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Can anyone advise about a gastric band?

36 replies

Pacific · 01/08/2008 21:33

In a bit of a quandry.

I had made up my mind to have this done. Did all my research, spoke to people who had it, etc. The only thing I was slightly concerned about was the lack of follow-up from the private hospital. There is no dietary advice or psychological care afterwards. Also, I am travelling 250 miles to get it done so any potential emergency could be a problem. I am medically qualified and have many medical friends/relatives so this is probably not a major problem.

I booked and paid for half the cost. Two days later, my GP informed me that it is just now become available on the NHS in my area.

However, they have been absolutely inundated with referrals and are prioritising people who have other pathologies, ie diabetes. I am perfectly healthy other than being morbidly obese.

My excellent GP was advising me most strongly to wait and go with the NHS but...

  1. It could be months or years before I even get a consultation.
  1. I may not be eligible because I am otherwise healthy.
  1. I have already paid for more than half the operation which is not refundable.
  1. I have psychologically got myself set to have this procedure within the next few weeks and I don't think I can bear to cancel.

Can anyone help me get my head round this decision?

I don't want advice whether to have it done or not, that decision has already been made.

Please?

OP posts:
Pacific · 01/09/2009 09:35

Hi all.

I thought I would bump this thread. Tommorrow is my one year band-birthday. I have lost 6 stones with another 2 to go. I have dropped from a size 26 to 16.

It has been a strange journey but generally have had no problems at all. Social occasions are a bit difficult because I simply cannot eat a full meal anymore but I am so happy that I am in control of my eating. So for anyone who is considering a gastric band, I would say 'go for it'. It's the best thing I ever did!

OP posts:
akhems · 01/09/2009 10:01

Congrats Pacific!!!

I had a duodenal switch 18 months ago and am just over 10 stone down so far with maybe another 5 to go. Best thing I ever did too, lol.

Pacific · 01/09/2009 11:12

Wow Akhems! You are doing so well. Is your health good? I think I have 'spoken' to you before on a weight loss thread?

OP posts:
akhems · 01/09/2009 12:10

yep, we did, on the skin thread

Yup, I'm much healthier than I was pre-op, livelier, more outgoing and willing to do stuff. I've got energy now!!!!

My weight loss has slowed right down and I'm being investigated for over-production of insulin which would explain that but otherwise I'm fine.

RedTartanLass · 18/10/2009 14:56

Jeez Pacific
That's amazing, I too have yo-yoed all my life. 2 years ago lost about 5 stone on lighter life, all back on. I must have lost a good 200 stone over the years I cannot control my eating and have decided to go down the gastric band route. You're story sounds great. Definately don't want to go abroad, but not understanding the THG reference, could you explain please.

RedTartanLass · 20/10/2009 15:10

bump

Pacific · 06/11/2009 16:15

Red tartan lass, I have just found your message here.

THG/WGA stands for The Hospital Group or Why Go Abroad. They are one of the providers of band surgery at Dolan Park hospital in Bromsgrove. They often get slated on various websites but as I said, I had no problems at all. They are the cheapest in the UK for this type of surgery and offer a basic package for £5000.

I take it from your name that you are in Scotland? I live in Edinburgh.

If you go to ukgastricband.co.uk you can ask lots of questions. HTH

OP posts:
RedTartanLass · 19/11/2009 11:52

Pacific - HAve booked in for Decembe!! I can't wait!!

Pacific · 28/11/2009 09:41

RedTartanLass, good luck with your op. It really has changed my life. I have now lost 7 stones and I am almost at target weight. I hope you enjoy the journey as much as I have. Please contact me on ukgastricband.co.uk as I would love a chat with a fellow 'bandit'.

OP posts:
eandz · 14/09/2010 19:14

Hi Guys!

Hows your progress Pacific? I'd love to chat with you if you ever have a moment :)

Kelsybob · 28/03/2011 15:42

Hi,

Not sure if I am doing this right, I've never been on a discussion thread before! I have just had my consultation with THG for a Gastric Band. I have to say the care co-ordinator did seem a little bit pushy to be honest, seemed to be a bit more interested in my money than myself. Even so, I really do want to go ahead but am really worried. Pacific, your story has really inspired me. I have read lots of bad reviews but I suppose it depends what you expect. I am hoping to have my band put in soon, just have to bite the bullet and book the appointment. :)

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