WLS Q & A Database

1. I have mild sleep apnea.. can I still qualify for the surgery with Cigna PPO? (May 9, 2008) (View) (no answers yet; please post yours!)
2. I was wonder if anyones insurance has paid for VSG? (May 9, 2008) (View) (2 answers)
3. Orthostatic Hypotention-Inapropiate sinus tachyicardia (May 9, 2008) (View) (2 answers)
4. 6 weeks out and vomiting a lot (May 9, 2008) (View) (2 answers)
5. 6 weeks out and vomiting a lot (May 9, 2008) (View) (1 answer)
6. 6 weeks and vomiting a lot (May 9, 2008) (View) (3 answers)
7. Hair Loss (May 9, 2008) (View) (8 answers)
8. Therapists?? (May 8, 2008) (View) (6 answers)
9. bcbsnc deductible (May 8, 2008) (View) (10 answers)
10. proportions (May 8, 2008) (View) (1 answer)
11. I am 3 months post op... have had no trouble eating at all, but (May 8, 2008) (View) (8 answers)
12. Looking for a surgeon in/near conyers that is covered by BCBSofIL (May 8, 2008) (View) (3 answers)
13. Gas what can i do for it is sometimes painful and doesnt want to come out? (May 8, 2008) (View) (11 answers)
14. 3 days post op - more to my previous question (May 8, 2008) (View) (3 answers)
15. Nervous (May 8, 2008) (View) (3 answers)
16. After my last lab band fill, I have severe acid reflux? (May 8, 2008) (View) (6 answers)
17. i am 3 days post op. have a few questions. (May 8, 2008) (View) (9 answers)
18. jogging and getting sick... (May 7, 2008) (View) (4 answers)
19. I have several things going on..... (May 7, 2008) (View) (3 answers)
20. Does anyone know where I can find information on Dr. Michel Gagner? (May 7, 2008) (View) (3 answers)

Q: I am 3 months post op... have had no trouble eating at all, but

[May 9, 2008]     I have had the same experience several times. First I found out that I had a stricture and I had that repaired. Since then I have noticed that chicken gives me the most trouble when trying to go down. I have been to the point where I just pray that I will throw up or something because it is so painful and uncomfortable. I usually walk to get it to go down. Just make sure you take smaller bites and chew the crap out of it.     — Angie K.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I was wonder if anyones insurance has paid for VSG?

[May 9, 2008]     I understand, but remember that I had a RNY, that until this process is a 10 years old and there is safe history for insurance companies they will not approve this proceedure. It is not that it is not safe, they just lack the data to that the liability of down the road events. Best of success to you.     — William (Bill) W.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I was wonder if anyones insurance has paid for VSG?

[May 9, 2008]     I do know it's starting to get approved more and more. You will probably get more responses if you ask this on the VSG forum, as I know there are some there who got approved. Good luck to you!!     — Teresa V.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: After my last lab band fill, I have severe acid reflux?

[May 9, 2008]     Your band is too tight.Go on straight liquids until you can get a slight un-fill.This has happened to me a couple times. (I don't think your band slipped though.) My reflux woke me up too-it went into my nose-sooo gross. I had to see my Dr right away because it was uncomfortable. Good Luck.     — Patty S.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I was just wondering what anyone has to say if they chose VSG surgery.

[May 9, 2008]     I had VSG 03/17/08 and am so happy with my choice. Life is so much better now. I have no regrets what-so-ever and the pounds are just coming off. I am never hungry, therefore I schedule all my meals thoughout the day. My insurance paid 100%.     — Felicia M.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Therapists??

[May 9, 2008]     The psyche eval is a good thing, it makes you think about maybe some issues you have buried. The goal is to make sure you completely understand what you are about to do and that you understand the risks and benefits associated with it. As far as the education end of it, READ, READ, READ. You can never have too much information. I actually learned more online regarding my procedure and it's outcomes than at the doctor's office due to time restrictions. The absolute best forum site I have found that breaks questions down into specific question groups is at http://www.beforeandafterhelp.com/ This one is great also, but the other format was easier for me. Those that have gone before me have answered every single question I have had and the search key was like google to me. I have not had a question yet that could not be answered on there and quickly. Also, at my final pre op visit just weeks ago, my doctors office gave me a "test" to complete while I waited to be called. It had about 20 questions on it that I had to answer completely and also the first question was for me to draw a diagram of what I understood my procedure to be. I was shocked at first, but then as I went through it I found I knew, I mean I really knew the answers. ALL of them. It gave such a boost to my self confidence because I was proud that I had done all I could to really know what and how my life would change for the better and what my risks were for not following doctor's orders. Good luck and never give up learning more.     — Tina P.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: bcbsnc deductible

[May 9, 2008]     Deductibles generally must be paid up front with most hospitals. You can ask to speak with a supervisor and try to negotiate that and sometimes it really works. They are a business and often willing to negotiate if you push through to the right person. The doctor's office is sometimes alot more gracious when it comes to a payment plan. Stand your ground with the hospital business office and ask for the boss, the desk clerks are just a step on the bottom of the ladder. Go straight to the top and present your case. LOL, tears help! Good luck!     — Tina P.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: bcbsnc deductible

[May 9, 2008]     Deductibles generally must be paid up front with most hospitals. You can ask to speak with a supervisor and try to negotiate that and sometimes it really works. They are a business and often willing to negotiate if you push through to the right person. The doctor's office is sometimes alot more gracious when it comes to a payment plan. Stand your ground with the hospital business office and ask for the boss, the desk clerks are just a step on the bottom of the ladder. Go straight to the top and present your case. LOL, tears help! Good luck!     — Tina P.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Gas what can i do for it is sometimes painful and doesnt want to come out?

[May 9, 2008]     walk walk walk     — Lana H.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Therapists??

[May 9, 2008]     I had my lap band done in Tijuana, Mexico as my insurance wouldn't cover it. The cost was 1/2 has much. They depend on your intellegence to know whether or not the surgery is for you. If your going to this means to have it done more than likely your at that point. My problem was keeping the weight off. The Dr. Verboonen with Obesity Goodbye has more experience than any of the American Doctors.     — Lana H.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: I am 3 months post op... have had no trouble eating at all, but

[May 9, 2008]     can you drink lemonade? if so try that, I know it would work for my mother when she had her GBS 2.5 yrs ago     — Felicia A.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Gas what can i do for it is sometimes painful and doesnt want to come out?

[May 9, 2008]     Wow, even though I am a somewhat new nursing student I can actually answer this question. Walking is always best! Our intestines and stomach get lots of help with peristalsis (digestion) when we move around, moving around helps break those gas bubles up and makes them "easier" to pass. If walking is a problem try sitting and rocking your abdomen slightly back and forth. The rocking movement will help to break the gas bubbles as well. I hope this helps!     — Felicia A.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Hair Loss

[May 9, 2008]     I know just how your feeling.. I cryed almost every morning when I would brush my hair. I had lap band in Dec of 07 and started losing hair in Feb. As of today I am still losing hair, just not as much. In my experience there is nothing you can do but wait it out. It will stop falling out in a few months. In the mean time I decided to go for a short cute new hair style with layers. It seemed to help with the hair loss and the layers made my hair look fuller. good luck and hang in there.. it will stop     — Shanda W.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: bcbsnc deductible

[May 9, 2008]     Yes, I think you will need to pay up front. If you surgery is surgery scheduled out a few months try to pay smaller payments till the actual date with them.     — Tammy M.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Hair Loss

[May 9, 2008]     Biotin. There is a liquid kind that you can buy off of Amazon.com and you can also get Nioxin Recharge Supplement, and Nexxus Vitatress Vitamins.     — Tammy M.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Orthostatic Hypotention-Inapropiate sinus tachyicardia

[May 9, 2008]     Amen!     — Christine G.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: 6 weeks and vomiting a lot

[May 9, 2008]     I had my RNY 3.25 years ago. To this day, I still cannot tolerate fried eggs. Is this how you have having your eggs? Scrambled? If so, then it could be the fat you use to do the frying. One whiff of margarine, shortening, or anything made out of soy, like soy lecithin, or corn oil, etc. and my body still immediately and negatively reacts. With the smell, and I'm still ready (and do) throw up. I now use coconut oil (which is a medium length fatty acid and good for our bodies and skin, increases our metabolism and really helps us lose weight) for all my cooking and daily diet now. What I found most helpful to me in those early days was split pea soup or non-fat yogurt. Split pea soup is so very, very high in protein, and is so nourishing. The yogurt -- you have to watch and read the labels so you don't shortchange your protein but at the same time you don't sugar-dose. In fact, I thrived on yogurt (and still do) but was most concerned about the sugar content. So... I became a home-made yogurt maker because the taste, texture, and flavor is awesome and I can easily control the sugar content and add Any Whey to increase the protein level. I also would take very soft fruit, blend it up and put 1/4 cup over my yogurt. Every time I ate (and eat) this combo I think I've died and gone to Heaven because the flavor and texture is so very good. I make my own yogurt, fromage blanche, cottage cheese, and mozzerella cheese. This is one of the benefits of this surgery: it changes our lives and gives us wonderful opportunities. How I would have laughed years ago if anyone said I'd become a cheese maker!     — Christine G.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: 6 weeks and vomiting a lot

[May 9, 2008]     If you weren't vomiting up until now...it could be you might be eating a little too much? Try leaving a few bites and see if that helps you...It's hard to tell if you are eating too much in the first two years because you have no hunger really...Try it...It might help...If not, you really need to call the doc because constant vomiting is a sure way to end up malnourished and very sick...     — .Anita R.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Hair Loss

[May 9, 2008]     It's a common side effect of WLS...Most people experience this. I did...I was told by my NUT that it would happen and lasts for a few months. I took Biotin and once I was able to get in enough protein it reversed and my hair began grow thicker again. Give it time...and try Biotin. They have nice chewables that taste good.     — .Anita R.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Hair Loss

[May 9, 2008]     Nothing helps. it will stop.     — Joan C.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: i am 3 days post op. have a few questions.

[May 9, 2008]     Be safe, just call your doctor or go to ER. Please let us know how you are doing. God Bless.     — Yolanda S.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Hair Loss

[May 9, 2008]     Make sure that you are getting 75 Grams of Protein a day, every day.     — William (Bill) W.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: 6 weeks out and vomiting a lot

[May 9, 2008]     I would call your surgeon, but that said, I had to stay on puree foods for 8 weeks because I could not tolorate anything that would upset my insisions with my RNY. My sergeon said because I was a est of success to you.     — William (Bill) W.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: 6 weeks out and vomiting a lot

[May 9, 2008]     It is not normal to be throwing up everything. Although there is a normal adjustment period, where we might get a little uncomfortable because we took too large a bite or didn't control our portion well enough, constant vomitting is not part of the adjustment. And, it can be very dangerous. You should see your surgeon as soon as possible.     — Steve C.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Orthostatic Hypotention-Inapropiate sinus tachyicardia

[May 9, 2008]     Hi Dana, You sound pretty uncertain about this surgery. Do you think a second opinion might be in order? It might help you to feel more secure in what you are being told if you get it from yet another source. It doesn't sound as if the IST and OH are a result of WLS, especially since your are five years out. Generally, any shift as a result of surgery would happen within months. Is it possible that this is an hereditary condition? Did all your pre-op conditions resolve after your WLS? I ache for you. I know what it is to be in that state of uncertainty and anxiety. You are a believer in the Lord Jesus though according to your profile. Cast all your cares on Him because He cares for you. Don't forget prayer and the counsel of wise friends while you are going through this valley. Love and blessings, in Him, Laura     — Laura H.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Hair Loss

[May 9, 2008]     I don't know if you have ever had surgery before this or given birth or been on a liquid fast but all of these these situations are perceived by the body as a great shock. I lost a lot of hair on a liquid fast. It was depressing, but it came back. It seems endless and feels horrifying but it will come back as they body regains it's balance. Just think about those folks who loose their hair because of Chemotherapy. Now you can empathize with them a little. You live with the knowledge that your life will only get better with time and some work. they live with the knowledge that they will need more chemo and radiation, or with the dread that the cancer may return at any moment. Celebrate your hair loss as a sign that you have given yourself another chance at the life you always wanted to live and go for it girl! All the best, Laura     — Laura H.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: 6 weeks out and vomiting a lot

[May 9, 2008]     Vomiting alot is never normal. Call your doctor... you may just need an adjustment on your fill, or, as in my sister's case, she had some inflamation around the band that made her throw up, and reverting to a liquid diet for a few days made all the difference in the world. Any doctor worth his weight would WANT you to call with any problem. It's better to err on caution's side than to take a chance. CALL TODAY     — Jeanne A.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: 6 weeks and vomiting a lot

[May 9, 2008]     Personally, I would not freak out, but it is NOT norrmal to throw up everything you eat. I would call the doctor right away - that is what they are there for. I'm sure they will have an answer for you. I threw up occasionally after my WLS and I got scared but it passed. Let me know how it goes for you. Blessings....     — Kathy T.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Hair Loss

[May 9, 2008]     First, I do not sell anything I am suggesting...I used Andrew Lessman's "Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails", and I have curly hair I had before my first pregnancy. It is really incredible. I had thick hair so the hair loss, while dramatic, was not terrible. It can be found on HSN.com or www.procaplabs.com which is the Lessman website. Again, no affiliation with the company, just some good, solid products. Hope it works for you....Blessings     — Kathy T.     (See other answers/post your answer)

Q: Hair Loss

[May 9, 2008]     Some people take biotin supplements for it, and I'm not sure it helps or not...I do take them.... but I really believe it's the protein that matters most. I noticed as soon as I was eating more it lessened.....and now..at nearly 7 months post-op it's back to normal. My hair is softer, shinier, and shedding less and less. It was really bad for me from the get go....but worsened in months 2-4.....then around 5-6 months...it started to improve. My surgeon said it's worse from months 3-6.....so just make sure you get plenty of fluids your protein. Good luck! Cheryl     — Cheryl K.     (See other answers/post your answer)