Dreamer

A few weeks ago I had a fill that I thought was too tight. It turned out that I am fine, but a big part of my issue was tightness in the morning. After my first fill, I was tight in the morning, but I still ate some. But after my second fill, I could not even keep water down for the first half of the day. Some days, I pb'ed on my own saliva. It was painful and nasty. So I called and talked to Dr. Martinez. He gave me some advice about my fill, but the best information was about morning tightness. I had assumed there was nothing I could do about it, that was just part of living with the band. But he told me several interesting things. I had posted this before, when I was talking about my tight fill, but it seems that many people have the same issues and I thought this might be easier to find and more helpful to more people. So I apologize if you already know this.

First he said not to eat three hours before bedtime. This was pretty much impossible for me, as I couldn't eat until about 3 in the afternoon for the first time, so dinner was about 7, then I go to bed at 9. So he suggested talking a short walk, 10-15 minutes, or drinking a lot of water before bed. The reason for this is that when we go to bed after eating, some of our meal has not had the chance to make it's way through our band. So when we get up in the morning, it is still there. So when we eat, or drink something, it is blocked with last nights food. The walking or the water help to flush the band, and leave it empty and ready for breakfast in the morning.

Second, he said that sinus problems are a big issue. People with post nasal drip will continue to have that thick mucus run down the back of their throat all night, so when they get up in the morning, the band is plugged with snot. Gross I know, but helpful to know. He suggested seeing a doctor for help with the post nasal drip and drinking hot water first thing to help loosen the snot and get it moving.

Finally, he said that espresso does not work so well with the band for some people. He said coffee is fine, so it is not the caffeine, but for some reason, espresso, especially in the morning, might make the band tighter.

Sure enough, I decided, rather than getting an unfill immediately to try these things for a day or two, and it worked terrific. I still am tighter in the morning, but I can drink slowly and often eat a little. I was trying espresso, to first thing when I woke up, now I have hot tea. I am taking sudafed regularly, which really helps, though I hope to find a more permanent solution, as sudafed gets expensive. And I drink 32 ounces of water every night sitting in bed. I know, I know, I do get up and use the bathroom, but I would rather do that then PB. The water at night, and not eating so close to bedtime has really made a big difference for me. And I am sure that I am drinking enough water that way also.

Anyway, don't know if everyone already knew all this, but is sure helped me.

Good luck all.

Becki

Becki...thanks for sharing this info again, I must have missed it before. It makes sense now to me that when I take a drink of water during the night and then lay back down...it's not emptyin' into my tummy. Good luck on your journey! Dreamer

:) Our experience was fantastic! It has been 4 days since our surgery. Dr. Ortiz is wonderful! We were scared to death (literally) of going to TJ MX. And 17,000 for the both of us was lots of $. Thank God, I have a wonderful, kind, generous hubby! I hate to sound selfish, but our health, mind set, and feeling and looking good about our body image is worth it. I have been a yo yo struggler my whole life, only to keep gaining at 48yrs old. I know I dont have as much to lose as some folks, but the never ending struggle with food is the same.

Kyle was following in my path at only 15yrs old. I started at 185, 5'3" and Kyle 225 at 5'5". We both averaged about 77.5 body fat. Thats ALOT. After researching 24/7 almost constantly anyway, we followed all the preop stuff to begin a new and healthy life. My biggest concern was being able to stick to the liquid stage afterward. I mean, come on, we are eaters and that is our favorite thing to do! Pitafull, I know, BUT LIQUIDS for 21 DAYS! It was TOUGH ENOUGH sticking to the slim fast and a lean cuisine. As luck would have it, My B-day, Oct 26, and Anniv Oct 27! fell into the preop diet. So very tough. I cheated a little.

We flew into SAN. on Oct. 31, Halloween, and I passed out candy eyeballs, how lame, but fun. LOL (I think it was a way to keep my mind off of what was going to happen). We were met by a chaffeur, Fransico, drove threw rush hour traffic and took about an hour to get to the Lucenera Hotel. The security was GREAT there, and everyone friendly. We were shown our room, ate at the MX rest. (good) cheated again. Back to room, fell asleep nervously, woke up and met Mrs. Ortiz in the lobby. She drove us to the Clinic (Bev Hills style).

We checked in, saw Dr. Miranda (she went over the diet post-op) we were weighed, etc. they drew blood, (Kyle almost passed out & about 4 nurses, Dr's. came rushing, laid him down, etc.) very comforting. Next we saw the cardiologist, took a breathing test, EKG, passed everything and were ready for surgery. They gave us 2 pills to relax us (which they did very nicely).

Dr. Ortiz came in and was so funny & made you feel at ease. Talked about how weight is everything, along with being healthy. YES it is!! and he said, Kyle, today your life will change! For the better. He told Kyle to follow the rules for a couple of months, and then he said, Kyle were MANLY MEN, we eat hamb. pizza and eat MEN things, like WOOD and BARK (LOL) and after 2 months I dont care what you eat, eat anything! (Dr. Miranda might have been....a little shocked.) He said teens are the best patients, and he will lose. Kyle loved Dr. Ortiz & the nurses loved Kyle like there own son, then Kyle went back to his room, (he was having surgery 1st) I fell asleep, and was awoken by the nurse.

Kyle had been banded already, I walked in to see him, he mummbled some things, then I walked to O. R. and dont remember anything until I awoke and I was banded. Then we were encouraged to walk. Surprisingly, no pain, but we were given pain med. We were up and using the computers, called home, all the calls home were free. Stayed overnight, the beds were very comfortable, flat screen TV's with more channels then you can imagine. The service was impeccable. The nurses gave us popsicles, chicken broth, etc. Continued to take Blood Pressure, etc.

We were discharged the next morning. Another driver drove us back to the Hotel, for lunch we sipped chicken broth 1/2 cup and were stuffed! (Thanksgiving Stuffed) the same for the O.J. for breakfast the next morning. We took a taxi to the Mall, walked around, bought some things. Back at the Hotel we had a Mom & Son laugh & cry. Talked about how painful it has been that kids will be kids with the teasing of fat kids & how fabulous it is that it will soon be behind him. Kids can be ruthless, and even though you have the ability to laugh it off, the hurt lingers. Great Bonding Time. (He kept this all inside, I didn't know how this effected him) since he knows how to "give it back"

Watched the tube, went to sleep, had breakfast (the OJ). Kelly whom we were banded with the same day, rang our room to meet her and her husband in the rest. We talked for an hour or so, exchanged email and the driver was there to take us back across the border to the Airport. Flew home, and we literally cannot stop laughing from how full we feel. After drinking that O.J. 1/2 cup, at 7a.m. we were stuffed until 5pm. YA WHO. I dont want to get to "cocky", just want to enjoy the wonderful feeling's we are feeling.

I can already see a difference in Kyle's attitude about his weight, He put on a T-shirt he hasnt worn since last year, (a tight muscle T) and He was smiling from ear to ear, and so was I. Apologies for the length, but this was our experience on being banded. He is down to 210 and I am down to 175. He lost 10lbs pre-opt and I lost 8lbs. Were just a little tender but no pain. We LOVED this experience together, and for anyone considering MX. and Dr. Ortiz, it was far more then what I was expecting, and I had high expectations before going.! If your questioning TJ, MX, your probably going to be jumping out of your skin, like me, but not to worry! So, signing off, JOYFUL in AZ! Teri and Kyle PS. Wishing EVERYONE the BEST with whatever you decide!

Teri & Kyle,

Congratulations on your new lifestyle! I can relate to your enthusiam because in April I had the surgery along with my two daughters on the same day. It hasn't always been easy, but we have our own support group....lol! My younger daughter has lost a total of 68# and she looks fabulous. The older daughter's weight loss has been slower (she was a diabetic, but has not had any insulin since surgery)...she has had 4 fills and is just now losing at a steady pace (she also is the only one of us that got the VG band). I had a lower BMI and it has been slow for me to lose, plus I've had 3 fills before I felt restriction. I am progressing very nicely now and would do it again in a heartbeat!

Teri give Kyle a hug for me from Oklahoma....I am proud of him! I know how cruel some young folks can be with overweight people....well older folks can be cruel too, and there's job descrimination as well. So my prayers will be with you two, and God bless you on the most incredible journey of your life!

Dreamer

I am now 6 days post-op and just having questions about if I did the right thing. I had a large hiatal hernia fixed. Dr. Martinez said it was one of the biggest he has seen. I am in a lot of pain and feel like I will never be able to eat or breathe normally again. Everything hurts going down, I am nauseated most of the time, I have the runs really bad, it hurts to take a deep breath. I know I am still healing from sugery, but these are just the questions going through my mind. Is this a good thing to have done?

Julie

Hi Julie,

I am so sorry that you are feeling so poorly at this time. I think what you are feeling, the questions and misapprehensions are normal for post op. Try to keep telling yourself that you did the best thing for yourself, but right now your body is healing. Get plenty of rest and follow the Dr.'s orders to the letter. Don't be afraid to take the pain meds the doctor prescribes. Talk out your fears and frustrations with folks that have been there...the support forums help immensley!

When that weight starts falling off your body, you'll wonder why you waited so long to have it done! Good luck girlfriend and God bless you as your body and mind heals on this journey!

Dreamer

Everyone is different, but I don't think you should have to get filled once a month! I mean... where's your fill going?

It can take a few fills to get to that sweet spot, but the average is 2 to 3 fills that first year (more with the VG band)

Dr. Ortiz would say.... come back to TJ if you can, we charge less and you usually get a more accurate fill.

Remember you can always call Dr. Martinez if you have any specific questions about your fills.

I ,too, borrowed the money to fly to TJ and have my surgery in April.....I borrowed more money in June because it was recommended that I have OCC do my first fill. After a month I had a fill in the US. In all this time I have not lost but 6#.....I am so discouraged. I cannot afford the cost of another flight and the fill cost in TJ. Last week I was notified that the company I have worked for the last 30 years is closing next month. I think I have failed once more.....I had hoped, NO, I had DREAMED of so much more than this.

I tried contacting Dr. Miranda by e-mail twice in July. I copied my message to Rene and asked if he would relay it to Dr. Miranda. I understand that the Dr.'s are busy people with a hectic schedules....so I'm not exactly suprised but greatly disappointed. I've stopped discussing my surgery with others, they look at me and ask where's all that weight that you were supposed to be losing?? Some people can be so cruel or look at me with pity and I hate that!

So sad,

Dreamer

But not with Ortiz. I've posted this in other areas, but I want to say again, I have no problem with Ortiz's credentials. At the end of the day, I found a doctor in Thousand Oaks, CA. Dr. Donald Waldrep has had an office in Sacramento for a long time, and has done a lot of surgeries, both band and bypass. He recently opened an office in Thousand Oaks at a great facility that is within 10 minutes of my house.

Since Dr. Waldrep has not been in southern California for long, he is drastically reducing his rate to get some So Cal clientelle. I am paying $11,011 which covers the surgery and the hospital. I'm going through my PCP for the pre-op labs and screening. I'm paying for the upper GI, a psych eval, and a consult with a nutritionist. My insurance won't cover these things, since this is "elective surgery".

I had an appointment scheduled with Dr. Ortiz, but when I found Dr. Waldrep this close to home, I decided to go with him. It's a little more money than Ortiz, and he hasn't done 3000 bands, but he seems great.

I had an initial consult with two other people. Waldrep went over the history of stomach surgeries, which gave me some useful info for when I discussed this with family. "They used staples in this older procedure, which started a lot of the horror stories your family will tell you." So true for me. He discussed the pros and cons of banding and bypass. Those are the only two surgeries he performs. I've been researching the band for a while, so of course that's what I'm going with.

I've had my psych and nutrition consult. The nutrition consult was pretty great. Of course, the pre- and post- diet is a little different with every office. They want me on liquids for a week before the surgery. Then a week of clear, a week of liquid, and a week of mushy. I think that's the same as Dr. Miranda has you do. One thing my nutritionist mentioned that I was surprised about was the 80 grams of protein they want me to have in a day. The nutritionist showed me a clear protein water that has 40 grams in a 20oz bottle. Don't remember what it's called. I thought to myself how easy it will be, since I can down a bottle mid-morning, and a bottle mid-afternoon! I drink like a fish, so no big deal. Then she reminded me that I can only drink about a dixie cup of liquid at a time. Going to be a lot of work! Sounds like I'm actually going to have to concentrate and plan to get all my nutrients.

I got a call this morning, and they can schedule my surgery for August 17. I got a chest x-ray and an ekg and some labs earlier this week. I have an upper GI tomorrow morning. I have a pre-op appointment this Friday, when I'll have to have payment ready, and we'll go over the last of the details.

I really like the fact that I won't have to be out of town for four days. I can sleep in my own bed the night before surgery, and get home quick.

I'm so excited about this. I keep thinking about how by Christmas, I'll be so much thinner. Really can't wait.

One last thing. Hope I don't offend anyone by talking about another doctor on this forum. I've just talked to lots of you, and wanted to share here.

Rid....Congrats!

Sounds like you've done your homework and found what works for you. This time next week you'll be a BANDSTER!! Be sure and let us know how you progress and how you are feeling. I was not offended at all about you talking about or electing to use another surgeon besides Dr. Ortiz, I just get offended when his character and credentials are questioned. Good luck and smile for us.....your journey has begun my friend! Big hug and you'll be in my prayers next week ....Dreamer

I am having a very unexpected struggle! I'm in my first week of eating solid food post-op, and I keep forgetting to NOT drink when I eat. Before surgery, I would drink 2 or 3 glasses of water or diet coke during a meal...and now, I am so dry-mouthed! I feel like I'm eating cotton...any suggestions would be much apprectiated...

Jodie

Hello Jodie,

We are all creatures of habit, aren't we? lol I, too, found it hard not to drink with a meal...and when eating out I'd often order a beverage without even thinking that I couldn't have it! lol It takes time to adjust to a change in lifetime of routine. But it will happen for you. It took me a short time to realize that solid food helps the my body feel satisfied longer because the food stays in my lil' stomach longer when not washed thru with drink. I'm all for anything that keep my hunger at bay. It is a struggle I don't care what anyone says! And you will also learn what solid foods go down well and those that don't. Like Chelley said, the smaller bites help, and for me drinking a substantial bottle or glass of water about 30 minutes "before" I eat helps keep me from eating too fast....that is NOT good! I hate PB'ing! I have to make sure that I do not allow myself to get too hungry...also the fiber tablets were useless to me! Just access and remember what works for you...everyone is different....also share your thoughts and problems with us here, you just might find a solution that you'd not thought about that will work for you! Keep your chin up and good luck on your journey~~~ Dreamer

Well my surgery is set - has been for over a month now - I have gone through a serious of emotions from nervous to excited. Now I feel apathetic about the entire processes. My surgery is still a month away. I am doing all the expected things. Making sure I have all my duckes in a row. But, still nothing. What's wrong with me. I want this, I need this! Why am I not feeling more about it. Will the excitment come back as I get closer? Will the apathey continue to the surgery date? Is this good or bad?

Not a lot ruffles my feathers, so maybe this is the norm for me.

Any way, I would be interested if anyone else has felt this way in their journey. Thanks.

Hi there Lanie...

Bless your heart, I wish you knew how great you are going to feel in about six weeks! I was banded April 18, 2006 by Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Martinez. I was reluctant to let myself get too excited, because none of the other things I had ever tried (and believe you me, I tried 'em all) had worked. But, when I began my pre-op ritual, I began to feel better, had more energy, and was so excited. It took every penny I could rake and scrape togther to make the 3 hour flight and pay for my surgery...I had a few lingering thoughts about that. Then I asked myself what I had to lose? The answer made me smile.....FAT! Fat kills Lanie. I wanted to know what it was like to live as a thinner, healthier woman and thus I was ready to begin my journey towards my new life....and I pray that you will too!

Keep us posted on your feelings.....you'll find support here! God bless and guide you is my prayer!

Sending you a big hug sweetie,

Dreamer

I know there were several of you who were banded around the same time I was, yet we haven't heard from you now that you are several months post-op. How is everyone doing? I have been pretty frank in my "blog" as I call it under the newly banded section about the ups and downs of being banded. I've been participating in lapbandtalk just to be able to get some feedback from others who have been banded longer. Let us hear from those of you who have had the band for a while ... your support and experience are invaluable.

Chelley,

I was banded in April, as you know, I am not as restricted as I had hoped to be. I had my first fill on June 12 (1.5cc). I have lost 18 pounds total post and pre-op, and I am thankful that it has been slow. At my age I make wrinkles at a fast enough rate on my own, without adding fast weight loss and excess skin to the table. (Smiling) No, you may not ask my age! lol

My concern is that I haven't enough restriction to discourage overeating.....if I could control that, I would not have needed the band! I want that shut-off valve of restriction, and if I don't listen to it, I want the PBing to remind me...and believe you me..I hate that!!! I'm a quick study, so it won't take but a few times of that to learn to "stop eating" when the red flag goes up!

I had a second fill July 25 (.5cc) and I feel a greater degree of restriction and am keeping my fingers crossed that I have just enough to curb my urge to nibble.

I do it again in a skinny-assed minute! Wouldn't you? lol

God bless you my child!

Dreamer

Hello everyone,

I don't object to questions or constructive criticism, nor did I read that into Chelly's comments. I too, am a very satisfied, loyal and devoted advocate of Dr. Ortiz', my opinion is that as a physician, he is second to none! This man's credentials and resume, although impressive, mean so little compared to "the man" that Dr. Ortiz is....talk to his colleague's, his employee's, and his patients....meet with him one on one....then "you" decide. This Dr. is the elite in the lap-band field!

He gave me my life back.....and I thank God for him every day! He cares about his patients, did you ever know of another Dr. who gives his patients his cell phone number? Yeah, I'm happy that I was banded, happier that I was banded by the best surgeon in his field....and loyal to him? Damn right!!!

Good luck to everyone on your journey, it is not always easy.....but it is doable! May God guide you all in making the right decisions for yourself.

Dreamer

Banded April 18, 2006 in TJ by Dr. Ortiz (and darned proud of it)

After surgery we all have to make changes in our eating habits....especially after having a fill. I know you fellow bandsters have tried variations on favorite recipes in attempts to incorporate them into your new lifestyle. Maybe if we share a few of the neat tricks we've learned, we can help someone else as this forum has helped us.

I don't mind that my food intake is now limited.....but I want what I do eat to taste good! You say we should all be eating normal food.....but normal for some is just not that for others! lol

Wouldn't it be great if Dr. Miranda had a weekly word of advise for us diet wise?

This is something that I heard that sounds interesting. Some bandsters have trouble eating scrambled eggs, but this is a recipe for an omelet. You break a couple of eggs into a freezer bag, and add the other diced ingredients that you want (onion, peppers, mushrooms, grated cheese). Zip the bag closed and work the mixture with your hands to mix well. Drop bag into a pan of boiling water. When omelet is done to your taste, just open the bag and slide onto your plate.

Good luck,

Dreamer

I had my first fill on June 12, 2006 in TJ (1.5cc) I kept thinking to myself "give me more" these trips are so expensive...lol But I know Dr. Romaro knows what he's doing! I do have restriction, sometimes more so than others (haven't figured that one out). These are all terrific people, and I would love to continue my care under them, but the expense of private pay and air travel will make this impossible.

My job is very physically demanding, I work hard and at a fast pace all day...AND I do get hungry. I find it almost impossible to go 4-6 hours without eating. I know we are supposed to limit meals to three per day....but man it's just so hard to do when your body is screaming out for fuel! And I find myself losing concentration and tiring out fast if I do not eat. My weight loss is slow....I try to remind myself that I did not get in this obese condition overnight and can't expect to lose it overnight!

Good luck to everyone on their journey and my prayer is that God will assist us in meeting all our needs. Bless Dr. Ortiz and his entire staff and keep them in His care! pssst......... Love you Chelley & Misty!!

Dreamer

Dr. Romero did my first fill June 12, 2006. He is very courteous and communicates well in English. He explained everything he was about to do, so I had no surprises. He allowed me to view the barium as it entered my stomach and I watched it gently flow into my larger stomach. He injected 1.5cc of saline into my port and stated that he felt that was sufficient. He encouraged me to drink the full bottle of water he gave me before leaving the clinic. He kindly answered all my questions before moving to the next patient. The entire procedure took less than 30 minutes. Good luck!

Hello everyone,

I am in the final stages of making my decision about having the lap band fitted, in fact by yesterday evening I had decided to go for it. Then I spoke to two very helpful people who both advised that after banding I would NEVER AGAIN be able to eat bread or french fries, never!!! Both these foods did not contribute to my weight problem, however, I am a rebellious soul and so once I'm told I cann't do/have something it becomes so important to me. I was hoping that I could still eat and drink everything (bread and french fries included) but just in much, much, much smaller portions.

Any advice and personal experience welcomed.

Hello Brealeytown,

I am Barbra, and I was banded by Dr. Ortiz/Dr. Martinez on April 18, 2006. The success of Lap-band is based on choices you make my friend, it is merely a tool to aide you in making the right choices. You may well be able to eat any and everything that you want after Lap-band, but you must know that in order to lose weight you must burn more calories than you take in. FAT KILLS dear one! French fries and bread clogs arteries and makes you fat. Try telling your rebellious nature that you can have "anything" you choose....but you "choose" to eat healthier, more nutricious foods because you deserve the best that life has to offer. Dr. Miranda is the staff nutritionist at OCC, and she is fantastic! She will counsel with you and advise you on what roll you must play in order to be successful in this new venture. God bless you on this journey and may He guide and direct you in making the right choices for you! Let us hear from you! Barbra

I am very excited about my surgery and have been reassured about so many things but the one thing I have noot read much about is the scars around the incisions? How are they and what have you been putting on them to minimize the scar. help i want to look good and not have noticable scars.

Hello there Chrissysdolphin,

I was banded on April 18 by Dr. Ortiz in TJ. I have four tiny (maybe a quarter inch) incissions scars and one scar ( where my port site is) that is approximately one and one fourth inches. The highest scar is about where the band of my bra would rest. Now my girls are 36DD's and I elected to wear a good support sports bra for a few days just to be more comfortable and so my incission site could breathe. lol I also decided to go to IVORY SOAP for my showering, because it is a product with no additives, just pure natural ingredients and I used it to bathe my babies when they were little with delicate skin.

My surgical sites have healed just fine and although I used to tan in a tanning bed, my personal preference was to stop doing this. I feel that my scars will be ever so slight and I'd just bet that you'll be wearing a two piece bathing suit in no time at all!

You have the best surgeon available and rest assured all will go well! Let us hear from you and I'll be thinking of you!

Hugs,

Dreamer

I will want to know where that pharmacy is because my pain tollerance sucks and I want to be feeling good for the first few days. BTW...does it make you feel like a Super Doll?? LOL

Dear Housecat Girl,

The medication that Dr. Ortiz provides will be more than sufficient, because there will be little need for it! However, finding a pharmacy will not be a problem either...because they are on every corner in Tijuana! lol

I had the liquid Tylenol and the Gas-X strips...never used either one! I was up walking an hour after surgery and felt wonderful. Walk, walk, walk........and then walk some more!

I walked myself into surgery and Dr. Ortiz's and Dr. Martinez along with their staff are all just superb. Guess what? One of his surgical nurses raised her scrub top so I could see her surgical site.... I could hardly call them scars because the were so insignificant...and she let me touch her port sight. My pre-surgical jitters disappeared. I'd do it all again in a heartbeat!

You are in good hands...Dr. Ortiz is the "BEST". Good luck and keep us posted!

Hugs,

Dreamer

I have heard that other doctors doing weight loss surgeries recommend removing the gall bladder at the same time if you are prone to attacks or possible problems.

Does Dr. Ortiz do this? if so, has anyone had it done at the same time as their banding?

Has anyone had (or is having) any problems with their gall bladders after surgery?

Thanks....my banding is set for June 9th!

Hi Cindi,

I was banded by Dr. Ortiz on April 18, 2006. I have not experienced any problems with my gallbladder at all. My two daughters were banded on the same day as I. We are all doing great! And to answer your question, yes Dr. Ortiz does perform the gallbladder removal at the same time as banding if he feels that it is justified.

My daughter's and I found his book " LAP-BAND FOR LIFE" an invaluable tool for questions and concerns such as yours. It is available at many leading book stores and always at Amazon. I highly recommend it and I assure you that it has become my "Life Line"...lol The girls' and I each have our own copy and we refer to it often! We're talking about a world reknown surgeon here Cindy who is at his patients disposal! How lucky is that?? lol

Good luck with your surgery on June 9, it's a breeze! My daughter's and I were walking an hour after surgery and we went shopping the afternoon we were released. You'll do fine sweetie!!

Keep us posted on your progress...... Dreamer

Hi

I am having surgery May 12th. I will be starting my post op diet soon. I dont know what i would have done with out this message board. I have learned so much and so many of my questions have been answered.

Anyone having surgery this day???

Monica

Hello Monica,

Guess you are now on the pre-op portion of this procedure! I want to encourage you to follow it through, it will make it easier on you and the Dr who does your surgery.

Good luck and let us know how you are doing! I was banded April 18, and would do it again in a heartbeat!

Dreamer

Congratulations! I was just banded two weeks ago. The staff is great!!! Aren't those "i don't care pills" wonderful???? LOL!

So Marc, how you doing now? Loved your experience notes! I was banded 3 weeks ago and have more energy than I know what to do with.

I am going to try working out with weights as soon as I heal a little more, build up my muscles and revv up my metabolism. I walk alot now and seldom get really hungry unless I think about it or look at the clock. Then my brain tells me it's almost lunchtime, almost dinnertime! Going to have to relearn many things.

I know I'm not drinking enough water....gonna have to work on that. Got to flush them fat cells out of my body!!

Take care and let us hear from you.

Dreamer

Hi Everyone! I wanted to share my experience with you in the hopes it would help others. I like details so if you don't want to read a very detailed post, you might want to skip mine.

I'm 38 years old and I'm a Registered Nurse in the USA. I began gaining weight when I was about 12 years old. My top weight has been 238lbs and I'm 5'4". Like many of you, I tried to loose weight in a variety of ways through fad diets, weight watchers, and medications. I'd get short term results then gain what little weight I'd lost back. In 2001 I developed diabetes and for the last 4 years I've been on insulin with poor blood sugar control. My last labs showed an A1C of 10.7 ... ouch!

I'd researched the lap band and was very interested in the concept of the procedure, but when I found out it wasn't covered by most insurance groups and the cost in my area was priced at $17,500 if you qualified for outpatient surgery or $36,000 for an inpatient stay I realized it was not an option for me. There are several companies in the USA that will provide a medical loan, but the payments were $400/mo or more for a minimum of 45-60 months. So, I lay to rest the idea of having a lap-band and resigned myself that it just wasn't meant to be.

In March, my sister called me very exicted about finding Dr. Ortiz's website on the internet. When she told me we could have the lap-band done in Mexico at a fraction of the cost USA doctors had quoted, she lost me on Mexico. There was no way I was having surgery in Mexico! I guess it was devine intervention that urged me to follow up on the lead my sister had found. As I began researching the Obesity Control Center and Dr. Ortiz, I found out his credentials are just what he claims. My homework paid off. I talked to former patients who had lap band surgery in Mexico. After verifying Dr. Ortiz's credentials, I purchased his book Lap-Band For Life on amazon.com and found it to be very informative and am using it as a reference now that I'm post-op.

I filled out the online request for information at the OCC website and was suprised when Carolyn, Dr. Ortiz's Consultant Coordinator called me the next day. Carolyn was so warm and gracious and spoke to me about her own lapband experience and put me totally at ease. Still I wasn't sure I wanted to have this procedure done. I took some time to think about it and discussed it with my mother and sister. Over the next several days we three decided we all wanted to have the procedure and decided we would do it together and be each other's support team. I really felt empowered making this decision to save my life! With the decision made, we scheduled surgery within two weeks to take advantage of the $8,500 discounted cost for the month of April in recognition of Dr. Ortiz openning his brand new clinic in TJ, Mexico. Things happened quickly.

We began the pre-op diet 1 week before surgery. At the start of the pre-op diet, I weighed in at 227.5 lbs. I won't gloss it over and say this diet was easy because for me it wasn't. The Fit 365 powder mix did not taste good to me. It had a very, very sweet taste and being diabetic and on sugar-free regimen I couldn't tolerate it. The powder was hard to mix, clumped and I just didn't like it. Besides, the company sent me the wrong flavor ...I ordered vanilla and they sent chocolate. I switched to Slim Fast Optima High Protein and found I liked the taste, consitency and most of all the ease of popping a can in my lunch bag without having to mix a powder. I ate lots of salad greens. The balsamic vineagar recommended was not satisfying alone, so I purchased several of the Newman's Light Salad Dressings (including their balsamic vineagarette) and limitted them to 2T a serving. The first few nights I went to bed with my tummy rumbling in hunger. It had been a long time since I'd gone to bed hungry! But after the first few days the hunger pains subsided and I was doing very well and dropping weight. My sister, mother and I all supported each other and stuck to our pre-op diets.

Finally the day came to go to Mexico. This was the worse day of nerves for me. Up until this point I had not been nervous at all. With my decision made, I had a goal in mind and nothing was going to get me off track. I was totally suprised how nervous I was on this day and it really wasn't reservations about having surgery ... it was the travel. After 6 hours of travel and not having anything to eat since midnight, my nerves were shot. I felt rushed. Once we arrived in San Diego, we were met by our diver in the baggage claim area. He was late a few minutes due to difficult crossing the border that morning. So, don't panic if your driver isn't right there waiting for you in the baggage claim area. Apparently it can take up to 4 hours at times to cross the border and they have no way of knowing from day to day how busy the border control check point will be. Our driver spoke English and was very courteous. Since he had so much trouble crossing the border into the USA he drove us to a point in San Diego where we were met by Mrs. Ortiz and she actually drove us on into Mexico so the driver could go back to the airport and pick up another arrival.

Do yall know it was COLD in San Diego and TJ?? When we left the USA our high was going to be in the 90's. We'd researched the web and found out the temperature in TJ was scheduled to be about 68-74 degrees.... we packed capris and t-shirts and wore flip flops... froze. It was about 54 degrees. Take a jogging suit and some tennis shoes if you are going soon. Forget the swim suits we packed thinking we'd take advantage of the pool before surgery. Waste of packing space. Mrs. Ortiz met us with a pant suit and duster on!

Mrs. Ortiz is Dr. Ortiz's mother and is the Patient Advocate. She is a very gracious lady and I enjoyed her company. She immediately put me at ease by her warm hospitality. Mrs. Ortiz drove us across the border and straight to the clinic. The clinic is beautiful and very clean and organized. I found the OCC cleanliness standards were higher than the hospital I work at here in the USA! We stored our luggage in the lobby and immediately went into a consultation with Dr. Miranda, the Nutritionist. Dr. Miranda interviewed us as a group (with our permission) and she measured our actual height and weight for a true BMI. I'm very happy to report I weighed in at 215lbs!! She also calculated percentage of body fat was helpful and gave us lots of information about the post op diet and the eating plan for the rest of our lives on the band. Next, we had blood drawn for lab work then we saw the Cardiologist, Dr. Jimenez. It was here that whatever nerves I had left were totally put to ease. I work with Cardiologists every day in my job and in Dr. Jimenez I recognized a doctor who was every bit the counterpart of his American colleages. His bedside manner was very good and even though I am a nurse, he recognized I was also a patient and had the same fears and concerns any patient has. He answered all my questions and I literally breathed a sigh of relief!

Mrs. Ortiz then drove us to the Lucerne Hotel and gave us tips on shopping, hailing cabs and such in TJ. She is such a nice lady. The hotel is beautiful. We each had our own individual rooms. The first thing we did was eat... we were all so hungry. We ate in the hotel resturant and had a club san with french fries and a diet coke. After the strict pre-op diet, I couldn't even eat half ... was full! With our bellies satisfied, we hailed a cab and went to Revolution Ave for a 10 block shopping experience not to be forgotten. You can't really browse... every vendor wants you to come in their store and everyone wants to make a deal. I enjoyed the experience and made some really good buys on jewlery. A word of advice about the cabs... the red and white ones only charge $3 per trip whereas the blue and white one in the hotel parking lot charges $5. To make sure we could get back to the hotel safely, we took some of the business cards from the hotel counter and showed those to the cab driver on the trip back. We had a light supper at the hotel and then off to bed... exhausted.

We were met in the hotel lobby by Mrs. Ortiz at 8am promptly for our ride to the clinic. We checked out of the hotel that morning. I wasn't nervous at all. I woke up excited, realizing that I was changing my life today!!! I don't think any of us were nervous, we were just ready to start this journey! At the OCC we filled out our surgical paperwork then were taken back into the hospital section by the nurse where we donned shoe covers. I was shown my room and given a gown to put on. The hospital rooms are very nice with flat screen TV's & a water fountain feature on the bedside stand. My room even had a loveseat in it that made out into a bed. The very first thing they did was give me a cup with two tablets in it to place under my tongue. One was Ativan (relaxes you) and the other was a med to help lower blood pressure. The nurse came in and started an IV in my left hand and administered antibiotics. They assisted me with TED hose (white thigh high hose that help with blood circulation in your legs). Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Martinez came by to talk with us before surgery. Dr. Estrada the anesthesiologist came by to talk with me and I was most interested in talking with him because I had concerns about being put to sleep and he reassured me.

The Ativan made me very sleepy. At some point I know they gave a premedication of anti-nausea medication to avoid nausea after anesthesia and I got a shot in my side that was a blood thinner. I lost all concept of time. I didn't even know when my mother went into surgery only that she had come back and was doing well. I walked down the hall to check on her and my sister. Sister was next to have surgery, but I didn't see her post-op because it was my turn. My nurse walked me to the bathroom and asked me to void (urinate) then I actually walked into the surgical suite and lay down on the OR table. I wasn't scared or nervous. They explained everything they were doing. The last thing I remember was Dr. Estrada saying he was going to lightly lay the oxygen mask on my face... I was in dream land. I was annoyed when they woke me up because I was having a great dream! Haha! I remember scooting over onto my hospital bed then the next thing I remember was waking up in my room with my nurse at bedside. She assured me everything was okay and with that bit of knowledge I slept for a while.

I woke up on my own. Sat up on the side of the bed. No pain. The nurse was immediately at my side and she allowed me to stand. I pushed my IV pole down the hall to check on Mom and Sister ... both snoozing away. I had a little nausea and was given medication in my IV that made it go away. I would sleep a while, then get up and walk. I never had any gas pains after surgery. I was able to urinate just fine. I tolerated a popsicle without nausea. I was concerned for my sister ... she woke up from surgery crying having had a bad dream. She had some nausea and dry heaved a bit, but she was fine by morning.

I was awakened by Dr. Martinez the next morning. He told me I'd done well and that my surgery had only taken 12 min for the actual band placement. They used dermabond (surgical glue) to close the 5 sites I had (4 instrument sites and 1 port site). He explained what each site was for and checked for signs of infection. He gave me discharge instructions and I felt really good. No pain, just a little sore at the port. Mom and Sister were discharged as well. Mrs. Ortiz drove us to a store where we purchased flavored water and gatorade. She gave us pain pills to be taken every 12 hours for a total of 4 doses. I had packed my gas x strips but had left my liquid Tylenol at home, so I purchased some liquid Tylenol at the counter. We checked back into the hotel and felt so good we decided to shop that afternoon and went to a mall a few blocks from the hotel. We sat and talked and laughed then would walk the grounds that evenning, then exhausted fell into bed.

The next morning we checked out the of the hotel and were picked up by an airport van driver at 10am. It took us about 2 hours to cross the border - 4 lanes bumper to bumper. No problem crossing just time consuming. We all did fine except on the esculator at the airport... give yourself plenty of room between people... some ladies stopped at the top with their luggage looking around where to go next forgetting others were behind them and I had to pull my lugage up and side step to keep from falling over them... PAIN!!! Brought tears to my eyes!!! Had to stop and deep breathe.

Since the surgery last week I am able to burp. I can't force it... just kinda relax and let it come but I have a VG band were Mom and Sister have the size 10. They can't burp. Gas hasn't been much of an issue I guess because I'm able to burp. I can only eat about 1/2 cup of liquid at a time. It's a challenge to sip and get in the 1 1/2 cups of watered juice and the 1 1/2 cups of Gatorade you are suppose to drink plus the water on the clear liquid diet. Sip..sip... sip.

I'm glad I got the band. I feel great. My most exciting news is since surgery is I've not had to have one insulin injection and my blood sugar levels are normal. I hope my post helps any of you who want to know more of what the experience is like planning and having surgery in Mexico. Dr. Ortiz and his team are FABULOUS!!! God bless you on your journey!

Hi Chelley,

Now I know why all the doctors ask for you, good doctors want the best nurses! You are very detail oriented. But as you said, this is your experience and perhaps it will help others make the decision to be banded a little easier. You can never be "too" informed. Your Mom is very proud of you and your sister!

My prayer is that God will continue to be your quide and source of strength in all things! You go girl!!!!

Love, Mom

Thanks Dreamer!! How are you feeling? Did you stay at the Lucerna? How was that? Do you live locally? I can't wait, I am counting the days until June 28th!!! But, I am happy I have time to coorespond with people that have recently been banded. I feel the more I know the more I will be prepared when it's my turn and then I can help the newbies get through it....

Hi Laura,

I am feeling great and thank you for asking. I have so much energy that I tend to over-do it. I am still on the clear liquids and you know what? There is not a lot of variety in clear liquids, but I can honestly say that I am not hungry when I follow Dr. Ortiz's orders. Sometimes I forget to sip my water and things like that, and I kind of feel hungry ( I think I look at the clock and say "It's time to eat so I'm supposed to feel hungry"...lol) But I am surprised at how easy the surgical experience was, and like I said before, at how much energy I have.

Yes, I stayed at Hotel Lucerna. It is nice enough for anyone and very clean. The people there are so accomdating and always there to help. I was awed at the weather and advise you even with the weather reports saying nice weather.....take loose, comfortable clothes, and a jacket. It may just be the breeze off the Pacific Ocean, but it was about 40 degrees cooler than what I expected. You can get your walking in on the grounds because they are lovely...and they also have a gym on the second floor just across the hall from the elevators.

Not sure what you mean about living locally. I live in Oklahoma. I traveled two and a half hours to Dallas and flew to San Diego. Would do it all again in a heart-beat! My two daughter's and I had surgery the same day. They are both nurses, so you can imagine all the research we did before making our final decision. You'll do great.....Good luck hun! Talk to you soon....Dreamer

I was banded last week in Tijuana by Dr. Ortiz. More or less I feel okay... however I feel very hungry and some pain (I guess from the gas). I immediately assumed that my "hunger" was mental, but I can hear my stomach growling and feeling hunger pangs, plus I have been on plenty of crash diets where I fasted from 3-5 days, or took some version of Phen and didn't eat ANYTHING all day and didn't feel as hungry as I have since the surgery.

I am hoping that it will start to subside when I transition to full liquids later this week. We'll see. I am optimistic.

The worst part so far though is that I have managed (somehow) to catch a cold and can't stop sneezing OOOUUCCHHH!!!!!

I'll keep checking in and posting my progress, but like I said I am an optimistic person, and I believe that this LAP-BAND must work, or else people wouldn't be having the type of success, and others wouldn't be traveling in droves and paying such costs to follow in their foot steps if it didn't work.

So to everyone out there - keep your chins up!

Hello Crash,

I was banded last week by Dr. Ortiz also. I know what you are experiencing as far as the hunger pangs go. I was an emotional eater...food comforts me..and I nibbled alot. I emptied my cupboards before my pre-op diet phase (took a tip from Dr. Phil who says "if it ain't there, you can't eat it"!...lol) This was easy for me to do because I am a widow and have no one else living with me to consider the sharing of nourishment.

I have an enormous excess of energy, so much so, that I have over-done it. Dr. Ortiz's book is a great source of inspiration and motivation for me. He keeps emphasizing that this is a "tool" not a magic wand. I keep telling myself that I must learn to think more of myself (health wise) than that great ol' big bagel smothered in cream cheese that packs on the pounds and clogs my arteries! (Smiling big time!)

You can do it Crash....and we are all here to help you! We all have a story.....some of us will succeed and others will succumb and try to blame it on oh just anything handy, the doctor, their spouse, their family, etc. I get my greatest motivation and support from my two daughter's who were banded the same day as I, however, the bottom line is when I stand in my bathroom, naked as the day I was born and I see the real me. I don't much like it...I can see the FAT around my tummy choking my heart to death and I know that it is up to me to do my part, Dr. Ortiz has done his part, now it's up to me! I say "God help me" and I know that I can make it through one more minute, one more sip of water or gator-aide, one more hour and a pop sicle, one more post in lapband forum with a human on the other end that knows exactly what it feels like, one more day and a few more pounds lighter.....ONE DAY AT A TIME....because FAT KILLS! And ya' know what Crash? We're worth it! God be with and an angel on your pillow to encourage you and set you free from food! Good luck my friend...... Dreamer

I agree with everyone about researching and making a decision based upon your own needs. A loan to do the surgery is about as good an investment that anyone could make on their own behalf in my opinion. I highly recommend that you read "Lap-Band For Life" by Dr. Ortiz...Amazon.com, this will answer all the questions you might have and also will serve as a reference later on after your surgery! It's invaluable.

Are you a diabetic on insulin or meds? You probably won't be after surgery!

Do you have high blood pressure? You probably won't after surgery!

Fat kills, one way or the other, physically and emotionally!! You're worth the cost of lap-band!!

God bless,

Dreamer

The instructions say clear liquids for first week. Does that mean anything clear?

I am confused between the difference between the 2nd and 3rd week...

Are you not supposed to add protein until the 3rd week?

Thanks, Laura

Hello Laura,

I just had my lapband on Tuesday of this week and I am on the "clear liquid phase. " Clear liquids are to keep you hydrated and allow the band to adjust into its proper place without having to worry about slippage.

I drink white grape juice, apple juice, crystal light, cranberry or cranapple juice, all diluted with half water. Nothing with pulp. No carbonated drinks ever again. I also have regular jello (not sugar free), and popsicles! I am allowed clear broths like chicken or beef.

Today I boiled a hunk of roast tenderloin with a couple of potatoes and one onion...when they were done, I removed the beef (made my son a sandwich with that....lol) and I took a hand-held blender that I refer to as my "motorboat" and blended the beef broth, potato and onion into a clear but tasty soup!

My next phase is "full liquid" which means I can begin to add small amounts of protein to my diet, such as adding milk to my chicken broth, and I can have instant oatmeal with a small amount of butter. I can have yogurt as long as it had no fruit chunks in it. Laura, this is a very doable diet. I am never hungry or thirsty!

I am doing great and seeing the results already is a terrific motivation to keep on going!

Dr. Ortiz and his staff are always there to accomodate any questions or help you resolve your insercurities. Good luck and keep us bandsters posted on your progress......sending you a big hug!

Dreamer

So I have been reading thru many of the post both here and on other sites. I was wondering what was the time frame between making the decision to have the surgery and then when your surgery is scheduled. Are we talking weeks or months? I was also wondering from y'all what was required for you in terms of pre-op stateside? How did your promary care doctors feel about you having the procedure?

Thanks,

outdoorgrl

Hello Outdoor Girl!

You are right to research this well. Reach a decison based upon what you think, not your primary physician, spouse or family. This is taking control of your life for you! Sure be considerate to others, but so many try to sabbatoge the procedure or the life style change to new healthier and lovely YOU!

The frame work is actually less than you might think, or it was for me. I am scheduled for surgery next week in Tiajuana, Mexico. Dr. Ortiz and his staff have been excellent in assisting me stateside and everything just fell into place. If you are using insurance, it may take a little longer for precertification, etc. But by private pay and scheduling considerations were really quick for me!

The pre-op stateside is very simple. A week before surgery I went on a liquid diet to shrink my liver and aide in the surgical procedure and faster recovery. The staff of Dr. Ortiz guides you swiftly and surely on your way to a new banded lifestyle. He has an excellent book that is readily available from Amazon entitled "Lap-band For Life". It details the expertise of the world reknown surgeon and the steps to aide you in a healthier life style as a normal size person.

Good luck in your decision.

Dreamer