stephrnmom

Hi Everyone! I just realized I will be able to start on mushies on Monday, and I would like some suggestions so I (and others reading this) can have a good list of things to choose from. I know mashed potatoes and things in the blender, but what things work in the blender. I believe I have seen where you can have Tuna and Egg Salad at this stage too? I will also be traveling, and staying in a hotel over night so any suggestions while traveling would also be appreciated.

I am also finding it difficult to drink water now without it making me nauseous. Pre-Surgery, I drank it all the time. I have tried crystal light but that stuff is so sickening sweet to me now, that it too makes me sick if I drink too much. Any other suggestions of good things to drink would be great.

THANKS!

Hi Steph,

You can have soups with veggies in it, just cook them till their mush and then chew well. Guacamole is WONDERFUL, I've had some and just licked it off the chip I was so desperate for real food, but only needed a little before the craving went away:) Hummus is good and it's good fat for energy, like the guac. For my smoothies I use Muscle Milk light or Adkins shakes with either fresh berries,1/4 banana, a little peanut butter, or sometimes a Starbucks instant coffee pack (whatever sounds good)put it in my magic bullet with a little ice and wallah....YUMMY. Good Luck:)

Steph

I'm 7 days post-op and was wondering if anyone else had this problem--my biggest incision on the left side of my stomach is still pretty sore/tender. When I stretch or move in a certain way, I have pain under the incision...I'm not too sure if it's the incision itself or my stomach. It makes me a little nervous. What do you guys think?

Hey Lindsey,

Yea, I had wierd muscle pull/burn at the largest incision site. Mine decreased everyday and is now mostly gone at 2 wks. Ibuprofen and gasx helps lots! Hang in there it gets better:)

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Aw Thanks! I have been reading your posts too and they are very helpful!

Great Job Steph, it's it great! It's a whole new journey. Few bumps in the road, but otherwise enjoying the trip. I'm only down 25, but not bad for 5 weeks. Worried the wt loss will stop or go up when we can solids again...YIKES. Work has been easy, no prob and the port isn't bothering me anymore:)

Looking forward to more updates

steph (the other one:)

Hi folks - I owe you an update. So I went down to OCC on June 30th as planned. Got my tests and everything was a go for surgery. I was the last one to have surgery on July 1st (revisions are last) and was so ready to go. Was laughting with Dr. So when he did the IV as I got a bit misty eyed - and Dr. O walked in and said - like he hasn't seen it before - normal.

I told the Docs to do what they needed to do - that they were the experts. We talked through my thoughts and theirs and off I went to surgery. When I woke up - I felt pretty good - and the doc came in and told me that they were not able to do additional surgery due to the condition of my stomach - lots of scar tissue on the band area, a hernia and scar tissue at the port - and they felt that it would be best to wait for about 4 months before we do the other procedure.

So - no band, no plication - and i am a bit freaked that I will gain weight before I get my other procedure - but I am going to try to stick to the modified pre=surgery diet and up my excerise when I can start back.

Based on what the docs said - it looks like I will go with a sleeve when i go back - due to my stomach and target weights...but they will make that decision when I am down there.

Overall A++ to the OCC folks - they are really great to you - and especially to the OR nurse who rubbed my shoulder and arm, and wiped my tears in the OR as I was being put under...what a lovely touching experience...you don't get that in the US

DonnaC

Hey Donna,

So sorry to hear you didn't get the plication, but glad that the surgeons we're more concerned about your health than the $$. You have been doing this for a long time and you know everything you need to know to keep the weight from coming back. You can soooo do this. Keep us up on how you're doing. I'm doing good with the band. Still having some pain where the port is when I move wrong, but assume that will go away with time. Been losing about a pound a day, but on a liquid diet so duh....

Take care

Stephanie

I was banded in 8/10. It did take awhile for the port issue to subside but it does.

Thanks Canuk, I figured it would take a while, guess that will take some getting use to. I knew it would be a problem later when the fat is gone. Have you had to have yours moved?

Thanks Steph! I'm glad to hear this does happen 'cause I was starting to get worried there. Also, Dr So called and suggested the GasX and Maalox. I took the GasX and started feeling a bit better. I also have the Papaya Enymzes and just took some of that as well. Can't wait for this to pass! I want to feel normal again, lol.

But I still feel tenderness and soreness in my wound areas - still not sure which one is my port area... But when I bend down or move a certain way, I do feel a shift in my insides, which I think is my band. I don't know but it sure feels too big to be a port...

But good luck on your recovery!

My discomfort is more on the left side and it does feel big, but it's under tissue so it feels bigger than it is, plus it's still swollen. I walked quite a ways today and that did help. Just slower than we want I'm sure. What day was your surgery? Did we meet?

Stephanie

I had my tummy tuck, internal corset and breast lift (and a bit of augmentation, too) What a wonderful experience to return to the OCC as a patient. They take such good care of their patients. I know this, but nice to experience it again! Everything went really well, and I can already see my new shape, although still swollen and pretty sore, i'm really anxious to see the outcome. I had my drains removed today.... that was an adventure in and of itself... ouch... but I'm sure by tomorrow I'll be feeling much more comfortable. Even at this stage of not being able to stand fully upright, and being really sore, i'd do it again in a heartbeat. I'll keep everybody posted about my recovery and I'll post some pictures when I can.

Any questions about cosmetic surgery or procedures at The Ariel Center, a service of Obesity Control Center call Cindy at 1-866-376-7849 ext. 85 or email cindy@thearielcenter.com - let her know Lori sent you so I know you are reading my posts LOL

Happy 4th to everybody! Heading home tomorrow in time for some BBQ and fireworks on Monday.

Glad your on the mend. Hope the trip home wasn't too rough. Looking forward to seeing your pics:)

Is it normal to experience air bubbles inside after surgery? I am 3 days post-op of the lapband and ever since I've been having this sensation that feels like an air bubble trapped in my esophagus and stomach and it's very uncomfortable. I don't know whether I want to burb or pass gas (sorry for the tmi!) but I just want to know if this normal or should I call Dr Ortiz or is there something I can take for this??

I had lap-band surgery on the 29th and still have a lot of air, it does take a while to dispell. I can feel mine in my neck and shoulders. Keep moving and taking your gas-x and the papaya chewables help too.

Are you having pain by your port? That's what surprising me. If I bend or move a certain way I can feel it moving and it hurts. Not as much as the first two days. Hoping it will go away with time or sit-ups are going to suck more than they already do...lol

Good luck

steph

Thanks for the input ladies. After reading lots more material I'm very confident in making the "band" decsion. Looking forward to the next step in my life. Thanks to all of you for the support.

Steph

My sleeve surgery with Dr. Ortiz is June 27th. I am wondering what things to pack, that we wouldn't normally bring or think to bring. Pj's over Gown? I have heard a heating pad is a good thing, etc. I am thinking I wouldn't want to bring anything tight fitting so it doesn't hurt the stomach area.c

Hi, I'll be flying in on the 28th band surgery on the 29th, I'm just doing the basics. I was thinking I don't even think I'll bring makeup...why bother...I'm on vacation (of sorts) and not planning on going out. Nice comfy pants and tops. I have heard somebody said don't bring underwire bras because they might rub near an incision, and books, magazines to kill time while your waiting/recovering and TV is limited. See ya there

Stephanie

Hello!

I am scheduled for June 27 and I am very nervous about traveling alone.

My husband is not very supportive of my decision to have the surgery,

especially in Mexico. I am doing this for me. I am a new mom (love it)

to a 1 year old and have really let myself go over the past few years.

Everything (like my job) and everyone has come before taking

care of myself.

I have found a doctor in my area that will do fills on patients who have

had the lab band surgery out of the country. I want to change my surgery

to the lap band instead of gastric plication.

Any thoughts?

Thank you

Hi, I'm flying in on the 28th and surgery the 29th, we'll have to meet up:) I will be traveling alone also. Good for you for making a decision to change your life. Look forward to meeting you

Stephanie

I am thrilled with the band. It is the best thing that I ever did for myself. If I had the option between the band and plication I still would have chosen the band

Deb

Thanks Deb, and can I just say WOW...you look fantastic! Glad it's working for you.

steph

Alright bandsters I am planning on being banded in a couple of weeks, but the more I read and research the more I'm wondering if I should just get the plication. Do you all feel that you have been happy with your bands, or wish you had had the plication option?? I have seen some that are going in for revisions from band to plication so now starting to have second thoughts on the best option. Any opinions are apprciated. I am 41 wt 246 and 5'7 tall

Thanks

Steph

Drs. I am having my band surgery (SO EXCITED)on June 29th. I have a question about the post-op meds. What do you prescribe? I saw that they can be filled there for $125. I have ins here in the states and wondering if I can get the scripts early and bring them with me, so my ins can pay? Is this possible? I'm just trying to find a way to save a little more money

Thanks

Stephanie

Read your pre-surgery info - the liquids should be in there - right after the diet options. I know I had it with my band all those years ago...and now with the plication.

You should be able to get a list of what medications they want you to have...and if you can get your doc to do the prescriptions and insurance to cover...good on ya! Ask to speak with the doc - or ask for Dr. Miranda on diet and then ask her.

Let me know...I might try the same thing...

DonnaC in Seattle

Nope nothing about 3 days of fluids, just the 3 options. I'll send the docs a msg and find out:)

lol - as you are on a liquid diet for 3 days before the surgery and reduced diet for several weeks before - I think you have prep'd your bowels just fine lol...

I did an enema just to be on the safe side - but I am a bit careful. I also do a good shower scrub with antibactrial soap before surgery as well...

Donna

Thanks ladies, good to know. Now I didn't read anything about only liquids three days before?? Also, they said you will get your prescriptions filled there for $125..what the heck do they give you that cost that much? Pain meds shouldn't cost that much. Heck I'll bring my own. I emailed my "concierge" Jamie to ask if I could get the scripts before and get them filled so my ins would pay, but he didn't seem to understand what I was taking about. Any thoughts?

Steph

congrats...I am down about 7 lbs as well on my pre-surgery diet and have 3 weeks until I get my plication done. I am excited, nervous and just flat ready! I figure I will lose another 5-10 lbs before surgery - which is great - I am really good at short term losing weight but have an issue keeping it off. (sort of like holding your breath - can do it for a bit but then you need to breath)..

I have started working out every day to get my body in best condition possible for the surgery and taking all the vitamens ect that the docs recommended.

When is your surgery? I am thinking you are having it done at OC right? I am banded now - 10 years out - and having a revision - don't freak about this - I got 10 great years from this band and would do it again in a skinny minute..

Please feel free to ask me anything - happy to help.

DonnaC

Hi Donna,

GREAT JOB, it sure does feel good to lose even a little weight, but I have the same problem...it always comes back. I'm glad the band worked for you for so long. So what happened, why the plication now? Looking forward to seeing you down there. My surg is the 29th, coming in on the 28th and getting a facial at OCC:). Do you know if you have to do a bowel prep for the band?

Thanks

Steph

Week one of pre-surgery diet...I lost 7 lbs this week. WOW. Feel great. My reward...a wt loss ticker:)hopefully I did it right..lol

Hi Everyone!! Ok... I leave tomorrow morning for San Diego & then TJ. I've slowly shared with family and friends what I'm doing and for the most part everyone has been very supportive. Some have had a few qualms about a surgery in Mexico, but mostly they trust that I have done my research and am doing what is right for me! And I am! Today is my birthday. This coming year I will be losing all this weight that has been holding me back, I will graduate with my MBA and who knows? Maybe I'll even fall in love (this time with someone who loves me back!)

See you on the flip side!

Kelly

Good luck Kelly, let us know how it went. I'll say a prayer:)

Steph

Hi Stephanie -

Count on it...I am hoping to get some botox on Thursday to maxiumize my time there -did anyone else see that special - what a deal on botox.

D

oooohhh, no I didn't. I got an email about facial peels or something. How do you find out about specials and stuff?

Steph

HI everyone.

I am heading down on June 30th for a revision from my band to Plication on July 1st. Let me tell you the band was the most wonderful thing I ever did for myself - sure 10 years later I need a revision - so what! I lost 170 lbs and kept it off for over 8 years! Yes I gained back about 50 lbs over 2 years but now I am taking care of that. For the first time in my life with the band I was not obsessed with food and eating! The band is a wonderful tool and you will be amazed at how easy it is to use.

Don't worry about the surgery, it really is easy and the docs take such good care of you.

Please feel free to ask me anything...I think I still have all my old pics and stats.

Do your measurements now - cuz there will be weeks where you won't lose a lb but you will still be shrinking.

DonnaC in Seattle

Hi Donna,

I'm headed down on the 28th for surg the 29th. 170lbs WOW that's amazing...good for you. Hopefully I'll get to see you down there. Maybe we can hang by the pool...or grab a drink(clear fluids of course)...lol

Stephanie

Good for you Steph! I'm scheduled for Plication June 8th. I'm starving on the Pre-op diet, but lost 10 lbs in two weeks, which I was never able to do before. I guess just the idea that I have a reason to lose the weight is worth the hunger - that and I'm banking on not being hungry after the surgery! I read this board a lot looking for tips and encouragement. This will be another tool to add to my tool box, along with my gym membership (that I never go too, but I pay for every month..just in case ), my hypnotherapy cds (which I listen too every night and I love them). I eat healthy organic foods, but I'm always hungry so I over eat. My hope is this will solve that!

Kelly

Hi Kelly,

Thanks for the encouragement. I'm super excited. Starting on the "diet" early since I don't want to stress about it, and I have been WAY overeating lately and feel hungry all the time. Did the hyno cds help at all. That's one thing I haven't tried. I like your "toolbox" analogy...that's exactly how I feel. Wish I could find someone that's going to be there when I am:( I have to hurry and get my passport app in this week so I can be sure to get it back..that's the scary part.

ttyl

steph

I just talked to Lori and have my schedule date for June 29th. Super excited. Planning on starting my pre-op diet tomorrow so I don't have to stress about getting the weight off. Look forward to talking with any of you that are getting ready too:)

Steph

Hi All,

I have butterflies in my stomach just putting in this post. Had my first talk with Lori today and hoping I will be scheduled soon. Afraid to hope that this could be...finally the help I need to be the person I know is hiding under all this fat. I'm 41 and have been overweight the majority of my life. I'm hoping to lose as much as 100lbs but dare to hope. Good luck to all of you going in early June. I can't wait to hear about your experiences:)

Steph