MimIN

I had my port replaced and tubing repositioned at OCC May 10th. Mine was a little different then a standard port replacement because my actual issue was unknown I went into surgery, they did an exploratory and then fixed me. almost two weeks later everything is great, the incision hurts a bit still but the port itself (it's lower then the incision) is good and no pain.

I was banded by Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Martinez in Sept 2006 and had tremendous success, I was very happy with my band. I did not go back to OCC for fills or follow ups, I found a Dr closer by to do all my aftercare. I went through an ungodly amount of adjustments. Too tight, too loose and constant up and down and after awhile my port became obstructed and I could not be adjusted any longer. The Dr was able to get a bit out leaving me at 1.4cc in a 4cc band and "hoped" that would be loose enough. Well, it was not but I ignored the symptoms of being too tight until it became too much. I called OCC, spoke with Lori and Dr. Ortiz and without being seen, it appeared as though I would need a new band so I made my appointment and secured the funds. I arrived at OCC Monday May 10th for my appointment, prepared to have my band replaced. Just as I had done the first time, I came armed with all the paperwork and form of payment. This time it was a bit different because I already had a band. I went through the pre-screening and had all the tests run and then went in for a barium swallow with Dr. Martinez. To my amazement, he said my band was in good position and although my pouch slightly dilated, it was within normal range. He confirmed my obstruction and tried to do an adjustment, but nothing would go in or out. He told me he believed the problem was somewhere within my port or tubing but wouldn't know for sure until I was in surgery but could offer no guarantees. I might wake up with a band, I might not - it would depend what they found and what they could do. The rest is a blur; I went alone so I didn't have anyone to think for me. I remember going in to the OR and the anesthesiologist asking me what my hobbies were and then I woke up in my room. I have no idea how long the surgery took but I woke up with a band - my original band. Dr. Martinez came into explain to me what they had done, but I did not really comprehend. I was confused by everything (anesthesia haze) and tried to find out how much the actual surgery cost and became further confused. This is where Lori stepped in to help smooth everything over! The actual cost was much less than what I had paid; Lori helped sort everything out as well as getting Dr. Martinez on the phone to explain to me yet again what they did and guaranteed a refund of the difference would be sent to me. The care I have received at OCC the first time, and this last time is top rate. I was not just a number or nameless face. They really care about their patients. I commend Lori for putting up with my neurotic questioning and machine gun emails, she is a saint! The biggest lesson I learned in all of this is I need to go back to OCC for all my aftercare, if I had done so I probably would never have ended up where I was and from here forward, I will only go to OCC.

I 100% agree with LoriBecky, I'd rather have hanging breasts or in my case NO breasts than be overweight. I had breast augmentation March 23rd of this year. I did not have huge breasts to begin with however I lost almost all that I had and felt it necessary to have breast enlargement. Next to the band it was the best thing I have done for myself. I have had no lose of sensation whatso ever, I'd say it's quite the opposite. I think the girls look much better now than they ever did.

I have called a few times and I left a message - they do not respond.

Has anyone successfully had a virtual consultation with cosmed? I spoke with someone a couple weeks ago to inquire about a lower body lift, I was told to take pictures (front, both sides and back) and email them in and within 2 business days I would get an email back from the dr. I did so, emailed it in and waited. A week went by and nothing, so I emailed again. I got an email back saying they tried to call me but my phone number was always busy. Not sure why, it is a cell phone that has call waiting and to be honest I am seldome on it but it is always on and always on my hip. Not to mention they have my email. I called and left a voicemail - no return. I emailed again and gave a couple more phone numbers and still nothing. I am frustrated!!! Is it customary to ignore a perspective customer?

Here is an average day for me... Breakfast: Protien smoothie (55g of protien) snack: Cheese string Lunch: Lean cuisine meal or similar snack: ss/ff pudding Dinner: 3 oz chicken, veg snack: sf/ff ice cream When I travel (I travel quite a bit with my job) I just make wise choices. I often take pre-made protien drinks with me for breakfast or I will get a fruit cup and glass of milk. At restaurants I order whatever I know will work and eat what I can and leave the rest. It is harder to stay on track when I'm away from home but just do the best that I can.

My favorite recipe is Isopure Dutch chocolate (50g of protien), 1 cup of skim milk, tablespoon of reduced fat peanut butter (5g protien) blended with ice. I drink that once a day and I have yet to get sick of it.

Congratulations Becki!!!!

I took a week off but I felt great and could have gone back within a few days.

Becki: I did have an small unfill, I don't EVER want to go through that again! I was more afraid of what would happen to my band then the pain - we've become buddies;) Teri: after my 3rd fill I could no longer eat tortilla chips and everytime I have I regret it. I love them and I miss them but it was just not worth the risk. The band is my willpower, if it says no I have to go along with it. I do 'diet' but it is not a specific one. I try to remain low carb/fat in most that I eat, I drink a ton of water and I exercise a lot. I do allow myself to have chocolate or whatever I am craving or I would lose my mind!