BabyGotBack

Today I started my pre op diet. I had a protein drink for breakfast and lean cuisine for lunch/dinner. I feel good, but I have a headache. I can't believe next week Sunday, I will be in my hotel room (God willing)! I got my recipe book "Eating Well after weight loss surgery" by Patt Levine. It is really great! She is a chef that has had a lot of recipes in Gourment Magazine. She is also a lap bander. I am excited to try new recipes. They are also designed to make for your family. You just have to puree your portion. I am going to buy a Magic Bullet for myself to make it easier. I just need to buy a scale because I don't have one and I want to track my progress!

My friend was told by her doctor to put bird see into a stocking and put them in your bra. By this you can see what a C cup or D cup would look like and if you could live with it that size. She actually put the bird seed into her bra and wore it until her surgery. She was petite, about 5'5 and she was not happy with a C cup. She had wanted a D cup, but her doctor put in what he wanted. They also tend to get a little smaller after swelling goes down. It does depend on your frame. I had my skin filled with a D cup. I had always been a D, but breasfeeding sucked all the fat out and left me empty Teets!!! I am very curvy and have a large backside, so the D cup look better proportioned than if I was smaller. Also, weight loss makes th em smaller too. Hope this helps! Audree

Here is a website that I got off of another lapbanding forum. It actually showes how they lift the liver. After seeing it I will surely stay on my pre op diet!!! http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=3190472028990485080&q=lap+band&hl=en Audree

The Quick Slim 30 are only $60 a month.What I liked is I only needed to take one in the morning. I am going to hold off in buying them until I am banded. My friend had restriction right off the bat but I also hear that a lot of people don't. If I feel hungry, I will buy them just to take the edge off in those first 6 weeks. I know they say if you eat anything besides what they say in the first 6 weeks you have higher chance of slippage. Audree

I ordered Lap Band for Life by Dr. Ariel Ortiz (Still waiting for it, should come in a couple of days) and also a book called "Eating Well after Weight Loss Surgery". I am going to go over it and posting recipes!:hungry: I contacted Dr. Ortiz office and they said they only use the mini, low profile port. Is that what everyone else has too? I started my pre op diet today. I feel good. I took a Green Tea pill to curb my appetite in advance. I don't have a scale, I need to go buy one. I think I gained some weight since Thanksgiving. Does anyone else use and Elyptical Trainer? I have one, a dance exercise video and a gym membership. I have not used either for a month. I was exercising 4 times a week then my kids went on vacation and we got sick. It is hard to get back on. Lord willing, I will be driving to Mexico this time next Sunday!!!!!!!!:peace: How is everyone else doing today??????? Audree

I was given an appetite suppresant called Quick Slim 30 by a chinese herbalist. I bought it fully expecting it not to work, but it did! It really helped with the head hunger. You do have to go off of it like a week out of the month. I stopped buying it the last time I ran out because I was trying to do Meal Replacement which didn't work. The ingredients all sounded healthy. The only stimulant I could think of was the green tea, which is supposed to be really good for you. Alisma - diuretic Aloe Vera - relieves constipation, cleanses internal systems, aids in fat and sugar metabolism Fo-Ti - promotes internal cleansing, detoxifies and strengthens the blood, invigorates kidneys and liver, increases vitality Fructus Mori - improves digestion, increases energy Goji Berries - increases energy by improving blood circulation, provides nutrition to kidneys Grape Seed Extract - strengthens blood vessels, reduces inflammation Green Tea - aids digestion, detoxifies, reduces cholesterol and triglycerides, enhances immune function Hawthorn Berries - strengthens the heart by enhancing enzyme metabolism and oxygen utilization in the heart muscle Lotus Leaf - improves urination Reishi Mushroom - improves energy levels, reduces cholesterol and blood lipid levels Spirulina (Blue-Green Algae) - increases energy and mood, provides carotenoids and other nutrients beneficial to those who don't consume several servings of vegetables each day, is a complete source of Protein, especially helpful in obesity Sweet Tea Vine - improves protein metabolism, detoxifies, improves immune-system functioning The good thing too, now that I think about it, is that they come in those little capsules you can pull apart and there is powder inside. Does anyone take a pill like this and put it in yogurt or something? Has anyone heard of these Quick Slim 30 and did they work for you? Audree:clap2:

For me, and I am not banded yet, I have tried to take a little of every new way of eating and apply it to the way I eat daily. My body has gotten used to it and if I don't eat low carb, I actuallly feel sick! I can't deny myself when I want something or else I will binge and have way more. I try to eat when i am hungry and stop when I am full. The problem is, I can eat a lot! So, even if it is a salad, I can eat a huge salad! I cut out soda, drink mostly Water, Crystal light. I try to not eat fast food more than 2-3 times a week. I also try to eat fruit when i have a sweet tooth. I try to get some type of exercise every day. And if I mess up, I just pick up eating healthier the next meal not the next day. I used to just throw in the towel and blow the diet and just eat badly. I try to keep busy which keeps me distracted so I don't eat when i am bored. I am not heavy because i am an emotional eater, I juat can really pack it away. Last night I think my husband really understood when he stopped when he was full and I passed him up, kept on eating and was finally full. This is what I do to maintain my weight between 180-190. If I didn't keep these rules, I'd be in the 200's again. I am so excited about the band and I can't wait to have another great tool!!! Audree:scared:

I was wondering if you could send me a copy of those three lists you have for the stages of food? How did you do today? I can't wait to start my preoop diet on Sunday. My financing is supposed to be coming in and it is really cutting it close. I should be funding Friday and my surgery is Monday!!!! I pray to God I don't have to reschedule. If I don't get the money buy Friday, there is no way I can get it to him on a Sunday when I am supposed to be checking in to the hotel!!!!!!!!!!!! Audree :faint:

I was wondering what I should stock up on right now for when I get home from the hospital. I know it is a liquid phase,, but does that include protien drink, carnation breakfast, cream of mushroom or just chicken broth and gatorade? Thanks for all your suggestions. Audree

Good Morning Everyone! I just wanted to check in! I have actually been getting certain foods out of my system before I start my preop and I feel sick!!!!!!! I have a stomach ache, feel totally gross. I have fat coating my mouth and throat. I almost can't wait to start my preop. I'd start early but I have a Christmas party on Saturday!!! I AM SO EXCITED AND I JUST CAN'T HIDE IT, I'M ABOUT TO LOSE CONTROL AND I THINK I LIKE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! You want to know something funny? My husband is wondering if our intimate life will be the same, since I am so sturdy LOL now. He thinks he's going to break me or something! Audree

KayDotRn: I just noticed we are gettin our lapbands done on the same day! So, we only have 12 days to go!!!!!!!!!! I am so excited. Are you stocking up on the things you will need to have when you get home? I just bought some chicken broth, gatorade, carnation instant breakfast (which I don't think I can have till week 2) and I thought, how can I just eat broth and gatorade????? Then I remember, Oh yeah, cuz I won't be hungry!!!! Also, we will be swollen on the inside and healing, so we won't really feel like eating is what my friend who had it done, told me. By the time you get hungry, you can eat mushies. What are you going to take in your overnight bag? I heard someone say you should have a heating pad when you get home and gas x. Talk to you soon! Audree

I would like to put my journal on my signature. How do I put the link there? Thanks,Audree

I loved my experience with Dr Ortiz, I would recommend him to anyone. I'm an RN and I did a lot of investigating before surgery. I was considering using another Dr and then I called Don Mills at Inamed/Allergen to review my options and I chose Dr Ortiz after speaking to him. I didn't visit with him or the the clinic beforehand because I live in New Jersey and I scheduled my surgery for 2 weeks to the date that I called. I can tell you that my surgery lasted around 30 minutes and he fixed 2 hernias. I went shopping the day after surgery for a few hours. My husband is also an RN and he was very impressed with Dr Ortiz, the surgical center, and the aftercare. If you have any further questions feel free to ask. Patti Hi, You should really talk to my wife, since she's the one with the lapband: Koala After doing endless amounts of research, we discovered why you can never find anything first hand reports of problems with Dr. Ortiz, they just don't exist. The only negative things we could find online about him were rumors and hearsay. After talking with him while waiting for my wife's turn in the operating room, we could tell that he is a man who A) knows exactly what he's doing and is truly passionate about helping people lose weight without doing permenant, irreversable damage to them. Unprompted by me, Dr. Ortiz covered every single argument I've ever had in favor of the lapband and against gastric bypass. "I'm not rearranging what God made," he told us. "I'm just putting a little squeeze on it." We also found out why he has done so many bands. He was been a close friend of the inventor of it for many years and has been involved with the lapband pretty much since it was an idea in this guy's head. If anyone claims to have done more Lap-bands than him, I would definitely question them extensively because they're probably lying. Heck, Dr. Ortiz taught the most prolific LB surgeon here in Las Vegas how to do the procedure...and he's done about 200 of them. If I was going to get the transmission in my car fixed, I would go to a transmission shop since they would do a better job than the "fix everything" guy with a garage. :-) The actual facilities of Obesity Control Center are spotlessly clean. There isn't a surgeon in the world, let alone America, who wouldn't be proud to be a part of a facility like that. While we were waiting to have her bloodwork, we saw someone wiping down the wheels on a piece of equipment. That said a lot for their attention to detail. One advantage they have is that they ONLY do lap-bands, so they only operate on completely healthy people. The chances for post-op infection are naturally reduced that way. Dr. Ortiz pointed that out to us. I'd never really thought about it, but it makes sense. Their instruments are never used on someone with a staph infection or bad disease like that. Lap-bands are literally all they do at OCC, so the whole team is very good at it. Plus, the work is divided between Dr. Ortiz and his partner Dr. Martinez. Dr. Ortiz places the band after Dr. Martinez gets everything ready. Then, Dr. Martinez removes the laproscopic equipment and closes. So, you don't have to worry about "Geez, I'm the sixth patient today, so he's already been working for six hours." One of the operating room nurses has the lapband. She carries pictures of herself with an additional 120 pounds. It's very reassuring to see her and to know that someone who literally knows exactly how you feel is by your side the entire time. We felt 100% comfortable with Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Martinez. They both speak English better than most Americans, so there are no communication problems there. Dr. Ramirez was the overnight doctor and he's a great guy, too. There were a couple minor language barrier things, but nothing very significant. Heck, we've had the same thing with nurses at Summerlin hospital who ONLY speak English, so it's barely worth mentioning. One very kind, older nurse was actually asking us for help pronouncing some words. She was just as sweet as can be, a true "abuelita". Some of the staff may speak only Spanish, but you are never there without someone who speaks English fluently. Try as we might, we just could not find any reason to use another doctor in Mexico. Everything (including my one hour phone conversation with Inamed's Patient Liason) pointed to Dr. Ortiz having the experience that he claims and the facility to back it up. I honestly do not think you could have a better surgeon do the operation at any price, anywhere. My wife, being the "touchy-feely" type asked him why he does it and what his greatest joy is from his work. He said "the best thing about doing this is seeing someone in the waiting room or running into them somewhere and thinking that they look familiar...then having them show me their 'before' picture of what they looked like 100 or 150 pounds ago and tell me 'I am one of your patients'. That's the most incredible feeling in the world." Contrast this to our first surgeon's words of "You can't lose all the weight you want with the band." If you're truly serious about the band, it can be the greatest thing in the world. My wife had her surgery in August and she's down 78 pounds (not a typo, seventy-eight pounds). A couple of other people who had the surgery that same day (and did NOT take it seriously, in my opinion) have lost like 25-35 pounds. One of them actually ate solid food (Cup o' Noodles) the day after surgery. Anyway, if you have any more questions, just let us know. We could even talk with you on the phone if you wanted. We have no ties whatsoever to Dr. Ortiz other than as very satisfied customers. Jason Hi, I don't have a lot of time to write this morning, but I didn't want you to think I hadn't seen your email. Jason gave you some great information in his letter. Here are snippetts of stuff that I think helped me: First, take your own pain meds to Mexico with you. Everyone there while I was felt they didn't get enough relief with the ones Dr. Ortiz prescribed. We shared with one of the guys who thought to bring his own. That would be my number one suggestion about the surgery. Do walk as much as you can to avoid the shoulder pains from the gas. That helped a lot because mine weren't bad. I followed directions to a T. My weight dropped very quickly up until I reached 70 pounds off. Typical day of eating for me: Oatmeal bar for breakfast Lean Cuisine for lunch Light meal at supper I never drink with meals. Getting enough water is my current problem, though. I have not added exercise, really. So, I know I need to do that. Maybe that will get the weight coming off better again. My therapist says you have to replace food with something. The key is to figure out what that something is. For me, it's music. The other thing I find is that I'm having to deal with emotions without medicating myself with food. That leaves me feeling pretty open and bare sometimes, and it take some emotional work. Be prepared. I have to get my hair dry, but please write if you have any questions. I'll surely share my thoughts with you. It helps to walk this path with others who really GET what it's all about. Have a great day, Pam This is what some wonderful people from these boards sent me to reasure me. I just wanted to keep them all somewhere I could keep them, read them, re-read them and for others who would ever read my journal, help you the way I needed help to be reasured I was doing the right thing with the right doctor!!! scared:

I loved my experience with Dr Ortiz, I would recommend him to anyone. I'm an RN and I did a lot of investigating before surgery. I was considering using another Dr and then I called Don Mills at Inamed/Allergen to review my options and I chose Dr Ortiz after speaking to him. I didn't visit with him or the the clinic beforehand because I live in New Jersey and I scheduled my surgery for 2 weeks to the date that I called. I can tell you that my surgery lasted around 30 minutes and he fixed 2 hernias. I went shopping the day after surgery for a few hours. My husband is also an RN and he was very impressed with Dr Ortiz, the surgical center, and the aftercare. If you have any further questions feel free to ask. Patti Hi, You should really talk to my wife, since she's the one with the lapband: Koala After doing endless amounts of research, we discovered why you can never find anything first hand reports of problems with Dr. Ortiz, they just don't exist. The only negative things we could find online about him were rumors and hearsay. After talking with him while waiting for my wife's turn in the operating room, we could tell that he is a man who A) knows exactly what he's doing and is truly passionate about helping people lose weight without doing permenant, irreversable damage to them. Unprompted by me, Dr. Ortiz covered every single argument I've ever had in favor of the lapband and against gastric bypass. "I'm not rearranging what God made," he told us. "I'm just putting a little squeeze on it." We also found out why he has done so many bands. He was been a close friend of the inventor of it for many years and has been involved with the lapband pretty much since it was an idea in this guy's head. If anyone claims to have done more Lap-bands than him, I would definitely question them extensively because they're probably lying. Heck, Dr. Ortiz taught the most prolific LB surgeon here in Las Vegas how to do the procedure...and he's done about 200 of them. If I was going to get the transmission in my car fixed, I would go to a transmission shop since they would do a better job than the "fix everything" guy with a garage. :-) The actual facilities of Obesity Control Center are spotlessly clean. There isn't a surgeon in the world, let alone America, who wouldn't be proud to be a part of a facility like that. While we were waiting to have her bloodwork, we saw someone wiping down the wheels on a piece of equipment. That said a lot for their attention to detail. One advantage they have is that they ONLY do lap-bands, so they only operate on completely healthy people. The chances for post-op infection are naturally reduced that way. Dr. Ortiz pointed that out to us. I'd never really thought about it, but it makes sense. Their instruments are never used on someone with a staph infection or bad disease like that. Lap-bands are literally all they do at OCC, so the whole team is very good at it. Plus, the work is divided between Dr. Ortiz and his partner Dr. Martinez. Dr. Ortiz places the band after Dr. Martinez gets everything ready. Then, Dr. Martinez removes the laproscopic equipment and closes. So, you don't have to worry about "Geez, I'm the sixth patient today, so he's already been working for six hours." One of the operating room nurses has the lapband. She carries pictures of herself with an additional 120 pounds. It's very reassuring to see her and to know that someone who literally knows exactly how you feel is by your side the entire time. We felt 100% comfortable with Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Martinez. They both speak English better than most Americans, so there are no communication problems there. Dr. Ramirez was the overnight doctor and he's a great guy, too. There were a couple minor language barrier things, but nothing very significant. Heck, we've had the same thing with nurses at Summerlin hospital who ONLY speak English, so it's barely worth mentioning. One very kind, older nurse was actually asking us for help pronouncing some words. She was just as sweet as can be, a true "abuelita". Some of the staff may speak only Spanish, but you are never there without someone who speaks English fluently. Try as we might, we just could not find any reason to use another doctor in Mexico. Everything (including my one hour phone conversation with Inamed's Patient Liason) pointed to Dr. Ortiz having the experience that he claims and the facility to back it up. I honestly do not think you could have a better surgeon do the operation at any price, anywhere. My wife, being the "touchy-feely" type asked him why he does it and what his greatest joy is from his work. He said "the best thing about doing this is seeing someone in the waiting room or running into them somewhere and thinking that they look familiar...then having them show me their 'before' picture of what they looked like 100 or 150 pounds ago and tell me 'I am one of your patients'. That's the most incredible feeling in the world." Contrast this to our first surgeon's words of "You can't lose all the weight you want with the band." If you're truly serious about the band, it can be the greatest thing in the world. My wife had her surgery in August and she's down 78 pounds (not a typo, seventy-eight pounds). A couple of other people who had the surgery that same day (and did NOT take it seriously, in my opinion) have lost like 25-35 pounds. One of them actually ate solid food (Cup o' Noodles) the day after surgery. Anyway, if you have any more questions, just let us know. We could even talk with you on the phone if you wanted. We have no ties whatsoever to Dr. Ortiz other than as very satisfied customers. Jason Hi, I don't have a lot of time to write this morning, but I didn't want you to think I hadn't seen your email. Jason gave you some great information in his letter. Here are snippetts of stuff that I think helped me: First, take your own pain meds to Mexico with you. Everyone there while I was felt they didn't get enough relief with the ones Dr. Ortiz prescribed. We shared with one of the guys who thought to bring his own. That would be my number one suggestion about the surgery. Do walk as much as you can to avoid the shoulder pains from the gas. That helped a lot because mine weren't bad. I followed directions to a T. My weight dropped very quickly up until I reached 70 pounds off. Typical day of eating for me: Oatmeal bar for breakfast Lean Cuisine for lunch Light meal at supper I never drink with meals. Getting enough water is my current problem, though. I have not added exercise, really. So, I know I need to do that. Maybe that will get the weight coming off better again. My therapist says you have to replace food with something. The key is to figure out what that something is. For me, it's music. The other thing I find is that I'm having to deal with emotions without medicating myself with food. That leaves me feeling pretty open and bare sometimes, and it take some emotional work. Be prepared. I have to get my hair dry, but please write if you have any questions. I'll surely share my thoughts with you. It helps to walk this path with others who really GET what it's all about. Have a great day, Pam This is what some wonderful people from these boards sent me to reasure me. I just wanted to keep them all somewhere I could keep them, read them, re-read them and for others who would ever read my journal, help you the way I needed help to be reasured I was doing the right thing with the right doctor!!! scared:

I start my preop diet on Sunday. The diet consists of a protein shake for breakfast, a lean cuisine for lunch and dinner. My surgery date is Dec. 18, 2006. I reallly can't believe that my life is about to change. I will lose the weight this time and keep it off! I am weighing 185 right now. My first goal will be 155. My second goal which I plan on doing slower and gradual is 135 or so? My friend Monica had the lapband put in a year ago and she did very well. She lost fifty pounds and has had no complications. She did gain a little back, but only due to a loss, eating around the band and needing a fill. We are going to support each other also. I know the support has a big part to play in all of this. I log onto this forum at least twice a day for an hour at least. I have been eating some things that I know I won't be able to eat for a while if not ever. Not getting to out of hand though. So many people have emailed me with such positive things about Dr. Ortiz. I get more reasurred everyday. I want to post what they said here so I can look back or others can get the info they need. This week before my surgery will consist mostly of what I am learning in preparation to the surgery and post surgery and peoples comments. COMMENTS I RECIEVED FROM OTHER PATIENTS Hey" so sorry about that earlier email - i had to rush off! anyway, i researched like mad and chose ortiz because he is the best (imo) - very skilled, credentialed, etc and I wanted someone with the most experience. I also liked his staff and his anestsiologist (can never spell that right) and they use a type of anesthesia that doesn't require intubation. I was super scared of the surgery and my husband was initially against going to mexico etc. I didn't go to the clinic but we both talked to dr ortiz prior and i loved him immediately. I still very positive about him for the surgery - both he and dr martinez give you their personal cell phones - something unheard of in the states. Their facilitiy is different now (but even better) than when I had surgery last year. The only reason I'm unhapppy is i've had trouble losing weight and have struggled living with the band and I haven't felt very supported AFTER the surgery for non emergencies. But face it , most go home and lose weight with one or a few adjustments. There aren't as many of us who struggle so I don't want to sway you from him - just make sure you have some local support and possiblly a local fill doctor etc. And mostly, talk to dr ortiz yourself and ask all your questions, etc. That will help youmake up your mind. hey, good luck to you - also dr. ortiz has a good book with other doc recommendations too and lastly don't base your decision solely on price - experience is key. take care and i wish you good luck in your journey. email me anytime! take care, mary __________________ Hi, My brother is a surgeon in the U.S. and he suggested I check out some TJ doctors for the lapband. My BMI was too low to qualify here. Ever since I first heard about the band, years ago, I knew I wanted it! I found Dr. Ortiz on the internet and ordered his book. I also spoke on the phone with someone who had surgery there. She was NOT a paid coordinator or anything (neither am I.) Anyway, I drove down to Mexico from L.A. and had the surgery without ever meeting Dr. Ortiz ahead of time. There was a really peaceful feeling that I was doing the right thing. The surgery is clean and the staff very professional. Honestly, I don't know of any doctor that could have so many happy patients. He does this surgery about 4-5 times a day. He is extremely experienced and that is what I wanted. Also, he teaches the surgery to U.S. doctors. I am totally satisfied!! No regrets! Good luck!!!!! Surgery November 18, 2005 (Dr. Ortiz) When I first started researching the lap band the first thing I looked into was insurance coverage. Insurance won't cover the surgery for me (I didn't even try b.c i don't come close to meeting the criteria) SO I am self pay. So getting the surgery here in the US was out of the question. B/C it was between 15-20K. I then started researching Dr.'s in Mexico, the carribean and even Europe. Money is a big factor. I'm single, I'm 24, I live in the NYC area and I have a mortgage so I couldn't spend 10-13k like a lot of Dr's charge- in foreign countries. I also found cheap Dr's in Mexico (the cheapest was 6500). But after researching the doctors credential's I was quickly turned off. Dr. Ortiz's credentials seemed really impressive. The maker of the lap band trained Dr Ortiz. Dr Ortiz has 2 centers the cancun and the tj. One of his partners in the Cancun center is the Cheif of St Vincents- here in ny (he has been on the news and in magazines (for his achievements), which put my mind at ease. B/c if Dr. Ortiz was a crook or a bad dr the cheif of such a big hospital wouldn't be associated with him (atleast that's what i think). ALso Dr Ortiz completed a course at Harvard and Yale. And he has trained surgeons around the world. This all seemed very impressize to me. In addition I have not found 1 bad thing about him on the internet, which also helps. I also found one testimonial of a girl who went to dr ortiz. The band would have been too close to her aorta, so he did not complete the surgery. This put me at ease b/c he put safety before her desires. So in a nutshell that's why I chose Dr. Ortiz. What made you choose Dr.Ortiz? Well, I arrive on the 14th and I leave mexico the 17th. Im excited and nervous. It sounds like your friend is doing great. I hear stories of people losing 60 lbs in a few months while it takes outhers a year to do it. It sounds like the fills are very important for a lg weight loss. Me personally, I'd rather lose consistently over a year than lose it so quick that I'm stuck with excess skin. That's my main fear. Today I started my preop diet. When I decided to get my surgery (3 weeks ago) I have eaten everything I coluld possibly want and more. I have gained 8 lbs. So I'm starting the preop det today of 2 shakes and a lean cusine. Then Friday I'm going to start 3 shakes a day. Of course the day I start my diet I woke up at 6 am (opposed to 8- I work sun-thurs) So I have already had a large salad and I have to go prepare my protein shake before work. I hear if you blend the shake w/ice it's more filling. I'm going to go test that out. Please keep in touch. It's great to find others that are experiencing the same things I am. Lori I hope this info helps- my family and friends were opposed to me going to Mx at all for my surgery- but I sent them all the links and his resume and his credentials and they feel comfortable. I have not been able to find any bad info on him. I heard horror stories about betancourt medical -and Dr Lopez. I feel confident about my decision. Evaluate both doctors credentials- also go through lapbandtalk forums and find info on btoh dr's that may help. The two doctors I had it narrowed down to was Dr Rambaut and Dr Ortiz- but I went w/ dr ortiz b/c of his credentials. Dr Ortiz has 2 centers- the cancun one has been closed since the hurricane. this is the website that show's his association with Dr Nick Gabriel www.lapbandincancun.com Ameri Med Hospital offers Lap-Band surgery exclusively to patients of Dr. Ariel Ortiz and Dr. Lee Grossbard of the Lap Band in Cancun web site. Ameri Med Hospital is Cancun's newest hospital complex offering a full range of emergency and routine services. Ameri Med offers private rooms and a fully bi-lingual staff. The whole setting creates a soothing environment that will delight even the most demanding patient. Dr Ariel Ortiz, a Board Certified Mexican medical doctor whose medical practice is in Mexico, is a world renowned expert on Lap-Band surgery, having trained almost a decade ago under the designer of the Lap-Band, Dr Mitiku Belechew. Dr. Lee Grossbard started his private practice in 1984 in Zephyrhills, FL where he is currently located. After attending Lafayette College, Easton PA he then went on to graduate from Autonomous University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico with Honors. Dr. Nick Gabriel currently holds an appointment as the Chief of Minimally Invasive Surgical Education at St. Vincent's Hospital in New York, and an assistant professor of surgery at New York College of Osteopathic Medicine dr ortiz's credentials: Click here to view an extended curriculum vitae for Dr. Ariel Ortiz. Click here to view additional certifications. for more info on Dr Otriz http://www.drarielortiz.com/ www.obesitycontrolcenter.com http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobe...ere+gl h.html http://www.aftercareprovider.com/dr_ortiz.html more info on dr gabriel http://drnickgabriel.com/ http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobe...briel+hgm.html Ariel Alfonso Alfredo Ortiz Lagardere, M.D. Address: Office: Obesity Control Center Leona Vicario #1510, 2nd Floor Zona Rio, Tijuana, Mexico, Zip:22320 Phone: US. 619 270 1126 1866 Dr Ortiz (376 7849) MX: 011-52(664) 6849505 Email: drortiz@obesitycontrolcenter.com Mailing Address USA: 1503 Liberty Creek Place Chula Vista CA 91913 Cell Phone: (619) 247-9695 Current Academic Rank: Professor of Clinical Medicine Professor of Surgery UABC School of Medicine University of Baja California, Tijuana Training 1997 Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery Fellowship Centro de Adiestramiento del Noroeste, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social University of Baja California, Tijuana Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico 1997 Obesity Surgery Fellowship University of Baja California, Tijuana Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico Hospital Angeles del Pedregal Mexico, DF 1993 – 1997 Residency in General Surgery Centro Medico Nacional del Noroeste Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico. 1986 – 1992 M.D. awarded June 1992 Faculty of Medicine, Tijuana University of Baja California, Tijuana Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico 1983 – 1985 B.A. awarded in Clinical Laboratory Escuela Federal Preparatoria “Lazaro Cardenas” Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico Academic Board Certification Board Certified in General Surgery 1997 #98254 Mexico, DF Certification & Licensure: Board Certified in General Surgery # 98254 06/99 Mexican Medical License # 2526822 Issued: 10/08/97 Baja California Medical License # 10575-02/00 Last Issued: 02/00 Baja California General Surgery License #125/2000 Last Issued: 03/00 Academic Appointments 2000-present Professor of Surgery University of Baja California, Tijuana Professor of Clinical Medicine University of Baja California, Tijuana 1998-2000 Professor of Laparoscopic Surgery North Western Laparoscopic Training Center Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social Tijuana, B.C., Mexico 2000 – present Professor Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Course North Western Laparoscopic Training Center Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social Tijuana, B.C., Mexico Honors & Awards 2002 President, National Association of Bariatric Surgery, Mexico 2000 President, Baja California College of Surgeons 1999 Secretary, Baja California College of Surgeons 1998 Scientific Committee, Baja California College of Surgeons 1996 Honorary President, Northwestern Resident Association 1995 Chief of Residents, General Surgery 1994 Chief of Residents, General Surgery 1993 Chief of Residents, General Surgery 1992 A.H. Robbins Award of Academic Excellence Professional Organization Memberships 1997 – present Tijuana Medical College Baja California College of Surgeons 1997 – present National Board of General Surgery 1997 – present Mexican Association of General Surgery 1997 – present Mexican Association of Laparoscopic Surgery 1999 – present International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity 1997 – present Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgery 1998 - present Latin-American Society of Endoscopic Surgery 2001 - present American Society for Bariatric Surgery 2002 - present Fellow American College of Surgeons Committees 1998 – present Medical College of Tijuana, Educational Affairs Committee 2001 Tijuana College of Medicine, Digitalization Committee Department and Hospital Appointments & Committees 2001- present Chief of Surgery, Notre Dame Hospital, Tijuana, Mexico 2001- present Quality Assurance Committee, Siglo XXI Hospital, Culiacan, 2000-present Quality Assurance/Risk Management, Praga Hospital, Tijuana, 2000-present Blue Shield International Evaluation Committee, Tijuana Medical College 1997 – 2000 Co-Director, Endoscopic Hernia Training Center, IMSS, Tij. 1998 – 2000 Co-Director, Advanced Laparoscopic Training Course, IMSS 1998 – 2000 Operative & Invasive Procedures Committee, IMSS, Tijuana Abstracts Ortiz Lagardere, AA, Lopez Covala JA, Guzman Cordero F. 3 Years Experience, Endoscopic Hernia Training Center. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Achalasia Accumulated Experience. Endoscopic Training Center, IMSS, Tijuana Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Complications related to adjustment port after 150 Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Bandings. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Multidisciplinary approach after Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding elevates success rate. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Preventing Lap-Band Slippage, Modifications to the Technique. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Lopez Covala JA, Guzman Cordero F, Ortiz Lagardere AA. First 100 cases of Adjustable Silicon Gastric Banding, 3-year follow-up. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F, Ortiz Lagardere AA. TEP hernia repair, Focus on the technique. Presented at the AMCL Annual Meeting, Leon Guanajuato, Mexico. November 1999. Lopez Corvala, JA, Guzman Cordero F, Ortiz Lagardere AA. Laparoscopic Nephrectomy, our experience. Presented at the AMCL Annual Meeting, Cancun, May 1999. Awarded the first place by the AMCL Scientific Committee. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Intragastric Balloon for mild obesity. Technique and results. Presented in the AMCL Annual Meeting Acapulco Guerrero, Mexico. May 1999. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Band Adjustment, a Multidisciplinary approach. Presented at the AMCO Annual Meeting, Mazatlan Sinaloa, Mexico. July 1999. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Complications related to the Lap-Band, Slippage and Erosion. Presented at the AMCO Annual Meeting, Mazatlan Sinaloa, Mexico. July 1999. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Technique is related to band slippage. Presented at the AMCO Annual Meeting, Mazatlan Sinaloa, Mexico. July 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Crovala JA, Guzman Cordero F Laparoscopic Hernia Repair; A revised training protocol. Rev Mex Cir Endosc, 2, 71-74 Abril 2001 Ongoing Research “Risk factors for Band Erosion. A multicenter evaluation.” (Funded by Grupo Laparoscopico de B.C.) “Beating the learning curve in Laparoscopic Hernia Repair. Integrating new interactive teaching tools.” (Funded by Tyco Healthcare, International) “Is band adjustment always necessary?” (Funded by Grupo Laparoscopico de B.C.) “Restrictive mechanism of the Lap-Band, How does it really work?” (Funded by Grupo Laparoscopico de B.C.) “A prospective randomized study, The Tep Repair without mesh fixation.” (Unfunded) Teaching Responsibilities 2000 – present Latin-American Lap-Band Training Coordinator, Grupo Laparoscopico de B.C. 1999 – present Endoscopic Hernia Training Center for Latin America, Grupo Laparoscopico de B. C. Invited Lectures . University Autonoma de Baja California, School of Medicine Anniversary Conference, “Minimally Invasive Surgery.” Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Obstetrics and Gynecology Service, “Skill Development For the Laparoscopic Surgeon.” University Autonoma de Baja California, School of Medicine. “Aids related surgical procedures.” 1998 Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, HGR 20 Tijuana. “Hernia Repair, Laparoscopic vs Open.” 1998 Baja California College of Surgeons, Laparoscopic Hernia Meeting. “The Tep approach, the future of the endoscopic approach.” Baja California College of Surgeons, VII International Laparoscopic Reunion. “Avoiding bile duct injuries.” 1998 Mexican Association of Laparoscopic Surgery, VIII International Laparoscopic Surgery Reunion. “Management of Chronic Pain, Laparoscopic Hernia Repair.” Mexican Association of General Surgery, New Techniques and Innovations in Surgery, Mexican, B.C. “The double mesh technique” 1998 Mexican Association of General Surgery, New Techniques and Innovations in Surgery, San Luis Rio Colorado. “The double mesh technique.” Mexican Association of Obesity Surgery, Annual Reunion. Ixtapa, Guerrero. “Obesity surgery, a stepped-up approach.” 1999 Mexican Association of General Surgery, Regional Reunion, San Luis Rio Colorado. “Partial or Total fundoplication, indications and technique.” 1999 Mexican Association of General Surgery, Open Hernia Course, Chihuahua, Chihuahua. “Experience with the double mesh technique.” Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery, Obesity Course, Acapulco Guerrero. “Intragastric Balloon Placement, technique and results.” Mexican Association of Obesity Surgery, Annual Reunion, Mazatlan, Sinaloa. “Band Adjustment Protocol, a multidisciplinary approach”. 2000 National Defense System, Annual Reunion, Ensenada, Baja, California. “Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication” 2000 Mexican Association of General Surgery, Northwestern Regional Reunion, Mexicali, B.C. “The Tep repair, technique.” Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery, National Meeting, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico “ Lap-Band, Safe and effective procedure; Four year follow-up”. Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery, National Meeting, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico “ LASGB, Long term complications and Follow-up”. 2002 LASGB, Mexican experience, Phil Schauer Course, Breckenridge Colorado. 2002 Complications in Lap-Band, avoiding and treating them successfully. Live Exhibition Surgery Mexican Association of General Surgery, International Laparoscopic Reunion, Tijuana, B.C. “Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy.” Mexican Association of General Surgery, International Laparoscopic Reunion, Tijuana, B.C. “Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy.” Mexican Association of General Surgery, Regional Laparoscopic Reunion, Mexicali, B.C. “Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication.” Mexican Association of General Surgery, International Laparoscopic Reunion, San Luis Rio Colorado, “Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication.” 2000 Mexican Association of Obesity Surgery, Annual Meeting, “Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding.” 2000 Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery and National Defense System, Annual Meeting, Ensenada, Baja, California, “Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication.” 2000 Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery Regional Meeting, Tijuana, Baja, California “Endoscopic Hernia Repair, Tep.” 2000 Mexican Association of General Surgery, “Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding.” Live Exhibition Surgery to the USA Endoscopic Hernia Repair, TEP Hernia Balloon Repair, Yale Laparoscopy Training Program, 28-29 April Live transmission from: HGR No 20 IMSS Hospital Tijuana, B.C. Mexico To Yale Laparoscopy, Yale University, New Haven Ct. Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Yale Laparoscopy Training Program, Six-week course Live transmission from: HGR No 20 IMSS Hospital Tijuana, B.C. Mexico To Yale Laparoscopy, Yale University, New Haven Ct. Surgical Proctoring in USA 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding LAP-BAND System Bariatric Surgery Department Lennox Hill Hospital, New York, New York. 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding, LAP-BAND System Minimally Invasive Surgery Department University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding, LAP-BAND System Bariatric Surgery Program Hoag Hospital, Orange County, California 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding Loyola University Chicago, Chicago IL. 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding Little Rock, Arkansas 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding Arlington Hospital Dallas, Texas 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding Irvine Medical Center Los Angeles, Ca 2002 Proctorings in the USA Chicago, Illinois Port Huron, Michigan Detroit Michigan Seattle Washington Austin, Texas Fort Worth, Texas Baton Rouge, Louisiana Minneapolis, Minnesota 2002 Proctoring in Canada Montreal 1st International Workshop Television Appearance- TV Program Host June 2001- June 2001 Information Capsules Home Remedies Discovery Health Feb 2002- Feb 2003 Discovery Channel Latino-America Discovery Health Spanish Version of “Living Pulse” Show Host For Latin America and Spain this is info on nick gabriel ·Dr. Nick H. Gabriel Joins the Airport Medical Offices Announcing the addition of Dr. Gabriel at the Airport Medical Offices at JFK·Stomach Surgery for Weight-Loss (stream video) Special Interview with Dr. Gabriel on CNN's Anderson Cooper 360·Suddenly Skinny Dr. Gabriel's patient Lisa Sohr featured as the "cover girl" in New York Magazine Click here to view Dr. Ariel Ortiz being interviewed on The Wellness Hour with host Randy Alvarez. __________________ "If love is blind, what's the purpose of lingerie?"

I start my preop diet on Sunday. The diet consists of a protein shake for breakfast, a lean cuisine for lunch and dinner. My surgery date is Dec. 18, 2006. I reallly can't believe that my life is about to change. I will lose the weight this time and keep it off! I am weighing 185 right now. My first goal will be 155. My second goal which I plan on doing slower and gradual is 135 or so? My friend Monica had the lapband put in a year ago and she did very well. She lost fifty pounds and has had no complications. She did gain a little back, but only due to a loss, eating around the band and needing a fill. We are going to support each other also. I know the support has a big part to play in all of this. I log onto this forum at least twice a day for an hour at least. I have been eating some things that I know I won't be able to eat for a while if not ever. Not getting to out of hand though. So many people have emailed me with such positive things about Dr. Ortiz. I get more reasurred everyday. I want to post what they said here so I can look back or others can get the info they need. This week before my surgery will consist mostly of what I am learning in preparation to the surgery and post surgery and peoples comments. COMMENTS I RECIEVED FROM OTHER PATIENTS Hey" so sorry about that earlier email - i had to rush off! anyway, i researched like mad and chose ortiz because he is the best (imo) - very skilled, credentialed, etc and I wanted someone with the most experience. I also liked his staff and his anestsiologist (can never spell that right) and they use a type of anesthesia that doesn't require intubation. I was super scared of the surgery and my husband was initially against going to mexico etc. I didn't go to the clinic but we both talked to dr ortiz prior and i loved him immediately. I still very positive about him for the surgery - both he and dr martinez give you their personal cell phones - something unheard of in the states. Their facilitiy is different now (but even better) than when I had surgery last year. The only reason I'm unhapppy is i've had trouble losing weight and have struggled living with the band and I haven't felt very supported AFTER the surgery for non emergencies. But face it , most go home and lose weight with one or a few adjustments. There aren't as many of us who struggle so I don't want to sway you from him - just make sure you have some local support and possiblly a local fill doctor etc. And mostly, talk to dr ortiz yourself and ask all your questions, etc. That will help youmake up your mind. hey, good luck to you - also dr. ortiz has a good book with other doc recommendations too and lastly don't base your decision solely on price - experience is key. take care and i wish you good luck in your journey. email me anytime! take care, mary __________________ Hi, My brother is a surgeon in the U.S. and he suggested I check out some TJ doctors for the lapband. My BMI was too low to qualify here. Ever since I first heard about the band, years ago, I knew I wanted it! I found Dr. Ortiz on the internet and ordered his book. I also spoke on the phone with someone who had surgery there. She was NOT a paid coordinator or anything (neither am I.) Anyway, I drove down to Mexico from L.A. and had the surgery without ever meeting Dr. Ortiz ahead of time. There was a really peaceful feeling that I was doing the right thing. The surgery is clean and the staff very professional. Honestly, I don't know of any doctor that could have so many happy patients. He does this surgery about 4-5 times a day. He is extremely experienced and that is what I wanted. Also, he teaches the surgery to U.S. doctors. I am totally satisfied!! No regrets! Good luck!!!!! Surgery November 18, 2005 (Dr. Ortiz) When I first started researching the lap band the first thing I looked into was insurance coverage. Insurance won't cover the surgery for me (I didn't even try b.c i don't come close to meeting the criteria) SO I am self pay. So getting the surgery here in the US was out of the question. B/C it was between 15-20K. I then started researching Dr.'s in Mexico, the carribean and even Europe. Money is a big factor. I'm single, I'm 24, I live in the NYC area and I have a mortgage so I couldn't spend 10-13k like a lot of Dr's charge- in foreign countries. I also found cheap Dr's in Mexico (the cheapest was 6500). But after researching the doctors credential's I was quickly turned off. Dr. Ortiz's credentials seemed really impressive. The maker of the lap band trained Dr Ortiz. Dr Ortiz has 2 centers the cancun and the tj. One of his partners in the Cancun center is the Cheif of St Vincents- here in ny (he has been on the news and in magazines (for his achievements), which put my mind at ease. B/c if Dr. Ortiz was a crook or a bad dr the cheif of such a big hospital wouldn't be associated with him (atleast that's what i think). ALso Dr Ortiz completed a course at Harvard and Yale. And he has trained surgeons around the world. This all seemed very impressize to me. In addition I have not found 1 bad thing about him on the internet, which also helps. I also found one testimonial of a girl who went to dr ortiz. The band would have been too close to her aorta, so he did not complete the surgery. This put me at ease b/c he put safety before her desires. So in a nutshell that's why I chose Dr. Ortiz. What made you choose Dr.Ortiz? Well, I arrive on the 14th and I leave mexico the 17th. Im excited and nervous. It sounds like your friend is doing great. I hear stories of people losing 60 lbs in a few months while it takes outhers a year to do it. It sounds like the fills are very important for a lg weight loss. Me personally, I'd rather lose consistently over a year than lose it so quick that I'm stuck with excess skin. That's my main fear. Today I started my preop diet. When I decided to get my surgery (3 weeks ago) I have eaten everything I coluld possibly want and more. I have gained 8 lbs. So I'm starting the preop det today of 2 shakes and a lean cusine. Then Friday I'm going to start 3 shakes a day. Of course the day I start my diet I woke up at 6 am (opposed to 8- I work sun-thurs) So I have already had a large salad and I have to go prepare my protein shake before work. I hear if you blend the shake w/ice it's more filling. I'm going to go test that out. Please keep in touch. It's great to find others that are experiencing the same things I am. Lori I hope this info helps- my family and friends were opposed to me going to Mx at all for my surgery- but I sent them all the links and his resume and his credentials and they feel comfortable. I have not been able to find any bad info on him. I heard horror stories about betancourt medical -and Dr Lopez. I feel confident about my decision. Evaluate both doctors credentials- also go through lapbandtalk forums and find info on btoh dr's that may help. The two doctors I had it narrowed down to was Dr Rambaut and Dr Ortiz- but I went w/ dr ortiz b/c of his credentials. Dr Ortiz has 2 centers- the cancun one has been closed since the hurricane. this is the website that show's his association with Dr Nick Gabriel www.lapbandincancun.com Ameri Med Hospital offers Lap-Band surgery exclusively to patients of Dr. Ariel Ortiz and Dr. Lee Grossbard of the Lap Band in Cancun web site. Ameri Med Hospital is Cancun's newest hospital complex offering a full range of emergency and routine services. Ameri Med offers private rooms and a fully bi-lingual staff. The whole setting creates a soothing environment that will delight even the most demanding patient. Dr Ariel Ortiz, a Board Certified Mexican medical doctor whose medical practice is in Mexico, is a world renowned expert on Lap-Band surgery, having trained almost a decade ago under the designer of the Lap-Band, Dr Mitiku Belechew. Dr. Lee Grossbard started his private practice in 1984 in Zephyrhills, FL where he is currently located. After attending Lafayette College, Easton PA he then went on to graduate from Autonomous University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico with Honors. Dr. Nick Gabriel currently holds an appointment as the Chief of Minimally Invasive Surgical Education at St. Vincent's Hospital in New York, and an assistant professor of surgery at New York College of Osteopathic Medicine dr ortiz's credentials: Click here to view an extended curriculum vitae for Dr. Ariel Ortiz. Click here to view additional certifications. for more info on Dr Otriz http://www.drarielortiz.com/ www.obesitycontrolcenter.com http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobe...ere+gl h.html http://www.aftercareprovider.com/dr_ortiz.html more info on dr gabriel http://drnickgabriel.com/ http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobe...briel+hgm.html Ariel Alfonso Alfredo Ortiz Lagardere, M.D. Address: Office: Obesity Control Center Leona Vicario #1510, 2nd Floor Zona Rio, Tijuana, Mexico, Zip:22320 Phone: US. 619 270 1126 1866 Dr Ortiz (376 7849) MX: 011-52(664) 6849505 Email: drortiz@obesitycontrolcenter.com Mailing Address USA: 1503 Liberty Creek Place Chula Vista CA 91913 Cell Phone: (619) 247-9695 Current Academic Rank: Professor of Clinical Medicine Professor of Surgery UABC School of Medicine University of Baja California, Tijuana Training 1997 Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery Fellowship Centro de Adiestramiento del Noroeste, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social University of Baja California, Tijuana Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico 1997 Obesity Surgery Fellowship University of Baja California, Tijuana Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico Hospital Angeles del Pedregal Mexico, DF 1993 – 1997 Residency in General Surgery Centro Medico Nacional del Noroeste Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social Ciudad Obregon, Sonora, Mexico. 1986 – 1992 M.D. awarded June 1992 Faculty of Medicine, Tijuana University of Baja California, Tijuana Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico 1983 – 1985 B.A. awarded in Clinical Laboratory Escuela Federal Preparatoria “Lazaro Cardenas” Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico Academic Board Certification Board Certified in General Surgery 1997 #98254 Mexico, DF Certification & Licensure: Board Certified in General Surgery # 98254 06/99 Mexican Medical License # 2526822 Issued: 10/08/97 Baja California Medical License # 10575-02/00 Last Issued: 02/00 Baja California General Surgery License #125/2000 Last Issued: 03/00 Academic Appointments 2000-present Professor of Surgery University of Baja California, Tijuana Professor of Clinical Medicine University of Baja California, Tijuana 1998-2000 Professor of Laparoscopic Surgery North Western Laparoscopic Training Center Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social Tijuana, B.C., Mexico 2000 – present Professor Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Course North Western Laparoscopic Training Center Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social Tijuana, B.C., Mexico Honors & Awards 2002 President, National Association of Bariatric Surgery, Mexico 2000 President, Baja California College of Surgeons 1999 Secretary, Baja California College of Surgeons 1998 Scientific Committee, Baja California College of Surgeons 1996 Honorary President, Northwestern Resident Association 1995 Chief of Residents, General Surgery 1994 Chief of Residents, General Surgery 1993 Chief of Residents, General Surgery 1992 A.H. Robbins Award of Academic Excellence Professional Organization Memberships 1997 – present Tijuana Medical College Baja California College of Surgeons 1997 – present National Board of General Surgery 1997 – present Mexican Association of General Surgery 1997 – present Mexican Association of Laparoscopic Surgery 1999 – present International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity 1997 – present Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgery 1998 - present Latin-American Society of Endoscopic Surgery 2001 - present American Society for Bariatric Surgery 2002 - present Fellow American College of Surgeons Committees 1998 – present Medical College of Tijuana, Educational Affairs Committee 2001 Tijuana College of Medicine, Digitalization Committee Department and Hospital Appointments & Committees 2001- present Chief of Surgery, Notre Dame Hospital, Tijuana, Mexico 2001- present Quality Assurance Committee, Siglo XXI Hospital, Culiacan, 2000-present Quality Assurance/Risk Management, Praga Hospital, Tijuana, 2000-present Blue Shield International Evaluation Committee, Tijuana Medical College 1997 – 2000 Co-Director, Endoscopic Hernia Training Center, IMSS, Tij. 1998 – 2000 Co-Director, Advanced Laparoscopic Training Course, IMSS 1998 – 2000 Operative & Invasive Procedures Committee, IMSS, Tijuana Abstracts Ortiz Lagardere, AA, Lopez Covala JA, Guzman Cordero F. 3 Years Experience, Endoscopic Hernia Training Center. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Achalasia Accumulated Experience. Endoscopic Training Center, IMSS, Tijuana Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Complications related to adjustment port after 150 Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Bandings. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Multidisciplinary approach after Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding elevates success rate. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Preventing Lap-Band Slippage, Modifications to the Technique. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Lopez Covala JA, Guzman Cordero F, Ortiz Lagardere AA. First 100 cases of Adjustable Silicon Gastric Banding, 3-year follow-up. Presented at the AMCG Annual Meeting, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. October 2000. Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F, Ortiz Lagardere AA. TEP hernia repair, Focus on the technique. Presented at the AMCL Annual Meeting, Leon Guanajuato, Mexico. November 1999. Lopez Corvala, JA, Guzman Cordero F, Ortiz Lagardere AA. Laparoscopic Nephrectomy, our experience. Presented at the AMCL Annual Meeting, Cancun, May 1999. Awarded the first place by the AMCL Scientific Committee. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Intragastric Balloon for mild obesity. Technique and results. Presented in the AMCL Annual Meeting Acapulco Guerrero, Mexico. May 1999. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Band Adjustment, a Multidisciplinary approach. Presented at the AMCO Annual Meeting, Mazatlan Sinaloa, Mexico. July 1999. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Complications related to the Lap-Band, Slippage and Erosion. Presented at the AMCO Annual Meeting, Mazatlan Sinaloa, Mexico. July 1999. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Corvala JA, Guzman Cordero F. Technique is related to band slippage. Presented at the AMCO Annual Meeting, Mazatlan Sinaloa, Mexico. July 2000. Ortiz Lagardere AA, Lopez Crovala JA, Guzman Cordero F Laparoscopic Hernia Repair; A revised training protocol. Rev Mex Cir Endosc, 2, 71-74 Abril 2001 Ongoing Research “Risk factors for Band Erosion. A multicenter evaluation.” (Funded by Grupo Laparoscopico de B.C.) “Beating the learning curve in Laparoscopic Hernia Repair. Integrating new interactive teaching tools.” (Funded by Tyco Healthcare, International) “Is band adjustment always necessary?” (Funded by Grupo Laparoscopico de B.C.) “Restrictive mechanism of the Lap-Band, How does it really work?” (Funded by Grupo Laparoscopico de B.C.) “A prospective randomized study, The Tep Repair without mesh fixation.” (Unfunded) Teaching Responsibilities 2000 – present Latin-American Lap-Band Training Coordinator, Grupo Laparoscopico de B.C. 1999 – present Endoscopic Hernia Training Center for Latin America, Grupo Laparoscopico de B. C. Invited Lectures . University Autonoma de Baja California, School of Medicine Anniversary Conference, “Minimally Invasive Surgery.” Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Obstetrics and Gynecology Service, “Skill Development For the Laparoscopic Surgeon.” University Autonoma de Baja California, School of Medicine. “Aids related surgical procedures.” 1998 Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, HGR 20 Tijuana. “Hernia Repair, Laparoscopic vs Open.” 1998 Baja California College of Surgeons, Laparoscopic Hernia Meeting. “The Tep approach, the future of the endoscopic approach.” Baja California College of Surgeons, VII International Laparoscopic Reunion. “Avoiding bile duct injuries.” 1998 Mexican Association of Laparoscopic Surgery, VIII International Laparoscopic Surgery Reunion. “Management of Chronic Pain, Laparoscopic Hernia Repair.” Mexican Association of General Surgery, New Techniques and Innovations in Surgery, Mexican, B.C. “The double mesh technique” 1998 Mexican Association of General Surgery, New Techniques and Innovations in Surgery, San Luis Rio Colorado. “The double mesh technique.” Mexican Association of Obesity Surgery, Annual Reunion. Ixtapa, Guerrero. “Obesity surgery, a stepped-up approach.” 1999 Mexican Association of General Surgery, Regional Reunion, San Luis Rio Colorado. “Partial or Total fundoplication, indications and technique.” 1999 Mexican Association of General Surgery, Open Hernia Course, Chihuahua, Chihuahua. “Experience with the double mesh technique.” Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery, Obesity Course, Acapulco Guerrero. “Intragastric Balloon Placement, technique and results.” Mexican Association of Obesity Surgery, Annual Reunion, Mazatlan, Sinaloa. “Band Adjustment Protocol, a multidisciplinary approach”. 2000 National Defense System, Annual Reunion, Ensenada, Baja, California. “Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication” 2000 Mexican Association of General Surgery, Northwestern Regional Reunion, Mexicali, B.C. “The Tep repair, technique.” Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery, National Meeting, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico “ Lap-Band, Safe and effective procedure; Four year follow-up”. Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery, National Meeting, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico “ LASGB, Long term complications and Follow-up”. 2002 LASGB, Mexican experience, Phil Schauer Course, Breckenridge Colorado. 2002 Complications in Lap-Band, avoiding and treating them successfully. Live Exhibition Surgery Mexican Association of General Surgery, International Laparoscopic Reunion, Tijuana, B.C. “Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy.” Mexican Association of General Surgery, International Laparoscopic Reunion, Tijuana, B.C. “Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy.” Mexican Association of General Surgery, Regional Laparoscopic Reunion, Mexicali, B.C. “Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication.” Mexican Association of General Surgery, International Laparoscopic Reunion, San Luis Rio Colorado, “Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication.” 2000 Mexican Association of Obesity Surgery, Annual Meeting, “Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding.” 2000 Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery and National Defense System, Annual Meeting, Ensenada, Baja, California, “Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication.” 2000 Mexican Association of Endoscopic Surgery Regional Meeting, Tijuana, Baja, California “Endoscopic Hernia Repair, Tep.” 2000 Mexican Association of General Surgery, “Laparoscopic Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding.” Live Exhibition Surgery to the USA Endoscopic Hernia Repair, TEP Hernia Balloon Repair, Yale Laparoscopy Training Program, 28-29 April Live transmission from: HGR No 20 IMSS Hospital Tijuana, B.C. Mexico To Yale Laparoscopy, Yale University, New Haven Ct. Laparoscopic Hernia Repair Yale Laparoscopy Training Program, Six-week course Live transmission from: HGR No 20 IMSS Hospital Tijuana, B.C. Mexico To Yale Laparoscopy, Yale University, New Haven Ct. Surgical Proctoring in USA 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding LAP-BAND System Bariatric Surgery Department Lennox Hill Hospital, New York, New York. 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding, LAP-BAND System Minimally Invasive Surgery Department University of Illinois, Chicago, IL 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding, LAP-BAND System Bariatric Surgery Program Hoag Hospital, Orange County, California 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding Loyola University Chicago, Chicago IL. 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding Little Rock, Arkansas 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding Arlington Hospital Dallas, Texas 2001 Adjustable Silicone Gastric Banding Irvine Medical Center Los Angeles, Ca 2002 Proctorings in the USA Chicago, Illinois Port Huron, Michigan Detroit Michigan Seattle Washington Austin, Texas Fort Worth, Texas Baton Rouge, Louisiana Minneapolis, Minnesota 2002 Proctoring in Canada Montreal 1st International Workshop Television Appearance- TV Program Host June 2001- June 2001 Information Capsules Home Remedies Discovery Health Feb 2002- Feb 2003 Discovery Channel Latino-America Discovery Health Spanish Version of “Living Pulse” Show Host For Latin America and Spain this is info on nick gabriel ·Dr. Nick H. Gabriel Joins the Airport Medical Offices Announcing the addition of Dr. Gabriel at the Airport Medical Offices at JFK·Stomach Surgery for Weight-Loss (stream video) Special Interview with Dr. Gabriel on CNN's Anderson Cooper 360·Suddenly Skinny Dr. Gabriel's patient Lisa Sohr featured as the "cover girl" in New York Magazine Click here to view Dr. Ariel Ortiz being interviewed on The Wellness Hour with host Randy Alvarez. __________________ "If love is blind, what's the purpose of lingerie?"

I bought some liquid vitamins that have so many great ingredients in it! It even has sea vegetables, noni juice, pomegranate, amino acids, etc. I got it at Sams Club for $19 (like CostCo). Audree

I will be banded by Dr. Ariel Ortiz. He is supposed to be one of the doctors with the most experience. He also proctors and teaches doctors the procedure around the world. He has even taught doctors in the US the procedure. There are a lot of threads on him! Audree

Mysherrijo: I haven't gotten my band yet. I just asked the Patient Coordinator what they have in place in case of emergency. She meant the actual placement of the band, not the before and after prep. She was just trying to say he was very experienced. I will ask her again though, just to clarify!!! Audree

I will be starting my preop diet on Sunday!!! I am so excited. My day is coming!

I'd like to know too! I here the weight loss is slower with people with lower bmi's. Hopefully it is at least 1-2 pounds a week! Audree

I contacted someone from Dr. Ortiz's office about medical procedures in case of an emergency and this is what they had to say. "Good question....At our Center, we have a 3 bed, fully equipped ICU unit, that we have never had to use. But, it is there in case of an emergency. Remember, Dr. Ortiz has never had a mortality and complications during surgery (with Dr. Ortiz) are really unheard of. If anything is questionable about a patient having surgery, it is discovered and discussed during the patient's preops and once in a while, a patient's surgery is cancelled or post poned, as Dr. Ortiz may not feel it is safe to proceed (for whatever reason). The surgery is a quick 15 minute procedure, that Dr. Ortiz has been doing for over 9 years. He has all the experience in the world. Yes, it is true that some people do think that going to Mexico is inferior. But, I assure you, it is all in the credentials of the doctor, their skill, education, experience and reputation. It really is more important who the surgeon is as opposed to the location." This really put me more at ease, even more so, because I was already at ease. I feel the peace of God about it. I had a tummy tuck done in CA, and come to think of it, I didn't question that it was done in a surgery center in San Bernardino. For Dr. Ortiz to have an ICU unit ready for an emergency and to have never had to use it?? That is awesome! Audree

OOOPPSSS I meant "getting Lipo" not getting lip!!! HEHE

Hello! I also will be banded on December 18. I will arrive on Dec. 17th which is a Sunday to check into the hotel and get settled. They will do my pre op and Surgery on Monday, Dec. 18. I will go home on Tuesday. My mom is going with me. She was trying to get me to change my mind, telling me to maybe get a breast reduction and butt reduction. My husband had a heart attack! Getting lip would not solve my problems of over eating and portion control. She did say she'd support my decision. I think for some reason, she is afraid I will get to skinny. I just want to be healthy and be a good role model for my daughters. I have two step daughters who are 15 and 19 and they have major issues with food, watching me diet the whole time they have known me, 11 1/2 years. They are both very in shape, but have issures with food. They have a phobia of getting overweight, especially my 15 year old. She doesn't eat during the day and binges when she gets home till the evening. I tell her that is a recipe for obesity. Of course she doesn't think I know what I am talking about. She is very active, runs, dances, etc. My 19 year old used to not eat, even convince herself food made her nauseous. She goes through periods where she loves food, eats a lot, then doesn't eat. She actually needs to gain weight. She used to be anemic. I know I had a big part to play in there sick relationship with food. When I had my daughters, I vowed to eat healthy, excercise, so that is what they have seen. They are 5 and 7. They both are thin and have very healthy eating habits. They only eat when they are hungry, don't clean there plate (My mom used to try to make them clean the plate, until my daughter told me mom "my mom says you used to make her clean her plate and that is why she got fat") My mom stopped doing that. They love veggies, broccoli, cauliflower, eat all in moderation. I do notice that they say things like, "that has too much fat or sugar". I don't want any of them to go through what I have gone through. I need to do this right, so for the rest of their lives, they can see me have a healthy relationship with food, watch my portions, make healthy choices, excercise, drink Water. I am not telling them about the surgery. I am going to tell them that I am going on a liquid fast, which they won't think twice about since they have seen me do fast, veggie shakes, etc. Has anyone heard of Juvo shakes??? (Juvo.com) I used to take these shakes which are 100%natural. They are dried in a process that makes them be in a raw state. I go to a chinese herbalist and used to buy them there. They are 30 different types of veggies, mushrooms, Beans. The only thing is I didn't think it had enough Protein. My chinese herbalist said it had the right combo to sustain healthy life. I think I will buy they again and add protein to them. Juvo is also supposed to help with different ailments and help the body heal faster, etc. I haven't taken them in a while. My kids even liked them. I would blend ice, light soy milks, raw sugar, cinnamon and a banana. It tastes like heaven. That combo came up to about 350 calories for a large shake. Has anyone else tried these shakes? If you have, how do you take them? I am going to be stocking up my cabinet now and will start my pre op diet on Dec. 10!!!!!! YYYYYYEEEEEEAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH Audree

I DID IT!!!! I paid my deposit, so there is no going back now. I think I was procrastinating a little, for some reason. Even if this is what I want and I am 100% sure of it. I will arrive to Mexico, Dec. 17th which is a Sunday to the Hotel Lucerna. Then my pre op and surgery will both be on Dec. 18th on Monday. Then I leave on Tuesday. I wake up in the morning so excited, waiting for this exciting new chapter to begin. I know it won't be easy. I know that I have a new way to eat and live. But, I want to be healthy, more than I want to eat large quantities of food. I want to be a good role model to my daughters, so they don't have to face the pain of being overweight all there lives like me, and suffer the ridicule of well meaning family members. People have always made comments about what I am eating and then if I am on a diet, throwing it in my fame "What diet are you on now????" Telling me I will never lose weight. My grandmother used to tell me she was ashamed to walk down the street with me, and even if I felt I didn't care what anyone said, I am sure that being told that hurt me somehow. I used to be thin as a child. Then at 12 years old, my step dad started teasing me. I guess that was when I started to develop. I was not overweight, but he'd tease me and tell me I was getting fat. That is whe I started this vicious cycle of yo yo dieting, from age 12 to 33, 21 years. My mom wanted to have me commited at one point to a place that delt with overweight teens. She took me to OA, Weight Wathcers, Nutra System, Lindora, etc. What is sad, is each attempt made things worse. Her obsession with my weight made it worse. I think it is important to know why we are overweight, so we can know how to fight in the correct way. I don't eat for emotional reasons anymore. I used to do it to spite my family, the more they bothered me, the more I'd eat. They wanted to control me and what I ate, how much I weighed. The woman in my family are very vain and into appearance. So, to show them they didn't have control over me, I'd eat more and gain weight. I think that also had a lot to do with me not wanting to wear makeup for so long and want to dress frumpy, because they'd be on me to wear makeup from the moment I woke up. I know they meant well, they did the best they could, thinking they were helping me. Negative reinforcement just doesn't work! Put downs and those little comments. Now I just eat because I love food! I love large quantities and I love to feel full! I stick to the eat when you are hungry, stop when you are full, but my stomach has a big capacity. I have a question. My friend who had the lapband surgery a year ago said she was told she could never do abdominal cruchnes? Does anyone work out there abs and how? Thanks for being there for me. I really appreciate this site and all of the people in it. God Bless, Audree <><