carolg

I went to a lap band seminar in November and found that the surgery was substantially less expensive in Dallas.  Since Dr. Smith talked at the seminar I assummed he was connected to both office, but both are separate as I later found out.  My surgery was on the day of the worst snow storm in the history of Dallas.  Dr. Smith left after the 3 surgeries on vacation.  Did not get to meet Dietician.  Did have paperwork read to me, twice now.  I have lost some weight They said flying back the next day would be okay - it was horrible, my muscles were so bound up after trying to protect my pain it took two days to relax a little.  I have had bad pain in my upper quadrant.  I ended up in ER the Tuesday after surgery, though I had been drinking water I was dehydrated and had a UTI, I thought I was having a heart attack because my chest hurt so much on the left upper side.  Was hyperventilating all the way over (35-40 minute drive from my house) - once I realized I was not having a heart attack and they gave me fluids an pain I got better.  They suggested I stay the night, I did and got to meet with Bariatric Manager here in ABQ Paula and also to talk with dietician Laura - she was awesome.  I continued having severe pain, when Shannon in Dallas called to check on me she said it sounded like my band was too tight and I could get immediate relief from having it deflated.  I went back to ER (must go to ER to see Bariatric staff??) Paula came in (it was a Friday night) and withdrew 5 cc's - I did feel immediately better.  Thank goodness for Shannon, she has been on top of things.  I still hurt but not as severely.  Yesterday (2/24) was the first day I felt the pain left on my left side was better.  I am still weak but making progress.  Went to see Dr. Smith today and they had given me the wrong day for the appointment. ....I sure hope things improve, there has been so much aggravation and I am a very passice, calm person...