I had open RNY Gastric Bypass in April 2003 at The Ohio State University Medical Center. I was diagnosed and under treatment for Lymphedema since December 2001, however, I was not yet diagnosed or aware I had Lipedema. Gastric bypass surgery helped me lose the weight that was due to poor habits. I admit I have not always had the healthiest of habits, however, even before surgery I made MAJOR life changes, and while my overall health has greatly improved. Lipedema has taken its toll on my body and will be a lifelong battle.
My highest known weight was 502lbs. It was higher, however, the doctors did not have a scale that could weigh me. After several months of diet change and exercise I could tell by my clothes that I was losing weight and I so I went to a junk yard to use their scale and saw that despite my efforts I still weighed more than 500lbs. I opted to pursue weight loss surgery. I do believe losing weight has helped me maintain my lymphedema, and saved my life. As with any medical decision, having weight loss surgery is a personal decision best made between a patient and their physicians. I have read where many Lipedema patients have been pressured by their physicians to have weight loss surgery. Lipedema does not respond to diet and exercise, therefore, weight loss surgery will not improve fat in areas affected by lipedema.
My 23rd Birthday, September 10, 2000
The morning of surgery.
I had reconstructive panniculectomy in December 2006. My weight was 280lbs. I eventually lost down to 250lbs.
February 2007
And then regain began…
September 2011
But that smile still stays the same!
You are a beautiful woman at any weight. I used to look like you -with that smile and your profile. I currently weigh 673 lbs but I am 5’11” My former Doctor had misdiagnosed me and pumped me up with steroids and 7 other pills. “577” is where I want to be . My new Doctor is trying to get me back. I am hopeful (1) he listened to me (2) He sent me to 2 tests (3) figured it out ( 4) fixing me with diet and The Gerson Institute Therapy and nurse 6 days a week (5) An Egyptian Doctor (6) uses skype to do home visits(with nurse present) because he’s from out of town. It’s hard for me to move and I’ve lost 66 pounds. That’s right -I used to weigh 739 lbs.
Thank you, Janie. I am glad you found a doctor who will listen and offer you some real help options. And I have to say I LOVE that he skypes! I keep in contact with my doctor via email since I moved to Ohio and she is in Florida. Having a doctor her really listens and doesn’t rush to judgement is the key in being able to advocate for ourselves in healthcare decisions. I wish you continued progress in your health!
Ask your Doctor if she/he would consider skyping -in certain cases. Mine was because I had a Nurse present and when I’m down by 125 pounds more, then, I could see him in his office. I would fit into our van. I still can fit to drive myself. I was a teacher until June 2012. My students and parents saw me balloon 166 pounds in that school year. Everyone knew I was sick.
How do I place a picture instead of a silhouette ? I am considering doing a website- since you have one. Just considering. I am afraid of rash crude remarks from people who do not understand medical problems.
Don’t be afraid of them. Think of all the people you will inspire and help Janie.
You lady’s are so brave. My heaviest weight is now and i weigh 298lb’s. My doctors keep nagging me to lose weight. I have been told by them i have primary lymphedema, but after reading up about this and lipodema the symptom of Lipodema sound more like me. I can not lose weight, the shape of my body. The pain, the pins and needles. every bit of it. I am going to pluck up my courage and ask my lymphedema nurse why she thinks i have lymphedema. No tests have ever been done, and they have never asked me any questions about how i feel, and when i tell her i am in pain she always asks me what is causing it. It doesn’t give me much faith. I am very nervous going out, as there is never a time that i go out with out some one making comments, and saying nasty things. Before i was retired from work for ill health, my husband had to meet me for lunch as i worked near the stock exchange , and every time i went out i got rude comments from all the brokers in their coloured jackets. i was abused by an old man in a shop i was minding my own business, and looking at the vegetables deciding what to get for our dinner, when this old man came up to me and said you should not be eating that you are too fat. i was broken hearted, He
didn’t know me from adam, It was not even as though i was buying a big slab of chocolate or anything. i wish you all the best and keep up the good work.