Apprehensive

That was one of my very first questions...what type of band do the Doctors at OCC use. I was informed that it depends on what you as an individual need. Not really having the answer I wanted, I looked around for information. Johnson and Johnson has been around for some time now. The Alergan Lap-Band is the newest of the two. I am not sure how many there really are. My concern is the number of times going back to Mexico for fills since I live in the KC area. I have tried to contact doctors around the KC area and have not had any luck with a return call. I am very new at this so I am not sure. My biggest concern is IF I go with the Johnson and Johnson brand of band and here in KC the most popular doctor doing this surgery is a BIG advocate for Allergan Lap-Band...am I going to have problems finding some around here to do the fills? I was also informed that before a doctor is able to use certain bands, they must be certified in the correct use of them. How do we find this information? I am not being negative, I just want to know the rules before I begin. Any information about the different bands and why one is better to use? I am so glad I read the information from you folk who have been facing the same problem I am facing. I will be asking many more questions now. Thanks for all the information and should I find more information, I will let you know.

I purchased the Bariatric Advantage High Protein Meal Replacement that was suggested by OCC. This mix has 160 calories. It has 27 grams of protein, 3 grams fat, 8 g carbs, 5 g fiber and 0.5 g sugar. It has 50% of the percent Daily Values of the important vitamins in each serving. This is a powder mix and you add 8oz of water. First time I used it, I really was surprised how good it is. I mix it with ice in a blender and you would be surprised how much it is like drinking a chocolate milk shake. I am not sure what other flavors it is available in, because I immediately ordered chocolate. One of the best things about this drink...is how it makes me full and it kept me full almost until the next meal. It is shipped by UPS and did not take long to arrive. I am sure going to keep this on hand. I don't know how long I will use it, post-Op that is but using it pre-band is really helpful.

Good Outlook for your diet. I am also on the diet...my surgery is the 18th. I have had the urge to grab something not on the diet but I have been able to resist. I am on day 3 of my diet. LOL Some resistance huh? I told Dr. Miranda that I had never lost weight so fast (10 days) in my life but she said, "You could lose up to 20 lbs before surgery). She also said men lose weight easier than women. We shall see. Having your daughter as a motivator is good too. You see her success and that will help. I am a nurse and just know that I can't keep this weight and be healthy. So, keep up the great outlook and maybe down the road we can exchange success stories. Good Luck!!

Hello B2010, I am having my surgery on the 18th of March. Yes...I am apprehensive as my name suggests. I have heard many good things about Dr. Ortiz and am OK with that. I guess you and I may cross paths while in Tijuana. I am staying at the Marriott, so I am told. I just want this to hurry up and be done with. I am also hoping I choose the right diet. I think I will call Dr. Miranda Monday and tell her what I plan to do. I am doing that 7 day diet with nothing but shakes and salads....UGGGGGH. Anyway...leave me a note if you want to talk about this and put our minds at ease. Good Luck with yours, Looking forward, Gary (Apprehensive)