Banded yesterday, at hotel now

[vangirl]

Well I've finally joined the ranks of the banded. I had my surgery yesterday, spent the rest of the day and night at the clinic, and then came back to the hotel this morning. Not gonna lie, there was PAIN! And there still is pain, both from the incisions as well as the infamous gas I've heard so much about. It's been getting better slowly, and I've been forcing myself to walk a lot, which helps with the gas. I haven't been hungry, but it's hard to recognize my body signals now. Sometime I feel my stomach is empty and needs something, and other times, I'm wondering if it's the gas pains. Psychologically, I'm not feeling deprived of food. Can't take more than a small amount of liquids at a time. Had maybe a couple of juice boxes, a cup of coffee, and half a cup of broth so far. If it weren't for the fact that I've had surgery and the pain, I'd never know there was a band inside me. There have been a couple of times when I may have drank too much juice or water at once, or had bigger gulps than I should have where I felt some strange pressure. Again, hard to tell if it's the band or gas.

Everything here was done professionally and efficiently. The doctors and nurses were great, especially Carmelia (such a sweet lady) and the young handsome Dr. Acosta. Man, the doctors were a good-looking bunch, including of course Dr. Ortiz. I've worked in several hospitals, and never have I seen such caring and attentive behaviour from medical personnel; I felt treated like person, not a patient. It's the little things like a warm demeanour, a friendly smile, and asking how are you that can make all the difference. Excellent place, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend OCC to anyone else.

More to write, but I'll finish later. My stomach hurts!

[nothereanymore]

Congrats, and welcome to your journey to find the new you! Take it easy and remember to walk and little sips, the pain will go away soon. (Try and take some pictures to post in the Gallery if you can)!

You are now part of a small, select group that has this tool. Get ready for an amazing ride!

All the best,

Lisa

[MrsParris]

Congratulations!

They are awesome at the OCC. So efficient, but personable and caring at the same time. Do your walking, but try to get some rest too.

Kimberly

[Amanda2008]

They really are wonderful there. I can't wait to go back for my fill!

The only thing I would have changed was to stay one more night at the hotel before flying back, but that's because I screwed up my itinerary and was stuck 8 hours at the San Diego Airport and then had to stay overnight in Denver! I was really in misery and wishing I was still at the Lucerna.

I don't know how far you have to travel to get back home, but you might consider staying an extra night if you still feel in pain.

And take lots of Gas-X and Advil!

[mona-camille]

Congratulations!!! Glad you are on the other side now, but so sorry you are having pain. I am one of the lukcy ones and didn't have much pain at all. What a great Thanksgiving present to yourself! I had mine done on Easter monday!

Just walk a lot and DO stay an extra night if you can.

[mlgpdx]

congrats! Welcome to bandland. walk walk walk... you will feel the pressure/bloating/gas/pain for awhile... but you are on your way to a healthier you! We're here for you!

[vangirl]

I am definitely looking forward to a new life. Already it has started, as I'm having to figure out a whole new body. I drank too much water following a dinner of a half-bowl of chicken broth and am now paying dearly for it! I admit I'm feeling a bit sorry for myself that I'm still feeling so much pain, but I have to remind myself that everyone is different. Hopefully I will not be feeling like this a week from now.

I'm wondering about the paranoia. Everytime I feel the pressure (that I think is coming from the band after drinking too much or not taking small enough sips) I'm afraid I'm wrecking the band or my stomach. Is this normal? Or am I just being overly obsessive?

[mona-camille]

I am definitely looking forward to a new life. Already it has started, as I'm having to figure out a whole new body. I drank too much water following a dinner of a half-bowl of chicken broth and am now paying dearly for it! I admit I'm feeling a bit sorry for myself that I'm still feeling so much pain, but I have to remind myself that everyone is different. Hopefully I will not be feeling like this a week from now.

I'm wondering about the paranoia. Everytime I feel the pressure (that I think is coming from the band after drinking too much or not taking small enough sips) I'm afraid I'm wrecking the band or my stomach. Is this normal? Or am I just being overly obsessive?

Yup, you are being overly obsessive, LOL!! But, sweetie, I can assure you, we ALL were after being banded. We all had the same feelings and worries, so you are completely normal. We all got paranoid over the tiniest things, but you'll be fine. Just take small sips throughout the day. Remember to drink a lot too. I think some of us, forget that we need a lot of fluid so as not to dehydrate which in itself can cause some pain. It caused some severe vomitting for me from the day after surgery until a week later. But I ended up being fine and even with all that vomitting my band was still in place and just fine!

[MrsParris]

Yup, you are being overly obsessive, LOL!! But, sweetie, I can assure you, we ALL were after being banded. We all had the same feelings and worries, so you are completely normal. We all got paranoid over the tiniest things, but you'll be fine. Just take small sips throughout the day. Remember to drink a lot too. I think some of us, forget that we need a lot of fluid so as not to dehydrate which in itself can cause some pain. It caused some severe vomitting for me from the day after surgery until a week later. But I ended up being fine and even with all that vomitting my band was still in place and just fine!

Thanks so much for this post Ramona. I was banded on Nov. 19th and I am still really paranoid. I drink a little, wait a while, drink a little more, then wait again. I am also doing this as I eat my creamy soups. The last thing I want to do is stretch my pouch. Can you stretch your pouch while on the liquid 21 day pre-op, as long as you are doing just liquids?

Kimberly

[mona-camille]

Thanks so much for this post Ramona. I was banded on Nov. 19th and I am still really paranoid. I drink a little, wait a while, drink a little more, then wait again. I am also doing this as I eat my creamy soups. The last thing I want to do is stretch my pouch. Can you stretch your pouch while on the liquid 21 day pre-op, as long as you are doing just liquids?

Kimberly

Not unless you gulp like a FULL glass of something all in one breath. Just remember, stop when it feels full and SIP only.

The paranoia goes away the longer you have you band. Not to worry. Just come on here when you are in one of your "OH MY GOD' states and we'll calm you down. We all did it before you.

And remember, STAY AWAY FROM THE LEFTOVERS! These 21 days are very very important!!

[jhawkchick75]

I feel your pain, I seemed to be in a lot more pain than everyone else was. It gets better every day, but it was probably a week and a half before I really started feeling better. But you WILL start feeling better every day I promise.

I also was freaked out about everything. Every time I coughed, sneezed, etc...I would freak out afraid I was going to mess something up. But i'm sure i'm fine. First fill is a week from Monday so we shall see, but i'm sure it's all good.

Congrats! Even though I had a lot of pain as well I do not regret it for a minute! And it's only going to continue to get better!

[ValleyGirl]

I sent you a PM about some great broth I found here at home. Hope you got it and I'll see you at the next hospital meeting!

Sabrina:)

[vangirl]

Well I'm back in town, and have made it home in one piece. Even drove myself home from my mom's place 45 minutes away, where I'd parked my car. Thankfully the pain lessened from yesterday night. I almost called the clinic because I was so concerned about the pain I was having. I had a reasonably good sleep and was able to move around more easily today, although I did get winded easily with overexertion. The long walk from the plane through Customs and Immigration and to the parking lot nearly wiped me out! Sometimes it's hard to know when to push myself with the walking and when to take it easy. Honestly, it feels like having a brand new body and getting to know it from scratch. Sitting stationary there's little to no pain. I mostly feel gas bubbles and a pressure in my chest and mid-back. Getting up from a seated position or sitting down and various maneuvers can trigger the pain, much like recovering from a car accident. But it has gotten better, so that is good. I made the mistake of getting on the scale and saw I had gained seven pounds in three days! Wah! But logically I know I haven't put on any fat. I mean, how can you with little sips of liquid here and there? Anyway, just chilling at home now and getting to know my new body and life with the band. I can't wait to sleep in my own bed!

Thank you to everyone for your replies. It REALLY helps to know that I'm not alone in my experiences.

Sabrina, thanks for the pm! I'll try and get some of that broth. And don't worry, you'll be fine. I had a really good experience at the OCC, and would recommend them to anyone.

[nothereanymore]

Oh my gosh, you hit it on the nail, you do have a new body. This is step one to the new you, I'm telling you the changes will be dramatic, and I'm sorry about the pain and discomfort. I know it’s not easy, but the rewards will be amazing. Take care, know that you have changed your body, but its going to help you reach your goals in more ways than you know.

If anyone asked me if I would take some pain and discomfort in exchange for the body I have now, absolutely yes – in a heartbeat.

Step one to the new you – congrats! But now take it easy and get some rest!

All my best and I'm proud of you!!

Lisa

[determination]

Well I'm back in town, and have made it home in one piece. Even drove myself home from my mom's place 45 minutes away, where I'd parked my car. Thankfully the pain lessened from yesterday night. I almost called the clinic because I was so concerned about the pain I was having. I had a reasonably good sleep and was able to move around more easily today, although I did get winded easily with overexertion. The long walk from the plane through Customs and Immigration and to the parking lot nearly wiped me out! Sometimes it's hard to know when to push myself with the walking and when to take it easy. Honestly, it feels like having a brand new body and getting to know it from scratch. Sitting stationary there's little to no pain. I mostly feel gas bubbles and a pressure in my chest and mid-back. Getting up from a seated position or sitting down and various maneuvers can trigger the pain, much like recovering from a car accident. But it has gotten better, so that is good. I made the mistake of getting on the scale and saw I had gained seven pounds in three days! Wah! But logically I know I haven't put on any fat. I mean, how can you with little sips of liquid here and there? Anyway, just chilling at home now and getting to know my new body and life with the band. I can't wait to sleep in my own bed!

Thank you to everyone for your replies. It REALLY helps to know that I'm not alone in my experiences.

Sabrina, thanks for the pm! I'll try and get some of that broth. And don't worry, you'll be fine. I had a really good experience at the OCC, and would recommend them to anyone.

Vangirl, it looks like we are all following in each others footsteps. I am now 17 days out and so excited I want it now!! Did you share a room with anyone at the clinic? What else was it like? What did you take to the clinic the day of? I am so curious about the experience and what to expect. You have begun your journey, can't wait till I start mine. Anne

[mona-camille]

Glad you are home and doing well. Jus remember, the best thing for the pain is to walk as much as possible. It really does work! Good luck and make sure you stay on-board with any questions you have! We have a lot of good advice for the newly banded out there!

[vangirl]

Vangirl, it looks like we are all following in each others footsteps. I am now 17 days out and so excited I want it now!! Did you share a room with anyone at the clinic? What else was it like? What did you take to the clinic the day of? I am so curious about the experience and what to expect. You have begun your journey, can't wait till I start mine. Anne

Hi Anne,

We each had our own rooms, and they were tastefully decorated, not like the cold, sterile hospital rooms that I've come to know and detest. I felt that the staff there were professional, efficient, and friendly. I especially liked the nurse, Carmelita, she is such a sweet lady. And Dr. Acosta, what a handsome young thing! At the clinic, I took some PJs, change of underwear, slip-on shoes, hairbrush, and toothbrush/toothpaste. And some reading material and Gas-X strips. I ended up not needing the PJs at all, as I just wore the hospital gown while I was there. It was comfortable and securely fastened, so your modesty is protected . When I was discharged, I just changed back into the clothes I wore to the clinic. I would also recommend a heating pad, but they will provide you with a hot water bottle for the gas pain if needed. Also, if you're large-breasted like I am, it might help to have a soft cotton sports bra (no underwire) to hold your breasts up or at least separate the underside of them from the scars. The scars were higher up on my stomach than I expected, including one in between my breasts, so it really helped to have the sports bra to prevent the undersides of my breasts from rubbing against the incisions. After I was discharged from the clinic, I wore the cotton thing over my regular underwire bra and tucked the bottom of it underneath the underwire to prevent it from irritating my incisions.

It wasn't difficult to carry stuff, as most of the incisions were to the left part of my stomach, so I just lifted things with my right hand. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask. I did the same when I was pre-band, and it helped me to know everything ahead of time. Also, don't compare your experiences with others. Everyone is different.

-Vangirl

[determination]

Thank you Vangirl, You have no idea how much I appreciate your response. I have a tendency to take too much of anything anywhere I go. I never know what I am going to feel like wearing. When you get to your room. Is there some sort of communication to let you know what time they pick you up the next morning? I am flying in on a Sunday and having everything done on Monday. But I have no idea when to be ready to be picked up in the morning. There are so many things that I still have questions about.

I am so happy for you. This is like the biggest Christmas present ever. Anne

[vangirl]

Thank you Vangirl, You have no idea how much I appreciate your response. I have a tendency to take too much of anything anywhere I go. I never know what I am going to feel like wearing. When you get to your room. Is there some sort of communication to let you know what time they pick you up the next morning? I am flying in on a Sunday and having everything done on Monday. But I have no idea when to be ready to be picked up in the morning. There are so many things that I still have questions about.

I am so happy for you. This is like the biggest Christmas present ever. Anne

I'm the same way, in that I tend to overpack wherever I go. This time I did not, and that really helped me with transporting my stuff around. I'd suggest taking one change of clothes in addition to the ones you're wearing on the day of travel, change of underwear/socks for the number of nights you're there, easy-to-slip-on shoes, nightwear, toiletries, reading material, a heating pad/hot water bottle, Gas-X strips and other medications you're on, and a blanket if you get cold at the airport (like I did). Don't take a hair dryer, as they have them in the hotel. As for communication, I found it best to just ask the drivers or whoever was at the clinic about what times we'd be picked up, dropped, etc. We were picked up at 7am at the hotel the morning of the surgery, which I think is the standard time they pick people up. If there's not enough room in the van for everyone, then they send another one. When the driver picks you up from San Diego airport, just ask him and he'll tell you, likely it will be 7am. If you're going with a spouse/family member, the same van will drive them back to the hotel from the clinic at around 4-5pm the day of surgery. They will come and call you, and it's a small enough area that you won't get lost or confused. It's not at all big and chaotic like a regular hospital. The day after the surgery, they will wake you up and tell you to get ready, which will be sometime that morning (I can't remember the time, it might have been around 8 or 9am). I totally understand where you're coming from, as I had all of those same questions. All I can say is that the experience went smoothly, and if there were any areas of confusion or uncertainty, they were minor and easily dealt with. You will be fine!

Always happy to answer questions, so don't hesitate to ask if you have anymore.

-Vangirl

[jhawkchick75]

Just to chime in on what has already been said. Definitely take as little as possible. I tried so hard to pack light and still took way too much. I went shopping so of course came back with even more junk. Luckily my mom went with so she could help me carry stuff.

And don't worry before you go they will be in touch with you and give you phone numbers in case they for some reason didn't show up, but they were always right there to pick me up so I never needed to call. They were fantastic!

[sarahrnrx]

Well I've finally joined the ranks of the banded. I had my surgery yesterday, spent the rest of the day and night at the clinic, and then came back to the hotel this morning. Not gonna lie, there was PAIN! And there still is pain, both from the incisions as well as the infamous gas I've heard so much about. It's been getting better slowly, and I've been forcing myself to walk a lot, which helps with the gas. I haven't been hungry, but it's hard to recognize my body signals now. Sometime I feel my stomach is empty and needs something, and other times, I'm wondering if it's the gas pains. Psychologically, I'm not feeling deprived of food. Can't take more than a small amount of liquids at a time. Had maybe a couple of juice boxes, a cup of coffee, and half a cup of broth so far. If it weren't for the fact that I've had surgery and the pain, I'd never know there was a band inside me. There have been a couple of times when I may have drank too much juice or water at once, or had bigger gulps than I should have where I felt some strange pressure. Again, hard to tell if it's the band or gas.

Everything here was done professionally and efficiently. The doctors and nurses were great, especially Carmelia (such a sweet lady) and the young handsome Dr. Acosta. Man, the doctors were a good-looking bunch, including of course Dr. Ortiz. I've worked in several hospitals, and never have I seen such caring and attentive behaviour from medical personnel; I felt treated like person, not a patient. It's the little things like a warm demeanour, a friendly smile, and asking how are you that can make all the difference. Excellent place, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend OCC to anyone else.

More to write, but I'll finish later. My stomach hurts!

Hi! Congrats on your surgery. Since your there right now, can you please tell me how the weather is? Trying to figure out what to pack since Im flying there on tuesday.

[JazzyJude]

WELCOME to Bandland Sweetie! Lisa is right...you hit it right on the nail about your new body. This also was my first thought and I knew I had to make the best of it. I started off with a journal to write down my day's even with food, thoughts and activities and I still do this daily! It helps me to keep on tract and to learn ahead of time of any issues can could happen if I do get off tract. I am a fanatic in organizing myself as much as possible. If I made a "boo boo", then dust yourself off, and go forward and continue with your journey.

It's not easy at all and the pain/discomfort is part of your weight loss, but so far, the rewards are real nice for me and I am lpving this ride by band gives me! Now, I am hard and strict on myself with dicipline and committment and I keep on foing forward by focusing the reason why I got banded.

You are on your way to a new adventure of your life - embrace it! Keep us posted ~ we are here for you and so proud of you! WTG!

[tnm75]

Congratulations! And, sending good thoughts your way on a full and complete recovery!

Kristy

[vangirl]

Hi! Congrats on your surgery. Since your there right now, can you please tell me how the weather is? Trying to figure out what to pack since Im flying there on tuesday.

I'm back home now, but when I was there, it was rainy and not very warm, which is not usual. I'm glad I wore a jacket on my flight there. I'd suggest wearing layers when you fly in to San Diego.