Firefly147

I was banded March 31st and had my first fill last week. I am starting to feel a little more full, but really want to get to how I felt after surgery when all the swelling was there. Yes It was hard to get liquids down and I had some indigestion, but I would have to say to anyone considering the band, that even though several people are complaining about heartburn and belching, I would rather deal with that than the alternative. With the little weight I have lost so far, I already feel better. My blood pressure is improving, my knees are not hurting, my blood sugar is good and the swelling and numbness in my feet is gone. Don't know about the rest of you but I think most of the annoying side effects are much better than the pain of a heart attack, stroke or being on dialysis any day. I am in the medical field and have seen all of these things first hand, and many more ailments that being overweight causes. So as long as I can keep my band in, I am going to stick it out. Just my two cents. Good luck to everyone :biggrin:

Hello, I was banded on March 31st 2010. I am new to the board, live near San Antonio TX and had surgery in Austin. Not sure what else to say, just looking forward to losing my weight and being healthy

Dr Ganta did my LAP-BAND® in March 2010. I had a consult with True results and did not like their approach. I like Dr Ganta because he has his own office and takes the time to answer your questions during your consult. I also chose him because I wanted the single incision procedure through the belly button, which he specializes in. Overall so far he seems very good. Be aware that the belly button incision is quite long, a bit longer than I had anticipated, but still much better than multiple incisions. The only issues I have had are 1: I did not care for Austin surgical hospital. Had some problems with professionalism there (I am in the medical field) 2: I paid cash for my surgery and signed all of the pre op agreements regarding payment, and amounts due to the hospital, surgeon and anesthesia Dr. I gave them checks for the agreed upon amounts, which were cashed. After a month I get a call from the hospital saying I owe them $1000.00 and that the Drs office said to bill me! Some woman I never met before at Dr Gantas office spoke with me while I was there for a follow up and explained that someone gave me the wrong price for the hospital so I now owe the hospital. I say that I signed an agreement for a certain amount and made payment in good faith so I should not be responsible for someone elses mistake. Had I known about the price change, I may have opted for a different procedure to stay in budget. She then decided she was going to do me a favor and offer to split the bill 50/50, which I don't see as a favor at all. I will have to update you when this issue is resolved, as I am still dealing with it right now. I would consider this a major factor in my decision if I were to be asked recommend this office to anyone. So overall the Dr is good, the surgery seems to have been good but the staff has caused me some major stress and possibly financial issues due the their mistake, which in my opinion is a mistake that should never be made, especially since Dr Ganta is a partner ( part owner) in Austin surgical hospital.