Doing your own adjustment

[WhoaKenny 0]

Hi all,

I had surgery three years ago. At the end of 2019, I had an adjustment as I was experiencing some discomfort and reflux. There's currently very little restriction and I've put on about 12 pounds in isolation.

Here's the thing. The same week I had an adjustment I also moved to Cambodia, which is essentially a third world. So far, I haven't been able to find a bariatric surgeon here. I also can't travel to nearby Thailand due to Covid-19.

With that in mind, has anyone done an adjustment themselves? I understand it's not ideal, but I can purchase saline and a syringe from any pharmacy, whereas I won't be able to see a surgeon for at least a few more months.

Any advice would be appreciated. I lost 155lbs and need some help continuing my journey.

[GreenTealael 25,446]

Unless you yourself are a bariatric surgeon it seems unnecessarily risky to do this friend.

[JRT Mom 919]

If you do your own, you must find a special non-coring needle that will not core your port as it goes through. If you don't you run the risk of developing leaks in it. If it leaked badly enough you might have to get it replaced because you would constantly lose your fill over time. Also you must be thorough with your skin cleaning, and not just with alcohol. You run the risk of developing a cellulitis or port infection which could be bad enough that they would have to replace it.

Good luck to you--I know in theory it's not too hard but can you stick a needle in your own stomach? Try to find a nurse that is used to accessing portacaths and maybe he/she would be willing to help you.

[Pckeys 28]

7 hours ago, WhoaKenny said:

I also can't travel to nearby Thailand due to Covid-19.

I live in Thailand and can tell you that travel restrictions are very close to being lifted. There is going to be a decision on it by July 1st. At the very least you might want to wait till then. You'll need a COVID19 test to enter, most of the hospitals/clinics performing WLS will also require that you have that test result handy before admission as well.... should add there is also discussion about prioritizing Medical Tourism for early entry

Edited June 19, 2020 by Pckeys
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