operation

[Etta]

Could you beable to tell me the pros and cons on having stomach stapled, as I am over 300# and have emphysema, so it is really hard breathing. I am also a diabetic (do not take insulin.) I have tried other diets and they do not work. I am 63 years old. Please advise on my concerns.

[kittykat]

Hi Etta,
   I don't have any first hand knowledge of stomach stapling but I heard of something recently that may interest you. Now don't laugh but two weeks ago Sharon Osbourne (wife of the ever popular Ozzy) was on TV talking about how large she used to be, and what she did about it. She mentioned that since stomach stapling frightened her(for the very reasons mentioned above), she opted for having her stomach banded. I gather that this is a less dangerous and invasive procedure. It has the same effect as the stapling does. She was more than two hundred pounds before the operation, and in the two years since has lost at least one hundred of them. She looks great! She did say however that, because of the small size of her stomach, she has to watch what she eats, and keep the meals small or she can become sick. You might want to ask your doctor about this. Best of luck.

[Baseball_Mom]

Okay, Lor gave you a pro now here is a con to having your stomach stapled.  There is a lady in our community who was very obese.  If I had to guess I would guess she weighed 400 plus pounds.  She agreed to have the stomach stapling procedure done and for whatever reason, one of the staples came loose and shredded her intestines.  She almost died and was in a comma for several months.  They didn't know if she was going to make it or not. I saw her about two weeks ago and she looks as though she was almost as heavy as before surgery.  And surgery was almost a year ago.  All I can recommend is that you do alot of research and ask alot of questions.  The final decision will be yours, please make it an informed one.  Have a GREAT day!

[Lor]

I have a friend who did this. It has been great for her. She too had problems breathing and had to sleep in a recliner at night. It has been 2 years and she is doing great enjoying her life. Best of luck to you.