A New New Dawn

I had a lot of discomfort on my port side and it was very uncomfortable for me to sit. It actually took me about 4 weeks for it to subside. In my case, sitting made it worse as it felt like my organs were jabbing into my ribs. My doctor told me it was because I was still swollen. It has since gone away.

Is it on your port side?

I will second that.. I had my 2nd fill today and honest to goodness, I did not even feel the needle or the fill. My doctor gave me a shot to numb it (I didn't feel that) and I didn't feel the fill at all! I actually looked at my belly later to make sure there was a needle mark, lol. Your band is there to help you on this journey. Don't be afraid to ask for more help from it (ie. fills) and to maximize its benefit to you. Good luck and great job so far!!!

I wholeheartedly agree. Some people can be very judgemental when they don't have any firsthand knowledge of what really is involved. Is it really any different than a smoker trying to quit and using the patch, or someone working out and using a personal trainer, or someone who suffers from anxiety or depression that takes medication for it? We all have our vices or challenges and need help in someway to overcome or manage them. Kudos to all of us for doing something about ours and trying to improve our quality and quantity of life!! ... back off my soapbox

I had it too and still have the custom orthotics. Losing 44 lbs has done wonders. I used to hold the railing going down the stairs as I gently walked down them in the morning when I got up. I have had NO pain whatsoever in the past few weeks. It really has been a God send!

Kime-lou, I can relate to what you are feeling. However, as much as we want that reassurance, I think there are a couple things that may hinder it. First, sometimes whilst we are in transition we are wearing the same clothes (that are just baggier). Until I bought a few new more fitted items, no one said much. Another thing is that some people are afraid of drawing attention to it as they may feel it is very personal and trying to respect your privacy. The people I work with everyday have said a few things and said it is very noticeable (I have lost 44lbs); however, my former day-to-day coworkers didn't say anything when I saw them recently. I was a little bummed but also know in my own mind and heart that I am doing well and only I can make myself feel good about it. Keep up the good work and reward yourself from time to time with a new top or outfit to embrace your new size as able. The confidence you exude will draw attention as well.

I have a great recipe with black beans, cilantro, vegetable broth that I enjoy. It is similar to rice but lots of protein and vitamins.

As Missy stated, check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure you can cut or crush your pill. As for me, my blood pressure pill is rather large. Post surgery, I cut it into 4 pieces and had no issues, as time went on I cut it in half only. I take it whole now with no issue. Most likely you will be able to cut your pill.

Your body is still healing so definitely follow the diet plan your doctor gave you. You can cause issues (such as band slippage) but pushing your body. Right now, it is about healing, not about losing weight so focus on following your respective doctor's orders.

I would trust what your doctor says for the overall stats; however, know that everyone reacts differently. I think you may notice a lot of posts about people having discomfort or issues afterwards because those that don't are less likely to post something. People are naturally more likely to speak up about a negative experience or ask for suggestions, etc in that instance. I had mine on 7/25 and it was pretty uneventful. I knew from a past surgery that anesthesia is not my friend (made me extremely nauseaous). I told my surgeon prior to surgery so they gave me meds before the surgery and I had NO issues with it this time. I had none of the gas pain that others have mentioned either. It was uncomfortable getting up and down from a chair and getting out of bed but that was to be expected. I am a single mother and my kids are in their teens. They doted over me getting me Water, etc... but I was able to shower, dress, etc. on my own and able to drive by day 2. Just take it easy and listen to your body. Congrats on your pending surgery!!! Try not to fret about what may or may not happen and take each day as it comes. You will do great.

Kelly, It really depends on your doctor and insurance as to how long this will take to get approved. I do know that it seems to be a much quicker process for most than it used to be as many insurers and employers have really come around. However, in order to be the most prepared, I would contact your insurance to see what their coverage and requirements are for weight loss surgery. That is a good starting point to know what you need to get going. As for what to bring with, they will likely want to know your prior dieting history. Also, they will want to know that you have done research on the surgery and understand what it's about. My surgeon required me to go to their orientation meeting so the more of those things (contacting insurance, going to orientation, etc) that you can do will help move things along. After doing your research, you may want to bring a list of questions you have with as well so you can get the most out of your visit. Good luck on your journey.

Try finding healthier variations of those foods that you love. For example, I make a healthy version of mac and cheese. It is made with whole grain pasta, light laughing cow wedges and frozen broccoli and cheese. It is low in calories, fat, etc and high in nutrition. Perhaps, you won't feel like you are missing out on those favorite things and will be eating healthier. Also, are you getting in any exercise?

If you cannot even drink properly, you need to go back in. There is a difference between being a little too tight and not being able to stay hydrated. You will end up in the hospital if you are not getting enough liquids down from dehydration. I would recommend signing yourself up on myfitnesspal (on your phone or I believe it is online too) and logging what you are eating. It is very unfortunate what you have been through; however, you need to do your part to support the band. Many of the "slips" can be avoided as they are often caused by either throwing up too much or over eating. Were you sticking to around 1200 calories per day and no more than one cup of food per meal? I am not trying to judge, just offering suggestions. But seriously, contact your doctor if you are not getting liquids down properly. That is nothing to mess around with. Best of luck to you and kudos for not giving up.

Never heard of that terminology. Chicken fills me up.

No, different surgeon... I just meant I am close by Naperville.

My surgeon told me I would have to throw up quite a bit and for a prolonged period for it to harm the band. I was nervous because I had done so after a "stuck" episode. Would love to hear from others that have had to deal w/ the flu though. Feel better soon CG.

Awesome!!!

As I know you are anxious, it doesn't hurt to call the insurance provider to check the status. My insurance company never called me directly and the surgeon's assistant didn't work every day so I found out faster than waiting for the call. All in all, my approval took less than a week. Good luck!

Have you tried using "myfitnesspal" to log your food intake? Many times people feel like they are eating healthy or within a certain calorie range and don't realize just how much they are taking in. Salads can be very unhealthy if adding cheese, dressing, etc. Also, many people don't realize how many liquid calories they are taking in. I think a food journal would be a good first start. Also, salads are ok but you should be eating protein first, salad next. The protein is going to fill you up and keep you satiated. Good luck to you!

Good for you for doing your research and sticking to your convictions. My family doctor has been very supportive too; however, over the years if she found out I went to a specialist (be it an ENT dr. or other) she was a little put out that I did it on my own and not including her in the decision or getting her recommendation for a specialist. I think sometimes it's an ego thing if you make decisions or see other specialists of your own choosing. I am guessing over time your doctor will get over it. If not, nothing says you have to stick with the same doctor. Kudos to you!

Wow, sorry about your tooth. You are still bloated and swollen internally from the surgery. I imagine in a couple weeks as that subsides it will improve.

Carol Stream.... not too far but had mine at Central DuPage.

I use to have debilitating cramps.....Bad!!!! After I had my first child they went away and now it's definitely manageable. It may be something that resolves itself for you too. Good luck!