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Apprehensive

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  1. Apprehensive
    Hello, Your question brings up many stipulations. First, we would have to know what your ideal BMI would be. But from my experience...I went in to surgery with a BMI of 41.7. I was greatly overweight. For the most part, people with higher BMI's will lose weight faster than a person with a lower BMI at first. It also depends on what type of diet you chose for yourself after surgery and the amount of exercize you do. I have lost a bit over 60 lbs now. I have greatly changed my eating habits and have increased the exercize. I could increase the exercize more now. I have learned the rules of the band. Eat slowly...eat proteins first, the veggies, then carbs. I often find that I have no room for carbs. Also, I find that I can not eat more than approximately 3 ounces of protein for each meal. Dr. Ortiz was great spending time with me prior to the surgery and I was able to find answers to questions I had at that time. Plus..you will see that there are many good people on this site with some very valuable information. I hope my input helps. I know I am very happy with the results I have had. I was also very impressed with Dr. Ortiz, his knowledge, professional staff and just the entire experience I had. Best of luck to you and please keep us posted as to your success. My Best, Appy
  2. Apprehensive
    FANTASTIC! Your post gives me hope of reaching my goal. I have slowed down a bit losing weight, but after reading this post, I will keep on keeping on. Thanks for the great post!
  3. Apprehensive
    Hello, I was banded back in March of this year and at first, the port area was "tender" but nothing too painful. Like another post I read, the only time I really can feel the port, is when I deliberately touch it. I notice since I have lost some weight, the port seems to protrude moreso. Nothing that noticable. I think I am just more aware of it. Like the doctor told me, after the surgery and recovery time, the only time any one will really notice the port, is during intimate contact. I believe this to be true, in my case anyway. As far as pain...I have never really had much pain from the port site. No more than I expected to have. It was somewhat uncomfortable at first, but I was able to sleep on my left side, where the port is located. So, you will have time to speak with the surgeon prior to your surgery with any questions you may have about this issue. Best of Luck with your surgery...you will probably be very glad you went with this decision...I know I am.
  4. Apprehensive
    Good Morning from Mexico, Hope this is not too late to be helpful, but I am here at The Camino Real motel in Tijuana Mexico right now. I came down yesterday for my second fill and could not believe how easy it was this time to cross the boarder from San Diego. This is my third time here and each time seemed to be easier than the last. As far as safety...I have had absolutely NO issues at all. My Spanish is not the best but I can make my needs and wants known. Even if you speak little or even no Spanish, it seems to be so tourist friendly, there are many who can guide you and help you find what you are looking for. So as to your question about the safety of crossing from San Diego, there are no problems in that department at all. If you are still considering this trip, safety is not an issue. Good Luck and have fun on your trip. Apprehensive
  5. Apprehensive

    Yes, I had my first fill on May 18th or so. It was only 4cc's and now, at times, I feel like I need more. I have an appointment for my next fill on August 17th. I am doing well. Thanks for the note. Keep in touch and let me know how you are progressing.

    Thanks

    Apprehensive

  6. Apprehensive
    Congrats on your decision to have this surgery done. I am so happy I have done mine. Only wish I would have done it sooner. I am doing much better than before the sugery. This site also has a number of nice people who can answer questions you may have and are there for support. I found that very helpful. Good Luck with your surgery...you are in the best hands. The great doctors and all the great staff will treat you like family. Let us know how things go. Congrats Again, Apprehensive
  7. Apprehensive

    Thank you for the nice comment. I am still trying to lose more. I have a 2nd fill scheduled, I think it is on the 18th of August. Hope all is well with you. Take care.

    Apprehensive

  8. Apprehensive

    The start

    Apprehensive commented on canuk98828's blog entry in canuk98828's Blog

    Greetings, Congrats on your decision. It was not easy for me to finally make the decision about this surgery and then follow through, but now...I am so glad I did. I feel much better already. It was a challenge going though the different diets...such as the pre-op...eating just what is on the diet you chose. Then, there is the fasting diet prior to going in to surgery, then there is that wonderful liquid diet after the surgery. I was so wound up about knowing I was going to lose the weight I wanted, the time did go by fairly quick. AS I look back now, it was not bad at all. When I was actually on the liquid part of the post-op, I thought about the days...counting them off so I could actually have food with a crunch and or being able to chew something. It worked out fine. Making this decision to have the surgery and the actual completion the surgery will create a big change in your life. There will be some tough times, but this site makes it rather easy to get advice, support and just for a sounding board when you just need to vent. Most people on here are very good about giving valuable information and are so willing to share ideas, trials and errors that they experienced and much more. So...as you see, I can begin to ramble. You just keep good thoughts, think of the long range rewards and most of all...remember you are making the right decision and going to the OCC is the best choice you have made thus far. Good luck, keep us posted as to your success. Best of Luck, Appy
  9. Apprehensive
    Hello Dwayne, Well, supposedly Vitamin E ointment which you can buy over the counter at about any drug store works the best. I have never used this myself but from those whom I know have used this, it seems as if they liked the results. Appy
  10. Apprehensive
    Hello, So many changes have or will occur when a person begins this lapband life. I too am not too comfortable telling people at work or for that matter, telling anyone what I had to do in order to lose weight. I feel, that by me telling people that I am dieting, which is true to some extent, they don't need to know each and every part of my chosen way to lose weight. I find that some people will try to push a bit to have me taste or eat something different. With my polite, yet firm..NO THANKS..I get though situations with little or no problems. I also find that good friends and even just people at work who really care...understand and refrain from pushing too hard. Some people ask for my diet secrets because they see the weight coming off. I tell them everything except about the band. Some things I feel are too personal to tell anyone except a chosen few. I tell them to eat 1/3rd of what they normally eat and they will usually see results. That puts them in the same ballpark, but playing a different game. So...you are not alone when you have these inpromptu pizza parties. Some things are to be left up to the person that is at the helm. Very good post Thanks Appy
  11. Apprehensive
    Very well put. I totally agree with you about following the rules. I admit, it is easy to learn which sliders are easy to allow you to work around the band. I have done that a few times. Like you say, if you follow the rules, protein first, then the other foods...you will continue to lose weight, and have a healthful diet. I find that when I don't eat the protein first, then I am really hungry earlier than I usually am when I do eat the protein first. It is easy to follow the rules, but it is easy to let it "slide" from time to time. With some willpower, we all are better off. Thanks for the pertinent information. Appy
  12. Apprehensive
    Hello, When I went for my first fill, I chose to stay overnight, just in case...??? Dr. So told me when I went for the first fill, he usually has people refrain from eating immediately after the first fill, but then after that...he said it could be done. Then he threw me a curve and said that since I had done so well (I guess I answered his questions to his liking) he said I could eat small meals while I was there...beginning immediately. So, I did. No problems. I have not be one to challenge the band though. Now, I don't feel like I have enough restriction and will be making plans to go back for another. I am not sure when. As for your question...since you have already had the first one, you should be OK with your plan to have the second fill, hang out during the day and then catch your plane back home. That should be enough time to let you know if you have a good fill. Regardless of your decision...GOOD LUCK and keep us posted as to how the second fill goes. Sometimes I wonder if I should even try for a second. My Best Appy
  13. Apprehensive

    Congrats on your graduation. Must be pretty glad all of that hard work is over. But...if you are like me, you would do it again.

    You are an inspiration to all of us.

    Congrats Again,

    Appy

  14. Apprehensive
    Hi Heidi, Your discomfort seems to be a bit much. I have only had one fill (4.0cc's) and I don't feel that much restriction...sometimes, I think I might need to have another fill. I guess it is the time of day for me regarding when the restriction is sometimes not as great as others. With you having pain in the back, I would think that it is a sign of an overfill. Glad you are going back to have it checked out. I do know, that a few days, maybe longer...after a fill, you feel more restriction. Dr. Ortiz has a video about fills and what to expect. Have you seen those? Check them out and maybe they will answer some questions you have. Good Luck with your journey back to OCC. Let us know what was decided when you return. Appy
  15. Apprehensive
    Yes, after surgery...your body is adjusting to the many different things. Especially your new diet. It is important to have a bowel movement. As a rule, if a person does not have a BM in 72 hours or more, it would be a good idea to use some Milk of Magnesia. Just remember that the results of BM's are not going to be as they were in the past due to your new eating habits. The MOM should do the job for you. Also..drink plenty of fluids. The bloated feeling is probably gas. I had quite a bit of gas for a while after surgery. Gas-X helped me get though that part. Well, I hope this bit of information helped. If you don't get results from the Milk of Mag, it would be wise to see your doctor.
  16. Apprehensive
    You have it right. You are gaining muscle and since muscle weighs more than fat (mass vs. volume)you may appear to be losing weight but in reality you are not, you are just turning that unwanted fat in to muscle. You are at such a good point right now...KEEP GOING. I can't wait until I can say what you have said.
  17. Apprehensive
    You Made It!!! Congrats for being off of that post-0p diet! I was infomred to chew chew chew...and to take small bites. It seemed to easy so I became careless a couple of times and then I found out why they tell you to chew chew and chew...take small bites and eat slowly. I learned the hard way. For me the very first meal was confusing. I had this "uncomfortable feeling" not stuck, not PBing, just not a good feeling. People on this site pointed me in the right direction...start with softer foods, and gradually work your way up to the real solid foods. I can eat almost anything except bread. I have just had my first fill on the 18th of this month. I won't even try bread now and that is one of my favorites. Some people can eat bread but I am not one of them. So...to make this shorter (I do ramble), set your own pace by learning with each meal. Ask questions from some of these seasoned bandsters and you will find the way that works best for you. Oh...one more thing. I watch my calorie intake as well. I have a weakness for ice cream so I don't even keep it in the house. Good Luck, Appy
  18. Apprehensive
    That is GREAT!! You hit the nail right on the head. I never thought of that before....meaning the fat clothes taking up so much room in your closet....and mine too. LOL Another thing you mentioned about finding clothing you could no longer wear and now you can wear them again. I too found favorites in my closet that I really thought I would never wear again (too small for me) but now, they fit. It is one terrific feeling. I still have clothes that are too small, but my plan is to get those to fit one day too. I kept clothing that I thought might give me incentive to lose weight. I am glad now I did. I have tons of clothes, of many different sizes. Now, I realize I am a packrat. Thanks for sharing your story. Made me happy to know there are people out there who are like me in many ways. Best of Luck! Apprehensive
  19. Apprehensive

    Hello,

    Thanks for the note of interest in about my fill. It went very well. Better than anticipated. I ended up with 4cc's after teh doctor tried from 3cc's to 6cc's.

    Right now, I am not eating as much but I thought I would feel more restriction. Keep us posted as to how your next fill goes...that is tomorrow! Best of luck!!

    Thanks Again,

    Appy

  20. Apprehensive
    Hi DebbieB, On May 18th, I had my first fill. I was wondering about how much restriction I should feel before going for the first fill. When I was there actually receiving the fill, the Doctor showed me the feeling you get with different amounts. That is why I decided on 4cc's. Some people go for more but I was content with 4cc's. There were days before my first fill when I could feel restriction but then other days I did not have much restriction at all. Now, I have plenty for restriction. The doctor told me that the "usual" successful fill is usually between 5 and 8cc's or something close to that. He then added that there have been patients that went for over a year with no fills and lost weight very well. I guess it is just how and what your body wants and needs. If you become discouraged, and believe me, so many of us have been in the same boat...just get online and vent. There are so many nice people on here to make suggestions, share ideas and just be there to listen. Well, hope my note helps some. If you have any questions...just ask. I am still so glad I did this surgery...and after the first fill, I am even more determined to get this weight off for good. Hang in there DebbieB....it does get better. Best of Luck, Appy
  21. Apprehensive
    Congrats on your decision! I too wondered how in the world, I would be able to handle the diet after the surgery. I think I even related it to like having a long LONG colonoscopy. I quickly realized that it was easier than I ever imagined. I did miss food, but not like before the surgery. I think you will find yourself being able to eat the foods you enjoy and find that you just don't eat as much (after the post-op diet). I miss bread, but not enough to make me wish I did not have this surgery. I think about the only thing I can not eat is white bread..but if I toast whole wheat bread and chew...and chew...and chew...I can eat that. I have been banded since March 18th and have only had 3 or 4 episodes of PBing as they say. I think I was to blame for most if not all of them for either eating too fast or not chewing enough. YOu will learn quickly on what works best for you. The post-op diet was like a major reward to me just to get off of the liquids. Creamy soups were like a major treat for me. I think maybe we all had our second thoughts. So..hang in there and you will probably be so happy with the results, it will make it all worth it. I just returned from TJ after my first fill and it was a breeze. Congrats Again, Appy
  22. Apprehensive

    Hey Kevin,

    You asked about my first fill. Well, it was extremely easy. The doctor played with the amouont for the fill, from 3cc's to 6cc's but more or less left it up to me what I was comfortable with. We both agreed on 4cc's. There was absolutely NO pain. I had to look to make sure the needle and syringe were in the port. No problems. Let me know how your fill goes.

  23. Apprehensive

    Hello MNB,

    Thanks for the question about my fill. It went so well. I was surprised as to how easy it was. I went in, filled out paper work,and within 30 minutes...I was on my way to the motel. He put in 4cc's after testing from 3cc's to 6cc's and then we both decided on the 4cc's. I like how he left the decision up to me. Any other questions, just ask.

    Thanks

  24. Apprehensive
    Hello, Well, I just had my first fill about 4 hours ago. As of now, I am sitting at the Lucerna Motel, wishing I did not have to do the liquid diet....oh well. The good doctor told me that 6 to 8 weeks after surgery is about normal for the first fill. It has been about 8 weeks for me. He then went on to say that the most important reason for coming back to OCC for the first fill is so they can see that the band is in place and is working properly. I received 4cc after the doctor tried other amounts. He tried from 3cc to 6cc but we both agreed that 4cc would be good for me at this time. As far as the second fill...the doctor told me that IF a patient wants and needs the second fill it is usually done approximately 2 to 3 months after the first fill. He did inform me that some people want to get as much as they can as soon as they can. Some don't really know what the right amount is and this is where the doctor comes in to help decide on what is best for the patient. He said that fills depend on what the patient needs. From what I gathered, there is no real set time for a fill after your first one. On your first fill, have a bunch of questions written down to ask. He is very willing to answer any and all questions you may have. Right now I am going to chill tonight..then go shopping and find something wonderful to eat tomorrow. With permission from the doctor that is. So...good luck, be sure to ask numerous questions and you will then see what works best for you. Good Luck!
  25. Apprehensive
    Sounds like you have everything under control. Like me, I think you will really enjoy getting off of the clear liquid diet. Even the creamed soups were like a major reward. I took it easy and slowly waded in to the next phase of the journey. I am very glad that I have done this and I hope you find the same rewards. I go for my first fill tomorrow so I am going to start another phase...but with all the wonderful people on this site to give information, encouragement and just to be there when I need to vent...really helps. Best of luck to you on your journey. Keep us posted as to how you are doing. Congrats! Appy
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