I need some serious support!

August 8, 2005

Hi Everyone,

I'm a new poster but have been lurking for some time reading everyone else's experiences and helpful advice.

I was banded on July 29th by Dr. Aceves in Mexicali. I was perfectly fine for 4 days, and starting this past Tuesday it has really bothered me to take in my liquids. What happens is that I swallow the liquids, I feel this pain in my chest, and sometimes I burp a little bit back up.

In the 3 days post-op I could feel it moving fine and gurgling through. Anyhow, I went to the hospital yesterday (Saturday) and this morning they came to the conclusion that I still have swelling. They said it was edema at the gastric banding site. We did the barium swallow test and it showed that liquids are a slow go through the band.

What I want to know is how long will I have to suffer like this?? Does anyone have experience with this? At this point I can't even imagine having to get a fill someday!!

Thank you!

I'llsucceed · August 8, 2005

Sorry your going through this. Swelling can take weeks to go down. I would say a min. of two or three. I think every two days that pass you will get better. Make sure you get in as much high Protein Drinks as possible. Keep a journal of your progress. If your not better in about 5 -6 days- I mean a little better not 100% I would call your Doctor again. I was pretty swollen for 3 weeks out as well. Its a time for healing & not eating anyhow. Its always good practice to be on liquids for at least 2 weeks after surgery & than to a very mushie stage for two weeks & than soft food 2 weeks than finally real food slowly.

YOur still a BRAN NEW Bandster so just hold on things will get much better. There will probably even come a day when your eating too much & wish you were swollen again;0) Stay positive your doing wonderfully!

La_madam · August 8, 2005

Each day gets better..

the swelling for me lasted for 3 weeks but each day was easier & easier

I could feel the swelling go down each day. Hang in there

TexasBlueyes · August 8, 2005

Sorry to hear what is happening to you. My swelling lasted 16 days. I could not swallow my own spit. I stayed on IV's for 16 days. Then the swelling went down just like the doctor said it would. Just hang in there is does get better and do not push on the the next stage follow your doctors instructions. And yes you will get your fill. My doctor is going slower with me which is great by me. Good luck.