Goofy219

I have been cold for the past 2.5 years because of Hypothyroidism so I didn't really notice a difference as the weight started coming off.

I went alone. Just got back the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. It was a piece of cake. I had my Lapband removed and the sleeve done all at the same time.

Good luck Briangie.

I have had the lapband since July 2008. Last October I lost my job during a reduction in force and my band slammed shut on me. Had to make an emergency trip to Mexico to have it completely opened. I have since gained the weight back that I had lost. The maintenance is just too much. I am considering having it removed and having the sleeve now that I have a new job. Just scared to have a fill and it tighten up on me again. Those of you that have had this: 1. Were you able to have the surgery all at one time or did you have to have the lapband removed first then go back for the sleeve? 2. How long is the recovery if you have it all at one time? Time at the clinic, then time at the hotel? 3. Are you happier with the sleeve than you were with the band? Any information is greatly appreciated in helping with my decision.

I don't know how far you want to drive, but there is a doctor in Lake Charles, LA. His name is Dr. Richard Shimer. He is a baratric surgeon and I have seen him before for a fill. He does them blind or under fleuro. He is NOT cheap. It was the same price for me to get a flight and go back to the OCC as it was for him. But, if you need someone in an emergency, it might help. I think the last time I went it cost me about $350. His number is 337-478-2327.

What are you doing now to lose weight before your scheduled surgery date?

I have never had to walk in the line of people. I have ridden in the OCC van through the commercial lane and stayed in the van until it was time for the van to be searched. I then walked into the side of the customs building into a very short line and walked through to the US side. It has been almost a year since I've been there so maybe some things have changed, but I have never had to wait very long.

I had the same symptoms of sliming, acid reflux, waking up at night choking, etc. I went back to OCC and Dr. So unfilled me because my pouch was enlarged. I went back a couple months later and everything was fine and I got a fill. My band had not slipped, but could have had I not went in to get it checked. I had to take Maalox and was on liquids for several days to allow the inflamation to go down and my pouch returned to normal size. You need to get it checked. You probably need an unfill. My symptoms had been going on for a couple of months before I finally decided to have it checked. Hope this helps.

You need to check with your Human Resources Department to see what their policy is regarding FMLA. I am the Human Resources Director where I work and our policy is you must take FMLA if you will be out more than 3 days. We do allow them to use their sick or vacation time in conjuction with FMLA. I would if I were you because if something happens, FMLA is there to protect your job.

Glad to hear it's getting easier each day. Have you gotten to see your flat belly during dressing changes? How much longer for the drains? Happy healing.

You can email Linda Martin at linda@thearielcenter.com. She is the patient coordinator for the cosmetics surgeries. Very nice person. When I contacted her she said you can email pictures in for a quote, but I am going back to OCC in February to have my band checked so I am just going to do my consult then. Hope this helps.

Just wondering how you are doing after your surgery. Hope everything went well for you. Post when you are feeling better and let us know how you are doing. Happy healing.

Did they tighten your stomach muscles and did they also reposition your port? I can feel mine and still need to lose another 25lbs or so. I know my port would have to be moved deeper.

How long do you have to keep the drain tubes in and do you have to go back to OCC to get the tubes taken out?

Good luck. I know you will do great.