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LoriBecky

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  1. LoriBecky
    Yes my lovies, I finally did it. I had that arm lift I have been waiting for... I've always had large arms, I am of mostly Norwegian, German, and Irish descent... and we are known for thicker arms, and I for sure got that from my Norwegian Grandma. It had come to the point that when i was working out (or waving to someone) that my upper arms kept up the motion long after I had stopped... It was also causing some pain and friction during my workouts. I was going in to have a fix to a breast lift from years ago and since I had to have surgery anyway - I decided to just go for it and have my arms done at the same time... if i was going to be recuperating, might as well get it done... so I did.
    Even immediately after surgery - OMGOSH - are those my arms? I took a picture the night before I left for Mexico and then one a few days after surgery. You can already see the remarkable change. I had an extended arm lift so it goes from my elbow up my arm, through the arm pit and then down my side, to take care of that bra bulge as well. I'm being very careful to follow all of Dr. Medina's advice so that I let the arms heal well, so that as my scar fades, it will be a nice, tight, clean, faded out scar.
    I won't say this recovery is a breeze... I mean - you use your arms for everything and I'm having to be very careful about how far I extend them for a few weeks. Thankfully most of my work is computer so i can use my laptop, and i wear a headset with my phone, so i'm not having to hold anything. Probably having the surgery 2 weeks before Christmas is the hardest part, but it made me get organized, get things done early, and will give me that excuse of... sorry, no i can't do those dishes or make those mashed potatoes because i can't use my arms for that yet! (insert evil grin here) but it also made me cut back on Christmas - not the joy or the experience, but the endless shopping, parties, baking, candy making, and over the top decorating, and allowed me time to sit back, and enjoy it, watch a few more Christmas movies. Have a little more snuggle time with my kids. And just enjoy the Reason for the Season, and the Celebration of my Redeemer's birth.
    I can't recommend Dr. Medina from www.thearielcenter.com more highly. I have seen several pictures of his other cosmetic patients, including arm lifts, and he does amazing work, and he specializes in post bariatric cosmetic surgery, which is so important! Those of you that had recent arm lifts with him will forgive me for my endless questions, but you look fabulous and i'm a need to know kind of girl. He also fixed a problem with my previous breast lift, but I'm way too shy to post those pictures, but my girls look good!
    So here is a before and right after pic... i'll post updates as the healing continues!
    If you are considering cosmetic surgery visit www.thearielcenter.com or email cosmetic@thearielcenter.com and our coordinator, Ora, will be happy to assist you! Usually all its takes for a consultation and quote is some pictures and description of the areas you are interested in improving!
    1/12/2016 update - new "after" picture - and LOOK you can see my muscles... that has never happened before! You can see the picture on The Ariel Center Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/thearielcenter/ or my review on RealSelf https://www.realself.com/review/tijuana-mx-arm-lift-bare-arms-finally-batwings-fixed#dr-review
  2. LoriBecky
    First, let me apologize if this post is too graphic, I just think its a fabulous way to educate you on a sleeve surgery. When I was at OCC the first week of December I had the amazing opportunity to observe several surgeries. One of them was a gastric sleeve surgery. We know that the sleeve surgery has fabulous results. Our OCC Sleeve patients get results similar to a gastric bypass surgery without all the risks and complications. And this is why...look at what is removed during this surgery. This picture is the removed portion of a stomach from a gastric sleeve surgery. Look at it... look at what it stretches out to when inflated. That is all space you can't fill anymore. AMAZING!! And look... even the part we remove is still AIR TIGHT. Remember, on the remaining stomach our surgeons go back and over suture over the staple line to prevent leaks and prevent stretching - but even this part, the part that is removed is totally air tight. Now that is a safe sleeve.
    I know sometimes its hard after weight loss surgery to think about what we might be missing... the foods we can't eat (or eat much of) but I am SO thankful for this... because if I could be eating more, chances are I would be eating more... and I wouldn't feel this healthy, I wouldn't be wearing a size 4 jeans, and this would be a stressful time for me, thinking of how much weight I would gain between Thanksgivng and New Years... and I'm under control, my sleeve keeps me under control. So goodbye excess, stretchy, haven't missed you for a minute stomach.... hello healthy, portion controlled life!
    Again, if this is too graphic, I'm sorry, but I can't think of a better way to share this - it was a huge eye opener for me, hope it is for you too!
    Here are more pictures for those of you that can "stomach" it
    http://www.occforum.com/gallery/album/336-sleeve-surgery-educational-a-little-graphic/
    As always, if you have any questions you can reach me at lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com or 1-866-376-7849 ext. 81
  3. LoriBecky
    Its been a long time since I posted.  We are so active over on Facebook these days where interaction occurs immediately, that blogs just aren't what they used to be... But I intend to start posting here more, because the information is easy to find and more permanent, so I want to start updating here more.
    I get a lot of private messages from people asking how i've done with my sleeve, how i've REALLY done long term... i think so many things have failed for us over the years, that we are afraid to believe that this could really work and be long lasting. I had an appointment yesterday with my doctor, and I was cold so I had on jeans, tank, shirt, sweater, scarf, and heavy socks and boots... so i was seriously winter dressed(don't we all usually wear "lightweight clothes" when we know we are going to get weighed lol)... weight on scale fully clothed was 147.1. I'm 5'7, the jeans I was wearing were a 6 (i go between 4 & 6 and an occasional 8 depending on brand and how i want it to fit. I had my sleeve surgery 4/12/2012 so i'm almost 6 years out (my original band surgery was 6/2006 you'll find more info on that in my blog) . I did go under 140 for a short time (naked weight) after my surgery, but it was too skinny for me (and way too skinny for my hubby!) - i'm really happy mid-140's and haven't had trouble maintaining this. So it really DOES work... you have to work it too... but when I say I love my sleeve, I really do love my sleeve!
    If you want more information please visit our website www.obesitycontrolcenter.com or our Facebook page (check out the video section!) https://www.facebook.com/OCCMedicalCenter/ or call our toll free # 1-866-376-7849 ext. 1 to speak with one of our Patient Coordinators.  


  4. LoriBecky
    CELEBRATE Good Times C'mon.... let's celebrate! woohoooooooo
    3 years ago I had by Sleeve surgery - my band to sleeve revision surgery. I can tell you I haven't regretted it for a single solitary second! I still love my sleeve. I love what is has allowed me to do... I'm at a healthy weight, my cholesterol is 115... 9 years ago it was over 240. I feel great and... ok ok... i get to buy clothes off the really cute rack... usually in a small or medium.
    If you've read my blog you know I had my band surgery back in 2006, and I did well with it for quite awhile... then I got derailed through a series of accidents, surgeries, no walking for months, band wide open, and lots of really good church lady food. I needed a change... enter the <ahhhhh> sleeve surgery. I loved my band, but I will tell you - I love my sleeve more.... its a much more natural restriction, i can eat whatever I want (within reason!) just in smaller quantities... no worries about food getting stuck, I just fill up really fast.
    Thanks to OCC and Dr. Ortiz, today, I am at a very health 5'7 and average around 140 pounds. I'll be FIFTY this year....<shudder> and I honestly feel worlds better then I did when I hit 40.
    My husband and I celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary next week.... in Cancun. I am taking 7 bathing suits for our 6 day trip - almost all of them are 2 piece (nothing too skimpy... the sleeve didn't give me 20 year old thighs people!) but 10 years ago i would never have considered spending all day in a bathing suit at the pool or beach... but that's what I'll be doing all of next week (with a fabulous faux tan and a lot of sunscreen and one of those big floppy hats and oversized sunglasses... again i'm almost 50 people...)
    Thank you for sharing this day with me... and happy sleeviversary to my sleeve sista Emily, too - we've walked this journey together (and she has a baby to show for it!)
    If you have any questions about my journey or weight loss surgery you can reach me at lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com or 1-866-376-7849 ext. 81.

  5. LoriBecky
    Head hunger... we all deal with it but why.... what is this beast and why is he constantly knocking at my door...errr stomach.... head - whatever - it feels the same! I battle this beast too often. Why is that?
    We all know this beast too well... or maybe that's the problem, maybe we don't know him. What is really causing this "hunger"... are we bored? Do we feel we "deserve" to eat more food... are we hiding from something... trying to soothe something... trying to fill a void. Are we food addicts? Give a girl a break!
    I have found myself battling this beast daily since Christmas - I know i went off the rails a little over the holidays... allowed this beasts playful relative... sugar... back into my life with a vengeance, and I can't seem to kick him to the curb and I find myself "over-stuffing" myself. why is that... i'm not really hungry, I know that.
    I feel like I am sabotaging all the work I've done - it hasn't really shown up on the scales much yet - YET being the key word here... but it has shown up in how I feel, not just physically, but emotionally... how I feel about myself... like i'm devaluing myself... what is up with THAT? Make it STOP!
    So... how do I refocus... get back on track, not only with healthier eating, but with treating my body how it should be treated? Feeding my soul instead of stuffing my (albeit small) gut...
    I would love to hear from you how you get yourself back on track... get back to the positive self talk instead of this doubtful, limiting, negative self-talk that happens when you let the beast "head hunger" back in the game....
    I remember a "Beauty and the Beast" talking mirror my daughter had years ago.... You could push a button and it said "Show me the beast"... i could really use a magic mirror like that right now, to help identify the "beast" - or do we already have one? I could look into a mirror and really ask myself... "Lori, are you hungry, or do you need to fill a void, are you self soothing, are you bored, are you thirsty, are you stressed". I could use my OCC mirrors...YOU... all of you wonderful people, going through these same struggles and get the support I need to pause for a moment... OCC Forum, Facebook support groups, we have so many resources!
    OK... who's with me... its time to recognize this beast.... and slay him. (OK... who else is singing the song from Beauty and the Beast "Kill the Beast" in their heads, I know I totally am!!!
    Let's do this! Join the Conversation!
    as always... if you have questions you can reach me at lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com or 1-866-376-7849 ext. 81
    Join the conversation... leave me some feedback... let's fight this beast as a group... give me your pointers!
  6. LoriBecky
    Today is the one year anniversary of having my band to sleeve revision. What a year! I am at the lowest weight I've been at since... well... jr. high maybe? I feel great, and I'm not braggin' but I think I look pretty great too. I've stayed at the same weight now since Christmas and I'm happy with it. I still need to work out more and build some muscle, but as far as weight loss goes and this is the FIRST TIME in my life I have ever said this, but I'm not looking to lose any more weight! I am happy, and more importantly, I am healthy and pretty proud of myself
    I do love my sleeve. It allows me greater flexibility then I had with my band as far as foods I can eat, I am satisfied on very little food, I have a lot of energy and unless I'm trying to eat a bit too much, I just don't think about my sleeve very much... it is just my little shrimp stomach, it is a fabulous tool, but I'm not worrying about adjustments, if I'm too tight or too loose, or what i should order because I'm in a restaurant and don't want to get embarrassed if something gets stuck - which I did have trouble with during the last year with my band. I did love my band for a long time, but the last year, it didn't seem to love me back!
    If you are hesitating about a weight loss surgery, or if you have a band and you are feeling stuck or frustrated, please know there are options! I'm here to help you any way I can.
    I wish I had a picture to post, I should have taken one on Sunday because I was looking pretty slammin' in my sundress and sandals... I will try to take one later this week when it warms up again, right now i'm bundled up (the one thing about losing weight... I do get cold easier... that's OK - i'm up for that trade off!)
    Call me or email me if you have questions or want information on surgery!
    1-866-376-7849 ext. 81 or lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com
    did I mention that I love my sleeve??
  7. LoriBecky
    I say this to my patients all the time, don't weigh yourself everyday and don't get frustrated when you don't see the scale moving. This past week, I dropped a couple of pounds, but with the extremely limited intake I've had, well honestly I don't know what i was expecting! I started this 2nd phase of my journey at 195 on the pre-op diet and now I'm at about 173, so considering I don't have a large amount of weight to lose, I guess things are going pretty well. What I'm really noticing is that i'm easily getting into clothes that I couldn't get into for quite awhile. In fact, though the scale only showed about 2 pounds this past week, my clothes showed quite a bigger loss. My old fav. size 10 jeans are fitting me better then they ever did... I believe they will soon become those big comfy jeans you wear when lounging around the house!
    I'm thinking that this weekend will be when i start pulling those clothes out of the back of the closet - you all know what i'm talking about. The ones we bought when we were on our "way down" the first time - that we bought slightly small because we just knew we'd get into them, or ones that we fit into for a short period of time, and held onto - waiting for that day we would be into them again.
    All of my incision are healing really really well the only one I'm still babying a bit was where the drain was. I'm putting neosporin on it every day and keeping it covered just to make sure it heals well.
    I'm having a little trouble getting in enough protein right now, and I think its showing up in my energy level (or lack thereof) that could also have something to do with my lack of sleep... I've always been an insomniac, and its just been worse this past week or so... really hope I can settle in to a better routine this next week. Too much on my mind right now - hubby's lack of employment, fighting with disability and insurance on his knee.. and the list goes on, as it does for all women!
    Trying to take some time to put myself first at least a little bit each day and take some "me" time (not always easy with a full time job, 3 kids, 2 dogs, and a husband).
    Really anxious to start the mushy food stage on Monday! those mashed potatoes are calling my name!
    How is everyone else doing on their journey? I'd love to hear from you!
  8. LoriBecky
    I think we all reach this stage in the pre-op diet where we start to think maybe I don't need to do this surgery, I'm losing weight OK - can't I just keep going and FINALLY keep this weight off all by myself? Well if 35 years of history tell me anything (yes, dieting in some shape or form since age 12) the answer to that question is NO! For some people, keeping off the weight hasn't been a problem. For 95% of us, that is the biggest problem. It has never been about losing the weight for me, its been the long haul keeping it off that has eluded me until I got my band in 2006. Now I'm on the pre-op diet preparing for my band removal/sleeve revision surgery, and those same questions are starting to haunt me... I'm doing it, I'm losing weight again, do I really need to have this revision surgery? The answer is YES! I know I do. I'm no longer having success with my band, if you've read my other blog entries, you'll know we've been besties for a long time, but the relationship is strained now, due to injury, accident, medications, stretched pouch, port pain... its time for a change. And I know that without this revision surgery, the weight will continue to creep on, and this loss I'm having on the liquid diet, will be short lived. I don't have consistent restriction with my band anymore, in fact, I really don't have much restriction at all. (for all your bandsters doing so well, please don't be scared about my experience, I am not the norm for a bandster!! Keep on keepin' on!!! and yes, I will miss my band!)
    So, for all of us that struggle with the question, do I really need that surgery when i'm doing so well on the pre-op diet, the answer for most of us is, YES!!!!.. to help me keep up with the loss, and to keep the weight off... YES! I need it, and i'm not ashamed to ask for and get the help that I need and want to get healthier, and stay that way long term!
  9. LoriBecky
    So, I had another very successful shopping trip to Goodwill this weekend. I got a pair of capri's, a pair of shorts, and 3 summer blouses for under $20. I also delivered another huge bag of clothes for donation. Its strange to be picking through through the clothes on the rack and see things you recognize from your closet, but in a good way! Sometimes you think, why did I hold onto this so long? Did that ACTUALLY fit me at one point? or the most common - what was I thinking? lol But anyway... its nice to donate your old clothes to a worthwhile cause, and fill your closet back up with really cute items, and a great price, I really recommend you consider this as you lose weight, don't spend too much money on clothes you won't be in for very long, and DO NOT HOLD ONTO YOUR OLD CLOTHES that are too big... not only does it take up valuable closet space, but don't give yourself an excuse to get back into them again.. stay on track and make your goal to get to or stay at a healthy weight!
    OK... getting off my soapbox for a moment, I realized something today as I was getting dressed. When I was heavier (aka Fat - a word i disdain!) I always felt the need to compensate for my bigger self. Just because I was fat, I refused to be frumpy. I spent a lot of time accessorizing, or more time on my hair, or just being more "put together" - because I didn't want people to think that just because I was overweight, I was lazy, or that I didn't care about my appearance, so I tried really hard to look very pulled together.
    As I got dressed today (its supposed to be 80ish here today) I pulled on a pair of capri's and one of my "new" summer shirts (ok... hawaiian, but that's not a bad thing, its really cute and yellow with soft blue flowers and palm frawns on it - shaddup!) I realized, I am perfectly confident to go out in just a pair of capri's, a sunny shirt, and flip flops. I even pulled my bangs away from my face and clipped them back - because I don't have to hide behind anything anymore (except my faux tan - I will be clutching my St Tropez faux tan with my dying breath - because I am an irish girl and "fish belly white" without it.) But... I do hope you see my point. I'm not hiding... i'm not disguising myself.
    Are you still hiding and/or disguising yourself because you aren't happy with your weight? So I ask you why the weight? Why the wait? Why did I wait so long? I love my sleeve, even more then I loved my band! If I were starting over from today, first time weight loss surgery patient, I would not pass go, would not collect my $200 and would go STRAIGHT to the sleeve, I love it, have no complaints, and zero regrets (except the waiting part!)
    What are you waiting for?
    You know how to reach me... 1-866-376-7849 ext. 81 or Lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com Summer is almost here, but more importantly, a healthier you is so ready to come out and play!
  10. LoriBecky

    Reflux?

    By LoriBecky,

    As is fairly typical after a sleeve gastrectomy, I was having some reflux issues occassionally, even while using my acid blocker medication.
    Now remember, I'm not a doctor, but in doing some research, and from my own experience adding a probiotic to your daily intake (or like me 2 or 3 during cold/flu season) seems to have really helped this situation. From some of the literature i've read, after having a sleeve surgery, the addition of a probitoic supplement can be helpful in many ways... and it sure can't hurt!
    My probiotic of choice is this brand - Natrol Biobeads. super easy to swallow, very reasonably priced, and since they need no refrigeration, you can keep some with you all the time!
    (I get mine on Amazon on their subscribe and save so shipping is free and they ship to me automatically)
    I've taken probiotics for years but now I'm taking at least 1 extra during the day (again up to 3 during cold/flu season)
    I haven't had a cold in quite a long time and haven't had the flu in years (yes, I do get my flu shot) - but considering how many colds have gone through my house, the fact that I've steered clear of them I believe is a direct result of my diligent use of these probiotics... wish I could get my family on board!
    That's just my little pearl of wisdom for the day... hope everyone is ready for Christmas! My daughter gets married in 10 days so things are super hectic right now. Hope you are all taking the time to enjoy this season and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and counting your blessings.
    Lori
  11. LoriBecky
    So... my daughter got married last month. It was a beautiful, intimate, very romantic and meaningful wedding. We had it at church in our smaller sanctuary - about 75 guests, we all sat at the reception tables for the wedding. My dad said a prayer. We had dancing (I got to dance with my 85 year old daddy... a treasured moment... no that's not my dad in the pictures, that's my husband!! - OK i switched up pics - that is my husband beside me and my daddy behind me) and a dessert bar and a lovely cake baked by our friend and beautiful decorations (anybody want tips about a wedding on a budget... ask me!). Our brilliant photographer donated her time to us because she loves my daughter so much... let's just say blessings abounded... everywhere you looked and even when you weren't looking... a very joyous day.
    One of the things I didn't have to worry about was camera angles. You all know what I'm talking about. When you aren't at your ideal weight (or are very far from it as I'd been for so long) the camera is not your friend. You try to find ways to hide behind other people, try to figure out the right angle... or just plain hide all together - you are a bobbing head from behind a group of people. That is not the case for me anymore, and I'm so thankful for my sleeve. I loved every picture, kept looking at myself like... hey - i look pretty good! I wasn't holding my breath as I scrolled through the pictures, afraid of what may be next. Now i'm not saying every picture is a keeper... they never are, but I wasn't embarrassed or ready to put any through the shredder... that's a first
    If you aren't where you want to be for 2013 and are ready to make a change for the better and get back on track to a healthier you... you can email me at lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com or call 1-866-376-7849 ext. 81. Whether its a first time weight loss surgery or a rescue/revision surgery - we can help! Make 2013 the year when you don't hide anymore!
  12. LoriBecky
    Four... no matter what language you say it in... I just fit into a pair of size FOUR jeans... yes, me! I love thrift store, bargain hunting. Its a huge thrill to me to find something that i love for less then $10. From my amazing, full length wool coat for $8.88, to my wool peacoat for $6.88 to my Ralph Lauren cords for $3.33 or my Stuart Weitzman pumps for $4.50... I love a bargin, but I have to admit, pulling those 4's off the endless jean rack and looking at them and thinking "no way" - to them sliding in and fitting me perfectly... shocker! Do I think every pair of size 4 pants will fit me... not necessarily. But I had someone tell me that my other jeans were looking too baggy on me - they were 6's...
    Its time to do some more shopping... I just love my sleeve!!
    The other nice thing about thrift store shopping... when something doesn't fit you anymore, it doesn't hurt so much because you spent so little on it, you can just put it back into the circle of life at the thrift store and find a new treasure... and it helps a good cause!!
    My daughter is getting married this saturday, and my son leaves for London the day after Christmas to participate in the New Years parade there... so my next week will be crazy - so my guess is, this is my last post before Christmas so...
    Merry Merry Christmas to everyone. Hold your loved ones close, make sure they know you love them. Be a blessing to all you come in contact with, and the best gift you can give yourself, is to help others in need!
    Lori
    1-866-376-7849 ext. 81
    lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com
  13. LoriBecky
    My whole life, my goal has been to lose weight, never been satisified with where I was, always had my eye on where I was wanting to be. Today my scale sits at 135. ME!?!?!? 135. Can't be! never! I see myself as I was... when I look in the mirror, most of the time I still see "fat Lori" - I think someone that hasn't had a life long battle with the scale could never understand this! I was walking this weekend and saw a shadow on the ground. Of a slim/trim woman. I was thinking wow I'd like to look like that... then I realized... hey that is ME! ME ME ME.... it is me wearing a size 6 jeans. ME! really? YEP! I hold up the jeans, and I think they look small, but somehow when I see myself, I have a hard time wrapping my mind around the fact that those jeans... those size 6 jeans that look small when I'm holding them in my hands FIT me (sometimes a little looselyl) they fit ME... How did that happen? The sleeve from Obesity Control Center is how that happened... my rescue surgery from Dr. Ortiz has changed my life. I don't battle with food anymore. I can eat whatever I want just in much smaller quantities.
    I was recently diagnosed with Celiac disease, I had to have an endoscopy and colonoscopy and all kinds of fun (NOT!) tests, but the one thing my gastroenterologist was SURE of was that my sleeve was PERFECT! He said the shape and size were right, no signs of any issues with that and no ulcers. As with any US doctor, they are always a little suspicious of going to Mexico for surgery, but he said everything about it was perfect and has NOTHING to do with the celiac diagnosis. I always knew Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Martinez were wonderful surgeons, but its always nice to have that confirmed!
    If you are battling with your weight, battling with your band, and just want to try something else... email me at lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com or call 1-866-376-7849 ext. 81, I'd love to talk with you!
  14. LoriBecky
    As my norweigan grandmother would have said "Uff da!".
    I wasn't paying attention and drank my sugar free strawberry lemonade a little too fast. OUCH! Sometimes I forget how small my little "shrimp" stomach is. It didn't feel like I was drinking that fast, but wow... that hurt! Its been a little over 4 months since I had my band removed and converted to a sleeve surgery, but I am still getting used to a much smaller stomach. When I had my band, I could drink more, a bit more quickly because it went right through my band, but now that me entire stomach is just smaller... I still forget, especially when I'm distracted! I think the discomfort is a good thing, I sure don't want to stretch out my lil shrimp stomach.
    Why is it that bad habits are so hard to get rid of, and good habits can be forgotten all to easily?
    I love my sleeve and if I want my sleeve to take care of me, I need to take care of my sleeve!
    I will make a point to remember this one!
    Hope you all have a wonderful Labor Day Weekend, be safe, stay on track, and enjoy yourselves!
  15. LoriBecky
    I got back home late yesterday afternoon. So happy to be home with my kiddo's! While I was in Tijuana my husband and I celebrated our 27th wedding anniversary - I told him I was getting the PRP and Botox as a gift for him... not sure he bought it, but oh well
    Before I forget, let me say that I have had botox quite a few times, in the US and with Dr. So at OCC/The Ariel Center - and Dr. So is the BEST! Never any bruising, never over "toxed" - I still look like myself, have great expression, but wrinkleless in all the right places! Very anxious to see how the PRP rejuvenate's my skin... I'm already noticing a hydration difference, and I'm told within the next few months I really start to see my skin changing... I'll keep you posted and I'll try to remember to take pictures!
    OK... back to my sleeve revision. I really didn't have much pain at all - I did have some discomfort and really most of that came from the drain. Since I'm a revision patient I had to have my drain in a day or 2 longer then a "virgin" sleeve patient. I will tell you that within 5 minutes of having that drain removed, I was feeling sooooooo much better! The drain removal wasn't fun, but not nearly as bad as I thought. A few deep breaths and it was out - I kept waiting for it to hurt, but it didn't - it just felt strange.
    I actually worked quite a bit while I was there. Monday had surgery, Tuesday went in for a drain check and met with the doctors. Wednesday I was at OCC having meetings with the doctors and staff, Thursday I recorded videos and did some video interviews of other patients. Friday I had a couple of other meetings then went back to the hotel and answered phone calls and emails (actually I was answering emails everyday except Monday & Tuesday). We left early Saturday to miss border traffic and head home.
    I'm working on sipping liquids all day to make sure I stay well hydrated. Warm tea seems to go down better then something cold - although a sugar free popsicle is fabulous! I have been having a drinkable yogurt a day. I tried the Activia but there is so much sugar in those, that I felt lousy, so I switched to Trader Joes Greek liquid yogurt. I had picked some up on my way to OCC and tried them after the Activia I had bought there was an epic fail (stomach cramps and a mad dash to the restroom). I would say if you can't get your hands on the Liquid Greek Yogurt, when you are home buy some plain greek yogurt and blend it up with some milk or Lactaid and use a shot or 2 of the sugar free Torani syrups or even some reduced sugar jelly/spreads to flavor it - or even some honey... whatever you like. Too much sugar so soon after a sleeve can cause a bit of a "dumping". Another tip - and this one you can take with you when you go for surgery, if you have a Target, look in the aisle with the Crystal Light mixes for the Archer Farms brand Simply Balanced drink mix - box of 8 little pouches to dump into a water bottle (10 calories). They have electrolytes and vitamins (basically they are a cheaper, portable version of the Sobe Lifewater. My favorite is the Pomegranate Yumberry, but the Blackberry Blueberry is really good, too!
    I got a wee bit tired of Chicken Stock (even though the Lucerna's is really good!) remember, my surgery was Monday and I didn't leave until Saturday. Miso soup was a really good alternative for me. My husband went out to a local Japanese restaurant (you can ask at OCC for the good ones - ask Gloria - she recommended a great one). I just avoided the Tofu and the seaweed in the soup - you could probably ask for it strained, but I didn't think of that ahead of time- it was a great alternative to the Chicken Stock. I also drank quite a bit of warm tea. If you have favorite tea bags - take them with you. You can use the coffee pot in your room to heat the water and then brew your tea. If you like your tea sweetened, take some splenda or stevia with you - the only thing in the condiment pouch was sugar.
    I admit I over did a bit last night, unpacking, laundry, etc - and I did start to feel a little pulling pain, so PLEASE follow the guidelines and don't lift or bend too much so soon after surgery.
    I know this all sounds a bit boring, but I figured since I had some questions about how a sleeve revision patient may feel after, I thought I'd share this part of my journey with you as well.
    You know how to reach me if you have any questions! 1-866-376-7849 ext. 81
  16. LoriBecky
    I did some shopping on my lunch break today, and I saw this really cute dress on clearance with an additional 30% off... I fell in love with the dress, but it was an 8 and I just knew there was no way it would fit, but I had to try it on to see if there was a way I could make it work (when a really cute $50 dress is on clearance for $14 you at least have to try, even though you know you'll be heartbroken) well... it FIT, it fit it fit it fit! I still can't believe it! I haven't been in a single digit size since... I honestly have NO idea LOL I'm super excited, can you tell?
    If you could see me now, you'd see I'm doing a happy dance!
    I am really loving my sleeve!
  17. LoriBecky
    I officially hit the 140's yesterday. 149.6. Barely in the 140's - but I'm taking it! Especially with all the extra sweets and eating out I did over the weekend for my birthday and I still lost weight - woohoo! For sure the weightloss is slowing down, but I'm happy about that since I'm closing in on my goal! woohoooooooooooooooooo
    Have I mentioned that I love my sleeve
    1-866-376-7849 ext. 81
  18. LoriBecky
    I took a few days off to see my youngest get baptized in the ocean and to celebrate my 47th (gulp) birthday. I had such a wonderful day yesterday. My husband and I spent time shopping and just having a wonderful time. We had a delicious lunch at a small italian restaurant and when they offered to bring the dessert I told her I couldn't have gluten so they brought me a fabulous FABULOUS flourless chocolate cake with raspberry sauce. It was SOOOOO delicous and I had 3 bites and was in heaven and totally satisfied!
    I love my sleeve! Have I mentioned that recently? No regrets and I would do it again in a heartbeat! I feel great, can eat a wide variety of foods (even steak which gave me trouble when I had my band). We ate out almost every meal the last 4 days, but the sleeve let me control my volume of food, I made good choices (most of the time!) but felt totally satisfied even with the small amounts (and my husband loves it because he usually finishes up what I have left over!)
    Happy Birthday to ME!
    If you are wondering about a weight loss surgery or a revision surgery, I'd be happy to speak with you anytime!
    Lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com or 1-866-376-7849 ext. 81
  19. LoriBecky
    I was going through my closet today trying to figure out what to wear to an event and realized that nothing in my closet fits me right! I haven't been this weight since before kids (and since my oldest is 21 that gives you an idea!).
    I have things that kind of fit me, but everything is too big.
    I'm thinking of heading over to a thrift store or consignment store to pick up a few things since I hate spending $$ on clothes when I'm not sure where I'm going to end up!
    I purchased a few things to get me through the summer, but I don't have anything nice to wear.
    any ideas? what did you guys do as you were losing? did you borrow from friends, shop at 2nd hand stores or just treat yourself to a few new pieces?
  20. LoriBecky
    Just a quick note, I got my test results back and nothing is wrong with me (well at least not with my blood work!)... so that's good!
    I just wanted to report that before my band surgery 6 years ago, my cholesterol was up over 270
    my number today was 137
    My LDL - the bad cholesterol is only 69 which is remarkably low! woohooooo
    My HDL - good cholesterol is a little low too - still within normal - but should be higher, but this probably has a lot to do with my extremely sedentary lifestyle over the past year because of 2 foot surgeries and over 9 months in a cast and not walking! I hope to resolve this as my foot continues to heal!
    all my other numbers look really good
    So what that means, is my other issues are probably related to stress (hubby lost his job over 2 months ago now - so stress is probably warranted!)
  21. LoriBecky
    I was able to start on real solid food and it really seems to be helping my energy levels and my gut issues! I think my body just needed something to "work" with! lol
    I spoke with another sleeve revision patient yesterday, and she said she had some of the very same issues I was having... you know, making sure there was always a bathroom in sight!
    So far, as of noon yesterday, I'm doing better. We'll see if that holds up since I had a few bites of pizza tonight. Mostly just the toppings, but I did have part of a very small piece, it tasted really good, and was really nice to eat with my family... but I can't eat much of it, which is good, as pizza has to be near the top of the list (ok maybe THE top) of my favorite food...
    Still amazed how little I am eating and how satisified I feel!
    Now... Pizza I realize is not a good weight loss food, I do get that, and I know I didn't get nearly enough protein out of that meal, but again, we were all sitting together, watching a movie, and it was nice, after several weeks on liquids, to just have a few bites of whatever they were eating.
    So far, no reflux, which was my biggest concern!
    I hope everyone has a wonderful Mother's Day tomorrow!!
  22. LoriBecky

    Soy Protein

    By LoriBecky,

    Woohooo.... i'm so relieved (literally!) the Soy Protein seems to be making me feel better (read my last post about Whey protein and it being a milk derivitive).
    I started on the EAS Soy Protein (chocolate flavored) last night, mixed with some light chocolate soy milk, with a spinkle of the PB2 Chocolate Peanut Butter Powder (if you haven't heard of PB2 you really should look it up, you get the flavor of peanut butter without all that fat! - I get mine on Amazon, but I've heard some Wal-Marts carry it)
    Anyway... I had a shake last night and one this morning and so far... no "issues" My tummy feels better, my intestines are not screaming, and well, I'm not getting as much exercise as I have been the last few days - if you don't understand what I mean, just think about it LOL
    I leave tomorrow to head to the hotel then get an early start on Monday for pre-ops & surgery.
    I'm nervous, excited, nervous, excited... but most of all, I'm ready!
  23. LoriBecky
    Still recovering from surgery of course, but feeling better every day and increasing my physical activity, while following the post-op guidelines.
    I'm doing well getting down my liquids. I do best with hot tea or soup (Miso is my favorite!) but the colder liquids are getting easier. I did give myself a treat and had a no sugar added fudgesicle... what a delight!
    I still seem to have some issues with the protein shakes. Not sure what it is since I've eliminated lactose by using the soy protein powder and they aren't high in sugar, but they send me running to the restroom. Of course this happened after my original band surgery, too, so I'm not too worried.
    Before surgery the Protein shots tasted fine, but post surgery, they just taste way too sweet, maybe its my taste buds changing already - not craving the sweets? I may try to dilute them down a bit since they are a great source of protein. I'll keep you posted.
    The recovery from the sleeve revision is going really well. I was able to sleep on my left side last night, so I slept much better. I'm a left side sleeper and since that is where the drain was, I was a little sore on that side, but that is really lessening as the days go by.
    I would do the surgery again in a heartbeat. If you've been following my blog, you know I had some nervous moments leading up to surgery, I even begged Dr. Ortiz to let me be one of the early surgeries, even though revisions typically go last. I guess it helps to have friends in high places But the surgery was easy and I felt really great even right after, had a few "crampy" moments with the drain, but once that was out, its been smooth sailing!
    I'm anxious to get through this liquid phase and take my new "shrimp stomach" for a ride and see how it feels to eat again.
    If anyone has questions about a revision surgery, either from band to sleeve or from bypass to band please email me at lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com or call 1-866-376-7849 ext. 81
  24. LoriBecky
    I had my sleeve revision surgery yesterday and so far so good. I had a minor issue with the drain in the afternoon, but Dr. Martinez fixed me right up.
    Dr. O said my stomach tissue was in great shape and he could tell I had not abused my band at in the past - i never had issues with PBing or forcing my band. Like I've said in prevous posts, for over 5 years I had a great relationship with my band (june would have been my 6th year bandiversary) - you can read some of my previous posts for what brought me the to the decision to have a sleeve revision.
    I don't have much pain - some tenderness at the drain site where I needed a couple of extra stitches. I'm back at the hotel now, and having been walking some, sleeping a little, and staying hydrated.
    Even with the problems I was having with the pre-op diet shakes, I still managed to get off 10 pounds before surgery - probably one of the reasons my surgery went so smoothly, I did exactly what I was told to do to prepare for surgery! (How can I tell my patients what to do, if I won't do it myself!)
    I'll keep posting to the blog to let you know how I'm doing. Right now I'm really happy that I have my sleeve, but I am still mourning my band. For a split second I was going to ask if I could keep it, but I have no idea what I would have done with it LOL
    So... i'll always be your band budy, but I would also like to get to know some sleeve sisters too, so we share our experiences!
    If you have any questions you can email lori@obesitycontrolcenter.com
  25. LoriBecky
    Well... I've been suffering, how shall I say, with bathroom problems from the protein shakes. I know I'm lactose intolerant so I've been mixing my shakes with Soy Milk or Almond Milk, but still, its been brutal. I did some research today and discovered that my protein shakes are Whey based and Whey is derived from (drumroll please) MILK!
    good grief!
    So... today I'm off to purchase some soy based protein shakes and try to calm my poor gut down a bit!
    I'm guessing these protein shots I bought for after surgery are going to be a problem as well, since they are Whey shots. I think I may do OK with those because I plan on spacing each shot out all day - it is 42 grams of protein in each 3+ ounce shot - so I'll put some in my water or crystal light or tea once I'm back from my sleeve revision surgery to make sure I keep up my protein intake.
    So here is the tip... if you suffer from lactose intolerance, or find yourself having trouble with your protein shake, you may want to switch to Soy based - or vice versa - and see how that goes!
    I'll let you know how the switch goes
    I leave Sunday to head to TJ for my Monday morning surgery! I will have my computer with me so I'll blog from there!
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