Infoblog

Michele,
Good luck with your surgery. I know everything will go well for you.
Stefanie

I have seen quite a few people posting recently about a Doctor they found in the USA, who will do fills for Mexican and/or foreign banded patients. Could you pretty please add their information to the database. You will need name of Doctor, email address/and or website if they have one, phone number, price for the fill (and fluoro if they offer it,) also would they take care of you if you had an emergency situation. Here's the link http://tinyurl.com/s8xh .......click on add record and fill in the information. Or post it here and I will add it myself.

Thanks!

Sylvia

Co-owner

I called Dr. Dobson, near Dallas, he said to let the MD make the choice, he could fill any lapband. Don't know if you are in this area or not but it was nice to have another doctor consider and suggest using what my doctor thought would be in my best interest! The sizes have to do with your size (inside) so how would we know what is best?

Hi
I had my surgery a week ago which included 1 extra hour of surgery for a
large hernia. I feel great. It's really been a breeze. I'm writing you
because
I worried a lot about pain, complications................ All the worry and
anxiety was a big waste of my time. The surgery is the best thing I have ever
done. See ya on the other side.
kim Wallach

I live outside of New Orleans and know of 2 doctors here who do fills
on patients they didn't band. Dr. Uddo in Metairie (but he doesn't
have access to fluoro) and who I go to Dr.s Curtis and Wells in Baton
Rouge. They do have a fluoro machine in their facility and do a very
quick and painless fill for $300. They schedule the fills once a
month on a Friday and that's all they do that whole day and into the
evening. They're great. If you're interested call Dana at (225) 673-
8983. Dr. Uddo does them in his office without the fluoro and can be
reached at (504) 454-4441.
Laura

Well it is time to get ready to go to TJ for my surgery on the
16th. We are set to leave Midland Texas at 9:55 am tomorrow and it
has iced over. My husband is currently 5 hours away and unsure if
they will keep the roads open for him to get home. I am leaving my
home and going to my daughters so that I can ensure that I make it
to the airport tomorrow.
Hope everything goes well and we can get there together and not have
to take 2 seperate planes.
But anyways the next time I talk to ya'll I will finally be on the
other side - God willing.
Till next time.]
Michelle
2/16/04

Yes, that is true! I had family reasons for cancelling with them. My
grandma is failing and between my mother and I we have to be with her at all
times.
You need to come down a few notches is all Im saying. State the fact that
your happy with your surgeon and be done with it. But you continue to
promote your doctor over the top. This is my last response to you ...
I am very happy for you that you have lost the weight. I wish you the best
in your journey!
Lisa

Would you be interested in meeting other bandsters for a weekend of
fun? Would you like to expand you knowledge of the bandster journey
with a weekend of learning in an atmosphere of total acceptance?
Then you want to attend the TEXAS BANDSTER BASH AND WELLNESS
CONFERENCE Friday April 23 to Sunday April 25. This year we are
meeting on the beach in Historic Galveston Texas.
Some wonderful things are already planned:
Education sessions with banding surgeons and an Inamed representative
(Dr. Spivak, Dr. Spiegel & Dr. Rumbaut confirmed thus far)
A plastic surgeon <or two
ironing some of our bodies may need
Sharing from a banded medical professional's point of view (a banded
internist with fill skills)
A banded professional therapist to help us look into our heads
A couple of nutritionists for more on those food skill basics
How to represent the NEW YOU in the job market with a professional
recruiter
Exercise education options with an expert group session leader, one
on one sessions with a personal fitness trainer, and a Tai Chi
instructor who will also share some of his expertise in alternative
medicine
Peer to Peer Sessions Include:
Aftercare and band maintenance with Cynthia Jones
For the Male Bandster Only with Malcolm Bywaters
Being a supportive significant other, family member or friend with
Bob Shoppell, who has been both supportive spouse and is now a
bandster too!
Plastic surgery from the bandster point of view with two who have
been on the table, Becky Richards and Cassie Shipp
Pregnancy with a band hosted by some very happily banded mothers
(attendance by the babies is optional)
You can even learn to make the most of your appearance at all of
your various banded sizes with our professional make-up consultant
and fashion stylist. Put your new fashion knowledge to work visiting
and sharing in the CLOTHING EXCHANGE.
All this not to mention all of the other wonderful banded and nearly
banded friends who will be there to share the fun with you.
Registration and additional information can be found at
http://www.texasbandsterbash.com/
All bandsters and prospective bandsters are encouraged to come on
down and experience some Texas hospitality. You are guaranteed to
have a great time or your money back.well maybe not your money back,
but we do guarantee you will have a great time. Look forward to
seeing you all there.
From the TBB&WC Planning Committee

Sorry I don't remember the name of the doctor, I was so interested in what was going on since this was my first fill , and neither of us rememeber his name.

Again good luck.

Faye

i talk with my doctors and they supost to have the surgery with you
and you cancel the surgery and they profesional they returned your
money you maybe had something about other doctors maybe you work for
another company and you are talking bad about them i am only want to
express my feelings avbout my situation because i am really happy
because i lost a lot of weight with them thats why

thank you for that great information.Do you happen to remember what
Dr did your fill?I have the number to the diagnostics office i am
going to call first thing in the morning. thank you. cameron-
dallas,ga-ortiz-342/310/220

I would call Barbara Dr Rodrigez s cordinator about who s going down if you need to go down and ask to talk to Dr Rodigez he will answer an e mail as well. Debby

Your Mexican Dr should have a list for sure. They all usually will do all they can to help you find a choice of fill Drs near you. Good luck Debby

Anyone planning a trip to see Dr. Rodriguez in Acuna Mexico anytime soon? I'm
in Katy/Houston, TX and may need to see him soon. I just had what I thought was
a good second fill on yesterday but it may be too tight. I'm able to eat but
not without discomfort. Since my fill I've eaten a bowl of garlic soup with a
few crackers softened in it, a bowl of clam chowder, the cheese topping from a
slice of cheese pizza (working lunch, limited choice) and lots of water. My
throat's been irritated all day. I don't know if I'm getting a sore throat or
if it's acid reflux. I've never had a problem with reflux before. Can any of
what I've eaten cause this too happen? Should I give it a few days to see if my
body adjusts?
I may be worrying too much but I'd rather be safe than sorry.
DX
Kuri, 11/21/03
329/296/160ish
--

I live in dallas,georgia,40 min north of atlanta.I called hamitlon
medical center in dalton,ga,and it is going to be around $800
there.that is about what it will cost me to fly to sandiego,cross the
boarder to the hospital,plus fee and back to
airport. cameron-dallas,ga- ortiz-1/10/04-
342/310/220

Yes, your doctor in Mexico should be available. My surgeon, Dr.
Ortiz, is more available to me than my own primary physician here in
town. If a doc isn't available when needed, you may need to consider
a different doc.
dan
Thursday, February 12, 2004, 7:34:09 AM, you wrote:
Rac
Rac
Rac
Rac
Rac
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

hi i just want to now who did your fill or were do you have the surgery
karezza1967 <maxrllc@...

I am 2 1/2 months post surgery. The area surrounding my port is still
sore and sticks out like a lump. Plus it feels like it is a big lump.
Someone suggested that getting a seroma around the port area is
common. What is anyone's experience w/ this? They also said it was
rare for the port to need re-positioning if by chance it was just the
port sticking out like a half a tennis ball. I have an appointment w/
a fill Dr. at the end of the month. Just curious if anyone has any
experience like this to share?
Thanks

You should make an appointment with your PCP to have the port area checked for infection. An infected port can cause a whole host of other problems so it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
~Lea
11/08/03 Dr. Sanchez
259/221.5/219 Mini Goal
In a message dated 2/11/2004 9:53:05 PM Central Standard Time, maxrllc@... writes:

I am 2 1/2 months post surgery. The area surrounding my port is still
sore and sticks out like a lump. Plus it feels like it is a big lump.
Someone suggested that getting a seroma around the port area is
common. What is anyone's experience w/ this? They also said it was
rare for the port to need re-positioning if by chance it was just the
port sticking out like a half a tennis ball. I have an appointment w/
a fill Dr. at the end of the month. Just curious if anyone has any
experience like this to share?
Thanks

I am 2 1/2 months post surgery. The area surrounding my port is still
sore and sticks out like a lump. Plus it feels like it is a big lump.
Someone suggested that getting a seroma around the port area is
common. What is anyone's experience w/ this? They also said it was
rare for the port to need re-positioning if by chance it was just the
port sticking out like a half a tennis ball. I have an appointment w/
a fill Dr. at the end of the month. Just curious if anyone has any
experience like this to share?
Thanks

How far are you from Louisville Ky? Dr Jeffery Allen will do them. Takes about 3-4 months to get in. $240 with no flouro.
Kelly in Ky
Dr. Rumbaut 10/21/03
First Fill 2 cc, 11/24/03
Second Fill .5 cc, 1/30/04
addition to 2nd Fill 1 cc 2/10/04
-40.5

I have been having trouble finding someone to do my fills.Dr morton
in nashville wont do it because of the placement of my port(left side
of stomach).Dr Berry mckernan wants 1400.00 for those he didnt
band,thats a rip off.any info on southeast fill dr's would be
appreaciated. thanks .. cameron-Dr Ortiz 1/10/04-
342/310/220

I am planning my trip for the band in March. I need to decide on a band size? what are my considerations? The size is either 9.75 cm or 10 cm. Does any one have a preference? what's the Difference? Debby

Hi all,
If you have any info that will help me along let me know. I head
out for San Diego on the 21...I am hoping to find someone who is
going for surgery the same day as I, I am schedualed for the 23th of
this month. Let me know...if ANYONE is schedualed the same time.
Thanks...
Caryn

With what doctor? They use different hotels, hospitals, etc.
dan
Tuesday, February 10, 2004, 7:20:05 PM, you wrote:
C
C
C
C
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

i lost 225 pounds allready with dr. verboonen and dr. ponce de leon
in tijuana with the program of obesitygoodbye.com only in one year
and a hallf i was soo big i wasnt available to walk a block with out
getting soo tyred i am not to thing yet but i am getting closer and
closer i am always go with them for my fills also because i went to
california to have a fill and they told me that the port was turned
and i need again another surgery soo thats why i talk with
dr.verboonen and dr. ponce also and they told me to with them and i
did that and they found the port right a way they are experts on
fills thats why i always goo with them also because the service of
his staff its great.
stayce

Just wanted to mention that this week I have eaten anything I wanted to eat,
just a half a cupful at a time. So you can have this to consider, I've
gained 2 and a half lbs and have not lost it back yet.
Martha

Tuesday, February 10, 2004, 8:22:06 AM, you wrote:
d
d
d
I've seen the snakes in the desert, and have even caught a small one
once that was in my neighbor's garage a couple years ago. I just took
it a couple miles out in the desert and let it go. It was just a baby
about two feet long, just starting to get rattles.
The canned ones I saw were rounds, but in some sort of "juice", looked
from the pic on the can like they were in there like olives or
something. Anyway, I'd always heard of them being fried.
Imagine they have plenty of protein.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

Dan, always eat your rattlesnake fried! It's pretty good that way really.
I went to a rattlesnake roundup once. It's sort of like an Easter eggs hunt
but you are looking for rattelsnakes. You put them in a tow sack and take
them back to the cook and he fries them and you eat them. They are fried
after being dipped in a meal type batter and they are sliced sideways so you
have "rounds", I guess you could cut the snake up any way you wanted.
Martha

Tuesday, February 10, 2004, 4:15:12 AM, you wrote:
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
Well, there are excellent docs in the Seattle area, and Dr. Ortiz is
also top drawer. I happen to be a very happy Ortiz patient. My stats
and such are below.
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
And those are the basic tradeoffs. But there is always support on the
net, and there are a number of Seattle area support groups you can
go to. There are soup nights practically every week in the area,
depending on how far you are willing to travel around the Puget Sound.
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
DEC
You'll meet with his nutritionist before surgery. Most of the rest of
the nutrition advice you can get right here. Even in Boise we now

Hi,
I have my "map" out looking for the road I would like
to take on my way to becoming a loser, because I want
to be half the person I am today. =)!
I will be paying for surgery myself and am still in
the research phase. I have attended LAP Band seminars
in the Seattle area and I had not even considered
heading to Mexico until recently. I cannot believe
what an oversight this was on my part.
I am impressed with the doctor here and I am also
quite impressed reasearch I have done on Dr. Ortiz.
The thing that is intriguing to me about the clinic
here is that the nutritionist, support group and fills
would be right here near by. Dr. Ortiz intrigues me
because of his credentials, the service and attitude
of his staff and of course the cost.
Does Dr. Ortiz provide these services? I.e. a
nutritionist to consult, ets. Have you found you
needed them much? Have you regretted being a little
farther away from your doctor? Have you found a
support group that you could physically meet with? Do
you think this would be helpful?
Maybe a simpler question would be: How does the
aftercare thing work?
I read the post about the unforgettable 6 hours in TJ,
so I think fills would be a hoot. =)! Other than
fills, is there anything you wished was a little
closer? Or do you feel like your progress was slowed
because something was a little farther away?
I want to put everything in to making this a success.
I am concerned that being compartively far away, I may
miss something or forget something or not do all that
I need to be successful. I know much of this will
depend on me, but I want all the "tools" I can get
available to me... Does any of that make sense???
=)!
Any advice you could offer would be appreciated.
Cheers,
Danny
PS I am up a bit late as I have been reading different
posts on this board. Thank you for all the
information you have shared.

Dr. Ortiz does. Check out his website. There are also medical
finance companies, though you'll do best on interest rate if you can
get financed through your local bank or credit union.
dan
Monday, February 9, 2004, 3:29:56 PM, you wrote:
k
k
k
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

Birthday was the 5th. Yup, another year older, and still kicking.
Hope to be for some time to come.
Happy birthday to you,
dan
Monday, February 9, 2004, 3:06:15 PM, you wrote:
cac
cac
cac
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

I have had a few folks e mail me & ask about Fills in Acuna with Dr. Jose
Rodriguez. They seem to be under the impression that Dr. Jose Rodriguez of
Acuna is some how partnered or working with Dr. A. Rodriguez of Monterrey.
This is not the case. Dr. Jose Rodriguez is not affiliated with Dr. A
Rodriguez of Monterrey. They are not related in any way.
Anyone that wants info on Dr. Jose Rodriguez of Acuna Mexico (Across the
border from Del Rio, TX)
is welcomed to e mail me.
Barbara in San Antonio
Banded Nov 2001
was a size 30/32 now a size 20 looking forward to size 14/16

I have tried the Nectar. For $12 they send you their samples of each so far the apple juice is my favorite. My friend was banded about 1 year ago and has lost about 90lbs. She uses Vita4life 2oz protein =30grams of protein and she uses their vitamins that disolve quickly. morning and at bedtime. Then she gets her 60grams of REQUIRED protein. Its about 110 cals each. When you are first banded you may find it difficult to get in all you protein. THis will slow your weight loss if you dont have your proteins and vitamins. its a good habit, i think to get into. Another friend of mine needed to lose 200 lbs and did not do her proteins and vitamins and lost alot of hair that did not come back. she only lost 70 lbs over the past 4 years. she had the RYN surgery so i do realize she also has the malabsortion problem too. She was a special rare case. Had her surgery redone but still could not loss the weight. Personally i will do the vitamins and the proteins so I dont have to lose my
hair and have a slow weightloss. I have also heard to take Botin to keep your hair. some hair loss is normal.
STILL WAITING FOR MY SURGERY. DATE MARCH 23.
243 OR MORE/140 GOAL
JUST ADDING MY THOUGHTS
DEBBY

Does anyone know of any docs in Mexico that offer any kind of payment
plan for their patients? I really want the surgery but can't afford
to come up with a lump sum payment.

Dan
Just saw your age has changed on the boards. when was your birthaday. Mine is Wed. Debby

We have sent patients to Dr. Sandhu and there were no complaints.
/Gerald
Dr Joya
http://www.drjoya.com

Sounds good, but what about the floroscopy xray, I think you really need
that. Bon

I was wondering if anyone out there has used Dr. Sandhu in
Coffeeville Ks. for fills. I'm at my six week mark on Friday and
financially can't swing a trip to Mexcio. So far my band has been
worth every penny, but my pennies have run out. He only charges
$66.oo dollars for the 1st visit plus $14.00 for the fill for a total
of $80.00. This is too good to be true. Just want some feedback.
Thanks

I am sooooooo proud of you & for you. You are doing great.I am sorry to hear about your Mother. I lost my Mother to cancer 9/5/02 and it is really hard..but it eases some.I had my surgery 8/26/03 with Dr. Rodriguez and have lost 41 lbs-dont measure again til the 18th but was 18inches. I just had 2nd fill Jan 19th so I am up to 8 1/4 in my 11cc inamed. I think I could use alittle more but dont want to be too tight.I can function this way.Only had one "slime" attack..was cooking & kept tasting as things finish (I cook a weeks worth on Sat or Sun) & finally it hung-never had anything hurt like that.Would rather go thru childbirth again..lol.I know I will have to be more careful.

Again, continued success-keep up the good work,

Beverly in Azle

Today is my 3-month bandiversary. I cannot believe how quickly the time has flown! I was so nervous about getting this band and about going to Mexico for the surgery. I was at peace with myself once I was in Mexico and I saw the quality of care that I would be getting, but there has always been the nagging doubt that maybe this would end up being another failed attempt at weight loss. Well, I am finally letting go of that doubt today! I have NEVER managed to lose more then 12 lbs pre-band. I have lost 37.5 lbs as of this morning, which correlates to 28.5 inches! OMG! 37 lbs is a truly life changing amount for me. I have lost 36% of my excess weight in just 3 months! I had been trying for years to lose just 20% of my excess weight for health purposes and was never able to succeed.
Here are some ways that the loss of those 37 lbs has changed my life:
1) I used to have excruciating hip pain every day and every night. It has almost disappeared now.
2) I used to be exhausted every morning when the alarm went off. I think that I may have had sleep apnea. Now, I awake refreshed and energized after 7-8 hours sleep.
3) More energy equals a better sex life!
4) My hubby has been inspired by my loss and has lost 14 lbs himself since I was banded! He is 6'1 and now weighs 206.
5) My house is cleaner then ever. I have the energy to pick up after my 2 year old and to do my daily cleaning chores.
6) For the first time my vegetable garden is tilled and fertilized waiting for spring planting. It always used to be a last minute effort to get the seeds in at the last possible moment. Also, every garden bed around my house has been weeded, has compost added, and been mulched.
7) I have more clothes that look good on me now because I now fit easily into my old "skinny clothes," My "fat clothes" are nearly falling off and will see Goodwill shortly.
8) My self image has improves so much. I had waist length hair when I got the surgery. But recently decided to cut it off and donate it to locks of love. I don't need to hide behind hair anymore. I am my own crowning glory-not my hair.
9) My business (a salon) is thriving because of the additional energy that I have had to put towards it. I have been able to start a major remodel of the pedicure area and have pursued new advertising methods to help it grow.
10) Finally, this past few months has been the biggest mountain that I have ever had to climb emotionally. My mother died on 9/26 of last year from pancreatitis caused by the Medifast diet. My decision to get the band was for her as much as it was for myself. Looking at all of the above changes they take on even greater significance. I have had a tendency towards depression my entire life. I treat it herbally and with therapy to keep it from resurfacing. Everyone around me; my husband, my therapist, my in-laws, and my friends expected me to fall into a deep depression. Now don't get me wrong, I still cry every day missing my mother, but I have not ceased functioning to grieve. I still get out of bed, get dressed, and try to make something of my day. Some days are harder then others but I am surviving. I credit a lot of this to actually succeeding at weight loss. This kind of success at something that I always failed so miserably at can be nothing but an indescribable boost
to one's self esteem. I have only succeeded thus far and I KNOW that the band and I working together will NOT fail this time! It is just not possible.
One of the strangest things about seeing the numbers on the scale change is the memories. I look at this new number staring up at me and I think, "The last time I was at this weight was 4 years ago." The memories come from clothing too. Pulling out these 38 waist jeans that I used to wear 3 years ago and having them fit and remembering the person that I was then. The saddest part is that I remember that I used to think that I was really fat at 221 lbs. I remember thinking that I was fat at 160! Isn't it a shame that we never fully appreciate what we have until it's gone? Well, I think that I look pretty darned good now at 221 and I just get chills thinking about how good I will look at 160! The old self that never felt comfortable in her own skin. I am now so thankful for every pound that I can get below my high weight. I even can recognize now that I didn't look that bad at 259 either, that my biggest problem was being uncomfortable in my own skin.
I want to add a confession to this post. I am a warty bandster. I have not spent one second dieting since I got this band placed. I eat what everybody eats. I can actually eat quite a bit more then most bandsters can with a good fill so I know that my fill level is pretty lazy right now and I don't plan on getting another fill until my weight loss stops. I don't exercise (which I do feel a bit of guilt over) and I hope to start an exercise program in the next month. I just want all of the newbies to know that you don't have to be perfect to make this work. I have eaten pretty much the same foods that I ate pre-band, just less quantity.
~Lea
11/08/03 Dr. Sanchez
259/221.5/219 Mini Goal
11 mm Inamed band (4 ccs first fill)

Friday, February 6, 2004, 5:08:33 PM, you wrote:
d
I've eaten all the other good proteins you list, but not being in
Texas, or enough of a country boy, I've missed out on these two.
Would be glad to try them if I got a chance. Have seen canned
rattlesnake in a couple of gourmet shops in Chicago, but figured that
canned wouldn't be very good, just like other canned meats aren't very
good. Never have had the chance on squirrel....we don't have many
here in Boise, and those only in town where I couldn't get take to eat.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/218/199 Age 61

Anything to help us be more "comfortable" during surgery. Right?

Beth H

I had my surgery yesterday. The hospital and staff at Oasis are wonderful. The
doctors are so good looking, professional, funny and kind. It's like a soap
opera. Lot's of eye candy tee hee.

There is one abiding rule of this board and to me it's just plain common sense and decency. You DO NOT post negative things against, or about, a Doctor

unless he was YOUR Doctor. In future, because of the tension that posts of this nature understandably cause, they will be held until an explanation is forthcoming;

the tension and upset they cause on this board is just not worth it. Exceptions would be if you actually experienced or witnessed an incident with a particular Doctor, bad OR good; or you have a legitimate source that can be verified like a newspaper or court papers etc. If you really feel the need to protect a newbie, then encourage the patient that had the bad experience to post it here; but please don't do it for them.

We all get the understandable urge to create business for our own surgeon, (most of us anyway) because we respect them and feel they've changed our lives for ever, and that bond is strengthened even more, everytime we go back for a fill, so we get over zealous at times, and we become so positive that our surgeon has to be the

very best choice for everyone. But that can't be true can it, and nor is it practical; can you imagine if one surgeon did all the bandings in Mexico he'd collapse under the pressure!

When a newbie comes on board I really pray that they go to the archives and do their own Doctor research, but alas, they rarely do. So if they come on and ask about a particular Doctor, and you are one of his patients; we encourage you to post your experience here good or bad. If you are not one of his patients please keep your negative comments off this board.

Thanks for getting this far and I am putting this in the file section, anyone can repost it anytime you deem it necessary.

Sylvia

one of the owners

No not at all. The jello pudding mixes have such a
strong taste that it balances out. It does tend to
settle to the bottom so just swirl it around to keep
it mixed. I use centrum multi vitamins.

Costco has 5 pound containers of protein power, it comes in chocolate and vanilla. It's about $19. Thats the cheapest I've seen. I have not tried it yet, but I'm going to next time I need some.
Good luck, Brad
Bill Hermes <billhermes@...

Michelle asked,
Any any chance that there is another product out there comparable to the UU
Protein Powder that is a bit more economical??? Are am I just now opening
up another basket of snakes???

I will let you know when they give me some names.
Hi Roz,
Please make sure you post the info to the board. I'd also be very
interested to know what they tell you. I live in Cleveland, OH and
currently drive 6 hrs to Chicago to get fills. I'd love to find
someone closer THAT CHARGES A REASONABLE PRICE.
There are a couple of doctors in Ohio that will do fills for Mexican
patients (or at least they would last time I asked them). One is Dr.
Walter Chylsta in Akron, OH but he charges Mexican patients $350 for
himself and doesn't know how much the hospital would charge if you
needed flouro. There is also Dr. Duckett in Toledo, OH. You have
to "establish a relationship" with him first which will cost you $150
then he charges $250 for fills and the hospital charges $700 for
flouro! I drive to Chicago because I pay $150 for a fill with flouro
($100 without flouro), $40 in gas, $50 for a hotel, and $23 in
tolls. So it is cheaper than going closer. Plus I like the Dr. in
Chicago better than the 2 others above.
I'll be interested to see the information you find.
Suzanne
Cleveland, OH
10-10-03 Dr. Rumbaut

Michelle asked,
Any any chance that there is another product out there comparable to the UU
Protein Powder that is a bit more economical??? Are am I just now opening
up another basket of snakes???

I recommend sugar free because I am diabetic and I forget that everyone is not. It's just a habit with me. Now, I no longer take diabetic medication but the habit remains with me. My treat of the week will be a piece of candy, and it may have sugar in it, or it may not , depends on what I have available. (See, here's a chance to have an opinion about whether to have a treat once a week, some do, some don't)

As far as discussion on the boards that differs, I think that is just going to happen when you have so many folks joining in and I think that is what makes the world go around, difference of opinion. It's a good thing and everyone needs to voice their opinion because it just may be something that helps you out along your journey. It may be something that you did not think was good for you but when all else fails, you try it and it works for you. Just because I don't prefer protein drinks doesn't mean that someone is going to die or get fat or get sick if they like them. I just have one opinion. Everyone gets to have one too. I want to hear theirs too.

Martha

Gee, I was hoping this board would be different... I often wonder
how much people take out their frustrations on the boards, letting
this that and the other thing cause them to slam others.This is why
I tend to be inactive on many boards. After more than three years
this gets old. There are SAINTS on some of those boards that have
hung in there long before I arrived and are still there. THank
Goodness for people like them.
That aside... I NEVER used sugar free anything during the weight
loss phase. I lost at an average of 1.6 pounds and have been at goal
for almost two years now. I will echo that everybody is different,
however, my goal, my personal goal was to eat good quality food in
small portions, no light mayo, no lt margarine, low fat, low sugar
etc etc. It really amounts to calories in and calories burned.
Really a simple equation when you think about it. It's 3500 calories
burned to lose a pound... I don't want newbies thinking they have to
use "sugar free" "low or non fat" items during this journey. It will
have to be a choice you make along with your particular surgeon as
to your eating choices. I am really pleased that I CAN eat anything
just NOT always in the PORTION my head wants! LOL!
I personally chose NOT to go for subpar in the taste department. I
want good food, really good food, just not in huge amounts. I feel
quite spoiled eating awesome foods I denied myself for years and
years because it wasn't low fat, non fat or sugar free. The Band has
given me the freedom to eat the things I like, the things I choose,
just not how much I want... it's a trade off I like to think was
really worth it.
Jessica
Dr. Kuri

I remember seeing a fill site in New York. I thought
I saw it in the database. There are two listings that
have somewat different information in them. Did you
look in both?
Bianca

yOU WILL BE PLEASED TO GO TO HIM. DEBBY

Does anyone know a fill doctor in PA or Ohio? Have checked the
database on this site and the bandsters site and cannot find
one....the closest seems to be Chicago and that would be a 12 hour
drive or 2 hour flight plus hotel, etc. From what I have read I
should really stay over in case of problems........
Please let me know if you know of a doctor closer.....I have also
checked the Iband website, they listed 12 doctors in my area and not
one will do a fill, they are all doing bypasses and haven't been
trained, etc. or one doctor said he would only fill his patients and
he has only done 5 so I wouldn't really want him anyway.......
Thanks for any help....
Leslie

hi i really recomend you dr. ponce and dr. frayre they are
dr.verboonen staff they are really profesional if you want more
information about them you can see them at obesitygoodbye.com i went
with them the other week and they treatme verry good verry
professional they also did the surgery with dr. verboonen they
always do the surgerys together and also the fills.

Go to this groups database, there is a list of USA fill Doctors who will fill Mex banded patients.

Sylvia

-111 lbs

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

Hello Everyone,

Can anyone give me names of Dr's in upstate New York who do fills even if the surgery is done in Mexico?

Thank You

Friday, February 6, 2004, 11:43:41 AM, you wrote:
CW
CW
CW
supplements, etc. Another
CW
I can assure you that I'd never buy anything from any place that
spammed a list like this. Plus, if you're a bandster who is eating
like a bandster you don't need any of that crap. All the food you need
is available in your local grocery store. Plus some vitamins from
your regular old drug store or Walmart.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/218/199 Age 61

Carolyn

do you know that dr. verboonen its going to be in a congress and his
going to live town soo its going to be dr. ponce and frayre because
i went for a fill the other week in tijuana and they told me about
the situation soo if your going to go with dr. verboonen dont worry
because the other doctors are great also.
stayce

Barbara, Dr. Rodriguez's assistant, is carpooling to Mexico from San
Antonio on Feb. 11th for only $20 per person. So rather than drive
6 hours to Decatur from Houston I only have to drive 3 to San
Antonio then ride 3 hours to Acuna Mexico to see Dr. Rodriguez (my
band doctor)!
Rather than having to wait to see Dr. Snow ten days from now, I get
to see Dr. Rod in 5! It's easier for me to get there and the fills
are a lot cheaper too!
Kimberly

This morning I gulped about 16 oz of water and sipped a cup of hot
tea. 30 mins. later I fixed 1 egg and 4oz of runny oat meal. I
didn't feel full and now, an hour later I'm hungry.
This confirms it's time for another fill. I can gulp water, eat
(not drinking with my meal) and find myself hungry an hour later. I
suspected it when my weight stayed the same for over a week.
I just set another fill appointment with Dr. Snow on the 16th. I'm
driving my car up to Dallas (from Houston) on Sunday and staying at
a friend's home that evening to reduce costs.
My appointment is at 3:30 PM which is good for me because I'm usally
tighter in the mornings. So I will be wide open for my fill. I'll
even sip a cup of hot tea before my appointment to make sure I'm
wide open.
This will be my third fill. I hope it will be my final fill for a
good while. At least my second gave me some restrction for a month
and I lost 8 pounds as a result of it.
I'm learning to get these fills after a 10 days of no weight loss or
even gain. I won't wait too long inbetween fills any more. A few
weeks can make a difference between 6-9 pounds. Until my fill I have
to monitor what I eat.
I am thankful I'm able to drive 5 hours to reach my destination. I
can't imagine flying in and out of town every month plus paying for
the fills!
I stress to all pre-bandsters, find a fill doctor close because
having proper restriction is very important. One month you'll find
restrictin and a week later, wide open. With a proper fill an egg
fills me up. Without it I can eat an egg and oat meal and still be
hungry.
Kimberly
9/30/03
314/289/150
Dr. Rodriguez

Has anyone used this doc? I have to make a quick decision on
whether to go back to Acuna or go to chicago for a fill. Any
feedback would help alot. Thanks.
Bianca

Hello all you wonderful people who have been banded!(Can you tell
I'm going to ask you a for a favor? lol) Well,here it is.I've found
some money,and I'm ready to get this party started. I'm looking into
using the Ready4AChange package..Has anyone out there used it? If
so,would you please send your 'feelings' on how it went for
you.Please..I have a very open mind,and I want to know the good and
the bad.Thanks so much.Private email is welcome also
Hugs..Nikki
Nastybrat@...

This is the very last day to reserve a room at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino a the $89 rate. Call toll free 1-888-503-8999 and ask for the Vegas Bandster Ball. Feb 29th - March 2nd. Reserve your room now and save yourself some serious money. :-)

Come and join at least 80 terrific Bandsters, pre-Bandsters, Doctors and other medical professionals in Vegas; get your questions answered, put a face to an email name, receive a shot of renewed commitment. All this and an informal setting in incomparable Las Vegas; does it get any better than that?

See you there!!!
Sylvia
http://www.geocities.com/vegasbandsterball

Hey guys. Has anyone used this fill doc? I am really
worried about the fill not being done right because I
can't quite make it to Acuna for my first fill. If
anyone has any experience with this fil doc, please
let me know. Thanks.
Bianca
Dr. Rod 10/30/03 230/207/150

In response to the email below re: Dr. Ortiz....
You couldn't make a better choice of surgeons. I was banded by Dr.
Ortiz 10/5/02 and couldn't be happier. 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 do not have any experience with the Oasis Hospital, but understand
it is fine and employees are English speaking. My daughter was also banded
by Dr. Ortiz on 10/23/03 and has lost 35 lbs. so far. Her surgery was done
at the surgery center at the Grand Hotel. I know you will find both Dr.
Ortiz and DR. Martinez to be caring, very experienced and knowledgeable.
Good luck to you!
Carolyn - 93 lbs.
From: "stefied1" <dunnmssg@...
Subject: Set date
Hi
I'm new to this group and enjoy reading your posts. I am set to be
banded by Dr. Ortiz March 19th. Would like to hear any comments on
the hospital, Oasis and Drs. Ortiz and Martinez. I was soo excited but
feel nervous now even though I really want to be banded!! I know this
is probably normal, I hope !!!!
Thanks Stefie

I regret that I cannot join you this weekend. I am certain I will glean a significant amount of information and support by participating in the group. I will try to attend the next meeting. Ann Marie
CAROLYN WILLIAMSON <MSBHAAVEN@...

Bandsters, Newbies, Prebands
Reminder:
This month's meeting is this Sun. 2/8, at Sally's house in Simi at 1:00.
The address is 3432 Monticello Ave. Simi 93063. Bring a band friendly pot
luck dish or snack. Sally's phone # is 805-582-4800.
See you there!!! You are all welcome to attend.
Carolyn

Bandsters, Newbies, Prebands
Reminder:
This month's meeting is this Sun. 2/8, at Sally's house in Simi at 1:00.
The address is 3432 Monticello Ave. Simi 93063. Bring a band friendly pot
luck dish or snack. Sally's phone # is 805-582-4800.
See you there!!! You are all welcome to attend.
Carolyn

Thanks, we have no choice, I can't eat enough to get fat or not lose weight. LOL I'm stuck here losing away.

Martha

Hi Connie and Martha,
Congrats on your wonderful weightloss. You girls are doing so
great. Keep up the great work!
Ardie/Fl.

Do you have a favorite high protein drink? Fruit (clear) flavored? Shake flavored?

Do you have a favorite place on-line to purchase these brands of drinks (that obviously you have found to have low prices & shipping) ??

Do you have a favorite brick & mortar place to purchase these brands / types of drinks??

How do you turn it off, I'd like to turn mine off too!

Martha

Sounds normal to me. You'll love both doctors and all the rest of the
staff. Mama Ortiz will take good care of you and make sure everything
goes smoothly. And it will.
Have fun.
dan
Thursday, February 5, 2004, 8:52:28 AM, you wrote:
s
s
s
s
s
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/218/199 Age 61

Connie, be sure to sleep on your left side and that will ease your tummy some too. If I go to bed too full , I lay on my left side to start out the night and it helps almost l00%. The food drains on through the stomach better on that side. I guess it has a straight shot on through the stoma and into the big gut. I did not think this up, I read it on some other band site.

Martha

Kimberly,
Just wanted to say thank you for sharing about the tea... I have
picked up a cup o'tea this morning due to your mere suggestion that
it helps your swelling. It is indeed comforting to my insides.
Hopefully it will help my swelling until I get into the Doctors next
week!
Amazing how we can learn from each other with all of our good as well
as bad experiences.
Thanks for sharing!
Connie Botello

Connie, I CAN feel your excitement and 62 lbs is wonderful, that is a chunk you can't miss seeing is gone! I am amazed that I passed the 50 lb mark at 4 months, I am so glad and I finally had to have a change of pants. I just wish it would go on for five more months and I'd be done with this diet and could loosen the fill and I'd feel great. I wonder what is causing your problem. I'm still thinking it's how tight you are. I often feel woozy in my stomach after I eat and salivate a whole lot until some of the food digests, and it's from eating too much. I guess I don't really want to know what a half a cup looks like. It's so little.

Well, I have to go back to Wal-Mart and exchange one pair of my new pants for one size smaller, this one pair is cut larger than the one I tried on, same brand, different type of cloth. I also have to make my daily run to the pharmacy to pick up drugs for my husband, I think I'm a drug-runner. LOL.

Good luck with your doctor appointments. I'm looking forward to learning what they say about you.

I do just want to mention, l75 lbs doesn't sound skinny but it begins to look skinny when you are used to seeing someone being larger. Even on me at 5'7", it will look fairly like a well rounded woman, and people will say I'm looking skinny but I'm like you, that isn't my skinny, it may be theirs, but not mine, I'd be skinny looking at l40. I won't get down to that but that would look skinny on me and that is really not skinny. One time , when I was l8-20, I weighed ll0. That was just how much I weighed, I didn't diet to be that, it's just how much I weighed. Then I got pregnant and that was the end of that. I looked like a skeleton with skin stretched over it. I was real athletic and ate like a horse, but just worked it off. The eating habits stayed with me until today. LOL. That's not all that stayed with me over the years, but now that is all over with. I have a new life now and so do you too! Isn't it fabulous! We are SO lucky!

Martha

The weight is dropping off,
about a lb a day right now. I know that will slow down, but I am
enjoying it for now!
Jeanette

I know what you mean, it's hard to give up a tight fill when you are dropping l-15 lbs a month, isn't it? I had a omelet and 3/4's of a piece of toast for breakfast this morning. A one egg omelet. It went down ok and stayed down so far. I'm really full feeling and that egg will stay there until about 3 this afternoon. I may be able to eat supper tonight, maybe. I also talk to everyone I meet , and lots of people I chat with on the internet, about this band and I'm sure people get sick of seeing me coming, but I notice that other people who have the band are also just as excited. Like my pharmacist yesterday, she found out I had a band too and she never shut up for 30 minutes, she was so excited about her loss and to see another person in the flesh with a band too. I also have a gastric bypass friend and we spend hours over a cup of soup chatting about how we are doing. Who could talk about that for hours? Not once, but for days. She came to the hospital about
eight of the days we were there and spent several hours with me and we'd talk about every aspect we could think up. (i.e. how many oz. we get down, how often we eat, what we drink, how we sleep, how we feel, how many pounds we've lost, etc, etc, etc). One day this is going to be so normal for us that we will not think about mentioning it to everyone we see and talk to, but for right now, it is inspiring to gab about it. Watch when you meet someone who is one year out, at their goal, and look at their eyes light up when they get to tell you their story, they are just delighted with themselves, and they deserve to be. Good luck in your journey!

Martha

Martha~
What a huge success that is down 53 lbs. I know exactly how you feel!
I have to pinch myself when I put on my new Tommy jeans! (my husband
picked them out) never ever thought I could be this thin... and
getting thinner! Strange....People are saying you are getting to
skinny...hahahahah yeah right just cuz I was so fat before! It feels
good I know you know that! Keep it up.
I am going to a specialist on Tuesday to find out what is going on
with me. I can say I finally got to sleep in my own bed last night
instead of sitting on the couch trying to sleep, the meds the Dr.
gave me finally worked enough so I didn't hack on my silivia all
night. But I am still having pain thinking I am just so swollen from
coughing etc. but I am having it all checked out to be safe! I have
to say I truly missed all your response while you were gone.
So glad to hear your hubby is feeling a bit better. You are a
blessing to so many here at this site!
I appreciate you, I appreciate all of you on this board everyone's
input is so important!
We are all blessed!
Connie Botello
237/175/?
9/12/03
Do the math....62lbs down the drain! Yippppeeee!
Can you feel my excitement

Martha
That's exactly how I felt!! I was so upset, so discouraged, and
really felt like I had been scammed, yet again, on a weight loss
promise. But - when I finally got nice and tight, what a difference!
I can't stop smiling and telling people about the band this week,
it's a much happier place to be in now! The weight is dropping off,
about a lb a day right now. I know that will slow down, but I am
enjoying it for now!
Jeanette

Al,
I know nothing about the Doctor you have outlined, but I would
suggest you take a long hard look at Dr. Pedro Kuri. He is in TJ and
I did do a lot of research on this for the last 6 months. He has
almost 800 procedures under his belt, and from what I found alot of
people go to him after their procedure from other doctors have
complications.
I was banded yesterday, and I have posted my notes for you to
review. If you have any questions about my research etc....feel free
to contact me. My insurance company abandoned their responsibility
as well...they hide behind all kinds of jargon, but at the end of
the day, they do no pay.
If you want to persue the insurance further I might recommend a
lawyer in San Diego specializing in this specific situation.
Kelley Brown Lindstrom, Esq.
Obesity Law & Advocacy Center
7710 Hazard Center Drive, #E-
443
San Diego, CA 92108
Phone: 619/656-5251
Fax: 619/656-5254
www.obesitylaw.com
Regards,
Peter

Peter,
Your post was very comforting to me. I will be banded by Dr. Kuri
on March 5th!
Thanks!
Beth

I was banded yesterday by Dr. Pedro Kuri. From the minute my wife
and I were picked up at the parking area on the US side of the
border (we live in San Diego County) until we were dropped
off.....It was a very efficient, and relaxing experience. I went to
the old hospital...it was extremely clean and the staff was
exlellent. (It doesn't look like much from the outside, but it is
very very complete and right around the corner from the
hotel...which worked out perfectly for my wife..who I opted not to
stay in the hospital room over nite).
Dr. Peterson who does the pre-op is very thorough and speaks english
very well... My meeting with him was on time and very efficient.
All healthcare professionals I worked with during my stay, where
very humble, caring and concerned for my comfort and sucess....You
could never find such an attitude here in the states in my
experience.
I could never say enough about Dr. Kuri, Angela (his assistant) and
her husband Miguel the driver...they have a fool proof system, if
you just listen to them and follow their direction they get you
through it all with out a hitch....They obviously have been doing
this for a while.
Dr. Kuri package, and I would suggest you contact him directly for
the cost etc....is designed for your perfect experience right down
to the restaurant he recommends (not included) the night before the
surgery....complete with a rose for my bride at Los Arcos.
Dr. Kuri is a very confident man, problably from doing this 800
times. He wants to keep things simple, and that way it all works
out. He uses FDA approved device and is on the cutting edge of the
inamed technology, including the latest port technology.
For those who may be reading this and contemplating coming to Mexico
for the surgery or using the older hospital or even wondering about
Dr. Kuri Operation....I give it 1 day out of surgery * * * * * (5
stars).
Thank you to Dr. Kuri...his staff, and all the others involved in
making the banding experience the best it could possibly be.
Regards,
Peter
P.S.
Anyone wanting to talk to me about the experience should feel free
to call 760/736-8357

WHy was my reply marked spam when it wasn't!

Jeanette, did you think your band came loose and was down around your ankle somewhere? LOL, bless your heart, you had to hang in there until you finally got your "enough" fill.

Martha

Patty and Phil:

Thanks for the well wishes for my husband and he is doing a little better now and hopefully in two weeks he will be stronger and doing a whole lot better. I am really not on here trying to help anyone, I don't have enough experience to offer much help to anyone, but am trying to share what is going on with me and how I am dealing with it and am learning from anyone who is willing to help me also. Dan is a great inspiration to me as are so many others , those who have lots of experience and those who are at the same stage that I'm at. We learn from each other. We sure are lucky to have this great group of folks on here to help us all.

Martha

Lisa, don't worry, your feelings of depression will go away, lots of people feel just like you and it passes. This is a struggle, and you are not prepared for it to be so hard to readjust, but as you go on , you will learn to readjust and it will become easier, it's just a pain in the butt right now and until it soaks into your head what you have committed yourself to , it's going to be a struggle, but when you get your restrictions and you see that weight coming off and you learn how not to eat and to eat, and how much is ok to eat and what works for you, then you will be happier. Keep your chin up and struggle on through, it's well worth it in the long run, and this time passes so fast and all that while, you get skinnier and before you know it , your year will be up, or whatever time you are doing this losing part. It will be over before you know it and you will never gain all this weight back again, it will be gone forever, never to rear it's ugly fat head again.
Stick with it. You are going to be ok!

Martha

Marilyn
I have the same band as you, Dr Sanchez did mine in August. I go to
a fill doctor in Oklahoma. My first fill took me to 4cc, second one
to 5.5cc, third one to 6.5cc, fourth one to 7.00cc, and finally last
week, I got the fifth fill up to 8.00cc. Perfect!! These bands take
a lot of filling. Until I got to 8.00cc, I was so upset, because I
didn't think my band was ever going to work right. It's all about
the fill, believe me. I am now losing weight, and it's wonderful!
Jeanette
Dr Sanchez
8/5/03

Also, I think that Dr. Rodriguez is very helpful to people banded by those other than himself if anyone wants to talk to him.

Martha

Which is precisely why we are not supposed to drink with meals :-)
Jeanette
Dr Sanchez

Hello all,
I had a fill from Dr. Kuri almost three weeks ago, and it just wasn't enough.
I've really only lost about 1 pound (up and down) since then, even though I
don't THINK I'm eating too much junk.
So I set up a local fill ($300 including flouro) with Dr. Ogle in Shelton, WA,
about half hour from my home, next Tuesday. Has anyone used him yet?
Hoping this will do the trick, I was going great, I'm exercising fine, but I
think my body has decided to catch up with my fast first 6 weeks (30 pounds!)
I feel great, my clothes are starting to hang, so ONWARD!
Cathy G in Olympia
250/220/145
Dr. K 12/8/03
PS I may not be eating much, but Southwest Washington folks, remember OlyBands
meets 2/11 at 6 p.m., WeiMei Restaurant, off Pacific Ave and College Street in
Lacey. Email me if you are coming.

Fills for life are included. However, you'll pay the fluoro fee to
the lab or hospital, which currently is about $110. Can't beat that
price for a fill.
dan
Wednesday, February 4, 2004, 9:38:13 AM, you wrote:
kac
are
kac
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/219/199 Age 60

I noticed since last Friday I was able to eat a lot more than I
should. I just had a second fill on Jan 7th and was
thinking, "there's no way I need another one already!".
Well this morning I fixed a cheese egg and bowl of oat meal. I
decided to not have my usual hot tea with my meal. Let me tell you,
I wasn't able to eat even half my food until I felt the "no more! or
you'll PB" and then I thought, "I hope I FEEL full" and I do! I
feel like I had a steak dinner.
I'm excited to see the band working for me. I'm even more excited
to see I don't need to get another fill. It saves a lot of money
for me!
Kimberly

I had 4 ccs for my first fill too. You probably have the 11mm Inamed band which can hold quite a bit. This is the band that Dr. Sanchez prefers to use. My 4cc fill was with fluro and I was able to see the barium trickle through the band. My fill has backed off a bit and I only feel restriction with some foods. I am still losing weight so I am not sweating the need for a new fill. From what I have read on other boards, many bands require 2 or more fills to feel restriction, but the 11mm band may require 3-4 fills to get to an adequate restriction level.
~Lea
11/08/03 Dr. Sanchez
259/223/219 Mini Goal
In a message dated 2/4/2004 8:46:42 AM Central Standard Time, pino0001@... writes:

I had my first fill last Wendesday and the Dr. put in 4 ccs. That
seemed like a lot to me. The next 3 days I was on liquids and I was
really hungry. I did lose 3 lbs but once I went back on food I gained
1 lb back. I do not feel any restriction - in fact I've never really
felt restriction. I thought maybe I was wrong and got .4cc but I
clarified with the Drs office and they said it was 4cc. I'm not sure
what to think. I had my surgery in mexico, but had the fill by a dr.
I found in my area. He also did not do a floroscopy. My husband
also had the lap band surgery when I did but was not able to get a
fill last week because the Dr could not find his port. He has found
another Dr to go to that will do the fill with a fluoroscopy. I'm
considering asking the Dr. to do a fluoroscopy for me just so I can
make sure everything is ok. Does anybody have any thoughts on this?
Marilyn
Surgery 12-19-04 Dr. Sanchez
-11.5 lbs lost

Dr. Paul Cirangle

weightloss@...
(415) 561-1310 CA San Francisco

According to the list his charge is $300 with another $200 for fluoroscope.

http://tinyurl.com/s8xh

Theres also another one in The Lake Taho Northern CA area, but his fees are not listed.

Sylvia

Does anyone know if there are fill doctors in the San Francisco Bay Area?
I'm using Dr. Ortiz for my surgery. I only want a doctor that uses a
fluoroscope.
Kim

I have limited paperwork from Dr. Ortiz's office but it looks like fills are
included. Is that true?
kim

I heard of him once on another group, but don't know a thing. Have you
checked out Dr. Ortiz and Dr. Kuri in Tijuana? They're two of the top
ones in the world. It isn't that much further on over to TJ, and
you're getting a known quantity.
dan
Wednesday, February 4, 2004, 12:35:01 AM, you wrote:
aen
aen
aen
aen
aen
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/219/199 Age 60

I had my first fill last Wendesday and the Dr. put in 4 ccs. That
seemed like a lot to me. The next 3 days I was on liquids and I was
really hungry. I did lose 3 lbs but once I went back on food I gained
1 lb back. I do not feel any restriction - in fact I've never really
felt restriction. I thought maybe I was wrong and got .4cc but I
clarified with the Drs office and they said it was 4cc. I'm not sure
what to think. I had my surgery in mexico, but had the fill by a dr.
I found in my area. He also did not do a floroscopy. My husband
also had the lap band surgery when I did but was not able to get a
fill last week because the Dr could not find his port. He has found
another Dr to go to that will do the fill with a fluoroscopy. I'm
considering asking the Dr. to do a fluoroscopy for me just so I can
make sure everything is ok. Does anybody have any thoughts on this?
Marilyn
Surgery 12-19-04 Dr. Sanchez
-11.5 lbs lost

I am inclined to believe my final insurance appeal will fail and have
started researching Mexican surgeons and facilities. Once I receive
my final rejection I plan to proceed with a selfpay LapBand in Mexico.
As a resident of Yuma, Arizona, I am concentrating my search to
Mexicali and Tijuana to make fill/unfill travel a reasonable drive.
My closest LapBand surgeon is Dr. Alberto Aceves, in Mexicali. While
bariatric surgery is not his primary practice, he has performed
almost 150 LapBand procedures with no reported complications.
In performing a search of the 10,000 postings in this group, I am
surprised that his name and Mexicali produce no search results.
I would greatly appreciate any information concerning this surgeon.
Many thanks
Al

Dear Bandsters, Newbies and Prebands,
You are invited to attend a support group meeting on Sun. Feb 8 at 1:00 at
Sally Lefton's home in Simi. The address is 3432 Monticello Ave. Simi
93063. Please bring a band friendly pot luck dish/snack. If you need
directions, please email me.
I look forward to seeing you.
Carolyn Dr. Ortiz 10/5/02 - 93 lbs.
PS I hope this post goes through this time. Sorry for the blank post prior.

Suzanne, obviously you missed the point. The point I was making to
you is that you should not spread rumors about a doctor that you have
no experience with. If a Lopez patient speaks up - that's their
business. If you want to e-mail someone privately and suggest that
they check out something, that's fine too. But to publicy make
statements about another doctor other than your own is not ethical in
my book.
Maybe you better look up the word "defensive" in the dictionary. I
was not defending Dr. Lopez, I don't even know Dr. Lopez. I was
merely telling you that you should only post facts and known
statistics, not things "you have heard". I never said you shouldn't
post your opinion - feedback and opinions are great - rumors and
gossip are not. People like you give the internet boards a bad rap.
People like you should be moderated and if you aren't already maybe
you should be.
And not to worry, I have had several people send me private e-mails
about my post so I wouldn't hold my breath waiting for everyone to
line up to "rah-rah rally" behind you. A decent person would have
apologized and admitted they were wrong. But then again...
Subject closed in my book til the next time you write something
stupid. Debbie

Lisa
I had my surgery four days after you, and I can relate to some of your
feelings. I'm not depressed and I don't wonder if I made the right
decision, but I am frustrated that I am not losing weight faster. It's hard
for me to be patient, it's something I really need to try and get a grip on
(instant gratification).
Are you scheduled yet for your first fill? I'm going at 6 weeks, and
looking forward to it, as I know it will start to help me feel like this
isn't such a struggle.
Suzanne
Dr. Ortiz 1/9/04

Even if you haven't registered for the event yet, please remember that the cut off date to reserve your room is 3 days away. If you book after that you will have to pay the going rate. So even if you even think you might be coming, please call and reserve a room anyway, you can always cancel with no penalty later, (as long as it's before 26th Feb.) Call toll free 1-888-503-8999 and ask for the Vegas Bandster Ball rate. Feb 29th - March 2nd.

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

can anyone tell me what dr. ortiz ususally reccommends for his pre
op diet. does he require liquid diet, and for how long?

I didn't do anything special pre-op. But why not ask him?
dan
Tuesday, February 3, 2004, 4:14:57 PM, you wrote:
j
j
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/219/199 Age 60

Tuesday, February 3, 2004, 11:14:50 AM, you wrote:
Rac
option.
One of the key things in getting a band is budgeting ALL the costs of
it. Yes, bands are less expensive in Mexico, but you need to budget
and plan for the fills. If you can get them nearby, they can be
anywhere from 250 to 1300 each from what I've heard. If you need to
go back to your surgeon, you'll need to plan for that, too.
Some people need as many as five fills the first year. Some don't.
But be prepared, or else your band will be like a car with no gas in
it.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/219/199 Age 60

Hi everyone,
Regarding my comments and questions about Dr. Lopez (or any other doctor
that I comment on)........it's unfortunate that some may see this is
"bashing". That wasn't my intent. I will continue to express my opinions,
and I think that everyone else should, too. If someone doesn't want to read
something, feel free to delete it! We are all on these boards to learn
about the band, about the doctors, about the facilities where they practice.
It seems that some people are so overly protective of "their" doctor and I
don't understand this. Quite honestly, if someone wants to post negative
feedback about Dr. Ortiz (my surgeon), I say go for it. I didn't think this
board (or any other) is intended solely for the purpose of passing on only
favorable information. IN MY OPINION, these doctors are not God, although
sometimes they are put up on pedestals as if they are. They are human
beings who make mistakes, and unfortunately there are doctors out there in
this world who have no business being in the profession they are in (just as
with teachers or any other profession). I am not referring to any specific
doctor, only in general terms. I'm sure at some point all of us have dealt
with a doctor or two who fits in this category.
If the "rule" on the board is that someone should not be commenting or
questioning or giving an opinion on a doctor other than their own, I'll
certainly honor that rule. Apparently, it's not a rule as the moderator
didn't think there was anything wrong with me posting my comments. I would
suspect that if the MODERATOR thinks someone is out-of-line or being mean
spirited, they would reject the post. In the few short months that I've
been on this board, I have seen many, many comments about doctors, and the
comment is not always made by that doctor's patient. I just wish people
wouldn't be so defensive!
I don't care to comment about this issue any more (so I won't), and please,
no need for anyone to rah-rah rally behind me for this post. And no need,
really to tell me to mind my own business because that won't work either (o:
We all have different opinions (right, Dan? LOL), and it would just be nice
if people would respect the opinions of others and leave it at that.
Respectfully,
Suzanne
Dr. Ortiz 1/9/04

Dear Bandsters, Newbies and Prebands,

You are invited to attend a support group meeting on Sun. Feb 8 at 1:00 at Sally Lefton's home in Simi. The address is 3432 Monticello Ave. Simi 93063. Please bring a band friendly pot luck dish/snack. If you need directions, please email me.

I look forward to seeing you.
Carolyn Dr. Ortiz 10/5/02 - 93 lbs.

Your best bet is to contact obesityhelp.com south of the boarder. To the left of the page is Mexican surgeons. I would check out each of them for the best deal. Dr. Jose Rodrigez is just below Texas. His fee is $7000.00. Aire fare is about $300 round trip. for me. coming form Ohio. He has a good site and lots of former patients references. Good luck. Debby

Thanks Dan & Karen;
That was very helpful and good to know. It's only seems logical that the surgeon should be availabe, I guess it's a matter of whether of not making a few trips to Mexico is an option. I had a horrible thought of what it would be like to have some problems after surgery and suddenly experiencing a feeling of abandonement from the Doctor who performed the surgery.
Thanks again,
Roz

Thanks!!

Tuesday, February 3, 2004, 9:36:20 AM, you wrote:
Rac
Rac
Rac
Rac
I don't know who Connie had, but yes, a good surgeon can be called or
seen. I called Dr. Ortiz about a similar problem. On Saturday night
at 9pm on a holiday weekend. We talked twenty minutes and I made
arrangements to see him two days later to get the problem solved,
which he did. My problem was because of stupidly getting a too-tight
fill from another doctor.
Naturally, different doctors may be more or less available, but I can
testify that Dr. Ortiz is available...and has been on other occasions
when I needed to email or phone him.
I will say that most mexican docs are more available by phone than by
email, as most other people are, too. I always have my phone in my
pocket, but don't always have email in front of me (even if it seems
like I do).
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/219/199 Age 60

Kelly,
I so hear you! I'm having the same problem. I just got my first
fill on Jan. 23rd. (I waited until after the holidays which was not
the best idea). I had 2cc's put in at first and then he put
another .5cc in but said that was too tight so he took the .5 out and
left me at 2cc's. The next day I felt full on 1/2 bowl of oatmeal
but after that I had no restriction and no feeling of fullness. I
feel absolutely NO DIFFERENT now than I did before I got a fill. I
too can gulp water with NO PROBLEM. My fill doctor is a 6 hour drive
so it is not that easy to go back and get a little more although I
guess I will have to within the next month or so.
Is there a way to tell if you have enough fill before leaving the
doctor's? I'd hate to have drive so far twice and still not feel
anything.
Sorry I couldn't help ya Kelly but at least you're not alone. :-)
Suzanne
Cleveland, OH
10-10-03 Dr. Rumbaut
1-23-04 first fill 2cc
-25lbs (1/4 of the way to my goal)