LoriBecky

Hi Deb, Maybe 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. I'm going to email you directions to the clinic from the border.

Hi all, The 4cc band is the 10cm band. The larger, VG band, holds 10cc's and is 14cm long. Dr. Ortiz uses the 4cc band for most patients. For those with a higher BMI, or for those that carry more weight around their mid-section, Dr. Ortiz may use the larger VG Band (10cc). Sometimes he makes that decision while you are in surgery, but you will be informed if anything other than the standard 4cc band is used. I hope that helps.

Ok... attention... attention... this is straight from Dr. Ortiz No carbonated beverages for the first 6 months PERIOD! Best to avoid after that... no nutritional value!

Hi, any veggie should be fine during your pre-op diet - just avoid starchy or fatty foods (potatoes!) you shouldn't have anything except water the morning of your pre-ops and NOTHING after midnight the night before surgery - not even water. Now... I have heard of people having a final supper the night before surgery. I'd be careful!! If your gourged yourself... you could enlarge your liver and possibly have undigested food left in your stomach... then your surgery will have to be rescheduled or canceled. its not worth it. If you really want to try something, it should be fine... but small quanities! moderation is key. you don't want your trip to be a waste!!! Remember... new life... new thinking... fresh start!!

Hi James, I kind of OD's on sodas just before surgery, I got sick of them! No soda's after surgery so get them in now if you really want them Avoid oil on your salad, we need to shrink your liver and fat intake will slow that process. Feel free to call or email me with questions.

Ok guys, I've sent this question directly to the top, I'll let you know what I hear back from Dr. Ortiz, so until then NO CARBONATED BEVERAGES!!!

Thanks Mary! I'm going to print this out to keep for future questions. That's awesome!

This is a GREAT idea! Make sure to take pictures of any get togethers!! I'd love to see them.

Hi Deb, Glad you are doing so well and that you've been able to stay away from the cigs!! Keep it up and keep me posted

Hi Chrissy, I guess if you wanted to let your soda or beer sit out until all the carbonation has fizzled away, that would be fine. Otherwise, avoid carbonated beverages - not only can they cause discomfort, they can cause your band to slip!

HI I changed the subject of this topic to October surgery patients - sorry I didn't get it started sooner! All October surgery patient gather here for support and to coordinate with each other if you want to meet up at the clinic.

I would speak with Dr. Miranda at the clinic just to be sure, email me and I'll send you her email address. I would say the benefit is... you keep your liver "shrunk" and you'll also have less to lose on your journey to your goal weight.

don't smoke!!!!!!!! you've been off it for this long and you're on your way to a healthier you... stay away from 'em - you are worth it

If you can - it really is worth it to go back to TJ for your fills. The fluroscopy is worth it! Not only can they see your port and the fill level, but the risk of puncturing your port or tubing is extremely low, because the doctor can see what he's doing

I have cingular - at the hotel I got cingular coverage - no problem, but at the clinic it was international.

I carry a protein bar in my purse, it really helps. If I find I'm really hungry while away from my house, I always have a good choice (albeit a smashed choice!) very handyl The Met RX Peanut carmel one is really good - low sugar - high protein. Just take small bites and really chew it. If anyone else has suggesgtions for good snacks to keep in car/purse - let me know - maybe I can post them

I know I sound like a broken record... but make sure you are drinking water all day long, except when you are eating. You body needs the water to get rid of the fat... it is amazing what a difference it makes. Make yourself a chart and check off each 8 oz glass and shoot for a minimum of 64 oz a day!

Make sure you are drinking lots of water throughout the day as well. I notice a big difference with my weight loss when i'm really getting in at least 64 oz of water day. Just don't drink it while you are eating (or too close to bedtime hahahaha) Remember... Dr. Miranda is available via email or by phone if you need help with your post-op diet!

Hi Chelley, I'm starting to lose a little hair as well, but I am getting in a lot of protein. I supplement every morning with a protein shake that has about 27-30 grams in it. I tend to lose hair when I lose weight, so I'm not too concerned about that - I'd rather NOT lose the hair, but I'm not sure what else I can do... I'd love any suggestions you have (I know you're a nurse). I know there is a supplement called MSM that I have heard can help with hair/nails, etc - so maybe its time I look into that. What supplements are you taking?

Hello I try to check the forum posts several times a day, but its impossible for me to read each and every one. If you have a question specifically for me, please email me (my email is in the signature line) or send me a private message here. As always, if you have a medical emergency or are experiencing unusual symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.

I wouldn't recommend eating yourself into PBing - you risk slippage. You need to get yourself to the clinic, or schedule a ride with Rene at the clinic to get you to and from the airport (there is a charge for this) You might want to check out the posts in the fills in TJ section of the board - people are coordinating their fill with other people - you can share the cost of the ride. If you can schedule arrival in San Diego with other fill patients you guys can schedule the driver with Rene. There are other ways to get to the clinic without using our driver - where are you coming from? email me Dr. Ortiz uses the standard band on most patients. If he decides you need the larger VG Band - he will let you know - it will depend on your weight, how you carry your weight, and what he finds when he "goes in". Trust him, he knows best which band to use

HI Pammie I'm so glad all went well with your surgery! Keep us posted about your progress ! Can you please send me those pics - I'd love to see them! My address is in my signature line Thanks!

Hi Roger, for September Surgery - you'd want to post here to meet others going in September: September Surgery Patients

Hi, Whether or not to try the band is a very personal choice. I've been battling this for years, manage to lose part of the weight I need to, then start moving up the scale again. I need help not only to get to my goal weight but to maintain it. I know the band is just a tool and the work is up to me. I finally feel like I have a real chance

If you need any paperwork signed or filled out for leave time from your job, or modified job duties, just let us know!