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Flutterby's Blog
 

Call Me Maybe -- NOW!

Yesterday (5-14-13) they finally called and told me the insurance approved my WLS. WOO HOO!   We had to go back and forth with the clinic personnel and the insurance company reps over and over to get everyone on the same page. Unfortunately we were dealing with an insurance coordinator at the bariatric clinic that was inexperienced. We discovered she had entered and submitted the wrong code twice. Because of that and other mistakes they kept concluding the insurance wouldn't cover the surgery due to being a pre-existing condition. Talk about confusing!   I would call, or my husband would and feel like we got everything straight and our insurance company rep kept reassuring us it was covered and all was well. Then we wait again. I guess the people who were to follow up wouldn't read the complete file and were thinking I would have a long waiting period to be covered. They would just go silent until I got worried and called again and again and find out they are still thinking it's not covered. This has happened three times now.   Someone didn't read their notes very well. So after many frustrating phone calls with confusing conclusions, my wonderful husband would take them to task and got things done! Three conference calls with the insurance and clinic and my husband all together and now we got the right codes, the right person to understand and things are moving forward. He's my hero!   Now, I was supposed to get a call yesterday or today about the WHEN! and.... Oh good grief. I keep getting butterflies in my big 'ole tummy and waiting on the scheduling lady to call me and let me know the date.   I'm nervous and happy and worried she won't call and I'll wonder why. Please let it all get done fast and let me get on the final stretch of the waiting race. I want to get to the next phase of my journey to health.   On Mother's Day we went out to eat with my folks and two of our seven kids (daughters 23 and 13), and I decided I would have my husband take a picture of us (Me, Mom and my girls) after our meal. Mind you, I normally would NEVER suggest a picture to include me. Part of me wishes I hadn't this time because it literally HURTS to look at what I've let happen. But, I know it's a "Before" picture and I need this to motivate me and reassure me of this path toward a wonderful future I am on.   Come on scheduling lady, CALL ME MAYBE? PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!
Flutterby

Flutterby

0
pink grace's Blog
 

operation cancelled again

4 days to go and op cancelled again for the 3rd time, date now 30th may, really fed up, but trusting in God, dont understand but He is in control so who am i to grumble, in His time, praise the Lord,xx
pink grace

pink grace

3
Kime-lou's Blog
 

Scratching to Climb this Mountain....

The last week has been emotional. I have a lot going on in both my professional life as well as my personal life. I have a lot of decisions to make on both fronts that will effect the rest of my life. So needless to say I feel a little out of sorts.   At work we are changing systems and I have to write a software program to track some things that won't be tracked in the new system. Plus, I have to get all the training in for the new system so I can train everyone else.   My mother-in-law is begging us to come up north to see her. While we want to, right now with my crazy work life it is hard to find some time to take off.   My dog got crazy sick last Thursday night. Vomiting blood- we were at the ER vet at 3 am. Thank God she is better, but I am having to watch her like a hawk. Plus, she has gotten really clingy during all of this.   We have had a contractor working on our house. Had our deck enlarged from a 10x14 to a 25x14.   Managed to get to my mom's for mothers day, which I ate a dessert and shouldn't have. I had to leave my dog for a few hours with the hubs, which caused the dog to howl for 45 min, driving the hubs crazy. She finally tuckered herself out and went to sleep.   Mother's Day is hard for me. If I wouldn't have lost my first child, she would be 3 and a half now. I have lost two more since losing her. Then I went to my OB/GYN Monday and was told my chance for having a child are slim. He said I can keep trying, but he would not get to invested until we are through the first trimester and half of the 2nd. So it's hard to decide if we should give it another go or not. The thought of seeing a postive pregnancy test I think would scare me. I am so scared of losing another one.   My weight loss is still at a sllllooooowww pace. Since Dec. I have only lost 10 lbs. It's hard to stay positive and focused when I seem to be getting hits from all side. Last week was pretty good weight wise. I went down to 188. After Mother's Day weekend and a splurge up to 190. It is so easy to put on and so hard to take off. It seems I can't even have one cookie without my body flipping out and gaining weight. Being that I seem to stay busy from before the sun rises until after it set finding time to work out has been difficult.   I am exhusted from the fast pace of life right now, and the knowledge that it's not going to get any better any time soon.   On top of all this the hubs and I are trying to figure out if I should go back to school to finish out my degree that I was forced to give up on years ago due to finances.   So as you can see I have a lot going on. I am not sure what to do or which way to turn. I am just tired!!
Kime-lou

Kime-lou

4
Pre-Op Thoughts and talks
 

Holy Crap! I Better Get Moving!

OK!!!! I just created a new surgery ticker and I realized I am only 3 weeks and 5 days away from getting sleeved! Holy crap! I better get moving!   I have made lists of all of the things that I will need post surgery. While I have purchased many things, there are still a few things that I need to pick up. I need to go and get these this weekend. ASAP! Scheduling an extended timed trip to WalMart and GNC.   I have also promised myself that I would start toning pre-surgery. I want to start pumping those muscles up now! I have to find my hand weights and schedule some time in my week to start my circuit again at Planet Fitness.   I have already begun my vitamins including my Biotin. So, I have to schedule in extra time to shave my legs because the hair is growing back 3 times as fast! UGH! (The hair on my head better grow like this! For goodness sake!)   I want to take pictures and measurements of myself so I can chart my progress. This is going to be a depressing harsh dose of reality. (I better add a bottle of rum to my list in celebration of my Bye-Bye To Fat Measurement Pity Party.) I also have to schedule time to take these measurements and pics!   My surgeon is not requiring a pre-op diet because I am a lap-band to sleeve revision. However, I feel that if everyone else has to do a special diet well, then I should too! Now, don't get me wrong! I am not thinking about 2 weeks of liquids. NOOOOO!!! More along the lines of a week of 2 protein shakes a day and one light meal followed by two days of liquids immediately prior to surgery. (See. I have some discipline!) I better pencil the diet starting date into my planner.   Now....... having said all that, I have just one thought. Being a teacher, and having all of the end of the year stuff to manage and complete, I have a "full plate" with this WLS. And... WLS and full plates do not go hand in hand! I think I need to hire an assistant. I need someone to make sure that I am keeping to all of these schedules! My husband already has said that he does not want the job no matter how high the pay! Geez! I guess I better start taking applications! Only serious inquiries need to apply! LOL
NikNakMcCants

NikNakMcCants

2
Tisa's Blog
 

I Loovee it <3

Look at it, doesn't it look disgusting?? doesn't the thought of consuming such a thing just put you off? well guess what it's actually delicious! i know i was surprised too. Low calorie, full of vitamins/minerals, filling, delicious can it get any better than that?   well i first heard of the green smoothie from this book forgot the name of it, but the recipe the lady gave me tasted despicable >.<. Ok so rule of thumb, the smoothie should be half greens half fruit so it's sweet, also make sure to blend until smooth so its not chunky and gross. I use half spinach and half strawberry/apple, banannas dont have enough flavor for me :/. It tasted just like apple juice! breakfast anyone
Tisa

Tisa

1
Terry Poperszky's Blog
 

I want my drugs...

It has been a bad day, a really bad day as I deal with a family member that has severe emotional/psychological problems. As I drove away from their home my mind kept ticking through the things that would dull some of the pain I was feeling, and everyone of them revolved around food. Hell, I have a bottle of good Irish Whiskey downstairs in my office, and while I will probably pour myself a stiff drink after the kids are down for the evening, it isn't nearly as attractive in my mind as taking the family out for BBQ and eating until I am so full that it hurts. Is it any wonder diets don't work for us, when food has become a drug that we use to dull the pain that comes with living?   Well, the good news is, as my mind ticked through my options I knew that those that dealt with food really weren't an option. After getting stuck last night, I am not willing to piss off Mistress Band two days in a row, and to tell the truth since being banded, I know that using food as a drug will only make me feel worse and I will still have the family matter to deal with with the guilt of having indulged in emotional eating added to it.   So, here I sit with my glass of crystal light lemonade, writing a blog entry for those who have helped me on this forum. Thanks for listening.
Terry Poperszky

Terry Poperszky

7
LadyDiva618's Blog
 

Back to work tomorrow.... At both jobs!

I don’t wanna go to work tomorrow! Only because I know I have 2 week’s worth of work I need to do. Job 2 I get to see my day care kids and I will get 2 weeks of hugs from the kids. Since the Midwest is starting to have a spring I think I will take the day care kids on a Nature Walk tomorrow. Tomorrow I start week 3 post op and I start adding soft foods. I already packed my breakfast and lunch for work tomorrow. Also, I added a snack just in case I get hungry. So what is on tomorrow menu? Breakfast 2 hardboiled eggs (seasoned with garlic powder) ½ serving of cottage cheese Lunch Mashed Potatoes 430pm Snack 12 Special K Crackers and a low fat cheese stick. (24 crackers is 120 so I decided to do a half portion) Dinner Soup What do you think? I know I will have to add some more protein but I will get better with time. I noticed lately I’ve been getting hungry either around 4pm or 8pm. I don’t know why. I read that having snacks on the band is not good. I hope I am doing this right. Anyway my momentum is still strong and I am starting to look good in the mirror now. :wub:   Thanks for reading.
LadyDiva618

LadyDiva618

1
Kulita's gathered information & help
 

The size of your new stomach

As some may know, I have been trying for WLS since August of 2005. Finally my time came and I was sleeved. I was a very active member on ObesityHelp until I found this site. Enjoy the info and videos...   The word bougie means "candle" in French. "F or FR/Fr" following a bougie size=French   Its just a guide that the surgeon uses to butt the stapler up against, when forming your VSG. The closer s/he gets to the guide the 'tighter' /truer to guide the sleeve is. During surgery the bougie is inserted into your mouth down your throat, towards the end of yer stomach where it meets the pylorus via an esophageal dilator. After the new stomach is formed, the bougie/guide is removed out of your mouth, possibly why some VSGrs complain of a sore throat post op.     Some surgeons will use an endoscope or other "guide" to size ones new stomach. I read an OH post of a VSGr who's surgeon explained an endoscope is the same size as a 32F bougie...Im not sure.   Bougie size determination is between YOU and YOUR surgeon. Discuss size, rationale for size chosen, type bougie and technique used when sizing your new stomach........ PRE-OP!!   Some surgeons may "oversew" the staple line giving one a 'tighter' than bougie sized sleeve. In order for an "oversewn" staple line to affect stomach size it MUST be running or continuous oversewn suture line across majority of staple line not intermittent oversewn nor merely at intersected "junctures" where the surgeon has reloaded the staple gun as majority of "oversewn" techniques (to prevent leaks) are done today. Make sure your surgeon explains what his/her "oversewn" technique is. Do not assume because a surgeon "oversews" you have a tighter than bougie sized sleeve.   A bougie is 1/3 mm PER french. i.e to calculate ~ inches 40F bougie 1/3 x 40 = 13.33mm convert to inches = ~.52 inches or ~1/2 inch in diameter.   Below are diameters of bougie/ "guides" in inches   32F = .40"   34F = .425"   36F = .45"   38F = .476"   40F = .5"   46F = .576"   60F = .75"     Video 1   This VSG surgery video shows a 'red' 34F bougie, one technique in sizing stomach, exised stomach, testing for leaks etc .http://www.orlive.co...eight-loss-surg ery-gastric-sleeve Red bougies are older mercury filled ones. FDA is tryin to ban em because of disposal issues (mercury).     More surgeons will use SINGLE USE disposable sized bougies   Video 2   In this surgical video Dr. Alvarez shows a disposable 32F bougie and use/technique     ~9-2012 In another Forum, this member's bougie pix is from hospital she works at 1st: 36F, 2nd: 38F on left, 32F on right     General/ crude comparison chart created by another Forum member     Standard sized bougies in the US and Mexico are 32F. 32F is the smallest guide a bariatric surgeon in the US may safely use in forming your sleeve. Your surgeon may prefer any size bougie from 32-50F, based on YOU, your height, weight, or perhaps the need for a malabsorptive procedure in the future, inc. 1st step of 2 part DS. Discuss what to expect, rationale for size chosen with your surgeon if this is a concern.   LapSF/Dr. Criangle on their routine use of 32F bougies in VSG "Optimal weight loss may require the smallest possible pouch, which may yield the highest leak rate" .   Some surgeons will welcome discussion and your input on bougie sizes. After reading a published journal on the higher incidence of VSG surgically induced GERD (acid reflux/heartburn) in use of 28-32F bougies, it may be wise to request a higher bougie size. However, like all surgeries, we will need years of data to support whether or not this claim is actually true.   The History of using Bougies   In 2000 the use of 50-60F bougies were standard for VSG when it became a stand alone WLS, as they were the standard sizes of DS bougies, which VSG was modeled after. As the years went by, bariatric surgeons thought..smaller bougie, better restriction, less regain. So in ~2005 an adopted 32F bougie became the VSG standard. Rarely, if ever are 28-30F or 50F and over bougies used in the US for VSG as stand alone anymore. Many many VSGrs do EXTREMELY well with 40F-48F bougies as the guide to sizing their new stomach, losing all the weight they need to.   In 2008 study (small poll 135 pts) on Bougie Sizes in VSG seems to indicate at 6 mos and 12 mos post VSG .... 40F and 60F bougies with no significant difference in EWL (eventual weight loss) 2008 Bougie Size Comparison   In 2009 study (a large poll) on Bougie Sizes in VSG seems to indicate at 5 years post VSG ... 32F and 44F bougies show exactly the same EWL (eventual weight loss) 2009 Bougie Size Comparison   In 2012/13 study (a very large poll) on Bougie Sizes in VSG seems to indicate at 3 years post VSG, a LESS than 40F bougie and GREATER than 40F bougie show no difference whatsoever in EWL (excess weight loss) 2012/13 Bougie Size Comparisons     VOLUME/GASTRIC CAPACITY in VSG:   PRE VSG: Average stomach holds 32-48 oz or 4 to 6 cups per meal POST VSG (~6-8 months out FOR LIFE) ..new stomach holds 8-12 ozs or 1 to 1.5 cups per meal (depending on weight/density of foods you eat! can be much less or much more)   The length of an adult stomach is 10-12 inches. DNA affects the length of our stomachs, as well as variations in shape. Tall people, for instance are known to have longer stomachs..so makes sense they have a bit more capacity, short people have shorter stomachs therefore less capacity.... so volume/capacity can be influenced by the length and physical anatomical variations of an individual's stomach.   Dr. Alvarez explains in this You Tube video about length of an individual's VSG stomach and how it relates to volume.   This limited 2009 study is interesting in looking at gastric capacity in VSG, just 3 days post op (120 ml=~1/2 cup) compared to 2 years post VSG (250 ml=~1 cup) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19533260   At the end (8:28 mark) of this LapSF VSG surgical video shows 1 DAY old (pod) sleeve Xray and a sleeve Xray at 4 years out. It is not clear to me if same pt. or solely to impress the new "normal" sleeve size. Note the "new normal" 32F tightly formed sleeve has dilated/stretched naturally to perhaps triple in size...The video also shows one technique of sizing the sleeve, as well as reinforcement of the staple line (to prevent leaks)   This VSG video shows the speed with which LIQUIDS/FLUIDS empty from the sleeve. In normal stomachs fluid empty rate is 5 minutes or less due to space creating a reservoir for large volumes of fluids. In VSG stomachs: fluid empty rate looks MUCH faster than that... youdecide!   The COTTAGE CHEESE TEST /CCT (link following) may be helpful to VSGrs that are curious about their new stomachs capacity. It was developed for RNY but an effective tool in VSG as well! I'd suggest waiting until you are on a regular diet before checking. When doing this test PLEASE eat to sensation of satiety - no longer hungry, and absolutely not full.   A simpler method, following the basic guidelines and time frame in the link provided... is to place 1 level cup (8oz) of small curd cottage cheese in a bowl and eat from that. Using a measured tablespoon to eat any remaining cottage cheese from the original container. Add or subtract any cottage cheese eaten or not finished using the measured tablespoon. 2 TBS=1oz. Total...the amount consumed = your sleeve's capacity. http://www.bsciresourcecenter.com/proddetail.php?prod=A4     STRETCHING in VSG:   YOU CANNOT STRETCH/DILATE out your sleeve to anything remotely close to its original size.   From LapSF/Dr. Criangle: The removed section of the stomach is actually the portion that stretches the most. The long vertical tube shaped stomach that remains is the portion least likely to expand over time and it creates significant resistance to volumes of food.   The fundus (inc. majority of stomachs 'body' up to pyloric canal) of the stomach is ALL but removed with VSG. The fundus is the upper most part of the stomach's greater curvature. The fundus is: 1) the stomach's stretchy/expandable tissue, capable of expanding 2-3xs its resting 'unfilled' size 2) the pre-op 'mass quantities' of food, waiting to be digested, storage section 3) where 70% of the body's grehlin a "hunger hormone" is produced.       Stretching, due to overeating is most common in RNY because more of the stretchy fundus part of the stomach is retained to make the 'pouch', and is usually NOT covered by insurance to correct. Re-sleeving or a need for a malabsorptive surgery post VSG may or may NOT be covered by your insurance plan.   Anecdotally, Ive read from select OH VSG members, or according to a/their particular surgeon..overeating will cause your sleeve to stretch out. Ive read/found no scientific data, published or otherwise, to date that says this is a TRUE statement.   Since food stays in our stomach less than ~ 3 hours after a meal..common sense tells me food doesn't stay in our stomachs long enough to create 'stretching'. Food once ingested, immediately begins to be churned into a liquidy sludge called chyme through peristalsis in the stomach. This liquidy sludge must be small enough to pass through our very small pyloric valve and into the small intestine for further digestion /breakdown and absorption of 'micronutritents' ...so there cannot be enough pressure for long sustained periods of time in our stomachs to cause it to stretch.     Post op VSG ... depending upon the amount of swelling/inflammation you have..even a little 'thick/er' dense liquids or pureed foods/mushies may or may not feel restrictive, as you pass through the progression of texture dietary phases ( to promote healing) and onto your regular diet ~2mos post op. ... swelling/inflammation has naturally reduced. Density of meals becomes a key player in restriction. By 1 year out you'll find you can eat more than you could at 2 days post op, at 2 weeks post op, 2 months post op, and 6 months post op. Your sleeve has naturally and fully matured. Depending on the food..you can eat more or less than the 8-12 oz capacity of a fully matured sleeve.......at any particular meal.   Toleration of a food, does NOT make it a good choice! "just because I CAN...doesn't mean I DO"   --------------------------------------------------------------------------- The bougie size controversy/wars are ridiculous imo.. 'get a smaller one, you can stretch it out, you're not going to have any restriction, that bigger one is all wrong, you'll re-gain easily years out, my surgeon made mine smaller and I got to goal in 6 months' ...all nonsense DO NOT PAY EM NO MIND!! This is YOUR story! YOUR journey!     ALWAYS REMEMBER THIS TRUTH:   YOUR WEIGHT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE SIZE OF YOUR STOMACH, altered or not!   Most important is the quantity and quality of the food choices you ingest post-op
kulita

kulita

7
Gastric Sleeve Surgery - An Unexpected Journey
 

I Don’t Have To Finish My Plate or How I’m Fighting With Old Habits

For the past few weeks or so, I have been trying to get my protein from solid pieces of food like chicken or pork loin. Up until now, I’ve been eating ground chicken or ground turkey – meats that were partially broken down by the grinding process. But now that I’ve switched to whole pieces, the switch brings up new issues.   When I was eating the ground meat plus vegetables, it was all mixed up like a casserole and keeping track of portions was as easy as spooning some into my half cup container. No muss no fuss no leftovers. Now it’s more difficult to judge just how much I can eat at one meal and I often wind up with a few bites leftover.   Enter the problem. I’m a kid of the “clean your plate club.” I was always encouraged to clean my plate (I think I got a merit badge, I was so gifted) and now that old habit is coming back to haunt me. Even when Frankensleeve (Yes, I named him!) is telling me I’m full and if I eat any more, he’s going to put the stomach in reverse gear, I still feel compelled to eat the last two or three bites.   Frankie: "Hey were full up down here, turn off the chewing machine." Me: "But I still have 2 bites of meat left." Frankie: "Okay guys, send up a burp as a warning." Me: Burp. "Oooh, that one feels like it squeezed past some food to get out. But I'll go ahead and eat those last 2 bites." Frankie: "Okay guys, put it in reverse!" Me: "Uh oh."   Now, I am training myself to put the fork down and walk away. I really want this compulsion out of my life. It’s like having to go through the first few weeks post-surgery all over again. Learning when to stop and not take just one more bite – especially when it’s something extra yummy! Frankie and I will just have to build a new relationship I guess.   P.S. Frankie really doesn't like freshly dug, boiled new potatoes!   Leave me a comment and let us know what issues you struggle with. It helps everyone to know they aren't alone.   Keep Pimpin that sleeve!
joatsaint

joatsaint

7
Jillian's Journey
 

Star Medica Review - Novella

This is going to be a long one!   I would like to start by saying today is Tuesday, May 14th I am 4 days post op and am feeling absolutely WONDERFUL!! Currently as I sit here, I am sipping happily on my Isopure Alpine punch protein drink, have taken all of medicine, vitamins and had a nice cup of decaf orange pekoe tea without incident. If I have any complaint I would say it would be the constant “hunger” I am having… now I say that tongue in cheek because the stomach is a muscle… and the only time we really feel that muscle is when we are a: hungry or b: sick. My feeling is that I am not hungry I am simply feeling my stomach heal itself… so I am totally good with this simple easy side effect.   So let’s talk about my journey. I live in Kitchener Waterloo in Ontario Canada, which is located about 2 hours from the border at Niagara Falls. I flew from the Buffalo airport, into El Paso (with a stopover in Atlanta) and arrived at my final destination early afternoon on Thursday May 09, 2013. It was a long day of travel but our driver found us (my sister Melodie came along with me) almost immediately. The drive across the border was uneventful and super-fast.   When we arrived at the Star Medica hospital, the driver (with our suitcases in tow) brought us inside and into the lobby. He asked for my passport and went to the admissions desk to advise who I was and have the nurse start the paperwork for my admission. We sat on the comfy furniture in the lobby and chatted for about 10 minutes before I was called to the desk. I was greeted by the hospital’s psychologist/physiatrist - Dr Calderon. He spoke English very well and guided me through all of the admission paperwork. This took about 5 minutes. The nurse then led my sister to my room and I was off for my blood work and chest x-ray – both of which took approximately 5 minutes.   I was then led to my room – a modest size with a hospital bed, nightstand, tv and tv stand, closet with two combination safes, a really comfortable couch that can double as a bed for a guest, and a reclining leather chair… and the bathroom was AWESOME! The shower was so big I could have had a party in there if I was so inclined!!   After debriefing me on a few things that were to happen that evening (EKG, vitals, etc) and the activities to start the next morning the doctor told me I was allowed to go out and have a final meal of my choosing!! I was super excited having decided to pre-op diet since April 8th!! My sister had opted to stay at the Holiday Inn next door so we decided to go drop her luggage, check out the mall and grab something to eat.   There is a Mexican restaurant between the Star Medica and the Holiday Inn that we decided to try out. They serve you warm chips with fresh made picante, and some other wonderful hot sort of dip before you even decide what to order. We had an appetizer that was some sort of cheese fried and covered in a green sauce, and an order of guacamole. By the time our actual entrees arrived we had to send them back because we were so full!! Even with the waste of the entrées our dinner was so cheap we just waved it off. My sister ate at that same restaurant for the remainder of our stay – it is just that good! After a little bit of shopping at the upscale mall across the street, we returned to my room and awaited my EKG.   That took about 5 minutes as well, and I was free for the rest of the night. Eating is permitted until 12am, however after a drink of the unsweetened apple juice I hit the sack around 9pm.   I woke the next morning just before 6 am (8am my time) and the timing proved perfect as the nurse with the IV came in shortly after. There was some trouble with my IV, but I don’t blame the poor nurse one bit – because there always is with my stupid little veins… but she did manage to get it in after some persistence.   Before they wheeled me out of the room on my gurney at around 9:30, Dr. Rodriguez, along with Dr. Calderon and a beautiful woman who was the anesthesiologist, Dr. Solis; all came to speak with me. Dr. Rod asked me if I had any questions, apprehension or doubt… I of course said no… let’s do this thing!!   I was brought first into recovery and given a pre-medication to relax before I was moved into the OR. I really don’t know how long that took because the pre-meds made me fall asleep… not a bad way to lead into surgery. I do remember however that Friday was Mother’s Day in Mexico and everyone who encountered me asked me if I was a mother, and gave me a hug and wished me Happy Mother’s Day. These people are so very genuine! I woke me briefly just to scoot from one table to the next in the OR and it was lights out. The next thing I knew I was back in recovery and the nurses were putting a powdered medication under my tongue. In and out for a while until; when someone asked if I felt I was ready to go back to my room – I agreed. I believe I made it back to my own room at approximately 1:30 pm. It took me a bit of time to get out of the anesthetic comfortably, as it felt a little heavier than I was used to; and that made my day a bit difficult.   The day was actually a bit harder than I had originally anticipated. I was extremely groggy from the anesthetic and badly wanted to sleep… when I did nod off however, I was too uncomfortable to remain relaxed. I felt extreme pressure and pain in my abdomen – which I do believe was the gas (pumped into my abdomen during surgery)… and of course they want you to walk!! I remember Dr. Rod coming in with an assistant Doctor; Dr. Rafael (Rafa) Vizcarra at some point asking how I was feeling and I told him I felt like CRAP! He laughed and said ok, just walk walk walk and blow on the cornet (this weird little horn thing they ask you to blow into in order to move the gas into your diaphragm) – Ya right!! I tried about three times then told it to get lost and threw it on the window ledge hoping it would jump!! I was also given bottles of water and instructed to rinse my mouth and spit as I needed to keep myself comfortable. Very nice!   I started walking at 4pm, managing one round around the hall. I went again at 5, 6:30 and 7:30… by that time I did three rounds. I then asked one of the nurses that came in to see me if I may go to bed, and thankfully she said I could!! I should note during that day, I saw the cleaners come into my room at minimum three times to mop, change garbage and tidy, and that the nurses were in and out with IV meds, and to check my vitals. Communication was never an issue and all treated me with kid gloves and kindness.   My sister left around 8pm and I was OUT!! I woke at 12:00am thinking it must be almost morning and shuffled to the bathroom with my IV, and suddenly noticed that I felt MUCH better. The anesthetic was all but worn off and the pain in my abdomen was replaced by a hunger feeling (as noted above). I hoped back into bed and slept quite comfortably until 5:00am.   Saturday was, well… boring. Dr. Rod and Dr. Rafi came in again 2x to check on me, tell me what was going to happen that day (barium swallow, and drain removal) and ask if I had any questions. I took a picture with Dr. Rod which is posted in my gallery… and I look absolutely horrible!! I am pale and puffy but whatever, its still worthy of posting. I wish I had taken a picture with Dr. Wonderful because not only was he sweet to me but he was damn cute!! I asked Dr. Rod if I could go shopping – he laughed and said no. My homework for the day was to continue walking, blowing my horn, and eating ice chips to learn about and train my new tummy. I was nervous to start swallowing but I pushed forward and started to learn my limitations for amounts to swallow, how slowly, etc…. slow and careful is key!   Dr. Calderon came in again and explained my post op diet and discussed life changes with me. At one point my IV had to come out because, again due to my stupid veins, the one that was being used collapsed. Not at all a painful issue but the nurses had no interest in prodding me with a needle again so the switched me to oral pain meds and an antibiotic shot. I’m good with that!   I was really nervous about the barium swallow but in reality it was not all that bad. Distasteful; and because you have to drink it quick you kind of get this “swallowed a brick” feeling for a minute but it didn’t make me want to throw up or anything, which is always a bonus! Once that was done, Dr. Rafi brought me back to my room; left for a short while and returned in about an hour to remove the drain and drop off all of my x-rays. The drain was removed so gently I didn’t even know he had done anything yet! I cannot say enough about this man!! He is so sweet and kind and gentle. He told me I am beautiful inside and out and that he would like me to keep in touch with them during my journey. He gave me a hug and a kiss and wished me luck; and then again even gave my arm a little affectionate squeeze when he finally left. I already miss him!!   The rest of the day was spent strolling, looking at the cute babies who were near my room, and relaxing with my novel. The nurses were in and out checking my vitals, making sure I was comfortable, delivering new experimental foods for me to try (Broth, Tea, Apple Juice, and Jello cubes) and at 9pm one delivered a sleeping pill to help me have a good restful sleep before my day of journeying home.   At one point another Dr. whose name escapes me as well, brought me in all of my medications with a folder containing instructions for administration as well as a full disclosure for my doctor at home on all procedures completed during surgery; to go with my x-rays.   Here’s where it gets kind of silly. I took the sleeping pill, and started to doze, then a nurse came in to check my vitals again – so I just sort of dozed through that. Then, another came in to give me a pain med… I took it, still dozy… and THEN one came in to check the dressings on my drain site. After she told me what she was doing I looked at her and said, “Kipper!” LMAO! WHAT?? She laughed, I laughed… and I slept until 5am.   The next morning our driver arrived at 8:30 am, having arranged being early so he could take us shopping; and we were on our way. Crossing the border took about an hour this time – there were huge lines and once the US border guard heard that I had drugs on me they pulled us over and “released the hounds!” Literally! We were made to wait outside the vehicle and two dogs ran around wildly sniffing at everything! That was exciting! We stopped at an El Paso flea market with lots of lovely Mexican folk art for about an hour and the driver stayed by our side the whole time. When we got to the airport he asked for $20 US for his extra time – we gave him $50.00.   And that was that. Long day of travel home… feeling pretty good all the way. No issues on the flight with gas pain or discomfort of any kind, and here I am working from home, for the second day – having taken care of laundry, dishes, tidying, walking on my treadmill (‘cause its freezing here – what the hell!) etc etc., no issues. Seriously, no issues. I can hardly believe it. I will return to my office tomorrow morning!   If I can summarize my experience I can honestly say that the cleanliness, attention and care I received at Star Medica has made the hospitals in my city look like the 3rd world. Not once did I feel frightened or uninformed. I saw my surgeon and his team every day, often more than once. I was made to feel like the most important person in that hospital. I would recommend this Doctor, and this facility without hesitation and will return to personally thank them when I reach my goal. If I can pursuade them, I will take them for dinner!
JillianMarie73

JillianMarie73

0
Pret-Op Process & Struggles
 

Loose Skin Worries

My worse fear besides getting acid reflux would have to be loose skin. My body has always been pretty solid (see pic), but it still terrifies me! I have two more appointments with my nutritionist and I'm going to let her know at the next one that I'm going to be lifting weights. I was supposed to loose 5% of my weight, which I have done, but I'm sure that the scale will go up once I start lifting weights. I think the only area that I'm nervous about are my legs. My arms would be the second thing. My stomach, I'm not worried about that at all. So I have until August to get some muscle before this surgery. I see a lot of stairmaster, squats and bi and tricep curls in my future.   How are you guys combating loose skin? Did you take and precautionary measures prior to surgery and how did that work out for you?   I do see myself getting plastic surgery and that is a breast lift, minus the implants. I researched it and the average cost is about $4k, not too bad!
SamG

SamG

1
Kulita's gathered information & help
 

Avocado can help with Stalls / Plateau

Have you experienced a stall in your weight loss? Has it been 2 weeks or more since the scale has moved? If so read on.   Chances are really good that IF you are following the Dr's guidelines you are most likely having small body adjustments and have lost size. Start by measuring your thighs, upper arm, forearm, neck, waist, hips, chest. I encourage everyone to do this twice a month. It a true stall is when all of your numbers, including the scale doesn't move. That is something you can show the Dr and NUT and you can work on figuring out how to solve the issue.   The scale can give discouraging (and misleading) numbers, but cover up the numbers with a piece of masking tape and put your goal weight on the tape. Only find out your true weight from your Dr. at check ups because that is the weight that is going to matter when it is jotted down in your record.   It is stressful enough trying to readjust to life post op and enjoy foods one at a time, why add more by constantly worrying about stalls?   In addition to measuring yourself I found out in my San Diego support group that many have experienced stalls/plateaus. Almost all of them swore by eating avocado with every meal for a week to break the plateau. View the .pdf file that explains a bit more about this and the science behind how this works.
kulita

kulita

5
Eternal Pleasure's Journey
 

Unsavory burning

Well now it's officially been 2 weeks today since I've had my revision from band to sleeve. This has definitely been an experience for me. This morning I woke up with a dry mouth, migraine and a burning sensation in my chest. This really sucks and it's taking a toll on me emotionally. I'm feeling like whether or not this was such a good idea. It seems I am more emotional now over being sleeved. I'm trying so hard to do this but I'm so scared. I'm having the biggest doubts. I want to follow all the rules and be healthy but it seems harder than I thought it would be. I don't want to do anything wrong or kill myself. I don't know. I guess I will wait for my nut to call about the burning in my chest. I don't know if its heartburn, acid reflux or indigestion. I needed to spit up with it and I'm guessing acid reflux.
imbabiluv

imbabiluv

3
ainsworth1's Blog
 

still stalling!

so frustrating!!!!! arghh ok so I am bouncing between 1lb on then off, then on then off!!! this is now 2 weeks, im really trying but i think its protein where i am lacking, im still drinking a shake a day, egg for breakfast, shrimp, deli meats, string cheese, chicken (but I cant eat much of this) should i go back to minced chicken for a while? I am exercising but not as much as i should be (ive had a cold for 4 days ) water intake is hard as i hate water!! so im doing vitamin water.   anyone have any magical solutions id like to be 5lb down by the 30th (going on a cruise!)
ainsworth1

ainsworth1

3
Blog 265
 

Why are you still waiting

Hi, Why are you still sitting out there waiting to have surgery. I know for many, it is the fear off failing just one more time. I felt like that too, and I want you to know that "sleeve" surgery was the ONLY thing that has ever worked for me. I had it over 4 1/2 years ago and I lost 105 pounds and I have kept it off. STOP giving days of your life away. Make the choice to do something that is going to save your life. I am always here if you have any questions. Do something NOW, and I promise you, that you will never have any regrets
Suzannesh

Suzannesh

1
SonnysWuv's Blog
 

I did it!

Ok Im officially sleeved my new journey has begun!!!im doing fine except for this excutiating gas pain!!!! It's horrible I've been walking but very like burping!!! Please help me and tell me this is the worst of this!!! Lol I never wanted to burp fart so bad in my life!!!!!!
ItsjustmeHQ

ItsjustmeHQ

2
LadyDiva618's Blog
 

Today was my Banded Diva Day!

Banded Diva Day... LOL I crack myself up sometimes! First I want to thank everyone for the advice and word of encouragement. It is nice to know that I am not alone. I am truly blessed. Thank you so much. Today, I decided to take action and do something fun. So I went to the nail shop and got my toes and eyebrows done. Then I went shopping for week 3 of my post op diet. I felt pretty good and wanted to do more but I need to slow down. Today is my friend Mandy’s Birthday she is having her birthday party at a local club this weekend. I told her I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it or not. I explain to her I may be around to many triggers. Here is a brief history lesson. Before me being banded almost every other weekend I was drinking… a lot. Those nights consisted of shots, shots, and bud lights. Then after club hours a trip to Jack in the Box I usually ordered 2 tacos and Jumbo Jack on sourdough. I know I can’t do that now or anytime soon but Mandy understand my situation. Eventually I will have to learn how to deal with social situation but I do not want to be staying again this weekend. I was thinking about going to the movies this weekend. I never was those types of people who had to buy popcorn or nachos. I usually buy their version of a $6 dollars Icee and maybe a pretzel. Since I can have low fat cheese and crackers I thought about putting them in my purse just in case. I am so glad I have a big purse. Anyway life is good and I have no regrets! Thanks for reading.
LadyDiva618

LadyDiva618

1
Kulita's gathered information & help
 

Constantly weighing yourself

Just put some masking tape over the number part of the scale. On the tape write down your goal weight. Now EVERY time you step on you will ONLY see your goal weight and are forced to either wait until you see the Dr. or bend over and remove the tape (which you KNOW will be wrong)
kulita

kulita

3
Kulita's gathered information & help
 

Unjury and Syntrax Nectar Desserts

Need to to mix up your protein shakes and try something different?   There is a clear liquid protein broth from Unjury called Chicken soup and it REALLY good.. BTW you can eat this one warm, and it taste EXACTLY like how you would want homemade chicken soup to taste.     If you like chocolate, try Syntrax's Nectar in Chocolate Truffle. With water it tastes like a YooHoo, with milk it tastes like a Wendy's milkshake.   I also have The Nectar in Vanilla Bean torte (23gm protein) and I mix it up with 2 oz of blueberry kefir and 4 oz of milk (9gm protein). Kefir is 99% lactose free and has just as much protein as milk.   If you like fruit juices try Unjury's Strawberry Sorbet. Mix it with water, lemonade, or milk and yogurt (strawberry cheesecake). I have made this one so many ways even into ice pops!   Of course all of these items are 0 carb and 0 fat too. Samples of the Nectar can be purchases at Vitamin Shoppe and Unjury through Unjury.com   Looking for sleeve & bypass recipes from someone who actually had it AND tastes YUMMY?… go here… http://theworldaccor...e.blogspot.com/
kulita

kulita

4
Healthiernewme's Blog
 

4 Days Post-Op

My surgery went well. I had some nausea on Day 1 and 2. Mostly, a sour taste in my mouth and spitting up saliva (less than 5 times total). No vomiting, thank goodness. I think it was my body trying to get rid of the anesthesia. By Day 2 night I was feeling pretty ok. No real pain, except for some gas pressure on Day 1 and 2. I would classify that more like discomfort more than pain though. I had no problem walking since Day 1. Day 3 - I was only able to get in about 16 ounces of liquid in. I will try to double that today. It's so hard because you get a tightness in your chest when you drink to fast or often. I'm feeling pretty good, just a little week. My incisions are just a little sore, but no real pain. No bruising whatsoever - really clean looking incisions actually.   I weighed in at 199 - so about 5-6 lbs. post-op for a total of about 11 lbs. (with 10 day pre-op diet).
Healthiernewme

Healthiernewme

5
reenalee's Blog
 

i have to get this off my chest - part 6

The following day I woke up and began getting ready for work, as I sat on the side of my bed pulling on my stockings he came into the room and I turned to   him and said "I want a divorce. I no longer wish to be married to you, I have been wasting my time." he was so shocked, he didnt know what to say! I left   for work, I dont recall crying even ONE tear! If anything I felt a huge weight lift off from me. I began thinking about my children and how the last thing I   wanted was for them to have a split home. I also worked out everything I wanted to tell Steve when I returned home that night.     When I got home I waited to talk to Steve until after the kids were in bed. I sat him down and told him I understood he had been out of work for a while and   he was in no position to move out. Given the situation (our children having special needs ect) I thought it was best that we kept things the way they were   for the time being. I explained to him that he would have to start paying his own way through life, he needed to get a job and soon! I expected him to pay   $150 a month for a roof over his head, and food in his belly. I would take care of the rest.     He didnt have much choice but to agree with me. The next month and a half he sat around and played video games, I only ever got $50 from him during that   time. I had slowly been getting very close to a male friend of mine. He was recently coming out of a divorce and we were helping each other along the way.   Months went by and against my better judgement my friend and I beame closer and closer, to a romantic point. Everyone around us said to be careful as it was   just a rebound thing. Steve still lived with me and there were many nights he would stand at the foot of my bed carrying on until 2 or 3 AM. I did not keep   anything from him, so when I began getting involved with my friend (Don) I was sure to let him know.     Any time I would hang out with Don I was always very careful not to let it get in the way of my time with my kids. So I would see him for a very short time   after work or a longer time once my kids were in bed sleeping. He was very understanding when it came to my children, he understood nothing came before   them. I did eventually make plans to go to dinner with Don when one of my kids had fallen sick. I made arrangements then for Don to come visit me at the   house, Steve would leave, Don would come after the kids were in bed. Steve surprisingly was alright with most everything until it was a problem for him (ex:   when he needed money for cigarettes ect).     When Don was around I relaized Steve was silent! How nice that was. So once I felt comfortable enough I allowed Don to meet my kids, and eventually he began   coming around more and more often. I would make up excuses for him to come or to stay longer since whenever he was around it was peaceful! I went to my   landlord and explained to him that I have asked Steve to move out, asked him to get a job, asked him to help out with money around the house and he has done   nothing but fight with me. I got all my options from my landlord and they didnt look great. Basically he said Stve could leave on his own, or the landlord   would have to evict all of us! So I asked my landlord what he thought about another person moving in, he said it was fine as long as there was no fighting.     I explained to Steve that Don and I were pretty serious and I was going to have him move in. I gave Steve a move in date and told him if he didnt like it,   he should move out! So on move in day you know what Steve did? Helped move Don in!! He insisted he wasnt going anywhere and any time now I would change my   mind and see what I was throwing away! So now here I am living with my ex husband, my children and my new boyfriend! Things, as messed up as that seems were   actually really decent as long as Don was home. Whenever Don was at work and Steve and I were alone he would start fighting with me. One time he started   fight with me he was really loud, very mean, and he was in my face, grabbing my arms things that were threatening. My oldest son (who was 8 at this time)   saw it and he went out the back door and rode his bike up the road to the landlord's house and told him his dad was being very mean to me. I hate to think   that this action may have saved lives, but in reality - this action may have saved lives. Within a few minutes my landlord was knocking at the door, this   made Steve let go of me and get away from me. My landlord told him he had 7 days to leave or else he was putting the whole lot of us on the street!     Steve made arrangements to live with his mom, he was out 3 or 4 days after this threat by my landlord. I liked that he was at his mothers house, I felt at   ease sending my kids to visit. He would take Trevor on Friday night and keep him right through until Sun afternoon and the twins he would come pick up on   Sat, drop off Sat night and get them again on Sun. It really was a good arrangement that we had.     Once I had Steve move out I had to put the kids in daycare whenever I was working, this was expensive! So I sat Steve down once he got a job and I told him   I was not asking for child support, just that he paid half of the daycare fees. total was $300 a month! He agreed that that was reasonable. A week later he   gave me $125 and that was the last money I saw from him until much much later.     I am going to stop at this point for today, there is still more to tell about my journey with my ex-husband. Even to this day (literally, I have pressed   charges against him and he is to appear in front of a judge tomorrow, May 14th) I intend to finish off my story within the next day or so I didnt write at   all this weekend with it being mother's day but I think I can wrap this whole thing up within the next few days. I was nervous telling my story, there was a   lot of horrible things I have been through but my reason for telling it has shown through all of that and helped me get it all out! More to come!
reenalee

reenalee

8
SonnysWuv's Blog
 

Today is the day I m getting sleeved !

Today is the day I've been waiting for! In a few hours I have to be at the hospital !!! 5:30 am to be exact ,, not sure what time the surgery will start.. All weekend I haven't really felt good on sat had a headache and The runs! Gross i know but anyways thought i had a hangover cause I had a few to many dirty martins but this morning woke up feeling the same way on now my back hurts and my stomachs cramping..Im not nervous but I am wondering if they will still do the surgery??? Idk every keep me in your prayers please!! Pray everything goes well for me!! Thank u all ill write again as soon as I can get up !!!  
ItsjustmeHQ

ItsjustmeHQ

3

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