Home after OCC Visit

[MimIN]

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.

[NEdwards73]

That's terrific news..so glad things went well for you and you were able to keep your original band!! My thoughts are exactly as yours are..I am traveling back to OCC for all my fills!! I was banded on April 15th and I have scheduled my first fill for June 3rd. I was told by Dr. So that "IF" I follow the directions and do as I am told I shouldn't need more than 3 fills. Now I know everyone is different, but I figure they are the professionals and have been doing this for a long time, they probably know what they are talking about!! Take care and keep us posted on your "new" journey!

Nikki

[ErinRed]

After meeting Dr. So I am planning 100% on coming back to OCC for my fills.

He is the sweetest and most helpful one here.

Dont tell my husband but I think I have a bit of a crush on Dr. So.

But seriously I do belive the care I have received here is great and it will be worth the extra money I spend on travel to make it down to TJ and Dr. So

Hope to meet some of you here one day!

ErinRed

[EcMjawad1]

Thank you for confirming what I already knew...you just cemented my resolve..I have never been treated as well in any medical procedure as I have been by the OCC and their staff....I will continue to go there for all my aftercare...Great sharing!

[petrafarmer]

After meeting Dr. So I am planning 100% on coming back to OCC for my fills.

He is the sweetest and most helpful one here.

Dont tell my husband but I think I have a bit of a crush on Dr. So.

But seriously I do belive the care I have received here is great and it will be worth the extra money I spend on travel to make it down to TJ and Dr. So

Hope to meet some of you here one day!

ErinRed

Hey...step away from Dr. So, he is mine!!LOL I live in NJ and was thinking about having my fills done here but, a clearer mind prevailed and I went back to Tijuana. I will never get a fill anywhere else but Tijuana. I will simply turn it into a vacation!! I am getting ready to retire in a few years (if our stupid governor doesn't make it so that I have to work until I'm 90, I am a teacher) and I plan to move to San Diego. Being close to Tijuana is an obvious benefit of that.