeve is relatively new and not at well studiedand I can't for the life of me see any reason why that wouldn't stretch outover time. One of my (RICH) friends had 3 different bands, a sleeve, andthen a bypass. She says it's not as bad as she imagined. I'm not sure whyher sleeve ruptured. I'd consider the sleeve but I hear people are deathlyill for at least a month with nausea and vomiting and I have a very lowtolerance for nausea. It makes me practically suicidal--I just hate thatfeeling. I am sure there is a gastric sleeve group on . I think that'syour best bet for information; but remember, people are in a honeymoon phasefor the first 6-12 months. Look for people who have had the sleeve longer.It works by a different mechanism and I suspect the body will compensate forthe hormones that are removed. I can't think of any good reason to tossthree-fourths of a perfectly good stomach in the trash. You need to realizethat the sleeve is IRREVERSIBLE in a big way and if anything goes wrong youwill end up with a bypass. I probably wouldn't have a duodenal switch,although that's another option. Ok, for all you sleevesters out there....I know that flew all over you. But in the interest of full disclosure for all seeking information here...it is a viewpoint that needed to be shared. I have not ruled out a sleeve for myself, at somepoint, should my band (GOD forbid) fail me. I was just not at the point where I was willing to pull that drastic of a trigger. Also for the record, I had my band placed 10/01/08 and have lost almost 25lbs. I have yet to have a fill and have had no problems yet to date. Best of luck in your decision. No matter what you choose, we will support you! Jen DOB 10/01/08 4cc band/.8cc placed at time of surgery/no fills 205.5/181/155 surg/now/goal 25 down, 25 to go From: SuzanneSH@... <SuzanneSH@...>Subject: Re: Band or Sleeve? Date: Sunday, January 4, 2009, 3:00 PM Hi, Bipley (another great person on this site--she is an excellent resourse) wrote yesterday I believe that you there is no problem if you become pregnant with the sleeve. I am not sure what they say about the lap band--remember with the lap band there is a lot of aftercare involved and that all cost money. I consider the sleeve a tool to allow me to achieve the weight loss that I want. It takes work on your part by eating healthy and exercise too. There really is NO after care with the sleeve. There is nothing to be scared about--and you can take someone with you if you want to Mexicali. They can stay in your hospital room with you. This staff of doctors are so professional, caring and kind. The entire staff are outstanding. They are the BEST and you will never have any regrets as far as going to Mexicali. I wouldn't let anyone other that Dr. Aceves do this surgery. The 1st month is the hardest, and everyone on this site who has done the band or the sleeve will tell you that. Keep posting your questions reading what people have to say. This group of people are outstanding support for anything you might want to ask. The hospital is excellent and so very clean. They are cleaning all the time. This is something that will be life changing for you. Take care, Suzanne 217 178 125 Start Now Goal Sleeved 10/21/08 In a message dated 1/4/2009 10:54:02 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, theresalambert10 writes: I have come to realize that I cannot lose weight on my own and I needsurgery. I don't know if I want a lap band or sleeve. I'm concernedabout after care with a lap band, there are not many doctors in myarea. I want a sleeve but it scares me.Can you get pregnant safely with a lap band or sleeve? Is there adifference in weigh loss? I can't afford surgery in Texas but I canafford it in Mexicali. What about after care? New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2009 Report Share Posted January 5, 2009 Hi, As I tell everyone this is a personal choice with good education. It is up to each person to do what is right for them. Thanks for your opinion. Suzanne sleeved 10/21/08 In a message dated 1/5/2009 7:56:33 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, JenNorwood@... writes: Ok, I know I am going to get slaughtered for this, but I am going to post something from another support group. The person who wrote it obviously has the band, as do I, so the viewpoint could be considered biased. She is a band nurse at a weight loss center, does fills, counsels patients and is very sharp. She is a a lot like Bipley in that she does not mince words and is likely to tell you exactly what she thinks. I have tried many times on this site to put into words why I chose NOT to have the sleeve. I have failed miserably at doing so. This passage sums it up for me in clear terms. I am not trying to persuade you one way or the other..............just adding more information so you can make an informed, educated decision. For the record, I was also done by Dr. A and had a perfect experience. I would not choose EVER to go to another surgeon. I would NEVER give my band up either. As someone else said "and when I die, they will have to pry my band from my cold, dead body." My sentiments EXACTLY !! Ok as for her quote....here goes: If my band failed I would have a gastric bypass (I think). It is asafe, proven operation. The sleeve is relatively new and not at well studiedand I can't for the life of me see any reason why that wouldn't stretch outover time. One of my (RICH) friends had 3 different bands, a sleeve, andthen a bypass. She says it's not as bad as she imagined. I'm not sure whyher sleeve ruptured. I'd consider the sleeve but I hear people are deathlyill for at least a month with nausea and vomiting and I have a very lowtolerance for nausea. It makes me practically suicidal--I just hate thatfeeling. I am sure there is a gastric sleeve group on . I think that'syour best bet for information; but remember, people are in a honeymoon phasefor the first 6-12 months. Look for people who have had the sleeve longer.It works by a different mechanism and I suspect the body will compensate forthe hormones that are removed. I can't think of any good reason to tossthree-fourths of a perfectly good stomach in the trash. You need to realizethat the sleeve is IRREVERSIBLE in a big way and if anything goes wrong youwill end up with a bypass. I probably wouldn't have a duodenal switch,although that's another option. Ok, for all you sleevesters out there....I know that flew all over you. But in the interest of full disclosure for all seeking information here...it is a viewpoint that needed to be shared. I have not ruled out a sleeve for myself, at somepoint, should my band (GOD forbid) fail me. I was just not at the point where I was willing to pull that drastic of a trigger. Also for the record, I had my band placed 10/01/08 and have lost almost 25lbs. I have yet to have a fill and have had no problems yet to date. Best of luck in your decision. No matter what you choose, we will support you! Jen DOB 10/01/08 4cc band/.8cc placed at time of surgery/no fills 205.5/181/155 surg/now/goal 25 down, 25 to go From: SuzanneSHaol <SuzanneSHaol>Subject: Re: Band or Sleeve? Date: Sunday, January 4, 2009, 3:00 PM Hi, Bipley (another great person on this site--she is an excellent resourse) wrote yesterday I believe that you there is no problem if you become pregnant with the sleeve. I am not sure what they say about the lap band--remember with the lap band there is a lot of aftercare involved and that all cost money. I consider the sleeve a tool to allow me to achieve the weight loss that I want. It takes work on your part by eating healthy and exercise too. There really is NO after care with the sleeve. There is nothing to be scared about--and you can take someone with you if you want to Mexicali. They can stay in your hospital room with you. This staff of doctors are so professional, caring and kind. The entire staff are outstanding. They are the BEST and you will never have any regrets as far as going to Mexicali. I wouldn't let anyone other that Dr. Aceves do this surgery. The 1st month is the hardest, and everyone on this site who has done the band or the sleeve will tell you that. Keep posting your questions reading what people have to say. This group of people are outstanding support for anything you might want to ask. The hospital is excellent and so very clean. They are cleaning all the time. This is something that will be life changing for you. Take care, Suzanne 217 178 125 Start Now Goal Sleeved 10/21/08 In a message dated 1/4/2009 10:54:02 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, theresalambert10 writes: I have come to realize that I cannot lose weight on my own and I needsurgery. I don't know if I want a lap band or sleeve. I'm concernedabout after care with a lap band, there are not many doctors in myarea. I want a sleeve but it scares me.Can you get pregnant safely with a lap band or sleeve? Is there adifference in weigh loss? I can't afford surgery in Texas but I canafford it in Mexicali. What about after care? New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2009 Report Share Posted January 5, 2009 Hi Donna, Very well put--thank you I enjoyed all of the things you said. Keep posting information like this. Suzanne In a message dated 1/5/2009 10:20:31 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, hotcalirunner@... writes: I normally do not post, but have been known to read A LOT of the posts. I was banned a few years back-and everything that could have gone wrong did go wrong.. I mean I lost over a 100 pounds-with watching my diet and LOTS of exercise. But then the weight loss wouldn't stop, I had to stop exercising just to slow the weight loss down. My hair also started falling out by the handfuls. I had to have my band removed due to malnutrition. My BMI was under 12% and I am 5'7". I trust Dr A and his staff so when he said it HAD to come out-I was VERY upset-but my body was starving. So it came out and I had to wait until I was healthy enough to have surgery again-but this time there were so many problems due to the band and scarring-that Dr A had to do a sleeve. I have been "Sleeved" for a year now and I can honestly say I haven't had any problems. My hair hasn't fallen out, my cycles are better ( but won't have one until August 2009-another story). And my weight loss looks normal. And I can eat anything I want-but I watch what I eat-I eat very healthy-even more so now!!! I'm posting due to a couple of thing... One-because I think that every person should do what's right for them-BAND or SLEEVE and not feel bad about their decision. Noone walks in your shoes, so what's good/great or bad may not be the same for someone else. Second-because I was told by Dr A and his staff that hair loss is caused by something the body is not getting. It will also affect your cycles, dry skin and so on. I was told to keep a food log to see what I was and was not eating. It helped, but I was a little late. And third-the first post that I read there was a question about pregancy and the sleeve. Well I am pregnant and have the sleeve. This is not our first pregnancy so I have something to compare it to. I eat up to 6 small meals a day-a total of about 1400 cals. And I haven't gained any weight. I still run, like Jen I am a triathlete. I also am a fire fighter and work for an EM S company. So far our pregnancy has gone great-better once the morning sickness passes-hehe I wish everyone success in their weight loss journey and the very best for 2009!! Donna Bean 228/150/128-now Sleeved-1year out Sent from my iPhone On Jan 4, 2009, at 3:26 PM, jen norwood <JenNorwood > wrote: Ok, I know I am going to get slaughtered for this, but I am going to post something from another support group. The person who wrote it obviously has the band, as do I, so the viewpoint could be considered biased. She is a band nurse at a weight loss center, does fills, counsels patients and is very sharp. She is a a lot like Bipley in that she does not mince words and is likely to tell you exactly what she thinks. I have tried many times on this site to put into words why I chose NOT to have the sleeve. I have failed miserably at doing so. This passage sums it up for me in clear terms. I am not trying to persuade you one way or the other..............just adding more information so you can make an informed, educated decision. For the record, I was also done by Dr. A and had a perfect experience. I would not choose EVER to go to another surgeon. I would NEVER give my band up either. As someone else said "and when I die, they will have to pry my band from my cold, dead body." My sentiments EXACTLY !! Ok as for her quote....here goes: If my band failed I would have a gastric bypass (I think). It is asafe, proven operation. The sleeve is relatively new and not at well studiedand I can't for the life of me see any reason why that wouldn't stretch outover time. One of my (RICH) friends had 3 different bands, a sleeve, andthen a bypass. She says it's not as bad as she imagined. I'm not sure whyher sleeve ruptured. I'd consider the sleeve but I hear people are deathlyill for at least a month with nausea and vomiting and I have a very lowtolerance for nausea. It makes me practically suicidal--I just hate thatfeeling. I am sure there is a gastric sleeve group on . I think that'syour best bet for information; but remember, people are in a honeymoon phasefor the first 6-12 months. Look for people who have had the sleeve longer.It works by a different mechanism and I suspect the body will compensate forthe hormones that are removed. I can't think of any good reason to tossthree-fourths of a perfectly good stomach in the trash. You need to realizethat the sleeve is IRREVERSIBLE in a big way and if anything goes wrong youwill end up with a bypass. I probably wouldn't have a duodenal switch,although that's another option. Ok, for all you sleevesters out there....I know that flew all over you. But in the interest of full disclosure for all seeking information here...it is a viewpoint that needed to be shared. I have not ruled out a sleeve for myself, at somepoint, should my band (GOD forbid) fail me. I was just not at the point where I was willing to pull that drastic of a trigger. Also for the record, I had my band placed 10/01/08 and have lost almost 25lbs. I have yet to have a fill and have had no problems yet to date. Best of luck in your decision. No matter what you choose, we will support you! Jen DOB 10/01/08 4cc band/.8cc placed at time of surgery/no fills 205.5/181/155 surg/now/goal 25 down, 25 to go From: SuzanneSHaol <SuzanneSHaol>Subject: Re: Band or Sleeve? Date: Sunday, January 4, 2009, 3:00 PM Hi, Bipley (another great person on this site--she is an excellent resourse) wrote yesterday I believe that you there is no problem if you become pregnant with the sleeve. I am not sure what they say about the lap band--remember with the lap band there is a lot of aftercare involved and that all cost money. I consider the sleeve a tool to allow me to achieve the weight loss that I want. It takes work on your part by eating healthy and exercise too. There really is NO after care with the sleeve. There is nothing to be scared about--and you can take someone with you if you want to Mexicali. They can stay in your hospital room with you. This staff of doctors are so professional, caring and kind. The entire staff are outstanding. They are the BEST and you will never have any regrets as far as going to Mexicali. I wouldn't let anyone other that Dr. Aceves do this surgery. The 1st month is the hardest, and everyone on this site who has done the band or the sleeve will tell you that. Keep posting your questions reading what people have to say. This group of people are outstanding support for anything you might want to ask. The hospital is excellent and so very clean. They are cleaning all the time. This is something that will be life changing for you. Take care, Suzanne 217 178 125 Start Now Goal Sleeved 10/21/08 In a message dated 1/4/2009 10:54:02 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, theresalambert10 writes: I have come to realize that I cannot lose weight on my own and I needsurgery. I don't know if I want a lap band or sleeve. I'm concernedabout after care with a lap band, there are not many doctors in myarea. I want a sleeve but it scares me.Can you get pregnant safely with a lap band or sleeve? Is there adifference in weigh loss? I can't afford surgery in Texas but I canafford it in Mexicali. What about after care? New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. grp-sponsor .ad a{ text-decoration: none; } #ygrp-sponsor .ad a:hover{ text-decoration: underline; } #ygrp-sponsor .ad p{ margin: 0; } o{font-size: 0; } .MsoNormal{ margin: 0 0 0 0; } #ygrp-text tt{ font-size: 120%; } blockquote{margin: 0 0 0 4px;} .replbq{margin:4} --> -End group email --> New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2009 Report Share Posted January 5, 2009 Jen: Thank you for the different perspective on the anaesthesia and hair loss and the band vs the sleeve. It is always good to get differing opinions so that anyone reading this can make their own choices! Not everyone is right all of the time and if new research comes up, then that is awesome that it gets posted to offer more information! As for the sleeve vs. the band, what in the world happened to that 'rich' friend who had three bands, a sleeve, then a bypass? That is very odd and very rare, and sounds like a ton of complications (or perhaps the surgeon?). For me, I only had a few times that I was nauseous and vomited.....but after being pregnant and having nausea for four to five months......the sleeve vomiting is actually pleasant in comparison. I didn't have that gut wrenching vomiting and it was a nice quiet little burp and that was it. So, with the sleeve, it was fine. Yes, the sleeve does have permanent results. My father had 2/3 of his stomach removed in 1979 and lived for several years afterward with no complications. So, I know that there is research on people who have lived in similar conditions. Although, I have not looked it up, but from my personal experience, my father did not have any stomach compllications or trouble after that. I have had virtually no issues with the sleeve, in fact, the night before I went into surgery, the TV in Mexicali was showing a local San Diego network who did a story on a man who had Type II diabetes. This man was suffering from the secondary effects of the diabetes and couldn't golf anymore like he used to because of his feet and numbness. They were going to do a new surgery on him the following morning and they were talking about this newer surgery that has had incredible results with essentially putting the diabetic patients into a remission of sorts and halting their secondary effects (this was what the news reports were saying). Anyway, the 'new' surgery was the VSG - the sleeve. They talked about the benefits and how the surgery was effective. Well, I was so surprised at the story, (I felt comforted by the story) but can only say from my personal experience (although I didn't have Type II diabetes - I am sure I was a pre-diabetic or close to it) I no longer have the hideous acid or stomach pains or headaches from hunger. For me, if I didn't eat every three hours, I would get stomach pains and horrible headaches - so I had to eat to eliminate those symptoms. This has been the best surgery for me and I can't imagine having to run that same hampster wheel of eating to get rid of the hunger pains or headaches. There were other problems that I had too (pre-sleeve), but the sleeve has totally eliminated all of those problems for me. I know there are some sort of gut related issues and how the sleeve tends to cure those. I am sure they will uncover more gut related issues as time goes on. I know it has worked wonders for me and others. But like the band, it is not going to work for everyone. That is why I am so glad that there is so much information out there and you and Bipley can help to keep everyone on track with the most current and latest research! I for one am glad that you are doing well on your band and hope you continue with excellence results! Thank you again for sharing a different perspective! Gail From: SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com <SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com>Subject: Re: [Dr-Aceves-bandster s] Band or Sleeve? @groups. comDate: Sunday, January 4, 2009, 3:00 PM Hi, Bipley (another great person on this site--she is an excellent resourse) wrote yesterday I believe that you there is no problem if you become pregnant with the sleeve. I am not sure what they say about the lap band--remember with the lap band there is a lot of aftercare involved and that all cost money. I consider the sleeve a tool to allow me to achieve the weight loss that I want. It takes work on your part by eating healthy and exercise too. There really is NO after care with the sleeve. There is nothing to be scared about--and you can take someone with you if you want to Mexicali. They can stay in your hospital room with you. This staff of doctors are so professional, caring and kind. The entire staff are outstanding. They are the BEST and you will never have any regrets as far as going to Mexicali. I wouldn't let anyone other that Dr. Aceves do this surgery. The 1st month is the hardest, and everyone on this site who has done the band or the sleeve will tell you that. Keep posting your questions reading what people have to say. This group of people are outstanding support for anything you might want to ask. The hospital is excellent and so very clean. They are cleaning all the time. This is something that will be life changing for you. Take care, Suzanne 217 178 125 Start Now Goal Sleeved 10/21/08 In a message dated 1/4/2009 10:54:02 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, theresalambert10 writes: I have come to realize that I cannot lose weight on my own and I needsurgery. I don't know if I want a lap band or sleeve. I'm concernedabout after care with a lap band, there are not many doctors in myarea. I want a sleeve but it scares me.Can you get pregnant safely with a lap band or sleeve? Is there adifference in weigh loss? I can't afford surgery in Texas but I canafford it in Mexicali. What about after care? New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2009 Report Share Posted January 5, 2009 I was sleeved Aug 12/08; never had any nausea. I only had tight chest feeling when I ate too much. I only did that once! Not looking forward to my first "vomit"....nobody likes the feeling. So I was surprised to read that some experience this...wasn't my experience. I must still be in honymoon phase...because I LOVE my sleeve!! I am grateful everyday for it, and thank god that I found Dr. Aceves and his team. The first month is the hardest while in liquid stage, but otherwise I felt GREAT!! I was back to work at day five from being home; (desk job). One thing I wanted to mention when I was researching the band vs sleeve; someone said "yes the sleeve is permanent, but why would I ever want to reverse it and GAIN weight again?" I know me, and when the going got tough ie: the first month of liquids, I might have cracked and wanted a band removed. Knowing that this was permanent actually helped my resolve....does that make sense?....It did to me, and that's why I picked the sleeve; and very happy for it. Good luck in your decision. The best and most important decision is that you, and everyone here, chose to change thier life and chose WLS....on to the next chapter of your life!! From: SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com <SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com>Subject: Re: [Dr-Aceves-bandster s] Band or Sleeve? @groups. comDate: Sunday, January 4, 2009, 3:00 PM Hi, Bipley (another great person on this site--she is an excellent resourse) wrote yesterday I believe that you there is no problem if you become pregnant with the sleeve. I am not sure what they say about the lap band--remember with the lap band there is a lot of aftercare involved and that all cost money. I consider the sleeve a tool to allow me to achieve the weight loss that I want. It takes work on your part by eating healthy and exercise too. There really is NO after care with the sleeve. There is nothing to be scared about--and you can take someone with you if you want to Mexicali. They can stay in your hospital room with you. This staff of doctors are so professional, caring and kind. The entire staff are outstanding. They are the BEST and you will never have any regrets as far as going to Mexicali. I wouldn't let anyone other that Dr. Aceves do this surgery. The 1st month is the hardest, and everyone on this site who has done the band or the sleeve will tell you that. Keep posting your questions reading what people have to say. This group of people are outstanding support for anything you might want to ask. The hospital is excellent and so very clean. They are cleaning all the time. This is something that will be life changing for you. Take care, Suzanne 217 178 125 Start Now Goal Sleeved 10/21/08 In a message dated 1/4/2009 10:54:02 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, theresalambert10 writes: I have come to realize that I cannot lose weight on my own and I needsurgery. I don't know if I want a lap band or sleeve. I'm concernedabout after care with a lap band, there are not many doctors in myarea. I want a sleeve but it scares me.Can you get pregnant safely with a lap band or sleeve? Is there adifference in weigh loss? I can't afford surgery in Texas but I canafford it in Mexicali. What about after care? New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. Looking for the perfect gift? Give the gift of Flickr! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2009 Report Share Posted January 5, 2009 Jen...If others disagree with your stance does that mean slaughter? I would invite you to have your friend who wrote the following come over here as perhaps we could provide a bit of education about the sleeve. There is a great deal of misinformation in there. She's " heard " wrong about a few issues. Bypass being safe and proven. Well, that's up for debate. I think there are many that could do quite well with bypass but it does carry a higher mortality rate than bands and sleeves combined. The long term risks and complications can be quite high but... for someone with diabetes that is difficult to control it is probably the best procedure for them. The risk of diabetes is higher than the risks for bypass. In that population the benefits certainly do outweigh the risks. When we are discussing safety issues with sleeves vs. bypass that one shouldn't even be up for debate, it's a given. Sleeves are a safer option by far. The sleeve is not new. What is new is using it for weight loss vs. medical reasons for needing to remove the stomach. We know the long term issues with partial and full gastrectomies, we've been doing them for many years now. It's using it for weight loss that is new. When I say new I mean medicine has been doing them about as long as the band. If something is bad because it is new then wouldn't that mean banding is bad? I can't agree with you here. If this woman's " rich " friend had three bands, a sleeve, and bypass I think there are some issues there that are not the fault of the band. Perhaps she is the rare person that has psych issues and that was the cause of the demise of her 3 bands. For the life of me I can't think of a reason to have three bands. For me if it didn't work the first time... I can see changing brands or size of band. But if the 2nd one failed I'd be looking for a different procedure and surely a new doctor. A ruptured sleeve... I can't help but to wonder if she was eating large quantities of food immediately after surgery. That would be the likely scenario. I can tell you that if she was doing nothing wrong and has no psych issues I would hope that by her 5th WLS she would have found a better physician. While I see value in giving examples of all sorts I think it is misleading to make it seem like this might be the norm. Using one person as an example of why a band or sleeve is not a great option is not really acceptable, wouldn't you agree? She " hears " that people are deathly ill for the first month with nausea and vomiting... she heard wrong. Some people do have nausea for a few weeks but that is not the norm. I did, I was nauseated for the first 3-4 days. But that can happen with ANY stomach surgery including banding. She suspects correctly about the missing hormone. The name she is looking for is Ghrelin. The jury is still out on Ghrelin coming back but it's likely that it will. It is not likely that it is going to come back at the same level it was previously. Some studies I have read indicate that obese people produce 3x as much Ghrelin as non obese people. If it does come back it is likely for a variety of reasons that it is going to be produced at normal levels vs. the overproduction people experience before being sleeved. I can think of a very good reason to throw my stomach in the trash. It was allowing me to eat to the point of a BMI of 40. Now my stomach does not permit me to do that. I am much healthier now than I was while I was Morbidly Obese or banded. Seems to me that is a pretty good reason, true? If my appendix was making me sick I'd throw that in the trash, too. Your friend is absolutely correct, the sleeve is not reversible. That's one of the many reasons I love it. I don't have to fight weight issues anymore. I don't have to have maintenance on the band, nothing. Keep in mind, for the most part it is the newbies that want reversible. Once you get to goal and maintain for a bit you want permanent. Look at people that have lost their band due to erosion or something similar. To them it's like losing a leg, it's huge. I'm not worried about it stretching, it hasn't been a problem for 5 year stats and it would be reasonable to assume that if it hasn't stretched in 5 years it probably isn't going to. Even if it did, WLS isn't designed to control your eating forever. It's a tool to learn better eating habits and I've done that. I used to have a diet of burgers, now veggies are my friend. ;o) On Sun, Jan 4, 2009 at 4:26 PM, jen norwood <JenNorwood@...> wrote: Ok, I know I am going to get slaughtered for this, but I am going to post something from another support group. The person who wrote it obviously has the band, as do I, so the viewpoint could be considered biased. She is a band nurse at a weight loss center, does fills, counsels patients and is very sharp. She is a a lot like Bipley in that she does not mince words and is likely to tell you exactly what she thinks. I have tried many times on this site to put into words why I chose NOT to have the sleeve. I have failed miserably at doing so. This passage sums it up for me in clear terms. I am not trying to persuade you one way or the other..............just adding more information so you can make an informed, educated decision. For the record, I was also done by Dr. A and had a perfect experience. I would not choose EVER to go to another surgeon. I would NEVER give my band up either. As someone else said " and when I die, they will have to pry my band from my cold, dead body. " My sentiments EXACTLY !! Ok as for her quote....here goes: If my band failed I would have a gastric bypass (I think). It is asafe, proven operation. The sleeve is relatively new and not at well studiedand I can't for the life of me see any reason why that wouldn't stretch out over time. One of my (RICH) friends had 3 different bands, a sleeve, andthen a bypass. She says it's not as bad as she imagined. I'm not sure whyher sleeve ruptured. I'd consider the sleeve but I hear people are deathly ill for at least a month with nausea and vomiting and I have a very lowtolerance for nausea. It makes me practically suicidal--I just hate thatfeeling. I am sure there is a gastric sleeve group on . I think that's your best bet for information; but remember, people are in a honeymoon phasefor the first 6-12 months. Look for people who have had the sleeve longer.It works by a different mechanism and I suspect the body will compensate for the hormones that are removed. I can't think of any good reason to tossthree-fourths of a perfectly good stomach in the trash. You need to realizethat the sleeve is IRREVERSIBLE in a big way and if anything goes wrong you will end up with a bypass. I probably wouldn't have a duodenal switch,although that's another option. Ok, for all you sleevesters out there....I know that flew all over you. But in the interest of full disclosure for all seeking information here...it is a viewpoint that needed to be shared. I have not ruled out a sleeve for myself, at somepoint, should my band (GOD forbid) fail me. I was just not at the point where I was willing to pull that drastic of a trigger. Also for the record, I had my band placed 10/01/08 and have lost almost 25lbs. I have yet to have a fill and have had no problems yet to date. Best of luck in your decision. No matter what you choose, we will support you! Jen DOB 10/01/08 4cc band/.8cc placed at time of surgery/no fills 205.5/181/155 surg/now/goal 25 down, 25 to go Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2009 Report Share Posted January 5, 2009 I normally do not post, but have been known to read A LOT of the posts. I was banned a few years back-and everything that could have gone wrong did go wrong.. I mean I lost over a 100 pounds-with watching my diet and LOTS of exercise. But then the weight loss wouldn't stop, I had to stop exercising just to slow the weight loss down. My hair also started falling out by the handfuls. I had to have my band removed due to malnutrition. My BMI was under 12% and I am 5'7". I trust Dr A and his staff so when he said it HAD to come out-I was VERY upset-but my body was starving. So it came out and I had to wait until I was healthy enough to have surgery again-but this time there were so many problems due to the band and scarring-that Dr A had to do a sleeve. I have been "Sleeved" for a year now and I can honestly say I haven't had any problems. My hair hasn't fallen out, my cycles are better ( but won't have one until August 2009-another story). And my weight loss looks normal. And I can eat anything I want-but I watch what I eat-I eat very healthy-even more so now!!!I'm posting due to a couple of thing...One-because I think that every person should do what's right for them-BAND or SLEEVE and not feel bad about their decision. Noone walks in your shoes, so what's good/great or bad may not be the same for someone else.Second-because I was told by Dr A and his staff that hair loss is caused by something the body is not getting. It will also affect your cycles, dry skin and so on. I was told to keep a food log to see what I was and was not eating. It helped, but I was a little late.And third-the first post that I read there was a question about pregancy and the sleeve.Well I am pregnant and have the sleeve. This is not our first pregnancy so I have something to compare it to. I eat up to 6 small meals a day-a total of about 1400 cals. And I haven't gained any weight. I still run, like Jen I am a triathlete. I also am a fire fighter and work for an EMS company.So far our pregnancy has gone great-better once the morning sickness passes-heheI wish everyone success in their weight loss journey and the very best for 2009!!Donna Bean228/150/128-nowSleeved-1year outSent from my iPhoneOn Jan 4, 2009, at 3:26 PM, jen norwood <JenNorwood@...> wrote: Ok, I know I am going to get slaughtered for this, but I am going to post something from another support group. The person who wrote it obviously has the band, as do I, so the viewpoint could be considered biased. She is a band nurse at a weight loss center, does fills, counsels patients and is very sharp. She is a a lot like Bipley in that she does not mince words and is likely to tell you exactly what she thinks. I have tried many times on this site to put into words why I chose NOT to have the sleeve. I have failed miserably at doing so. This passage sums it up for me in clear terms. I am not trying to persuade you one way or the other..............just adding more information so you can make an informed, educated decision. For the record, I was also done by Dr. A and had a perfect experience. I would not choose EVER to go to another surgeon. I would NEVER give my band up either. As someone else said "and when I die, they will have to pry my band from my cold, dead body." My sentiments EXACTLY !! Ok as for her quote....here goes: If my band failed I would have a gastric bypass (I think). It is asafe, proven operation. The sleeve is relatively new and not at well studiedand I can't for the life of me see any reason why that wouldn't stretch outover time. One of my (RICH) friends had 3 different bands, a sleeve, andthen a bypass. She says it's not as bad as she imagined. I'm not sure whyher sleeve ruptured. I'd consider the sleeve but I hear people are deathlyill for at least a month with nausea and vomiting and I have a very lowtolerance for nausea. It makes me practically suicidal--I just hate thatfeeling. I am sure there is a gastric sleeve group on . I think that'syour best bet for information; but remember, people are in a honeymoon phasefor the first 6-12 months. Look for people who have had the sleeve longer.It works by a different mechanism and I suspect the body will compensate forthe hormones that are removed. I can't think of any good reason to tossthree-fourths of a perfectly good stomach in the trash. You need to realizethat the sleeve is IRREVERSIBLE in a big way and if anything goes wrong youwill end up with a bypass. I probably wouldn't have a duodenal switch,although that's another option. Ok, for all you sleevesters out there....I know that flew all over you. But in the interest of full disclosure for all seeking information here...it is a viewpoint that needed to be shared. I have not ruled out a sleeve for myself, at somepoint, should my band (GOD forbid) fail me. I was just not at the point where I was willing to pull that drastic of a trigger. Also for the record, I had my band placed 10/01/08 and have lost almost 25lbs. I have yet to have a fill and have had no problems yet to date. Best of luck in your decision. No matter what you choose, we will support you! Jen DOB 10/01/08 4cc band/.8cc placed at time of surgery/no fills 205.5/181/155 surg/now/goal 25 down, 25 to go From: SuzanneSHaol <SuzanneSHaol>Subject: Re: Band or Sleeve? Date: Sunday, January 4, 2009, 3:00 PM Hi, Bipley (another great person on this site--she is an excellent resourse) wrote yesterday I believe that you there is no problem if you become pregnant with the sleeve. I am not sure what they say about the lap band--remember with the lap band there is a lot of aftercare involved and that all cost money. I consider the sleeve a tool to allow me to achieve the weight loss that I want. It takes work on your part by eating healthy and exercise too. There really is NO after care with the sleeve. There is nothing to be scared about--and you can take someone with you if you want to Mexicali. They can stay in your hospital room with you. This staff of doctors are so professional, caring and kind. The entire staff are outstanding. They are the BEST and you will never have any regrets as far as going to Mexicali. I wouldn't let anyone other that Dr. Aceves do this surgery. The 1st month is the hardest, and everyone on this site who has done the band or the sleeve will tell you that. Keep posting your questions reading what people have to say. This group of people are outstanding support for anything you might want to ask. The hospital is excellent and so very clean. They are cleaning all the time. This is something that will be life changing for you. Take care, Suzanne 217 178 125 Start Now Goal Sleeved 10/21/08 In a message dated 1/4/2009 10:54:02 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, theresalambert10 writes: I have come to realize that I cannot lose weight on my own and I needsurgery. I don't know if I want a lap band or sleeve. I'm concernedabout after care with a lap band, there are not many doctors in myarea. I want a sleeve but it scares me.Can you get pregnant safely with a lap band or sleeve? Is there adifference in weigh loss? I can't afford surgery in Texas but I canafford it in Mexicali. What about after care? New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. grp-sponsor .ad a{ text-decoration: none; } #ygrp-sponsor .ad a:hover{ text-decoration: underline; } #ygrp-sponsor .ad p{ margin: 0; } o{font-size: 0; } ..MsoNormal{ margin: 0 0 0 0; } #ygrp-text tt{ font-size: 120%; } blockquote{margin: 0 0 0 4px;} ..replbq{margin:4} --> -End group email --> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 5, 2009 Report Share Posted January 5, 2009 I have had the exact same experience as Marsha. I LOVE the sleeve! I had the tight chest once or twice, no vomiting and great weightloss!! My life couldn't be any better! I'm so thankful that this was a permenant fix as why would I ever want to be overweight again?? Helena Started at 228....now at 183...Surgery on Oct 24th 08 From: SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com <SuzanneSHaol (DOT) com>Subject: Re: [Dr-Aceves-bandster s] Band or Sleeve? @groups. comDate: Sunday, January 4, 2009, 3:00 PM Hi, Bipley (another great person on this site--she is an excellent resourse) wrote yesterday I believe that you there is no problem if you become pregnant with the sleeve. I am not sure what they say about the lap band--remember with the lap band there is a lot of aftercare involved and that all cost money. I consider the sleeve a tool to allow me to achieve the weight loss that I want. It takes work on your part by eating healthy and exercise too. There really is NO after care with the sleeve. There is nothing to be scared about--and you can take someone with you if you want to Mexicali. They can stay in your hospital room with you. This staff of doctors are so professional, caring and kind. The entire staff are outstanding. They are the BEST and you will never have any regrets as far as going to Mexicali. I wouldn't let anyone other that Dr. Aceves do this surgery. The 1st month is the hardest, and everyone on this site who has done the band or the sleeve will tell you that. Keep posting your questions reading what people have to say. This group of people are outstanding support for anything you might want to ask. The hospital is excellent and so very clean. They are cleaning all the time. This is something that will be life changing for you. Take care, Suzanne 217 178 125 Start Now Goal Sleeved 10/21/08 In a message dated 1/4/2009 10:54:02 A.M. Pacific Standard Time, theresalambert10 writes: I have come to realize that I cannot lose weight on my own and I needsurgery. I don't know if I want a lap band or sleeve. I'm concernedabout after care with a lap band, there are not many doctors in myarea. I want a sleeve but it scares me.Can you get pregnant safely with a lap band or sleeve? Is there adifference in weigh loss? I can't afford surgery in Texas but I canafford it in Mexicali. What about after care? New year...new news. Be the first to know what is making headlines. Looking for the perfect gift? Give the gift of Flickr! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 6, 2009 Report Share Posted January 6, 2009 Sleeve: Fewer long term complications, as the removal of a large portion of the stomach (gastrectomy) has been done for decades as a part of the DS, and to correct ulcers. Weight loss akin to that experienced by RNY patients. Irreversible. Band: Adjustable, reversible, more aftercare/possibility for long term complications. I am working on roughly 20% capacity for what I used to be able to eat. I do not miss the portion of my stomach that was removed. I do barf when I try to eat like I used too, especially on carb/starches. This isn't the sleeve, this is my own stupid fault for not shutting my damn mouth! I absorb all of the fats, calories, nutrients, vitamins of my food.What the hell was a bunch of extra stomach tissue doing for me? Allowing my to eat myself fat and miserable. The only time I miss it is when I want to eat more, and then I remeber exactly why I DON'T miss it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted January 6, 2009 Report Share Posted January 6, 2009 Let me first apologize if you get this message twice. I tried to send yesterday and nothing seemed to happen. So here goes again. I copied this link from ObesityHelp.com; the Vertical Sleeve Message Board, entitled " Research 5 years out " . It was submitted by Orange12. It is a video presentation by a Dr. Cirangle that presents his findings on the Vertical Sleeve so far but I have no idea the date it was presented. Because it is a video it does take a while to load. I'm not stating a case for any procedure. As others have said; that is a personal choice based on your specific set of circumstances. I'm only sharing because I found the information the video provided interesting and wasn't sure if everyone saw it on the ObesityHelp website. Joyce Here's the info from Orange 12: " This is Dr C's latest study. It's the closest we have until like march or April when his true 5 year study is supposed to be out. " http://www.ssat.com/video/2008/SSAT%2049th%20Annual%20Meeting(3)-Cirangle.htm On Tue, Jan 6, 2009 at 5:41 AM, le <Sky_of_Gin@...> wrote: Sleeve: Fewer long term complications, as the removal of a large portion of the stomach (gastrectomy) has been done for decades as a part of the DS, and to correct ulcers. Weight loss akin to that experienced by RNY patients. Irreversible. Band: Adjustable, reversible, more aftercare/possibility for long term complications. I am working on roughly 20% capacity for what I used to be able to eat. I do not miss the portion of my stomach that was removed. I do barf when I try to eat like I used too, especially on carb/starches. This isn't the sleeve, this is my own stupid fault for not shutting my damn mouth! I absorb all of the fats, calories, nutrients, vitamins of my food. What the hell was a bunch of extra stomach tissue doing for me? Allowing my to eat myself fat and miserable. The only time I miss it is when I want to eat more, and then I remeber exactly why I DON'T miss it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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