nothereanymore

Hey Chloe, Do let us know, can't wait to hear - and thank you for the note! Louise I've always struggled with putting into words the mental changes - great job - that's the best I've seen on that subject. Lisa

Hey Ute, The PS really does gets the weight loss going - the tummy fat is the hardest to lose and once it gone your body can really focus on the other areas. That's when I saw my greatest drop in weight was a few months after the ETT. I was older and bigger before than many and that’s why I finally thought I better get a picture up, I know I’m not the only one with an apron and stretch marks due to my previous size. It’s harder to deal with and more work in regards to plastic surgery and exercise – but the results are so worth it. He actually took of nearly 7 pounds and over a foot of skin at the widest in my tummy tuck. Pretty scary…. So if you are in my boat – there is hope – just be honest with yourself about the results – if you have stretch marks above your belly button, they will be below it, if you scar badly with your band surgery, you will most likely have bad scars, you decide what’s more important. For me it was not to carry around an inner tube hanging lose around my waste and not to have a fold of skin hanging down. I also had lippo on my back and sides to bring in the curves, when you go all the way around at times you can be really straight wasted. The truth is I can look at most peoples before pictures and have a good idea of who’s in my boat; we all have the same body type. It’s hard to see but my scar does go all the way around my back and it’s just two inches apart – (that area has whitened out and it’s harder to see). And I have friends who have an apron and it doesn't bother them - all the more power to them! If you want PS great, if you don’t, fine – I think its funny how some people get so emotional – that’s not what it’s about. Simply put, its personal preference One important note - I made certain requests, I didn’t want the pulled tummy (were you could bounce a quarter on it) I wanted a small round belly button, and I wanted straight scars. (None of the curvy wiggly stuff). Make sure to think about what you want and ask for it – they will tell you there are no promises – but they normally will try – I got everything I asked for. (And I know he had all sorts of problems with my belly button, he said it kept trying to go big and he finally got it small). I’m still getting cortisone shots in my scars and trying other products for my stretch marks, but the truth is – I will take those any day over an apron. Pammie, you need to call me – I want to talk about the lift you’re having – that’s what I’m trying to book. I’m having surgery on my jaw Thursday so that’s really messed me up – call me please! (And for those of you who sent me the emails, thank you)! Best, Lisa

Hey Nicole, Just to clarify, the before (was taken the day before my surgery) I was 200 pounds. The after you see – that was taken just last month, over a year after my surgery (not 200 pounds around 139). I have after’s (that are just after my surgery), and I am bigger – however one thing that I wanted to show was you can have (as per my surgeon) a tummy tuck at a bigger weight and continue to lose weight. (If I wanted or needed an “aug” he would do one – but its not needed).

Thank you! And Pammie, I'm making my next appointment with Dr. Nyte next week, can't wait! He's awesome! (Did you remember to ask to see the pics of my breast lift)? I just added this to the below PS conversation, but here's pics of my TT - remember I was 200 pounds at surgery, had an extended tummy tuck with lippo. (These are PS pictures, before and afters so don't look if you're under 18 or might be offended). Yes I lke pink...... http://www.nytesurgical.com/index.cfm/Acti...513/PageID/2968 The change to my body is evident – and just think – when I had my tummy tuck surgery I had already lost 75 pounds; I was 275 at my high. And since then I lost more as you can most likely see. You change in so many ways after you get, and work your band - its easy to see the changes on the outside - what is hard to show is the changes that happen on the inside. And thats the best part.

Lena, I'm sorry to hear about your loss, hope you're doing OK! Its been a great topic, and made me think about the changes I've made in this area. I am actually very shy about my body and have never posted this link before - as you can see I was pretty big at my tummy tuck, 200 pounds. (This is a bit hard for me). And the back and side fat he lippo'd out has never come back - and I've always had it no matter how thin I'd get. http://www.nytesurgical.com/index.cfm/Acti...513/PageID/2968 We each need to make our own decisions on the surgery, I'm glad I chose my surgeon, I've had 3 surgeries with Dr Nyte and I'm going in for my fourth later this month. I'm a big believer in plastic surgery, it can make great changes in your life - I don't think I could have gotten into exercise like I did with that big tummy around my middle - no way, no how. I know the cost is high, but the rewards are worth it if you can do it, and its something you want - go for it, you’re worth it. (However the need to buy all those expensive little underwears that are so cute and you just can't pass up - can be costly).... Best, Lisa

Jazzy, have I told you that I love you lately? You are just so awesome, thank you so much for this, you are all of ours little godmother. Hugs and kisses! Lisa (This is so funny, I was ready to push the button to *add reply* when I realized my post said, "Jugs and kisses" not too appropriate - but pretty darn funny)!!

It gets normal, but in a different way. I didn’t realize that I wasn’t living life as a normal person when I was obese. I missed out on so much, take today for example. It was 95 degrees here in WA, before I would have stayed home and watched TV, hiding in the heat. Now I threw on a swimsuit with cute board shorts, took my grandkids to a car show, walked 2 miles down a trail to go to a river and went swimming. That would not have been normal for me before but its normal for me now. I can do more than most, I missed out on so much that I’ll do almost anything athletic and fun – I’m not afraid to take chances, I’m more afraid that I’ll miss something. I can sleep anyway I want, and intimacy, well it is different now - I’m proud of my body and much more secure and confidant – lets put it simply – its much better….. I love exercise now, and have fun working on my body and watching how it changes. I love dressing up, makeup, and just love being a woman. (Before it wasn’t so fun). Now I’ve very confidant and secure, and I’m doing better in my relationships, my job, everything is better. It’s a big change and there's nothing bad about it. Here's my before and afters - I love my band! http://www.lapbandforum.com/index.php?auto...um&album=42 Best, Lisa

When I was 275 I had a 3X dress and I’m 5’6. So at 5’8 I think 300 would fit a 3X. 1X is more like a slightly bigger extra large, so it’s not that size!

Chloe, Congrats, I'm almost at 3 years with my band, and I wish I had gotten the band at your age. I missed out at so much in life being morbidly obese, I can't imagine were I'd be at today if I had received my band younger, you're very lucky and blessed to have the opportunity at living life without the boundaries of obesity. Life if very different as a thin person than as a big person, it’s hard to explain, I wish I could – but its difficult. I was 275 at my high – 135 now. The mind is very poweful, but the band helps us to better mange it. And no, you don't need the psychiatric evaluations in Mexico. The fills, no issues - its 15 minutes of your time to adjust your band - its not a blimp on the scale for me. Not worthy of a bead of sweat. Canceling would be silly in my book, if you're 246 pounds now were will you be in 2 years, 286 pounds, then over 300 pounds in 5 years? The band is the best gift I've ever given myself, and I can't imagine myself obese now or how I even lived life like that. (I really wasn't living life - just waddling through it) and I know that it sounds mean - but it’s true. Understand that your mother loves you, is educated on this issue and wants to make sure that you live life to the fullest ~ healthy and happy. You are so lucky to have that kind of support at your age. I wish I did. I hope you go through with this, and really get on the band wagon so to speak. You have an opportunity to change your life, physically, and mentally. But you have to buy into it and work it, not do it because your mother wants it for you - you need to want this for yourself or it’s just a waste of time on your part, and everyone else’s. (From the surgeons, to your mothers and anyone in between). Congrats, and good luck, understand this is a gift, and an opportunity at a new life, and a new beginning for you. I hope you take it and run with it. I'm glad I did, I'm a totally differant person today than I was almost 3 years ago - in more ways than one. Best, Lisa

For me, my goal weight went down as I kept losing the weight and changed my lifestyle. I'm 5'6 and I thought I'd be happy at 175. That’s were my doctor (MD) thought I'd be good at (as he explained it I'm a big boned German girl and my ancestors were hauling large vessels of beer around so I should be bigger) and he has a weird sense of humor.... However since I've gotten into fitness and exercise I kept losing - I do have a doctor and others who work with me on fitness and healthy eating and I’m now at 135. I’m very fit and muscular, extremely lean and surprised that I can weigh this low. I’m not going any lower – and not sure if I can maintain this weight – most likely 145 will become my winter weight (which I was bouncing around at for a while) and 135 will be my summer weight. I think its great to have goals, however understand that there really is no magic number. I was pretty happy at 175 (my high was 275) but now that feels big to me. But my friend is 180 and looks great and she's 5'7. I've been doing this for almost 3 years now and my journey has changed so many times already - who knows where I'll be next year! So keep an open mind - watch your body and listen to your friends and family. They are the ones that will be honest with you. (Mine is telling me not to get any thinner so that's my goal - sure is hard during this hot weather)! Best, Lisa

This was interesting to me, so I asked around and here’s what some doctor’s think. It’s not what we are putting on the inside of our bodies (eating) its was we are putting on the outside of our bodies. (Sunscreen) Its not only blocking the harmful rays, its also stopping us from getting the free and easy vitamin D – So Lisa, are you good at putting on sunscreen?

If you're a pt of Dr. Ortiz it’s a no no. (Ice cream is not considered a liquid). And you can't eat blended foods when you're on the liquid diet as well so even a milk shake is out. Think of liquids, as broth, gateraid, and check your list - you should have paperwork they sent you home with. I had my surgery almost 3 years ago and I'm sure some things have changed (But I'm almost 100% sure ice cream would not be on it). Best and congrats on your surgery! Lisa

You can buy Scarguard online http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp...amp;catid=10744 I've been using bio oil, http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp...amp;catid=10403 but it really just softens the appearance for me. Someone I know really believes in Dr Blaine’s, http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp...amp;catid=10744 I bought it, but its looks like a pain so I haven't even used it yet. Need to crack open the box and try it out. Cortisone shots are what really work for me, and I get those from my PS. It takes at least three sessions (for me), and as long as your area isn't large, it’s doable. I've been doing this for my belly button after my tummy tuck and you can really tell the difference with that scar compared to others that haven’t had the shots.

Hey Sabrina, I had an apron, and lots of fat and skin. He removed it all – then I was really able to get into exercise and fitness – the stomach was getting in the way, physically and mentally – once it was gone there was no stopping me. My life has totally changed with my weight loss and I’d be happy to talk to you about it. I am doing things now with the added confidence that I could never have dreamed of. I manage a large group of people and I’m often out in the public and have no problems with public speaking (would have before, I could have done it – but been miserable). My background is business, but much of my movement was based on experience and the guts to take the opportunities that were presented to me – often we have them, but are afraid to take the chance that we might fail – I don’t have that fear anymore – if I fail, its OK, I’m not letting something slip by without a try. I am a Director and run two businesses for my company. I’m extremely busy but I also have the energy to keep up with everything I have to do. No way could I have done this at my high – just in the last couple of months’ I’ve flown over 20k miles back and forth across the continent (and here and there). I couldn't have flown this much at my high either, too much stress on the big body, plus I hated flying when I was big. Just like we have to use our band, we have to use our mind and body in the right way to keep moving and making positive changes in our life – there’s nothing we can’t do! Just PM me your email address and phone number and we can talk. (And I’d be happy to take a look at your pictures). Best, Lisa

I have close to 200 people that work for me in Canada, and my company pays additional insurance premiums to insure they are taken care of in regards to medical, dental and vision. I know more than I want to about medical and employment laws in CA. it’s amazing in some areas, and lacking in others as noted Red. However it’s better than what we have in the States, since its open to all. That is an amazing benefit. (And it has amazing people, I've got the best team located there - totally kick butte).

The rules are hard at first, but once you get it, you go it. They become second nature. You're a smart lady and you'll do fine - but one note - I didn't really get it (the sweet spot) until my third fill. There's a great chance you will this time - but just remember it does take time and we have to work it - and work it hard sometimes. I bought myself a special bracelet for my banding and it’s really just a pretty little thing - but I did use it as my reminder. It did work to have something you can see and associate with what you need to do to succeed, I wore it on my right hand so when I was bring food to my face I could see it. (Unfortunately its too big for me to wear now – just slides off my hand – surprisingly my hands shrunk too with everything else)….. Best, Lisa

Congrats Jazzy! I'm so thrilled at your accomplishment! That's awesome and even more special for you - not only did you make it to under 200 pounds but you most likely were a great support in helping everyone else get there as well. So this is a very special congrats and “thank you” to you... a very special sweet lady that I am very proud of just made a super goal reaching event! All the best darling! Lisa

Congrats – that is so awesome! You are doing so well, and not only can you look at your accomplishments from the outside, the weight loss and how different you look, but on how different you feel about yourself. (I always do the "where would I be now if I didn't have my band" thoughts on my anniversary - it makes me even more grateful for it). Yaaaa – great job and happy bandiversary! Lisa

Stormy, you are so beautiful and sexy! Wow girl, you are amazing! I am so impressed and jealous! I want to do that! Go girl - keep it up! Lisa

I’m going to add onto what Pammie started. One thing you might what to know is that Otolaryngologists are medical doctors (MD, DO, MBBS, MBChB, etc.) who, in the United States, complete at least five years of surgical residency training. This is composed of one year in general surgical training and four years in otolaryngology - head and neck surgery; in the past it varied between two and three years of each. Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is a one-year fellowship open to Otolaryngologists who wish to specialize in the aesthetic and reconstructive surgery of the head, face, and neck. Which many of them do take. Dr. Nyte's Education, Training & Experience: Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, Kirksville College, Kirksville, MO 1992-1996 Residency-Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery-Facial Plastic Surgery, Northeast Region Medical Center, Kirksville, MO 1996-2001 Fellowship-Cosmetic Surgery, Julius Newman, MD Philadelphia, PA 2001-2002 Cosmetic Surgeon, Cosmetic Surgery Center & Dr. Benien, Oklahoma City, OK 2002-2004 Fellowship-Cosmetic Surgery & Hair Restoration, Seattle, WA 2004-2005 Cosmetic Surgeon, Nyte Surgical Arts, Maple Valley, WA 2005-Present Educational Conferences: Multi-Specialty Foundation-Facial Cosmetic Surgery, Las Vegas, NV 2009 AOCOO-HNS Clinical Assembly, Speaker Orlando, FL 2006 American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Annual Assembly, Speaker, Los Angeles, CA 2005 ISHRS Live Surgery Workshop, Faculty Seattle, WA 2005 American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Annual Meeting, San Diego, CA 2005 American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery Annual Meeting, Hollywood, FL 2004 AOCOO-HNS Annual Assembly Ft Myers, FL 2003 World Congress on Liposuction & Aesthetic Surgery Denver, CO 2002 AOCOO-HNS Annual Clinical Assembly Tampa, FL 2001 North American Academy of Cosmetic & Restorative Surgery Annual Assembly Washington DC 1999 Certifications: American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology, Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery-Facial Plastic Surgery American Board of Cosmetic Surgery-Eligible Advanced Cardiac Life Support Memberships: Fellow-American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery American Osteopathic Academy of Otolaryngology & Facial Plastics American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery Radiesse Medical Education Faculty (MEF) Sorry, but you really need to make sure you have your information together before you post something. Another issue I have, I weighed 200 pounds at my tummy tuck, it went great - still looks great and yes I had a lot of fat and skin removed. Each person needs to do their own research and make their own the decisions. My guidance came from other doctors, nurses and patients, not a personal trainer. That would be the last person I would look for in guidance in this area, unless they were a patient and had experience with the doctor. It’s not your area of specialty and it shows. Anyone can do searches on the internet and pull out bits and pieces and make the story sound however they'd like it to sound; you have to know the facts and present the whole story to be fair or you can do harm, rather than help.

Yep you can, I'm not yet 50, but getting close and already started menopause. Its been a breeze so far – hate to think of what it would have been like if I didn’t have my band – yuck!

It’s been around for over 50 years, studies have been done on it since the 70's. It’s not been found to be harmful, however there are no studies that show it actually works - I do B12 shots, love them (for the way they make me feel - I don't lose weight with them) and many feel it’s a placebo effect - I don't care - they work for me. It’s the same concept - if it works for you go for it - we're adults and will make our own decisions - what I like about this is you find different viewpoints to gather data. Would I do it - no, but don’t care if someone else does. It’s your money and your body - so your decision. Best, Lisa

She’s probably like me, I work for some great doctors, have nutritionists and dieticians who work for me, my son is a personal trainer – I had access to awesome facilities and no matter what – I couldn’t succeed without the band. Hey Lisa, I can’t see how you’d ever be able to weigh 135, I go between 139/141 and I’m a size 2 in pants/skirts (I'm like 3 inches shorter than you) you would be a size 00 girl if you did that! I was never this small at this weight before - I can weigh more and I’m much smaller – it could be my workouts or like Mona use to say – our bones now weigh more. Its strange. LL

I think Denise has it right on, if you lead by examples and she see’s the positive changes happening to you due to your weight loss, she may want to join in. If I were you I’d just ask her to be your coach and support system in your journey and not pressure her to join, but have her participate in a fun way. (You could do it by email - and send pictures). Sometimes with kids, you just have to be sneaky…..

Hey Pammie, I had an appointment yesterday with Dr. Nyte, I’m getting my lower face lift done in early August and perhaps something else…... I heard you were there – we need to go to him on the same day sometime. I just have so much fun when I’m there, and Dr. Nyte is just so dang cute. (Hasn’t he lost a lot of weight)? I think the two of us there together would just make his day!! I also talked to him about my thighs, they are so dang muscled up now that there is extra skin – I want the half circle and tuck – he was like, hmmmmm no you need to go down the leg to get the benefits of surgery. Shoot – I hate that scar. I love my breasts – I had him take new pictures so ask him to see them! Best, Lisa Oh, and he also told me to not to lose anymore weight and that I'm tiny. (what... tiny)! He’s so cute!