Fill Dilema

[Clynn]

Ok so here is an interesting dilema to ponder.

I got banded in early Oct and have my first fill scheduled in three weeks. Since the surgery I've lost about 17 lbs and lost 40 lbs total since going on the pre-op diet in Aug. I'm eating about half of what I was pre-op but more importantly, I'm just not as excited about food as I used to be. Now as my fill appointment gets closer I'm starting to wonder if it's really necessary right now.

On one hand I'm loosing the weight and feeling restriction without any negative side effects. I'd hate to get a fill when I really don't need one and then have problems because I'm too tight.

On the other hand, all the arrangements to fly down there have already been made. Since I'm visiting my parents for Thanksgiving I'd still use the airfare and have a great vacation. If I end up postponing my first fill but then loose my restriction in the near future it would be an expensive proposition to take the time off work and fly down to TJ so soon after having been in the area.

I'll probably shoot Dr Ortiz an email over the next couple of days but I thought I'd post on the forum and see if anyone's been in the same boat as me right now.

[nita57]

Hi Clynn,

I can only tell you that there is a gentleman in my local support group who told me that he never had a fill for more then 6 months. He has been banded for years and has lost over 100lbs. Truthfully, only you know if you really need it or not...but if I was happy with my results I would re think it.. Nita

[PAMMIE]

Ok so here is an interesting dilema to ponder.

I got banded in early Oct and have my first fill scheduled in three weeks. Since the surgery I've lost about 17 lbs and lost 40 lbs total since going on the pre-op diet in Aug. I'm eating about half of what I was pre-op but more importantly, I'm just not as excited about food as I used to be. Now as my fill appointment gets closer I'm starting to wonder if it's really necessary right now.

On one hand I'm loosing the weight and feeling restriction without any negative side effects. I'd hate to get a fill when I really don't need one and then have problems because I'm too tight.

On the other hand, all the arrangements to fly down there have already been made. Since I'm visiting my parents for Thanksgiving I'd still use the airfare and have a great vacation. If I end up postponing my first fill but then loose my restriction in the near future it would be an expensive proposition to take the time off work and fly down to TJ so soon after having been in the area.

I'll probably shoot Dr Ortiz an email over the next couple of days but I thought I'd post on the forum and see if anyone's been in the same boat as me right now.

HOWDY CLYNN.

I REALLY DIDN'T NEEDDDD A FILL FOR ABOUT 5 - 6 WEEKS AFTER SURGERY

[GregNE]

Ok so here is an interesting dilema to ponder.

I got banded in early Oct and have my first fill scheduled in three weeks. Since the surgery I've lost about 17 lbs and lost 40 lbs total since going on the pre-op diet in Aug. I'm eating about half of what I was pre-op but more importantly, I'm just not as excited about food as I used to be. Now as my fill appointment gets closer I'm starting to wonder if it's really necessary right now.

On one hand I'm loosing the weight and feeling restriction without any negative side effects. I'd hate to get a fill when I really don't need one and then have problems because I'm too tight.

On the other hand, all the arrangements to fly down there have already been made. Since I'm visiting my parents for Thanksgiving I'd still use the airfare and have a great vacation. If I end up postponing my first fill but then loose my restriction in the near future it would be an expensive proposition to take the time off work and fly down to TJ so soon after having been in the area.

I'll probably shoot Dr Ortiz an email over the next couple of days but I thought I'd post on the forum and see if anyone's been in the same boat as me right now.

There should be no dilemma. The initial appointment is a post-op follow-up. In addition to checking your restriction level, they will be looking at band placement, wound healing, etc. A fill would only be done if needed. You should verbalize your uncertainty about needing a fill when you go to the clinic. However, the value of observing your band under flouro is important.

Also, the goal for restriction is being able to eat a third of your pre-op food quantity. If you are able to eat half, you could reach a point where weight loss stops. But again, that is why the clinic encourages the post-op band check. Why take a chance? In my opinion, you risk more by not going, and should definitely keep your appointment.

Greg

[nita57]

Really happy that you had a post op. When I went back at six weeks, I got on the table and got filled...there was no post op exam at all..yes I saw the band and he said the position looked good..nothing like any post op I ever had though.....Nita

[GregNE]

Really happy that you had a post op. When I went back at six weeks, I got on the table and got filled...there was no post op exam at all..yes I saw the band and he said the position looked good..nothing like any post op I ever had though.....Nita

I do not expect much from a post-op check. When my gall bladder was removed, post-op was a simple "Any problems?" and a release to return to work. I did not even see a doctor, instead meeting with a PA.

I have not been banded yet (will be next week), but will consider my first fill appointment to be a post-op appointment. Seeing the band will give me peace of mind about placement and slippage risk. Also, it will be an opportunity to ask questions. My previous post is with that perspective, and is my opinion. I do hope your fill wet well.

Greg

[chrissysdolphin]

AS long as you are still losing weight and not eating more that you have been you are ok. When the weight loss slows down or you can eat more than you are ready for a fill. You need to learn to listen to your body and you will figure it out. Good luck and happy weight loss.