bigbear

Hi, I am a self pay who researched this for months. I went to three centers in California and was so angry by the time I left the third I felt like having it done on a street corner in T.J. was a better alternative. When I realized the OCC offering and starting talking to them I knew where I was going to have the surgery. These people were the most caring and still are of any of the doctors I had previously consulted with. After having the surgery I will tell you they are the most professional, ethical and kind people I have met in recent Years. The facility is top notch, clean and professional. Their care was/is the best. I would go to them in a NEW YORK Minute. I have been back for one fill and I am a real baby when it comes to needles. Can't even watch injections on T.V. I watched the whole procedure for the fill! In my opinion you will not find a better place to have the surgery. Just follow to a 'T' what they tell you and you will do fine.

Tomorrow will be sooo easy for you. Walk and breathe like they tell you and all will be fine. Just watch the roaming charges for the lap top if you aren't using the hotel hookup. Mine was $279.00 for one Verizon Slow Evening. Best of luck to you.

Where did you go for the surgery?

EAS makes a protein drink that I get at Target. It has 17 G protein and around 110 calories. I've had it in three flavors, chocolate fudge, strawberry and french vanilla. Cold it is so good to just sip on. Vons carries eating right smoothies too that are good.

You can go to Los Angeles and get one in one day but be prepared with the cash. I just was at O.C.C. Tuesday and was only asked for my ID coming back across the border.

Hi Angie, My advice would be to follow Dr. Ortiz. He has much more experience than most of us. I have my first fill coming up next week. I am looking forward to it but have found that it's not my band that is the problem but me. I have learned how to cheat the band so I have to reinforce the rules as taught at OBC. So far, since 02-23-09 the start of my decision I have lost more than 40 LBs.

Headed to OCC for my first fill 05-12. just there for the day.

Best to you Dan. You have a very good start. Follow the doctor. Just remember when you can finally eat just a few small bites chewed to liquid.

There are a bunch of 100 calorie snacks available in my Von's grocery. Even small sized candy bars. One of these seems to help the munchies for me. How do you get the ticker to show up?

Hi Dan, Stay safe inT.J. I was banded on 03-09-09. Everything went smooth as silk. Just follow their instructions to a 'T'. I started at 305 and am now at 264. Good luck and enjoy your start to a new life. Darrel

Hi I am scheduled to have my first fill on 05-12-2009. How do I test the fill before leaving T.J.? Are there any tips that will make this go smoothly?

Be very careful to chew every bite thoroughly and only eat about one fourth of normal then stop. Even if you aren't full, stop. Wait 20 minutes before eating any more. Remember what they told you about PBing. Its true. Watch soft breads, I make sure they are liquefied in my mouth before swallowing, and eat them very slowly. Otherwise good eating.