ladysha313

Hello all,

After sitting in the bank parking lot for 20 minutes this afternoon, I finally bit the bullet and paid my deposit. I guess I'm really serious this time! I just can't picture myself "banded". What will it be like? Will I still feel like me? Will I feel this wierd object in my belly? Will I really really lose weight? That's the most exciting thought. I guess I need to start visualizing myself as a normal weight person. It's hard for me to even wrap my mind around the possibility. Prior to paying my deposit, I was so nervous that all I wanted to do was eat. Funnily enough, my stomach was just too nervous - even for eating. I can't tell you how helpful this forum has been. I'm grateful and indebted to so many of you for your stories.

My main concern now is the dreaded pre-op and post-op diet. The 600ish calorie diet is scary. Even though any muscle I have is camoflauged by fat, I've worked very hard to build the little I do have. For the short periods of time (two weeks max) I've been able to stick to a 1500 cal diet, I've lost weight. Won't I lose muscle mass by such a 600 calorie diet? I guess I need to consult with the nutritionist but I was wondering if anybody might have some personal insight.

It boils down to the old "How do I just lose the fat but keep the muscle" question.

Best wishes,

Lorraine

Hi,

I was banded in April of last year. I used protein shakes from Isagenix www.thedetoxlife.com. It helped me to maintain my muscle mass and lose weight. I've also used the protein shakes kirkland brand from Costco. I like them both for my liquid days or just for the added protein. They are both really good and fullfilling. I also eat between 900-1200 calories per day depending on my activities for the day. Good luck.

I have my appointment in May with Dr Ortiz and I will be going down alone, my husband can't get the time off work and we have small kids...This kinda freaks me out. Just wondering how many of you went down alone...how did you find it?

Thanks

Hi I was went down alone and everything turned out great. I was picked up from the air port and was taken to the office. I meet Mrs. O there and she took me to the hotel. She picked me up the following day for the procedure. The staff is great and willing to help where ever they can. The day after the surgery I went downtown by myself then later with the other ladies who were banded the same day. You'll be just fine. Good luck.

Hey girl,

The shakes at Costco I was talking about are already made - they are the Kirkland brand, and I love them!

A side note -- I am a mommy, too. I've got a 10 month old and a 2.5 year old. I'm am constantly trying to keep up with them. I make sure to find time to cook a meal, and have leftovers. Also when the kids go to bed I try and take care of lunches, etc. Some nites I'm not so successful, but I try -hehe.

My soup receipes - no perfect measurements, sorry. I can tell you that last night I made roasted chicken and steamed broccoli for the hubbie and kids, so I used the leftovers for soup.

Cream of Broccoli/Chicken Soup -

1 large roasted chicken breast (spices on chicken-ground clove, cinimon,cardomon, black pepper) - you can just roast with a little salt and pepper)

3 cups of organic (or homemade) chicken stock

2 cups steamed broccoli

1/2 cup light half and half

1 tbs of fresh ground black pepper

1/2 tsp kosher salt

Heat the stock with broccoli, salt and pepper for just a few minutes, cut up the chicken breast into cubes. Pour the broccoli and stock into blender, add the cubed chicken. Blend for about 30-45 second (until smooth). In the same pan, you can slowly heat up the half and half. Once heated pour the blended mixture into the pan and continue to cook for a few minutes. Taste to see if you are missing anything.

Cream of Mushroom Soup -

(I have loads of Morel mushrooms already cooked and frozen, ready to go, but you can add any good meaty mushroom-porchini would be great!! - avoid white button mushroom)

1 cup sauted mushrooms (saute with 1/2 finely diced onion, 1 clove finely diced garlic, and 2/3 cup chicken stock) (start with about 2 cups diced mushrooms)

2 cups organic (or homemade) chicken stock

1 tbs of fresh ground black pepper

1/2 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp celery seed

1/2 tsp of garlic powder

1/2 cup light half and half

Heat the stock with the sauted mushrooms, add all spices. Put in blender and pulse for about 20 seconds. Heat the half and half for a few minutes, add the blended mushroom/broth and heat on low for about 15 minutes. Taste to see if you need anything.

That's it. It took a little less than an hour to make both soups, and now I've got a weeks worth of soups that are good for me.

Happy Cooking, Ladies.

Much Peace,

Maggie

Thanks. I'm going to try your soup soon. I don't have the problem with cooking a meal I just don't ever have leftovers that is when my husbands around. : - )

I'm going to make a trip to Costco. I usually do a shake and fruit for breakfast and a wrap and veggies for lunch. Now I have soup to add to the mix. Again thanks. I hope to meet my goal weight by August.

I have had the Costco version and they taste great. (pre-op) Post Op I purchased a Whey Protien powder (chocolate flavor, of course) that I mix with water. It gives me 24 g of Protien per 6 oz drink, and it's low in calories and fat. There is no soduim in it, either. I would suggest using that instead. You can blend it with ice -even a banana and have a yummy shake, that is filling.

Can I suggest something though ---

With all the time, energy and money you are going to be spending - you are going to relearn how to eat. Maybe you can take a little extra time for yourself to make sure you have time to eat a proper meal. I found that I was always taking care of someone else, and leaving mySELF behind. The diet shake would curb my hunger (pre surgery) and soon after I would head for the drive through. I found on the days I took time for mySELF and planned my meals, I was much more satisfied and was eating better.

I'm only 6 days post-op, and ready for my cream soups. I spent about an hour last night making some homemade cream of mushroom and cream of broccoli/chicken soup. I took control of my soduim intake by making my own soup. I also took control over the fat content with the cream. I just had my first little bowl - I was very satisfied with my meal, ate just a little and feel great knowing that making it mySELF, knowing what I just put in my body - that in itself was very satisfying to me!

Good Luck to you!

Much Peace,

Maggie

Thanks for your response. I had my surgery in April 07 and became pregnant 3 months later. During those three months I lost almost 30 lbs. I really changed the way I ate. My issue is I'm delivering next month and I'm looking for something that I can grab and go for breakfast. Right now I'm eating fruit and a Isagenix shake for breakfast and that serve me just fine. I've only gained 4 lbs during this pregnancy because I've been watching what I've been eating. (My baby gained 6 and is totally healthy). I would try the Costco drinks but I don't have anywhere to blend them at work and battery operated blenders don't last long. I'm just looking for something I can drink with my veggies for lunch that would keep me full until dinner. Besides I think I would rather spend the money on a ready to drink vs not having anything at all.

I commend you for making your own soup. I just think it would be kind of hard for me to do with a streaming baby and a 3 and 5 yr old.

Has anyone tried slim fast shakes after having lap band surgery? I'm looking for something that I can drink on the go and while at work. I've tried the shakes from thedetoxlife.com and they are pretty tasty but I have to blend them. I'm looking for a tasty shake that won't make me vomit. If you have any suggestions please let me know.

Thanks

I found out I was expecting 4 month after I was banded. I am due in March and have not gained 1 pound. The baby is doing great and growing as expected but I was wondering if anyone has experienced no weight gain. During my first pregnancy I gained 20 lbs, but not 1 with this pregnancy. Please share your experience.

Hello ladies,

I was banded in April 07 and started the Isagenix (www.thedetoxlife.com) program in June. I believe it has really helped me to drop weight faster and maintain muscles mass. My girl friend is on her way to be banded next month and she was wondering if it was ok for her to start the program right after surgery. I suggested that she stick with the Isagenix shakes and to not bother with the snacks until she can eat solids.

Has anyone tried the Isagenix product right after surgery? If so how did it work with your band? Please share so I can forward this information to her.

Thanks and be blessed.

Hello. I was just wondering. Has anyone tried Nutrisystem, Medifast or any other type of prepared diet programs after surgery.

My sister is getting married in August 08 and I want to lose at least another 50 lbs by then. My weight has slowed a little and I just had a fill and only lost 4 lbs. I love the fact that I'm losing but I want to be able to take pictures and actually look at them later.

Any suggestions?

The band won't interfer with her pregnancy. Once her OB says she needs to take in more calories, she gets a simple unfill (no fluoroscopy - you don't want xray when you are pregnant) - then once she's recovered she can get a fill

This is NOT uncommon, lose weight and find yourself pregnant (men... don't worry this doesn't apply to you ) We do tell our patients to wait at least a year - 18 months so they get a good start on their weightloss, but unlike becoming pregnant shortly after gastric bypass, which can be a problem, the band is adjustable and can accomodate the blessed suprise

Thank you all very much. She actually read the forum with me a few minutes ago. It has been very helpful.

I have a friend that was banded in TX in Feb - March timeframe. She doesn't have a support system so I figured I'll ask the question for her. She was recently banded and just found out that she was pregnant. What are the dangers or complications of getting pregnant before 18 months of being banded? I'm not sure of the type of band she has or if mine is the same as hers, since she was banded in TX. I was told with the band I have I should to wait 18 month before conceiving, but it's only been 3 or 4 months for her. She went in to have her second fill last week. Please provide any insight. I want to share any advice I can with her. She's pregnant with her third child so she thinking about an abortion. I'm trying my best to prevent that. Please share any information you have on being newly banded and pregnant.

Thanks,

Sha

Has anyone used Dr. Trace Curry in OH for a fill? If so how was your experience?

Did you guys know that you can go to TJ and get your fills from OCC on a Saturday. I was having issues taking off and they told me that they also do this on Saturdays. So, I am flying in on June 9th (Saturday) at 8:45 am and flying out 3:45 same day.

Thanks for the info. I've been having the same problem (taking off during the week).

Go on the site www.fillcentersusa.com - there's one about 4.5 hours from here near Philly.

I went to TJ for my first - and will decide later if I need any more....

I was just given this information. You may want to check out the following doctors:

Virginia:

Dr. Elairny 703-465-5060

Dr. Moazzez 703-620-3211

Virginia Beach:

Dr. Balton 757-481-2313

MD:

Dr. Green www.advancedwls.com

Support & coordinate with other June Fill Patients here

Here is the link to the Bus/Trolley Info Info (FIXED THE LINK!)

Just call the clinic 1-866-376-7849 ext. 2 to schedule your fill.

Lori,

Thanks so much for sharing the trolly/bus information. That will save me a lot of money.

Hello,

I'm flying in from DC on the 10-12 July. A one night stay is also possible. Anyone want to share a ride? I haven't purchased my ticket yet but I would love to split the cost with someone. Please send me a note if you're interested.

I just returned from my first Fill in TJ. I live on the East Coast, so it was an expense to return, but I wanted my first (if not all, how ever many I end up needing) to be where I was banded. Francisco picked me up exactly on time, and dropped me off at the Lucerna again. TIP: Go on their website and send the manager an email - make your reservations thru them, mentioning that you are an OCC patient. The rate is $80 per night - and is $129, or so if you do it on your own. Mrs. Ortiz picked us up in the lobby and we were delivered to the OCC. So good to see them again - its been 6 weeks and 3 days. Dr. LaCosta (?), who was there all day AND all night of my surgery, did my fill. I was more nervous about this than the surgery ! He told me it didnt hurt, but how could that be? Long needle in the belly ??!!?? Well, he's right, of course! It totally did not hurt and it was extra cool to see my band on the monitor !!! He flushed the band - which felt very funny but did not hurt, then I sipped the pink flouro-juice (tasteless), and you watch it go thru - so cool - then I got my 1.7cc's and we got to watch that ! It has taken me longer to type this report than it took for my fill. I went shopping on Revolucion' Ave for a little while then went back to Lucerna. Walked about 2 miles - another TIP: I left Lucerna and turned right - cross the street and about 8-10 minutes up on your left is a large grocery store. I bought CLIGHT (Mexican version of Crystal Light) - the Pina Colada flavor is so delicious!!! Went back this trip and bought about 15 more. There are 2 flavors I have no idea what they are =

Another TIP - if you are jonesing for good coffee - try the BUZZ BUZZ (?) - its again out of Lucerna, turn right - cross street - its only 2 blocks down and they have outdoor seating at the roundabout. Great people watching!

So I'm FILLED ! I admit I've snuck some food, even tho I'm supposed to be on liquids till tomorrow - I've been distractingly hungry 2x. I'll try and only do liquids till tomorrow.

Bottom line: Don't sweat the fill. There's nothing to it -- its all gain!

Be well.

Hi Lisa,

I live in Waldorf MD and I was wondering how much did it cost for everything to get back to MX. I would love to go back for my fill. I love the staff there. I was also thinking about taking my husband just for a weekend get away. Are you going back to MX for the next fill. Please keep in touch. I would love to have a travel partner. Please email me at Shavonne_Moore@yahoo.com with your reply.

I just returned from my first Fill in TJ. I live on the East Coast, so it was an expense to return, but I wanted my first (if not all, how ever many I end up needing) to be where I was banded. Francisco picked me up exactly on time, and dropped me off at the Lucerna again. TIP: Go on their website and send the manager an email - make your reservations thru them, mentioning that you are an OCC patient. The rate is $80 per night - and is $129, or so if you do it on your own. Mrs. Ortiz picked us up in the lobby and we were delivered to the OCC. So good to see them again - its been 6 weeks and 3 days. Dr. LaCosta (?), who was there all day AND all night of my surgery, did my fill. I was more nervous about this than the surgery ! He told me it didnt hurt, but how could that be? Long needle in the belly ??!!?? Well, he's right, of course! It totally did not hurt and it was extra cool to see my band on the monitor !!! He flushed the band - which felt very funny but did not hurt, then I sipped the pink flouro-juice (tasteless), and you watch it go thru - so cool - then I got my 1.7cc's and we got to watch that ! It has taken me longer to type this report than it took for my fill. I went shopping on Revolucion' Ave for a little while then went back to Lucerna. Walked about 2 miles - another TIP: I left Lucerna and turned right - cross the street and about 8-10 minutes up on your left is a large grocery store. I bought CLIGHT (Mexican version of Crystal Light) - the Pina Colada flavor is so delicious!!! Went back this trip and bought about 15 more. There are 2 flavors I have no idea what they are =

Another TIP - if you are jonesing for good coffee - try the BUZZ BUZZ (?) - its again out of Lucerna, turn right - cross street - its only 2 blocks down and they have outdoor seating at the roundabout. Great people watching!

So I'm FILLED ! I admit I've snuck some food, even tho I'm supposed to be on liquids till tomorrow - I've been distractingly hungry 2x. I'll try and only do liquids till tomorrow.

Bottom line: Don't sweat the fill. There's nothing to it -- its all gain!

Be well.

Surgery performed last month in Mexico. Anyone aware of any fill centers in the DC area? Thanks

Hello. I'm also dealing with the same thing. I live in Waldorf MD and have not found a fill center in the DC area yet. I found one but he refused to do my fills. If you get a answer please foward it to me at ladysha313@yahoo.com.

Thanks and good luck.

I know there's a topic about not getting banded while pregnant. But how many of you have been pregnant with the band? Does it effect you or the baby? Are there risks above normal pregnancies? How long did you wait after the band? Does it cause slippage? Pain? Do you get fills? I'm getting banded in May and I want to get preggo after I lose about 50 pounds. Atleast that's my goal anyway. So I'm thinking about a year? Any expercienced boardies? Thanks for helping!

I asked this question on another forum. I was told to wait at least 18 months before getting pregnant. I was told by a few women who are pregnant with the band that they did not get any fills and they did not have any slippage. I can't remember what forum I asked this question on. May you can google that question. I hope this helps.

Cheers to the people who this has worked for but I fear there are far more that it has not worked for. They simply dont speak up.

Did you get banded by Dr. Ortiz. He's great. My sister was banded by Dr. Ortiz and she's lost 75 lbs in a year. Maybe you need a fill. I was banded this month and I've already lost 12 lbs. Well good luck.

Delete

Hey ladies,

I just wanted to say good luck. I just came back from TJ on Saturday and I had a wonderful time. The staff is wonderful there. I had the surgery done on Thursday and was back to full operation at work on Monday. I love this band. The key is to start walking immediately after surgery. I was shopping in TJ the next day for hours. Good luck and keep us posted. >

Hello,

I'm looking for a support group in the DC Metro area. I'm also looking for a doctor to do my fills. I know Dr. Mo in VA is one options but I wanted to know if there were any other doctors in the DC area. I tried fillcenterusa.com but there aren't any in my area. Any suggestions?

Hey Lisa,

Maybe that's what I'm doing wrong. I need to get a thicker yogurt. I can not wait to eat solid foods . I would be very happy with baby food right now.

Update:

Well today is a much better day. After starting the Slim Fast I feel sooooo much better. I'm not hungry anymore. Thank God. >

Hey Lisa,

Maybe that's what I'm doing wrong. I need to get a thicker yogurt. I can not wait to eat solid foods . I would be very happy with baby food right now.