RogerF

Tom, No cold feet yet. I'm actually getting more excited the more I read and and review the forums on what to expect. I got both Dr. Ortiz's book and the one by J.Ahroni, both were pretty good. I also dropped 1 shake, and added some broccoli for lunch. I'm using the HMR 800 shakes (16gr protein, 160 cals) which whip up fairly well. Good for 10 pounds over the first three days. So now I'm at 20 lbs down since Aug 2nd (so what do I need the band for? I think we all know the answer to that). So while I'm determined in the short term, I'm looking forward to making a fast start and continuing with the bands help. I'm ready for Friday. Nice to see some other guys on the forum. Here's a question, do we need to chest/belly shave before? Roger

Hey Tom, Hang in there on the pre-op. I also started mine yesterday and have surgery the day after you. Yesterday wasn't bad, but I think it will get boring quickly. For me, it was probably the first day without a meat of some sort that I can remember. But it's all for good and I'm gonna keep positive. Roger

I'd be interested also, unless you all want to just talk about girlie issues I'm scheduled for Sept. 8th Roger Port Orchard

I understand that the the benefit of the pre-op diet is to "shrink the liver" to aid the surgery and recovery. I'm still about three weeks out from my band date, but in the last three weeks (since 8/2) I've managed to lose 12 lbs on my own. Is there any other benefit to the pre-op liquid diet? Does your system need to be prepared for the liquids only phase afterwards? If it is important to lose quite a bit in the last in the week before banding, should I back off on what I'm doing now? Roger

Lori, Is this the hotel with the shuttle service to medical offices in TJ? I read about it somewhere and it sounded like a good option for some of us who might fly in. I'd be interested if you find out more. Would a one day car rental be easier and cheaper than a shuttle? Is it that difficult or not recommended to to drive ourselves into TJ for a fill? Do rental car agencies prohibit this? Roger

Not sure how that all works, but I'm flying in the morning of the 7th from Seattle for surgery the 8th. Roger

Thanks all, I was planning to keep things somewhat private from work and a few days for a long weekend wouldn't be unusual. But I guess I'll just take what I need to.

I've seen references to being able to go back to work after banding in 3-5 days, but have read some experiences of 1-2 weeks or more. I work from a desk, barring any complications how soon should I really be able to go back. I'm scheduled for a Friday. Can I be back Monday? Or should I expect to be off at least the whole week? Roger

Hi Nita, Yes, I'm getting excited to start this new journey. I'm right at about 100# over which was why I decided something needed to be done. Flying in just after 10am on the 7th. Look forward to meeting you. Roger

Thanks Claire, Now that I look closer, in the materials it states a 10 "cm" band is routinely used. This looks like it is still a 4 "cc" band".

I'm scheduled for the 8th also. I made the decision and decided to go for it and get in as soon as I could. Roger

I just got my paperwork for banding on the 8th. I saw a line that said the 10cm band is routinely used. Is this the common practice now? I haven't seen much about the differences between them or when this would be required. Does it make a difference? Roger

I just got on the schedule for Sept 8th also. Haven't booked a flight yet , but I'm coming in the from SeaTac.