Babyflower, I notice you're waiting for WLS number 2, how come? if you don't mind me asking ?
Of course I don't mind you asking. I had a gastric band in 2007 (NHS) - had problems with it pretty much from day 1. Had a lot of pain, problems swallowing (even liquids) and every time band was tightened the band pinched me. Also didn't have a good experience from my first hospital, they weren't very patient focused, messed me about loads, only met my 'consultant' once some 14 months after my band op, and had some rather traumatic and extremely upsetting experiences. I did lose some weight, but my problems were getting worse and worse, and my consultants solution was to give me a prescription for Reductil.
Got very depressed about it, my GP was furious and suggested I seek a second opinion. She gave me the choice of where I wanted to go, I chose Shaw Somers and St Richards. He has been brilliant - what a totally different experience! The problems with my band had got so bad he felt that it should just come out and I should start again, and it came out in April this year.
Despite problems I lost 7 stone (but regained 3 - the Reductil moment was a real low point and I turned to chocolate big time - since given it up completely), but 'maintaining' 4 stone loss (well clinging on for dear life)! Have a few months to think about what's next whilst I heal. My BMI is still over 40, so do still need help, although my eating habits have changed enormously since being banded, and as yet the bad habits have not returned. Mr Somers thinks that the RNY is probably my best option as the risk of me having probs with another band would be quite high...feel a bit sad about that, but that's life.
So, I am still recovering from my band out and the nutritional impact of being in starvation mode (on liquids etc) for so long. I lost hair (not all of it), nails crumbled, skin was awful. All getting back to normal now.
I have lots to think about and decisions to make.
Hope that answers your question!!!
