calicat

So yesterday I was with a group of women - we meet monthly. Anyways, the hostess offered me some yummy food - and of course at week 2 post op I politely whispered in her ear that I couldn't because I'd just been banded. She was excited for me. But went on to tell me a story about one of her co-workers who did it and felt guilty about it - as if she didn't try hard enough, or didn't work hard enough to lose weight the "natural" way. Huh. I never thought of that. My husband came home from work today and said a co-worker asked him the same question today. What's up with that?? I have PCOS so losing weight is HUGE struggle. In 6 years, my husband has watched me go to the gym at 5am, then again at night. He's watched me try WW, JC, etc. He's watched me train for a triathalon for 10 mins, compete it in - and gain 2 pounds in the end!! I never looked at this surgery as a "cop-out", but rather a proven, successful means to lose weight, and still enjoy my life, while I'm young enough to enjoy it!!! Anyone else hear this, or feel this way??

You're the best Dawn!!! Miss Sunshine I'm glad we got "banded" together and I can't wait to see you soon for our first fill!!! Cat >

Hi Susy! I was banded 4/4 - and boy did I feel like you're describing. I did a couple things that helped. 1. Chewed on one TUMS - give it a little bit to help. 2. Got in the 90 degree position over a chair - my husband and son would giggle when I was in "position". It did help alot though. 3. It's not comfortable, but I would sleep for the first couple hours in the a true upright position. I found my couch was best with my big king size pillows behind me. I would prop something under my knees - and within an hour or two - my pain was "relieved". Walking also helped, but not like I thought it would. I never burped, or anything else while walking - but rather, when I got home and relaxed. Weird but true. Good luck Suzy - it will go away soon!!!

Okay bandsters - I want the truth....who ate before week 3????? I know there are several of you. I was banded by Dr. Ortiz, but I read some online post-op guidelines by other surgeons that direct their patients in week 3 & 4 to eat mushy, soft foods. I'm just wondering who's done what for post-op!!! When did you start to eat? What did you eat?

Clynn - I noticed you've had 5 fills - where do you go - TJ or somewhere in WA state? How much are they?

So I just got banded on Friday, and amongst my soreness and hunger today (only Day 3), I'm scheduling my first fill for week 6. Here's my question...what is the correct way to do it? I intend to fly down to TJ, stay the night and fly home the next day. Specifically, are we supposed to be able to eat before and after the fill??? Or go back on liquids only after the fill?? I'm just trying to plan around what to expect.

I fly out Thursday for Friday surgery. And of all the times - a visitor came to see me today!!! Today!!! Has anyone else had Aunt Flo visit before or during the surgery? Can they still do the surgery? I'm worried about the paper panties I've heard so much about. Ugh!!!

Okay, since I started my pre-op diet - I have gas!!! All of us have it, or are going to have it right? What do we take? Do TUMS still work or do we need to take liquids? My family will thank you for the results!

Thanks for all the info ladies! I'm choosing to stay "close to home" (the hotel) after my surgery until I fly home. Yes, the shopping and bartering can be fun - but I think I'll experience that when it's safer, and maybe when I'm not in a vulnerable physical state (limited running) - like maybe when I come back down for a fill - several pounds lighter!!

Anyone else getting April surgeries? I'm interested to know since we would all be starting out pre-op diets in the next 2-4 weeks! Thank you March bandsters for sharing all of your experiences with us - it is sincerely helpful!! =D>

Thanks for your input! I appreciate it You don't know if you like the lap band system? What do you mean?

Does anyone know what brand of Lap Band Dr. Ortiz uses? Do we get a choice? Are you happy with the one you have?

I'm so sorry - I just found your post today!! How did your surgery go? How's your recovery? I'm scheduled for 4/4/08 and I'm soooo excited I can't wait! I have Group Health and they don't cover it - and my doctor said they wouldn't anyways because there is "nothing" wrong with me. I have normal BP, cholesterol, etc. It's just my BMI that's high. So I too have decided on Dr. Ortiz. And here in Lacey, they will do the fluoro fills on Mexico patients for $375. I need to fill out the application and get signed up. I hope you're well and I'm looking forward to hearing from you!

Clynn - I live in WA State too. Do you go to Arlington? I live in Lacey so wanted to give them a try down here first with the fluoro - it's $325. What's the VG band? How many fills have you had?

I'm going April 4th - anyone else going then?

Is anyone else scheduled for Friday, 4/4/08? I'm so excited and can't wait to do this!!!

Can you stay in touch with me? I'm about a week behind you - I just discovered Dr. Ortiz and his surgery center on Oprah last week. I'm 90% sure I'm going to do it - just nervous I guess. And I too am curious about the fills. I'm in Olympia - so if you find out more, let me know. Thanks!