Infoblog

Because this banding surgery is new to the people just having it, they don't recognize what is not normal all of the time. So, sometimes it's hard to say when is the right time to see if you need a doctor's attention. My husband had excess bruising around his stomach, he fell a couple of times and he also gives his insulin shots in his stomach, it never occurred to us that his blood thinner was dangerously high, we didn't think about that as a possibility. The week before the doctor has increased his medication because it was too low, but then when his liver stopped processing the medications he was taking , all hell broke loose. We should have recognized that he needed help but didn't. My point is, banded people don't always know when they need help, they don't know what to expect for sure, so that may be why they don't know to go for help in a timely fashion. We may do good if we could make up a list of things to watch for so they could look for things that
may be something that needs a doctor's attention. For instance, severe pain, constant pain, infections near any of the incisions, hardness, redness, lumps around and near the incisions, vomiting, inability to drink fluids, stuff like this is need for a doctor, what are some other things?

Martha

Hi,
Thanks for the info. I can't find a listing for Dr. Maugunbat. Is
that the correct spelling? What kind of dr. is he? Is it extra to
use fluroscopy?
Thanks,
Sherri

Does this mean only for Dr. Rod's patients (which I thought was his
original deal), or for anyone? If so, I might consider one while down
there from the 20th to 25th.
dan
Thursday, December 11, 2003, 8:07:20 AM, you wrote:
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Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/228/199

Dr. Kuri is one of "the best" having a Christmas special in December. So there you are , one of the best with a package sale. One of the nurses at the hospital who took care of my husband is going to have her band put on by him this month. What a coincidence.

Martha

Dr. Lopez

9/26/03

263/237/145

I am so happy that your husband is feeling better and
coming home. I'm also keeping my fingers crossed that
he will accept you as a patient. Let's us all know
what they say.
Bianca
Dr. Rod. 10/30/03 230/214/150

Meredith - That the infection was caused by a port
defect or other means is not the issue - I think the
point here is that in your original post you appear to
have waited at least 8 weeks before having a doctor
look at your leaking port incision and increasing
hole. This is valuable message for all who are newly
banded or are thinking about becoming banded whether
in the states, Mexico or anywhere else. Any surgery,
no matter where it is performed, is risky and
complications can ensue. It is your responsibility to
report anything you think is not right to your doctor
and/or the doctor who performed your surgery so it can
be corrected early to prevent the possibility of
irreversible damage. I hope you understand that any
time your body is opened and entered for any kind of
surgery you can never be guaranteed 100% that it will
be completely complication free and there will always
be a percentage of patients who get some kind of
complication. When I had my surgery I knew that
someone had to be in the small percentage who had
complications and there was nothing special about me
for me to think it could not happen to me. I was
lucky enough to have none but I was prepared (the key
word here) in case there were complications. So it is
important to have contingencies available just in case
as part of your total planning for any surgery.
//Wed, 10 Dec 2003 Meredith Hernandez wrote:
Subject: Re: my port was infected (long)
oh and by the way it wasnt MY OWN NEGLEGENCE the port
itself was
causing the infection. it was a damaged port that is
going to be sent back to
the manufacturer.//

Hi All,
I just figured out that some of you are replying directly from the group
home message page. This will help clear up the posts for you.

Meredith - I am glad you were seeing your pcp during
this complication. I am sorry my post in response to
your post, where you stated it was not your negligence
but a defective port, may have appeared to be "yelling
at you", that was not my intent. I just think it is
an important message to all that no surgery is
complication free and it is important to do your part
in follow up care to catch any possible complications.
I hope everything is fine and that you make the
decision that is right for you regarding your port.
God bless - Bunnie
//"didibirdie2001" <didibirdie2001@...
Subject: pcp care
maybe i should have said in my original letter that i
did follow up with my pcp. i saw him probably once
every week since i had the surgery. as he said, "i am
not very familiar with the band itself but
everything looks good" whenever i had a problem i saw
him, he would tell me what to tell my dr in mexico but
when the hole came (and thank god it did because the
infection drained) he recommened i see a
band surgeon here.//

Wednesday, December 10, 2003, 7:23:54 PM, you wrote:
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I didn't, but it can't hurt, and will get you used to the liquid diet
after surgery.
c
c
c
All the water you'll see, other than from a faucet in the sink, is
bottled. You'll get bottled water in your room (free) and will get
bottled in restaurants.
c
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c
c
c
c
There are Louisiana folks. How soon back to work depends on how well
you tolerate the surgery. Most don't go back that quickly, but guess
that'll be about five days after surgery, so you may be OK, especially
if you have a job where you just sit at a desk. You won't be back
that quickly if you're digging ditches or laying bricks.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/228/199

I disagree with the idea of shopping only for THE best, there are several very , very good surgeons in Mexico. I don't know who qualifies as "the best" but many excellent doctors have very good packages and one would be stupid to not consider that as well. Among the best of surgeons, the next choice can be based on the package offered. Some doctor right now is having a Christmas special in December and I don't know which one he is, but I think it is one of the "best". One would be unwise not to consider him because of his package right now over another "best".

This is probably not what you meant to rule out, but just in case it was then I respectfully wish to voice my 2 cents.

My husband gets to come home from the hospital today and all his parts are working again. Thanks for your support. I truly appreciate it.

Also I got a call from Dr. Snow's office yesterday, and I'm returning it as soon as his doors open today. I am praying for good news but, holding out to hear "No way". I did write a letter to him begging him to reconsider doing my fills. He just may not be able to do it. If he says he will, then I am going to camp on his door step and grin the whole time I wait for my turn. His office is across the street from the hospital where my husband is right now.

Martha

Remember these are just my opinions. It is just options to consider, not rules.

I would not go back to work for a week, you can , but you will be tired and sore and at the end of the day you will just fall asleep from exhaustion unless you are a person in really good physical shape, used to working out and stuff maybe. Anyway, I would give myself a week to recover. Personally, I felt much better after two weeks, but everyone is different.

I would go on the liquid diet because you get a jump start on losing weight. Remember this is a healing time, not a weight losing time, but you can kill two birds with one stone if you are on a liquid diet . Most of what I have lost is due solely to the liquid diet I put myself on the week before and two weeks post surgery. The rest of the weight ,which is precious little, has had to be dieted off while I get the right amount of fill into my band and you don't get to get fills over a period of days, they want to wait a month between them. During that time, you are on your own and not expected to be losing weight . People who are newly banded for some reason expect just having the band put on means they will be losing the weight from the minute they wake up. Sometimes they do, but it is not expected until after you get fills that are the proper restriction. That causes lots of anguish for people.

I would not recommend drinking the water or eating the ice, the hotel we stayed at had filtered ice machines and the hotel provided all the bottled water you wanted. I don't think we ate or drank the ice. We asked for a refrigerator and put our bottled water in there. By the same token, people say you should not eat fruit, etc. My husband ate all his meals at various restaurants and he was fine, whatever he ate.

Martha

Dr. Ortiz will take MC or Visa, but the Mexican banks will add a fee
of about six percent. See if you can get the money on your mastercard
in the states and then you'll be able to save some or all of the fee.
dan
Wednesday, December 10, 2003, 5:18:09 PM, you wrote:
p
p
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/228/199

Martha, you've done VERY well. In two and a half months you've lost
26 pounds. That's over two pounds a week. Bandsters should expect to
lose one to two pounds a week, and you're doing much better than that.
Obviously the band IS making a difference. Congratulations.
dan
Wednesday, December 10, 2003, 6:25:56 PM, you wrote:
d
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d
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Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/228/199

Hi Debbie,
I had surgery with Drs. Lopez & Ortiz almost 2 yrs. ago. You will be
in great hands-I promise! It's normal to be nervous. Just keep in
your mind the reasons you're having surgery-to be a healthier you!
You do not have to be on a liquid diet if Dr. Ortiz doesn't tell you
to. Also, at the hospital, you will have bottled water. Don't use any
ice.
About going back to work so soon, I would recommend at least being
able to have the option of taking more time off if need be.
Best wishes!
Diane
Dr. Lopez Corvala
1/31/02
- 90 lbs. BMI 23

Hi Lisa, I was banded by Dr. V on October 4th at the Limarp surgery
center in the Grand Hotel Complex and I had a truly great
experience. My surgery went very well, I had the MID band installed
and I'm down about 27 lbs. Last week I went in for my first fill
and I couldn't be happier with how it went. If you want details or
have questions, please feel free to e-mail me. I could go on and on
about what a great thing this surgery is, but people's eyes tend to
glaze over.

I have got a date for Jan.3 with Dr. Ortiz. I am nervous and excited
at the same time! I guess this is to be expected. Now for a few
questions. How many of you went on the liquid diet before the
surgery? I have been told that I do not have to because I only have
about 70 lbs to lose. Any pros or cons or opinions out there? Also
everybody said don't drink the water or eat the ice, what do you
think? Any other words of wisdom, I would be glad to hear. Thanks
for answering my qestions in an earlier post. Two more questions, If
you work when did you go back to work, ( I fly in on Tuesday from
Mexico and plan on going to work on Wednesday)? Anybody in here from
Louisiana, I would love to hear from you! Thanks in advance for all
the info.
Debbie

Meredith, you had the surgery on the same day as I did, and you weigh less now than I do and I've had no problems at all. I've had one fill of 2cc's and it doesn't do one bit of good. I feel like I can easily eat more than 2 cupfuls of food if I tried. The only reason I've lost the precious few pounds I've lost is due to watching my diet like you have done. So what I'm saying to you is that you have been nothing but a great success, proving that you can do what you set out to do, it will continue to be hard until you get your port fixed, but this is a little trauma to overcome along the journey, you can overcome this. Look at what you have done already. Set your goals to get your port fixed and then get your next fill. You have years of band working for you to come. This is only a little delay, not in your weight loss, but in getting your band working just right. Hang tough!

Martha

263/237/l45

9/26/03

Dr. Lopez

Hi,
Are their any Doctors that take Master Card? Thanks, D.

Just a friendly reminder if you have already registered for The VBB but haven't sent in your check or paid via PayPal, you only have one week left to qualify for the early bird discount.

If you have any questions, please dont hesitate to send me an email.

Sylvia

Register for the 2nd Annual Vegas Bandster Ball!!
Sunday Feb 29th - Tuesday 2nd March
Web site:
http://www.geocities.com/vegasbandsterball

Poor Meredith. I don't blame you for being upset, it's a really
stressful thing that's happened to you. If you feel more
comfortable going to someone in the states, by all means do so. I
had a good surgery experience but of course feel much more
comfortable within the familiarity of the United States medical
system.
I think you did the right thing by going back to your original doc.
The tube for drainage is not uncommon for infection (I've seen some
gnarly examples of tummy tucks gone awry!). I would continue to
follow up with your Mexican doc, even if you don't actually go back
to Mexico (you are in Illinois?). Alot of the mexican docs interact
with american docs for proctoring, follow up, etc. And really ask a
lot of questions before you have anything else done.
One good thing, your band is still in place and apparently working!
Once the port infection is cleared you should have smooth sailing!
Julie

maybe i should have said in my original letter that i did follow up
with my pcp. i saw him probably once every week since i had the
surgery. as he said, "i am not very familiar with the band itself but
everything looks good" whenever i had a problem i saw him, he would
tell me what to tell my dr in mexico but when the hole came (and
thank god it did because the infection drained) he recommened i see a
band surgeon here. to all my fellow bandesters:
i was not making a complaint in my email. i am happy with my results
and with the surgery. i was very nervous when i got back to mexico. i
thought another surgery a new clinic that i wasnt familiar with or
the staff (i wasnt mad because they moved me) then they switched the
time and i was sad because i just wanted to get it over with but i
wasnt mad. i was only looking for somesupport and i'm getting yelled
at. iAM SORRY IF IT APPEARED THAT I WAS MAD. i wasnt just scared and
nervous.
thanks for letting me speak

The original message is after this reply for your reference.
1. You have lost 30 pounds since September 26 which is significant. You
should be happy about that.
2. Everyone who gets this surgery should contact their primary care
physician [pcp] before they leave for Mexico and let him or her know about
the surgery. Then when they get back they should go to their pcp for after
care for the incisions within a week of returning. The problem with the
port area, which was not healing properly from your description, probably
would have been caught early and treated so the rest of the problem you
describe would not have happened.
3. You did the right thing in going back to Mexico and working with a
doctor who understood the band. All you were charged was for the
anesthesia. The doctor absorbed the cost of the hospital and staff time. I
doubt that you could find any medical facility in the US that would have
made that arrangement with you. At $300 it was incredibly cheap. After
all, you need to take some responsibility for not obtaining follow-up care
for your incisions.
4. As for the drain, that was, I am sure, medically necessary and would
have occurred wherever you had the surgery.
5. I can't believe that you are complaining because this work was done in
another clinic and the doctor rescheduled from 7 am to 8 am that no one was
there when you got there at 7:45.
6. This doctor is apparently willing to replace your port, probably with
only the expense of the anesthesia again, as soon as the area heals. What a
gem of a doctor.
If I had had the experience you presented I would have been praising this
doctor up one side and down the other for his willingness to make the
corrections THAT WERE CAUSED BY MY OWN NEGLIGENCE IN NOT GETTING AFTER CARE
FROM MY PCP at only minimal expense to me.
Just goes to show that we all see the world differently.
Joan

Greeting fellow bandsters
ok heres my story:
on sept 26 i was banded in tijuana by dr. curiel. i was so excited
and happy to finally have a tool to help me with my weight problem. i
lost 23lbs in the first two weeks and at 10 weeks post op i was down
30. by my 10 week mark i barley had any restriction so i was planning
on going after the new year to a local dr. for a fill. well
everything changed. my port incision was never well. it leaked from
about four days postop until i was three weeks post op, then the skin
finally healed over and it stopped. 6 weeks post op it started
leaking again when the dead skin peeled away. by week 7 i had a hole
the size of a pin head in my incision. it got bigger and bigger. at 8
weeks i went to a surgeon in my area who does this surgery(paid out
of pocket naturally) to tell me my port was infected and it had to
come out. ok i'll admitt it i cried like a baby. so i called
insurance to see if they would pay for it. i was sad and i didn't
really want to travel all the way back to mexico. well my dr. in
mexico really wanted me to come back there. so i scheduled it for dec
6th @ 7am. i had two weeks between the time i found out about the
infection and my actually surgey. i never had any pain from the
infection and my pcp said at last visit that it didnt look bad. well
in between my two weeks the hole got to be the size of a nickle and
my tube was sticking out a little. i had no pain really. just scared
to move alot incase i ripped it open more. my dr in mexico said they
wouldnt charge me for the surgery which i figure they wouldn't. they
said they would do a 1.5cc or a 2cc fill since the port was coming
out. and then if need be in a few weeks or months they would put a
new port in. i said ok fine. they told me i would be sleeping for the
surgery and the cost would be $150.00 for the hosptial fee. ok so i
get to the clinic on saturday morning @ 745 because now the dr says
the surgery is for 8. originally it was for 7. no one was there. it
wasn't the same clinic where i had my orginal surgery either. i am
all preped for surgery and the anesthesiaologist comes in and is
feeling my back. she was going to give me an epidural. ok fine i've
had two alresady because i've had to labor and deliveries but i was
already scared about another surgery and now she wanted me to be
awake!!!! i freaked out and started crying again. my mom went with me
and told the that i was scared and nervous about surgery again and
plus they said i was going to be asleep. so the dr's said no problem
well put you to sleep. i woke up to find out that they only did a 1cc
fill and i had a tube sticking out. the tube was for drainage but
they never mentioned i would need one so that made me mad. all they
had to say was" w might need a tube for drainage" they said they only
did a 1cc fill because at 3 i would be closed. so i figured ok i'm
1/3 full. i also didnt feel well after surgey and told my mom i would
never return to mexico and i am never having my port put back in
because i cant go through another surgery again. she said i would
probably change my mind. i have thought about it and decided if i do
put it back in i'll stay in the states and pay out of pocket again!!!
but when i left the clinic they said 300.00aid no my dr. said 150.00/
well i find out the 150.0 was if i had the epidural even though my dr
said to me on the phone 150 and i would be sleeping. i am sooooo
ticked. nothing was done as planned and also i think my fill dint
take because i have less restriction now than before the surgery and
fill and that wasnt much either. i feel like this surgey has failed
me. i know it only a tool. i have learned to eat only when hungry and
in small qtys. but i paid a lot of mney for results and feel i wont
be getting much more. can't have any more fills u til the port is put
back in but i was told 1cc would be fine for awhile. it didnt work.
i feel like crying. i dont want to be fat anymore. i have maintained
my weight loss but its hard because i can eat more. any advice???
please help me and give me strenght
Meredith/ IL
264/234/160
9/26/03 :(

At the bottom of each message you receive there is a note:

Hi Lea,

Do you take protein daily and if you do what do you find to be the best brand?

Beth

Lori, what's your web address? Julie

My husband and I will be wintering at the above city from Jan thru
end of April. Does anyone know any reputable drs. in the area who do
the lap band and the costs. ThanksMarie

Hi Bandster Buddies,
I'm just dropping you a quick note to tell you that my honey posted
some updated photos on my website. I'm now down 40 pounds and
though I wasn't planning on posting new photos until I reached the
50 pound mark on the scale ... my honey was so excited to see the
comparison in photos that he posted them to the site without me
knowing he was going to do so. Being that I see myself in the
mirror every day, I don't really see the changes taking place. I
can only tell there's change because I've went down three pant
sizes. My honey took a photo of me holding one of the goodie trays
that I fix up for my clients every year for Christmas ... and when I
saw the photo I realized for the first time that I was looking
different. So ... if you're interested ... you're welcome to come
take a look at my website. And if you're planning a trip to Mexico
soon to see Dr. Rumbaut ... you'll most definately want to check out
my website to prepare yourself for your trip. Please be sure to
sign the guestbook and tell me that you stopped by for a visit

I just had to post this today. Yesterday was my one month bandster anniversary and I am thrilled with my band! Today I actually managed to comfortably (just a tiny bit tight) fit into my pre-prego jeans. I am actually 10 lbs lighter now then I was when I got pregnant with my 2 year old daughter, but from pregnancy and childbirth my hips were wider then they were pre-pregnancy and I could never get the zippers to come close to touching! Now, they fit and I have my favorite pair of jeans back!
I have lost a total of 22.5 lbs from my high weight of 259 and 15.5 lbs since surgery. I have lost 15 inches with 3 inches of that off of my waist! My BMI has dropped from 39 to 35. My hubby says that this is the first time in years that I am not snoring all night long (not positive how this relates but it coincides with the surgery). The biggest deal is that this is the first time in my life that I do not feel controlled by hunger or by food. I am making so many more positive choices but I am not DIETING! I will still have a bite of something delectable if I want to- basically I feel NORMAL for the first time ever.
I am not sure yet if I need a fill. I still have a bit of restriction and I am still losing. As long as I manage to lose I will not schedule a fill appt. I haven't had any major episodes of pain and am able to eat just about anything as long as I chew it well. I am trying to walk regularly, but it doesn't always work out. I am managing to get on my treadmill for at least 30 min 3x a week which has really helped to increase my energy levels. I can't wait for 6 weeks post op so that I can go back to Curves!
Basically, I wanted to write this for all of the people who are pre-band and nervous. My surgery and recovery were fairly easy and uneventful. I have been able to incorporate the band into my everyday life and it feels normal to me. I haven't really been dieting, I have just been eating LESS and walking! The band really can work for you. I am so thrilled with my weight loss, although I know that it will slow down from here on out, I know that it will eventually all come off with a lot of help from me and the assistance of this wonderful band.
~Lea
11/08/03 Dr. Sanchez
259 High 252 Pre-op/236.5/219 Mini Goal (less then DH)

Has anyone had their surgery with Dr. Verboonen and share their
experience?
Scheduled Jan 9th - Dr. Verboonen, Tijuana at the www.angel-body.com
facility......any info would help! Thanks!!!
Thanks,
Lisa

Read the archives of this group you will see the same Dr's names pop up again and again.

Yes it is a bit of a leap of faith, but those that have been banded a long time like myself know these Dr.s are wonderful, experienced and skilful.

Or you can plug these names in and you will see emails about these Dr's it might take a bit of work and reading on your part but it will put your mind at rest.

In Tijuana look under Dr. Kuri, Dr. Lopez, Dr. Ortiz (there are more and I am sure others will tell you but can't think of them right now)

If you live closer to Texas then you might want to go to Monterrey, so look for Dr. Rumbaut or Sanchez

Good Luck

Sylvia

Dr. Kuri

Tijuana

Lost over 100lbs so far.

Message -----

From: Lisa Lacey

Subject: [mexicanbandsters] Are there any known BAD Dr.'s?

Are there any "well known" mexican or european doctors that we should avoid? What are the issues with them? What do you look at in choosing a doctor that you know so little about? It just seems overwhelming. Do you just take a leap of faith?

Register for the 2nd Annual Vegas Bandster Ball!!
Sunday Feb 29th - Tuesday 2nd March
Web site:
http://www.geocities.com/vegasbandsterball

Jump For Joy

Are there any "well known" mexican or european doctors that we should avoid? What are the issues with them? What do you look at in choosing a doctor that you know so little about? It just seems overwhelming. Do you just take a leap of faith?

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of mexicanbandsters
Cathy Godwin's Day with Dr. Kuri!
Tuesday December 9, 2003
8:00 am - 9:00 am
This event does not repeat.
Event Location: Tijuana
Notes:
I'm joining you-all in the skinny world today!
Cathy Godwin from Seattle
245/??/140

Edith,

Thanks for the info on the new doc. I live in the Tri-cities and have found a Radiologist to do my fills, but it is so nice to know that there is a doc out there and so close. I am five months out form my band placement and have been struggling. I have not come down more than 5 lb from my surgery and I am very frustrated. I know I need to exercise more and eat better but I figured I would have lost more that I have by now.I have had one fill of 2.0cc and fill some restriction but goes away very quickly, but no sensation of fullness untill it is too late. Maybe I need a doc to go over every thing with me again like he did.

Good job on your weight loss, keep it up. and thanks for the information.

Summer

Hi Louise,

It is so good to hear from you and that you are doing so good. I have been waiting to get your update. Do I understand you are not on a liquid diet? What do you think of Dr. Rumbaut? Did you have a hard time with the money exchange? Bear with me, I am getting nervous by the day and January 04 is not that far away. Take care and keep up the good work.

Beth

From DFW, take the north exit out of the airport and take highway ll4 north
it will merge into 287 to Decatur in Rhome, TX., take highway 51 to the left,
go to I think the third red light, there is one by the highway you get
off of (287) on the service road and then there is another
a few blocks , left, down highway 51. Then on down one more block there
is the third light, I think. You will see over
to your left a corner store that has a yellow ( 3x5 feet about) sign out in the yard
that they have a sale on scrubs. Dr. Snow's office
is on the right side of that little shop.

It's called Lone Star Bariatrics
800 Medical Center Dr. Suite C
Decatur, TX 70234

You can put his address in on one of those
programs that make a map for you or you can call
their office and maybe get more directions.

On Thursday I went to Dr. Maugunbat in Seattle for a fill. The
price quoted was for $175.00. He has a wonderful assistant who
works these cases with him who has had a band for two years, and she
is full of information and humor. The good doctor and assistant
went over my banding history and spent maybe 30 minutes going over
nutritional needs and talking to me about the need to bump up my
protein and water to enhance my weight loss. I was lamenting
because I had lost only 20 pounds in three months (first and last
fill was September 4). Actually when they had weighed me on their
scale it was 23 pounds for a total of 78 in almost seven months.
Because I continue to have terrible reflux at times, the doctor
determined that I did not need a fill and had ample restriction from
what I was telling him. I have to be in Seattle again in two weeks
for business and he insisted that I come by for a weigh in and
meeting with his assistant. He wants to see how much I have lost
after bumping up the protein and water.
I wanted to at least pay him for a consultation fee, and he would
take not a penny from me. He said that when the time came for me to
have a fill, they would be more than happy to take 175.00. I was
very pleased with the attention and concern that I got from them,
and would highly recommend them to anyone in the Northwest area that
is looking for a fill doctor. I had gone to Mexico for my first
fill, however I thought I would try this doctor since he was much
closer (one hour flight as opposed to six hours to San Diego). The
trip was much more relaxed and I scheduled a business trip to
coincide, so all I would have been out was the 175.00.
Have been forcing myself to eat lots of protein and at times it is
taking me 2-3 hours to get it all down, but the doctor was clear
that 60 grams a day is a minimum amount. (My hair is also falling
out as a result, so I am twice as motivated to take in the protein.)
Just wanted to pass this on to those of us who live in the
Washington, Oregon, and Idaho area.
edith

Martha,
I'm sorry to hear all the trouble your husband is having and all the
worrying you're going through. It is really difficult to see someone
you love go through so much pain and suffering.
I completely understand if we aren't able to meet up. You have to
focus on your husband right now.
I'll pray for you and your husband.
Kimberly

Congrats on your weight loss that's great! At $500 a pop make sure
you have a nice level of restriction before you leave the doctor's
office. I had a fill on Nov 22 and could go back now but I'm about
to leave for the holidays and can't make it back until Jan. 7th.
Kimberly

Kim, we will talk about that later, my husband is in the hospital right now and so far can't figure out what all is wrong, but have figured out some things. They are doing tons of tests. I have a fill schedules in Paris Texas on Jan. 5th, it's a real shame I have to drive so far to get a fill when there is someone so close who promised to do them and changed his mind. I have to drag my husband to wherever I go . I hope he is doing well by then and doesn't have to go on dialysis. His kidneys aren't functioning properly, his blood sugar level dropped to 39 while he was in the emergency room and his blood thinner has increased to l7 when it should have been at 2.7. This is so scary sometimes. I wish Dr. Snow would fill me. That sounds kind of bad, doesn't it? His office is 22 miles from my house.

Martha

Hi everyone!
Well, it'll be 3 weeks tomorrow since my surgery. It seems longer
than that. I have lost 15 pounds and already have people telling me
I look like I'm losing weight (people who don't know I had the
surgery). I feel really good, no more incisional or gas pains. A
couple of times I've swallowed too much at once and thought I was
going to PB, but I haven't yet. It doesn't take many times of doing
that before you remember to eat slowly and chew really well. I don't
have a whole lot of restriction anymore so I think the swelling in my
stomach has gone down almost to normal. I have my fill doc all lined
up so when it's time I shouldn't have any problems getting a fill.
And although he charges $500 a fill, from reading other posts lately
I'm just thankful to have a doc in Omaha who'll do it for me. I hope
you are all happy and healthy and progressing on whatever stage of
the journey you're on. Thanks to all for always being here!
Louise in Omaha :)
11/18/03 Rumbaut

i am also preband and having my surgery done by Dr. Kuri also on Jan. 3rd. I am totally petrified. I read every band support board all day long. Somedays I don't have the least bit of fear, but as it gets closer I really get nervous. Especially when I read that someone gets an infection or if they say they will always feel pain in the port area or pain swallowing food. I think OMG am I crazy to do this to myself. I am basiclly healthy with no co-morbitity's so I don't anticipate anything to go wrong with the surgery itself. It's the long haul after that I'm worried about. I know what i have to do with changing my eating habits. I'm just afraid I'll be in terrible pain the rest of my life. Go figure. Pam <thegammy@...

I am scheduled to have my band put on Dec. 18 with Dr. Kuri. Was
anyone else this frightened before the surgery? I am also excited,
and believe that this is my last hope, and am anxious to get on with
it, but I am a very high BMI and I am very nervous about it. I hope
everything goes ok. I have read and researched, so there should not be
many surprises, but I am scared. I think I would be scared before any
surgery though. Please help, I really need some moral support and
encouragement right about now. If there is anyone out here who was
also scared, please let me know that I am not the only one.
Pam
Dr. Kuri
415
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I have a fill scheduled with Dr. Snow Jan. 7th. Can someone give me
directions coming from Dallas?
I pray I won't need a flouro. The receptionist said if I do they
can't do it the same day as my appointment. I plan to fly in from
Houston then drive from Dallas. SWA rates are so cheap they cost
less than gas money. The plane tickets are non-refundable but issue
credits.
I would drive but I can't drive longer than 4 hours a day without
falling asleep. The cost of the rental car and gas alone would be
more than the $60 RT plane ticket.
This is my second fill and I know I'll find restriction! I already
have 2cc in a 9.75
Martha my appt is at 10:30 am. I'd love to come and visit you while
I'm in the area! You're a hoot!
Kimberly

I was also very pleased with the computers in the lobby of the OASIS
Hospital. Taking a laptop to play games with or something would be
fine, but don't plan on hooking it up to phone lines for email. You'll
pay a fortune for the connection, and at least if you're at OASIS or
Lucerna you won't need it for email access.
dan
Wednesday, December 3, 2003, 12:38:34 PM, you wrote:
T
T
T
T
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/233/199

Congratulations Gayle on your surgeries. Are you home yet? I hope you took before and after pictures that you will share. My eyes did not bother me that much. My biggest discomfort with the facelift was and remains the tightness in my neck under my chin. Do you feel that too? I hope you are pleased with everything.

My daughter and I went to TJ yesterday for fills with Dr. Ortiz. We ended up with Dr. Martinez who is such a sweetie and does great fills. This was Lisa's first and she was somewhat nervous as we all are. Of course, just her luck, her port is turned funny and she ended up having to lay on her side and getting stuck x 2 for the correct needle insertion. He said she had absolutely no restriction and got a whopping big 2.5 cc fill. I got a slight .3 adjustment without fluro. Hopefully, this will put me at the "perfect" fill level.

This is the first time I can say there was some pain involved. Dr. Martinez said he had a hard time inserting the needle, that he had to push quite hard for it to go in. He said maybe my TT has something to do with it or could be a dull needle. Whatever.

I also went and saw Dr. Quiroz for a consult on my 10 day old TT from Kaiser. Just as I suspected, my result is satisfactory and Kaiser did not do anything wrong, but it just could have been much better. He said he could correct the whole thing, but it would cost me as much as if I had gone to him in the first place. I am very sorry that I didn't and of course, it means more surgery. The Kaiser doc had said to me before surgery, "I am not going near your port" and she refused to call Dr. Ortiz and discuss anything with him. Therefore she was afraid and she wasn't aggressive enough pulling the midriff skin down. So, it is still kind of loose in that area. I also do not like the way she ended the incisions on my hips. It just doesnt look right. After waiting so long to get this done, it is a big disappointment. I don't expect to have the body of a 25 year old, but I do know it could be better than what I got. Live and learn. HMO's only do the minimum, nothing
extra. But, I am still determined to be and look the best that I can. It is just going to take a little longer.

Carolyn

Hey Pam-
I was banded November 13th, 2003 in Acuna, Mexico by Dr. Jose
Rodriguez.
I was just like you....EXTREMELY nervous and worried and concerned.
You are right. The majority of it is just pre-surgery jitters..
The day before I was banded I weighed 390lbs. I had to ask
myself..what is more dangerous here? The surgery or walking around
as a time bomb waiting to go off? I chose the surger because I know
with my weight as high as it was (is) there is no way I had many
years left to live...especially quality living years.
I know that I am only 23 days into the banded life but I thank God
that I made the decision to be banded and I cannot wait until I am
healed completely and begin my new life.
You'll be fine...Take a deep breath and imagine how healthy and happy
you will be on the banded side.
Best of luck to you..you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Michele
Dr. Rodriguez
Acuna, MX
11-13-03
390/356/under 200

Hi Pam,
Bless your heart you're experiencing what most of us have when we
knew we were going into surgery. Take the nervousness and fear and
turn it into excitement and anxiety about doing something that will
make you healthier, eating healthier, losing the weight, and
becoming a new you! You'll be fine. In general we all get those
jitters and fears. Surgery isn't to be taken lightly so naturally
it's normal to have "wonders" and "what-ifs".
Let us know how it goes, walk as soon as you can after surgery
(helps with the gas if you have any) and enjoy this wonderful
journey.
Ardie/Fl.
Dr. Sanchez

My first fill I had no restriction after a few days. My 2nd fill two months later I had restriction for about a week. I am back to being able to eat just about anything. How do you know if the band is leaking?

Hi Kimberly,
I understand what you are saying about your fill. If you could
arrange it, try staying around for a day or two to see how your fill
is going to react. Hopefully you will know within that time if you
need more fill or some taken out. The reason I say this is the fact
that my first fill wasn't enough restriction and I waited 2 days
and went back to my doctor and got more fill which was great. The
next time I went in for a fill (months later), I got a fill, went
home and about 2 hours later I couldn't swallow my own spit. I
couldn't keep anything down at all. So, the next morning I called
the doctor, went back in and saline was taken out. Personally I
think your doctor should fill you for no cost the next time but I'm
not sure how other doctors work. I was fortunate.
In the meantime, try eating as a bandster. That fickle band just
might kick in without giving you warning.
Good luck,
Ardie/Fl.
Dr. Sanchez

I am scheduled to have my band put on Dec. 18 with Dr. Kuri. Was
anyone else this frightened before the surgery? I am also excited,
and believe that this is my last hope, and am anxious to get on with
it, but I am a very high BMI and I am very nervous about it. I hope
everything goes ok. I have read and researched, so there should not be
many surprises, but I am scared. I think I would be scared before any
surgery though. Please help, I really need some moral support and
encouragement right about now. If there is anyone out here who was
also scared, please let me know that I am not the only one.
Pam
Dr. Kuri
415

Last night I went to a dinner party with friends. For dinner they
had chicken alfredo, thin sliced beef, a salad and fruit. I was
able to eat as much as my friends (which was 2 plates of food).
My friends were surprised I was able to each "so much"! Of course
the fruit and salad took up half the plate but one plate should have
been more than enough.
I have 2 cc in a 9.75 band and need to find my sweet spot. I see
SWA has flights to Dallas for as low as $30 (one way) so I can fly
into Dallas and drive to Dr. Snow and be back the same day.
The problem is I have to wait until I get back into town I leave
Dec. 18th and won't be back until Dec. 30th! So that means I have
at least another month to go without restriction.
What upsets me is I got my first fill Nov 22. and told my doctor I
need more than 2 cc because I was able to gulp down water and
juice. He told me once I ate I'd feel the difference. But I never
did.
I can't be too mad because most people go through the same thing. I
hate I having to wait until Jan to get another fill. The total trip
will cost $4-$500 including the fill. I just spent $400 on Nov 22
on my first fill.
OK I'll stop complaining and just suck it up! I'm thankful I have
the band and I knew I would have to go get fills. I just pray my
second fill works!
Kimberly
-20
09/30/03

I was banded by Drs. Lopez & Ortiz when they were practicing
together, and I would highly recommend either one.
Diane Beck
Dr. Lopez Corvala
1.31.02
- 90 lbs. BMI 23

Thanks , guys, for your well wishes for David. He has started taking three Tylenol at a time and that helps some and he has been not sitting up , like the doctor said, so today he said he does feel a little better. I always take three pain relievers like Ibuprofen, Tylenol, I figured I had a bigger body to have to work with , so I needed that many at a time. He can't take lots of different medications due to his heart problem.

Martha

Hello, I am new to this message board thing... I had the lap band non-
adjustable, in March of 2000. It wasn't successful and now my option
is to have gastric bypass. I am looking to have that done in Mexico
or Costa Rica. Has anyone used a Dr. that also did the gastric
bypass and was a good Dr? Would love some guidance in this area.
Thanks, Karen

--
Martha. I'm so sorry. Have you thought about talking with his doctor
about a pain cocktail. There is no reason in this day in age for
someone to cry himself to sleep because of pain. Just a note tylenol
is not a harmless drug especially if someone has anything wrong with
his liver. It's not hard for older folks who may have pain to take
more than they should of tylenol and build up a toxic level. You
might want to talk with his doctor and tell him/her about his crying
in pain. Just a thought. Good luck. joanne in seattle

Hi Martha, I wish your husband well and do hope he gets rid of the
pain quickly. Keep us posted on how he's doing! Ardie
, // but his pain was so severe and he could not take enough
medication to help it. //

I am a little nervous about getting my first fill tomorrow. I am
flying into Monterrey tomorrow morning and flying out tomorrow
afternoon. Any words from the wise? Is there anything I should avoid
tonight?
I do not post much but I read everything and this is the best
bandster group by far!!!
Thanks!
Stephanie A.
10/03/03
Dr. A. Rodriguez - Monterrey, Mx.
-44lbs so far!

Oh (((Martha))) I am so sorry about your poor husband..I cant even imagine what he goes through.

Sylvia

Sent: Friday, December 05, 2003 9:32 AM
Subject: Re: [mexicanbandsters] lopez or ortiz

He was crying during the night and I never have heard him cry at all since we have been married, but his pain was so severe and he could not take enough medication to help it. He had some medication to rub on his butt where the nerve pain was which was extra hot and I rubbed his butt down with it and he finally fell asleep, I think he got full of Tylenol and that finally kicked in too. He has to stay laying down for several days the doctor said.

Martha

To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:

I did lots of research and choose Dr. Ortiz. I like the fact he was
a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. They have very
impressive standards to uphold. The quality of physical and
emotional care I received was wonderful, and I like the fact I was
able to call on Robin for answers to my questions. I am down 41
pounds so far and would do it again in a "blink"
Good luck in your search,

I talked to Don Mills , an Inamed representative yesterday on the phone for about an hour. He responded to Dr. Lopez's name that he was an excellent doctor. Dr. Lopez's staff does not return emails very fast after surgery but then he didn't do my follow-up. I have been writing emails to them to get them to pick up the pace about returning calling and emails. I did not pay Dr. Lopez to do my follow-up. I liked what he did for me. I had absolutely not one single complication. I think I am the average person. He did very good work. I'd use him again. I'd use Kuri, and I'd use Jose Rodriguez in Acuna as well. I have heard only good about Ortiz and as the matter of fact all of these doctors are very, very good as far as surgeons go. Any one would be an excellent choice in my book , I'd go to any of those to have surgery. I happened to need a very good deal when I got my surgery done and Dr. Lopez had one of the best deal going at that time, and he was well respected
in the surgery field. The charge was one of my deciding factors because they all did good work. I don't know Dr. Ortiz. Dr. Lopez is very nice and speaks English ,as do all the doctors. He doesn't ooze charm as much as what I hear Dr. Kuri does, but I wasn't looking for charm. I was looking for experience , skill and best deal. I am a happy camper. I imagine Dr. Ortiz has about the same to offer. I had good care while I was in Tijuana, several staff people catered to my every need and they checked on me either in person or on the phone for the three days I was at the hotel after surgery as well as the two nights and days I was at the hospital. They went to the grocery for me, they brought me medication, they waited on me hand and foot. They took care of every need I had. Dr. Lopez answered every question I had before surgery and after. He did nice work. To do so much outside of the doctor's actual visit is so unlike American doctors, isn't it?

Martha

I am trying to decide which dr I would like to use. Any suggestions
out there? Thanks in advance.

Thanks for the info on shopping Pamela. Question...how long were you on the liquid and then puree diet? What brand of protein do you recommend?

Beth

My hiccups don't mean I am full. They hiccup right at the first bite of when I start eating and they hiccup about three or four times and quit and I just eat my allotted portion and I don't throw up from that or anything bad. So maybe all hiccoughs don't mean the same? I sure am not full. I know what full is, well, I used to know what full was, I'm not sure about anything any more.

Martha

-30 lbs

9/26/03

Dr. Lopez

Thanks for the tip Brenda

Reminder Reminder from the Calendar of mexicanbandsters
Laura gets the Band
Friday December 5, 2003
All Day
This event does not repeat.
Event Location: Dr. Kuri - TJ
Notes:
Send me all the good thoughts you can spare

But they DO mean that you're full. Hiccups are a spasm of your
diaphragm. That's because your full pouch is pressing on your
diaphragm. Say thank you to them and QUIT.
dan
Wednesday, December 3, 2003, 7:57:53 AM, you wrote:
d
d
d
d
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/233/199

Hi all:
I went grocery shopping at my local super Walmart and found some healthy things that were "Bandster friendly":
1. A dairy beverage named "Carb Countdown" in the dairy aisle ($2.50 for 1/2 gallon)-I got the chocolate flavor and it is yummy--warm it up and it kinda tastes like hot cocoa 12g protein, 3 g carbs.
2. Chef's Choice Frozen Entrees $3.50 per meal and quite tasty. I have problems eating some meats, chicken and fish but their chicken and beef dishes were soft and I had no problems keeping these down. They are high in protein 38g-42g each serving and only 9-12 g carbs.
3. Bumble Bee pre-packaged Fat Free Tuna Salad with Crackers at 86 cents a pack is a great take-along snack to take along with you to keep you away from the tempting junk food around you. 7g protein 10 g carbs
4. Minute Maid lemonade in 12-pack cans ($3.50). A non-carbonated alternative to the carbonated beverages like Sprite I miss so much now that I'm a bandster! 10 calories per serving.
5. Diet V-8 Splash $2.00 for a 1/2gallon bottle is a healthy aternative for us that like sweet fruit juices but don't need the sugar. I think it's also 10 calories per serving. My bandster friend Amy from Salt Lake recommended this to me and now I am hooked! Tropical Blend is my favorite!
6. I like the prices at Wal-mart on the Atkins line of shakes, pancake mixes and so on. I find their prices to be cheaper than my local GNC.However, the sale prices at GNC on Atkins stuff are better deals sometimes...
7. Athenos Hummus ($1.90 for a package) is a low-carb alternative to cheese, dips, etc. It's great on crackers, pita, etc.
8. I usually don't buy pre-packaged "salad-in -a-bag" because I think they are a rip-off (I like to make my own salads) but I found some ready-made Spring Mix varieties that were around $1.50.
9. O.K. a couple of times a week I like to indulge my sweet tooth--who doesn't?! What do I like now that I am trying to be a healthier and THINNER bandster? Sugar-Free Hershey's mini bars are $1.50 per package and my ultimate indulgence is Sugar-Free Pure-Delite Chocolate Bars (near the weight loss section)--they are imported Belgian Chocolates ($5 for 6 bars) and they are high quality chocolate. I do not like sugar free candy but these are just divine!
10. I like Campbell's "Soup in a Can" ($1.25 per can)--you can heat one up in the microwave and put it in your car's beverage cup holder and sip a good, warm soup on winter days.

I love all your posts about healthy bandster food suggestions! Please keep them (and all your inspirational stories) coming!

Hugs,

Pamela Bishop

Lap-banded 9/26/2003: Drs. Ortiz/Martinez Tijuana,MX

First Fill November 12, 2003: 1.6 cc's Drs.Simpson/Ortiz Phoenix,AZ

Second Fill Scheduled January 30, 2004: Drs. Ortiz/Martinez Tijuana,MX

250/225/150

If you're happy with your doctor choice, don't worry about the bucks.
Just because someone might do it for a grand less doesn't mean that
you should use that doc. This is not a case where you want the
cheapest possible.
I know nothing about your doc, but if you're happy, do it. Maybe you
can borrow the extra and still get it done sooner?
dan
Tuesday, December 2, 2003, 5:52:21 PM, you wrote:
t
t
t
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/233/199

I wanted to share with you women that I have purchased several girdles off ebay and this company has an online ebay store. They are very inexpensive and high quality. I have been searching for a girdle or compression shorts for me to wear but they are either to expensive or do not come in my large size so I wanted to share this website with you. They carry all sorts of undie stuff and in a wide range of sizes. I am in no way affiliated with this company. Here is the link http://www.stores.ebay.com/orchardcorset/plistings/list/all/dept0/index.html?js=0

if the link does not work go to ebay and do a search for Orchard Corset.

Brenda Hakimi

In a message dated 12/4/2003 11:31:44 AM Eastern Standard Time, sdraverchic@... writes:

Does this feeling of feeling like something is stuck going down ever
go away?do you always feel your port in your stomach any time
you move or is it just because the area around it is still swollen?

Not really, and when you get a fill it will be somewhat worse, but just like anything..you'll get used to it. I can feel the port from the outside of my skin...but cant say that I feel it from the inside. Ofcourse, Dr. Rumbaut places the port just below the chest bone for women...so that the port will not be visible once you loose all your weight.
Kelly in Ky
Dr. Rumbaut 10/21/03
-23.5

Forgive me as I am new to this message board thing. I just got
banded on 11/29/03 by Dr. Ortiz and his staff; I couldn't have asked
for a better experience, besides maybe painless recovery... I didn't
got to Oasis Hospital as most Ortiz patients, in fact i'm not too
sure what the name of the hospital was. LOL. I have to admit i was
scared at first. It was 730 in the morning and the hallway was dimly
lit with floor lamps. I was thinking what did I get myself into.
However, the suite was very nice. The O.R. was in the same suite as
my room which, by the way, i had all to myself. :-) and i had a view
of the country club and what would be in San Diego multimillion
dollar homes. (I have to mention i elected to have the surgery there
though because i wanted it early in the morning, they are almost
always at the Oasis Hospital) I vaguely remember getting up not but
10 minutes after surgery to go to the bathroom. They say i kept
saying I have to walk, i have to walk. (they were so adament about
that b4 surgery) i had to laugh at that one, because i could barely
get up an hour later. However, the team made my procedure and
recovery very smooth and easy. Not to mention both Dr. Ortiz and Dr.
Martinez are very handsome and VERY nice. ;-) That's nothing compared
to their skill as surgeons though. I was very impressed. I wasn't
nervous at all going into surgery. Their reputation speaks for
itself.
I had my surgery on Saturday was home by Monday and back at work by
Wednesday. It's now Thursday and have already lost 5 pounds. I do
have some questions though:
Does this feeling of feeling like something is stuck going down ever
go away? i'm pretty sure it's the band as i am still strictly on
fluids. and do you always feel your port in your stomach any time
you move or is it just because the area around it is still swollen?
Also, any time i hiccup it's incredibly painful. I hate it. any
suggestions? I'm sure i have more questions i just can't think of
them right now.... and this is getting quite long.
Thank you all for your patience in reading this novel... i look
forward to reading all of your success stories.
BTW, i have been having a hard time finding anyone that has had this
procedure with a lower BMI (mine was 33) so if anyone has any
questions or has had the procedure and can let me know how they are
doing; I'd appreciate it.
Many Blessings,
Starlynn
Dr. Ortiz/Martinez
11-29-03
195/190/135

Hi Julie,
No, haven't posted any, but here are a few tips. Don't ever say
anything in email that you don't want to see on the front page of the
newspaper. Every blessed word we type is open to the world. And
although we bandsters have eaten many things over the years, it isn't
usually too pleasant to have to eat your own words or to eat crow.
http://www.albion.com/netiquette/corerules.html is one of the basic
places for netiquette information. Or if you just search netiquette
on Google or some other search engine, you'll find a ton of sites.
Basically, it is just the Golden Rule applied to internet life. There
isn't really that much different about posting here than being in a
class, a cocktail party, a meeting at work, etc, except for the topics
we discuss. It is much easier to offend on the net, mainly because
people can't tell if you're joking, if you're mad, etc. And when
there are a lot of people with same name, they may not always
understand who you're talking to or about.
A few specific things related to groups..... If you're replying,
make SURE you know if you're replying to the group or to the
individual. More than one person has posted to the group something
that was meant for the individual only. This can be VERY embarrassing
or hurtful when things go wrong. Learn how to edit email when you
reply. NEVER quote the whole message back, just the pieces you're
referring to. That makes things much easier.
On the other hand, always quote a bit to give some context. Sometimes
people just say "me too" or something like that and we have no idea
what it is referring to.
Anyway, hope this helps.
dan
Wednesday, December 3, 2003, 11:26:00 PM, you wrote:
k
k
k
k
k
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/233/199

If I'm not mistaken, didn't you post some "nettiquette" type rules
on one of the bandsters board? I haven't been able to locate it and
would like to take a look again... can you either repost or tell me
where to look? I searched a bit in the archives but I'm tired and
suffering severe brain fade. Thanks! Julie

You are such an inspiration to me Sandy. Please share with me how you got through the first four weeks after surgery and you consumed.

My surgery is January 07.

Beth

-Sandy, You are such an inspiration! Great job! And a hearty
congratulation on you new daughter. What a wonderful event for you
and your family! Continue loving life now and enjoying all around
you. WOW, 100 pounds! You go girl!
Ardie/Fl.

Hi everyone!
I'm excited to finally be giving my century report! It's been tough
the last couple of months of no weight loss. I was fighting
gallstones and pancreatitis, but I'm all-better now. And I can
report a weight loss of over 100 lbs! I got on the scale yesterday
and had lost 4 lbs since my last fill after having my gall bladder
out.
I can't possibly fully convey how much this surgery has changed my
life. Just being able to go grocery shopping, cleaning and cooking
for my family was almost impossible a year ago! Now there's no
stopping me! My husband and I have even been able to adopt another
child. We were joined with our new 4-year-old daughter just a month
ago! I was able to take both my children out trick-or-treating for
Halloween. Last year I had to follow my son in my car because I
couldn't walk. I went to the state fair this year as well as
Disneyland, camping, hiking and all of the things I enjoy doing. My
son is always saying things to me like, "Your doing so good now
Mommy! Thank you for taking me places!" I don't think I wanted to
see just how much I made my family suffer when I was 100 lbs
heavier. My son missed out on a lot of things because I wasn't able
to take him or couldn't fit, etc. But best of all, my kids have a
mommy again! So many positive changes! There are too many to list
here.
I have so much to be thankful for now. There is one person that I
want to shout my thanks from the rooftops to. He is my surgeon, Dr.
Ariel Ortiz. He not only did a wonderful job getting me through a
successful surgery, he also gives me constant help and support.
Every time I've had a question, he has always been available to me
day and night 7 days a week. He was on the phone with me as I was
being wheeled into the pre-op room before my gall bladder surgery and
called me when I was in the hospital. I can't say enough about the
knowledge, experience and caring this man has shown me! There are
not many people that I can say I trust with all of my heart and
soul. This man is one of them. He has also been working with me to
help my VERY overweight and sick 75-year-old mother. He has been
working with her docs here in the US and he will be doing her surgery
soon.
To anyone considering this surgery I say, go for it! It's definitely
the best things I've ever done and without the risk over the serious
complications of gastric bypass.
Sandy
Dr. Ariel Ortiz FACS
9-5-02
328/225/180

There have been several messages about laptops and the Internet in
Tijuana. I was very pleased with the free Internet terminal in the
lobby of the Lucerna Hotel, which is so fast it has either DSL or
T1. Only problem was finding how to enter the at sign.
Tom Newport Beach
Dr. Ortiz 2/27/03 -97

I have a weird question concerning hiccups. I had my first fill (2 cc's) with Dr. Rumbaut last Monday. When I started back on regular foods, it seems like after just a few bites of food I get the hiccups. Quick and strong hiccups. Being the mother of an 8 month old son, I remember his doctor saying that he got the hiccups when he was full (due to the pressure the full stomach placed on the diaphragm). Is this what I am experiencing?? Seems like it only takes a very little bit of food to get me going. Anyone else experience this?
Kelly in Ky
Dr. Rumbaut 10/21/03
-23.5

I also get hiccups , but I don't think I'm full, I don't stop eating . I thought it was because I sucked in too much air when I was eating. They don't last long on me. Just a minute and they are gone.

Martha

I was banded by Dr. Sanchez. He's an excellent surgeon with great
staff. No problems and no catheterize.

Dr. Rumbaut does not either.

Hi all - can anyone who has had this surgery in Mexico tell me...
Which doctor did you use?
Did they have to catheterize you (for urinary purposes)?

Okay, WeLL I was planning on being banded in mexico by dr.delagarza
in feb. I also need to have my gallbladder removed at the sme time.
Contacted his office, asking if there was any addition cost for Gb
removal. The office informed me that I would be 1500 additional and 1-
2 additional days in hospital. If my calculations are correct that
comes to 12,500 approx total. Im self/cash pay and have been saving
for a year. This will push my date back at least a month or two. Have
any of you mexican bandsters been banded w/ gb removal for less? I
need a good deal with a great doc. THANKS!!, TRUE

Tuesday, December 2, 2003, 11:37:36 AM, you wrote:
BSNH
BSNH
BSNH
BSNH
Good grief!! Guess I believe it, but find it appalling. I'm not so
sure it'll hurt the band or port, but anyone who is wanting something
like that is still stuck in ultimate diet mode. Makes me think of
those commercials for crap that will make you "lose ten pounds in five
days" so you'll be ready for that hot date. Of course for most folks
who only NEED or WANT to lose ten pounds, that stuff just eliminates
the water and a bit of poop and stuff so that they go from 130 to 120
to look extra hot for the big date.
Anyone who asks for that stuff isn't in a bandster mind set, that's
for sure. As if it is a GOOD thing for a bandster to pig out at some
stupid party.
BSNH
BSNH
BSNH
I agree it shouldn't be used like that, but since they claim it can be
done a thousand times without a leak, and since many people end up
with a dozen fills.....but if it is a good excuse to get people off
her back, i guess that's good.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/233/199

Just a reminder that Sunday's Central FL Bandster meeting/luncheon
will be at Bennigan's on 535 (S. Apopka-Vineland RD) and I-4 at 1:00
P.M.!
13520 S. Apopka-Vineland Road 4079389090
Anyone is welcome to attend!
Julie (kteach72julie@...)

Hello all,
Well, I'm 8 weeks out today and feeling GOOD!
I am down 46.8 pounds and have lost a total of 23 inches!
4 inches off my waist alone!
I bought some 26/28 hoodies and they fit! I thought those
would not fit until January!
I'm working out 3 times a week at Curves..I love it!
I've had 2 PBs total, stupid me just HAD to try a bite of
toast. I won't go there again!
Just wanted to update everyone!
Lorie
Dr. Joya 10/7/03
433.4/386.6/190
Look!!!!!! Under 400!!

This message was from Barbara, Dr. Rod's assitant:
Coleen
Dr. Rod 7/19/03
222/187/145
I have good news today for folks that are surgical patients of Dr.
Jose
Rodriguez.
Dr. Snow in Decatur, Texas will once again accept new patients for
adjustments. You must let him know you are a surgical patient of Dr.
Jose
Rodriguez. Dr. Snow is not accepting new patients of any other Mexican
surgeon at this time.
This is great news for those that find Decatur closer than Acuna.
We all send great thanks to Dr. Snow and his staff, since they are not
obligated to take on new patients. NO doctor has to take on new
patients. Most in the U.S. find that they have plenty of work with
just
their own patients and do not have to find new ones.
The cost at this time is $150.00 for adjustments without x-rays or
fluro.
This is a payment due at the time of service. Dr. Snow's office does
not
file insurance.
Please be prepared to have an x-ray or fluro if the doctor can't
easily
locate your port or feels it is in your best interest (safety) to have
an x-ray or fluro. The x-ray or fluro is done at the hospital across
the
street from Dr. Snow's office.
The cost of fluro is about $350.00. I have been told that if you tell
the hospital that you do not have insurance to file, they will give
you
a 20% discount for cash payments.
Many of you know that Dr. Snow had announced that he would no longer
accept new patients that were banded outside the U.S for adjustments.
Apparently there were a few patients that were not nice to Dr. Snow or
the staff and Dr. Snow decided the hassle was not worth it. He has
plenty of work with his own patients that he does not need "attitude"
from patients that had surgery done outside the U.S.
This is a great second chance for surgical patients of Dr. Rodriguez.

Monday, December 1, 2003, 2:59:22 PM, you wrote:
d
d
I hope not, but being a naturally cynical old fart, I'm dubious. I
really do hope I'm wrong and you and Inamed are right. I'm just not
holding my breath for it, and for now, at least, will plan on going
back to TJ if/when I need another fill.
d
d
Well, I'm one who experiments and haven't found many things I can't
handle, other than bread stuff. But I'm sure I'll find other things,
and of course we're all different. Keeps us from getting boring I
guess.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/233/199

I noticed they have a website:
http://www.sdro.com/palacio/
It is ALL in Spanish though!but if you understand any (I dont)
perhaps there is some info there- at least you can look at some of
the photos of the hotel.....

What if you are not using Dr Rodriguez?

Important questions for those who have stayed at the Palacio Azteca in TJ (Dr.
Kuri uses this hotel):
Is there a hot tub?
Is there a coffeepot in the room?
Is there a hairdryer?
Is there an indoor pool?
How is the advertised "gym?"
Is it nice?
OK, I'm getting nervous, my hubby is wondering what he'll do whilst I'm
recuperating!
I leave in SIX days!
Cathy Godwin, Olympia
Banding with Dr. Kuri 12/7-8/03
250/245/145

Dan,
I was so happy to read this post from you! I tend to get into
the "all or nothing" frame of mind, if my eating is not perfect I
beat myself up. It's so nice to hear that someone with a weight loss
so significant still messes up! There's hope for me yet!
Louise in Omaha
11/18/03 Rumbaut

Hi Louise, I'll tell you what, if you eat the same kinds of foods you ate before, you probably won't lose weight. You have to quit eating anything good. LOL No, people say they eat some of the good things they ate before they were banded, but I have to eat meat and vegetables and about a total of a cupful or I won't lose weight. Remember you are not restricted yet and you can eat whatever you want just about, and it will go down if you aren't swollen, but you best not do it or you will gain weight, so during the next few weeks it's a good idea to be careful how much you eat. After you get a fill,.... worry about that later.

Martha

Hi everyone!
It'll be two weeks since surgery tomorrow (YAY!) I just started soft
food and it's SO GOOD. I made the most awesome chicken salad for
dinner. Anyway, I have a question. For those of you who have been
banded for awhile and have lost weight, what kind of diet do you
follow? Do you eat like you did before the band, just less of it, or
do you eat different foods? If I could eat low-fat, sugar-free and
healthy I wouldn't have needed the band. Now, I'm not saying I won't
make changes, but I'm concerned that if I eat only those foods I will
feel deprived, just like I did when I was dieting, and when I feel
deprived I will eventually binge. Thanks for your input, I look
forward to reading your answers!
Louise in Omaha
11/18/03 Rumbaut
231/225/1250

My first fill took five minutes. If you don't count the BS with the doctor. (unrelated to do with the fill). I really did like that doctor. It was Rodriquez in Acuna, Mexico. He was a really nice guy.

Martha

Monday, December 1, 2003, 2:16:34 PM, you wrote:
d
d
d
d
Would be nice, but I don't think there's a snowball's chance of it.
d
d
d
I'll believe it when I see it. There are just too many issues with
insurance and the chance of damaging a port or tubing and all that.
And then there are people wanting to come back a day or three later to
get it adjusted again, and so on. In big cities it won't come down
that far because it costs that much to walk in the door of his office.
In small towns, there will never be enough banded folks to make it
worth it.
d
d
d
d
d
d
d
d
Well, to a doc is time and money. If he can get the same bucks for
listening to your heart, hearing you cough, and saying go home and get
rest and fluids til you get over this flu, why should he have to use
supplies and more time? I know my first fill took over fifteen minutes,
which is a long time for a doc.
Anyway, I hope you're right, but to me the chances are about the same
as me winning the Powerball.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/233/199

when you find a place IN THE USA that will do a fill for thirty-five bucks, let us know, cuz we'll beat a path to his door

I know that is not a chance for that, not any doctor will even let you walk into his office for that little any more that I know of, but don't you suspect that one day the price of fills will come down? I think it will. There are just too many people getting bands , someone is going to get smart one day and say , "Hey, everyone come over here I'll do your fills for a $l00 a pop!" And when someone gets that smart, everyone will be lined up at his door and if the others want some of that business they will have to come down on their prices, because , really, let's be honest, they don't have a really good excuse to charge what they do right now. All that fee almost is going into their pocket as excess money for no service and no overhead. That is just the truth of the matter , and if they can get it now, I guess they better.

Martha
Dr. Lopez
9/26/03

Monday, December 1, 2003, 1:54:26 PM, you wrote:
d
d
d
Well, when you find a place IN THE USA that will do a fill for
thirtyfive bucks, let us know, cuz we'll beat a path to his door.
Hell, I can't even walk into my doc's office for less than double
that.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/233/199

In response to the email below, I suggest Dr. Ariel Ortiz who banded me 10/5/02 (-90 lbs) and my daughter 10/23/03 (-20 lbs.)

Dr. Ortiz is a very kind, caring, and experienced bariatric surgeon. He is an Inamed (manufacturer of the band) approved doctor and has proctored many, many doctors all over the US on how to do the surgery. I researched doctors for a year before I decided on him as the best choice for me. He uses 2 different places to do his surgeries at this time: The Oasis Hospital and the surgery center at the Grand Hotel in Tijuana. My daughter was at the Grand Hotel and it was way above average. She received wonderful care from the whole staff, as did I a year before. He has always been available by cell phone or email to me if needed. I have seen him do very wonderful, giving things to patients that were not even his own.

Of course there are several other good Mexican doctors whose patients all love them: Dr. Rumbaut, Dr. Lopez and Dr. Kuri to name a few.

As another Bandster put it: "I spent many months
researching surgeons and the band before my surgery and found Dr. Ortiz to be a world expert. He is an Inamed designated proctor (Inamed chose only surgeons with a higher than average success rate) and very caring, as is his partner Dr. Martinez. He was recently awarded a fellowship in the American College of Surgeons (very rare for a non-US doc). He also was the expert at the round table discussion at the 8th World IFSO meeting in Spain and was invited back to the 9th meeting as the band expert next year to be held in Japan.

I hope this is helpful to you and best of luck with whatever you decide.

Carolyn

Message: 6
Date: Mon, 01 Dec 2003 07:38:24 -0000
From: "kandy4802" <kandy4802@...
Subject: Mexican Doctors
Hi! I'm planning to have the surgery soon in Mexico. I have saved
almost enough money, but cannot decide on a Dr. I of course want a
good experienced lap band Dr who has done many. I want a clean
hospital, and one who has a lot of satisfied patients. (isn't that
what we all want) The cheapest airport for me to fly into is San
Diego. Money is an issue, as I only have about 8000 right now.
Please give me your comments? I want to make this decision soon.
Also, I live in Minnesota, is it hard to find a Dr who will do fills
on a band done in Mexico? Thanks!!!

Carolyn

Well, I proved to myself TWICE this weekend what sugar can do to us.
On Thursday I had pecan pie. Two pieces. (Didn't eat much of the
turkey and such). Thursday night I had killer headache. Finally
realized it was due to an old cause that I'd not had them from for
ages. What was it? Coming down from a sugar high.
Well, being terminally stupid....what did I do at the football game on
Saturday? Well, on