TQUAD64

Since my procedure was medically necessary for my health, I do not have any co-pays for the hospital stay. At least that is what my insurance told me as I was researching the process/procedure. There is no way I could ever afford $82K. This is the best and by far most expensive Christmas gift I ever received. I am very thankful for my insurance.

Yes, it does sound excessive to me too. I thought maybe because I stayed for 2.5 days in the hospital. Not sure who to report to, but it just sounds like way to much money being charged.

I has sushi over the weekend two pieces did me in. I was full by then. The old days, I could have ate the whole roll.

I love Isopure and the frost grape is yummy. It is what I was drinking during the liquid diet post-op phase.

I make chicken and turkey chili, which has protein. Cheese, eggs, nonfat milk products are how I get my protein in.

I don't even go there. I don't touch that spot, because it creeps me out. I know I am being silly, but it does creep me out. When I bathe, I just let the soapy water flow over it, because I won't touch that spot.

I am aware of why the spleen bled during surgery and no the doctor did not nick it. It was scar tissue from a previous surgery. :thumbup:

The pre-op diet is hard. I lost 10-pounds during this time. I had two protein drinks and a high protein meal at night. If I needed a snack it was something with protein. I layed off the sweets, which really helped. Lots of water too.

I am not bloated anymore, but I am 6-weeks post op and I still have gas. Gas X does not help me. Just keeping walking to get it out.

I never had this problem pre-band or post band, because I eat a meal before going shopping. When I am full I am satisfied and when I am satisified I am not tempted.

Hi Liquid Tylenol helps. But there is always a doctor on call. Call the answering service to have the doctor on call help you.

I think any weight loss is awesome. You are doing a great job! As far as exercise, I was not up to speed walking until, 14 days post op. But once I started it really helped those inches fly off. I am now down three pant sizes and I have lost 32 pounds. I feel great and energized.

I would go back on liquids for a day and then mushies to see if that helps. I would slow down my eating and give my brain time to register that I am full. I would also really chew my food well, once I was back on solids. Good luck!

I agree with Heather, call your doctor to be on the safe side. And just an FYI, I still have gas pains now and then and I am 6-weeks post. It is terrible. I walk it off. Gas X does not help me and I wish there was an RX the doctore could give me.

I am totally eating holiday treats, but in moderation. So instead of 1-dozen Christmas Cookies, I have 1. Instead of eating the whole box os Sees candy in one gobble. I have 1 or 2 pieces. Moderation is easy for me with the band. Pre-band my portions were all out of control.:sad: I am also working my butt off with exercise, so that I can indulge withou gaining weight. :thumbup: Merry Christmas!

I track calories. I also work out 5X a week.

Yesterday: 50 minute treadmill at 4% 2.10 miles:smile2:. Today: Day off of exercise to spend with family. Merry Christmas!

I would be interested in B12 shots. My doctor has me taking B12 under the tongue. But I bet the shots work much quicker.

I had my second fill December 10. I was able to go without food, not feeling hungry for 6-7 hours with this fill. Today (two-weeks later), I eat and then feel hungry 4-hours later. This is still great for me, because I am not grazing. I really feel satisified with the meal. My next fill is on January 14, three weeks away.

I love roller coasters and the Happiest Place on Earth is my second home. I am planning a trip in 2009, so I better be able to go on roller coaster rides. :thumbup: I never used straws pre-band and I don't use them post band. My doctor tells us no straws, because of sucking in air.

Yes, I am from Northern Cali too and I wanted to have my procedure done with Dr. Machado. She is a great surgeon, but my insurance does not contract with her. Good luck!

Hello Pink101: I took two weeks off vacation time to have the procedure done. For me it was the right amount of time I needed to recover. Yes, I felt weak, because of the liquid post op diet, so I was glad to be home during this phase. But once I was on the mushie stage, I was no longer feeling weak. I was energized. Yes, I had pain, but I took pain meds to help with that. I stop taking pain meds on day 4 post op and started taking liquid Tylenol when needed.

I agree with Heather O. Well said!

It means a healthier life style for me.:thumbup: