Infoblog

Friday, February 27, 2004, 10:44:55 AM, you wrote:
r
Been There, Done That. Sometimes you even get a tshirt for the
occasion. But I don't have any bandster tshirts. Hmmmm.....I have
them for other interests, teams, hobbies, etc, but nothing for being
banded....
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

Hello All,
I have just gotten home from a 6 day stay at the hospital. What I
thought was Acid reflux turned ut to be a huge horror story! My
wonderful band slipped and I was in huge pain. I also found out that
while in the hospital that my port was not in the proper place so I
could have never gotten a proper fill without damage to it. I had a
wonderful surgeon here in Tacoma help me and now I am happy to say
he will be taking are of me. All of the advice I got from my orginal
Dr. in TJ was not good enough.Blaming symtoms on things I was or
wasn't taking or doing. it just made things worse.
I am sugesting that if your bad is too tight please have it checked
right away! Yes I was excited I lost so much weight but I have paid
a dear price for it. Towards the end of my stint I could not hold
anythig down and my body wore down fast. I deplited all nutrients in
my body and it took a while for them to build it back up. I lacked
all vitamins Please pay close attention if you are vomiting on a
regular basis!
I am feeling a bit better but will take sometime for complete
rcovery once again. Now I am on clear liquids again so I am actually
starting all over again.
Just wanted to share so that somebody might learn from what I
experienced.
Please take care all
God Bless Us
Connie Botello
237/170/130
9/12/03
re-banded
2/25/04

Actually, I just moved from IL. I lived in lake
county and also champaign-urbana. I have the inamed
11cm band and I love it. It has finally helped me
gain some sort of control over my life. As you see, I
still have my battles... LOL
I started losing weight 3 days after I had the band
and it started to pour off. 1st month I lost 15lbs
followed by 5-6 the next. January and up until I
received my fill I struggled with the loss and gain of
the same 2-3 lbs and couldn't budge the scale. The
problem was that I was actually able to eat like I
used to. I could eat bread just not too much at one
time. My appetite was getting out of control again
and I could eat more than I cared to.
As far as a diet, I try to eat as much protein as I
can. My problem has always been the carbs. I am
drinking more tea now and that's how I start my day.
I haven't been eating, since I had my fill, before
11am because when I do, there are problems. I am
really tight. My first meal is a shake and until
nighttime, I drink water and tea. I have dinner after
nightfall. I have shrimp or chicken and in very small
quantities. I can barely eat 4 breaded shrimp without
severe back pain and the chicken usually consists of
3-4 small bites. I don't feel deprived at all. I
just have that nagging grazing voice in my mind to
deal with. The same voice that helped me to be
overweight to begin with. Each day is getting better
but restriction works wonders!!!!! haha
When I was first banded, I tried to exercise at least
once/day even if it was limited to 5 or 10 minutes.
Now I am signing up at the gym and hubby and I are
going to lift weights. I am committed to at least 3
times a week and hope to do more.
I have learned my lesson concerning not pushing the
band. I have straightened up. Now if only I could
fly right......
I do love this band because it gave me my life back.
I have started feeling like a woman again. Even my
hubby said I am thinning out but he has always loved
me no matter what size I am. I went home because of a
funeral and when I put on my dress outfit, everyone
commented on how good I looked. And more than that, I
felt great and not self-conscious all the time. I
could talk to people and not wonder if they were
staring at me because of how weight I had gained since
the last time they saw me.
I know I will have setbacks but as long as I stay the
course, I will reach my ultimate goal.
You will be so happy with your band!!!
Bianca

Bianca- I live in the Chicago area too, are you in a suburb?I'm
getting banded on March 22nd by Dr. Sanchez. I plan on seeing Dr.
Vitello for my fills. What band do you have and how much can it hold?
How slow has your weight loss been? Are you happy with the results?
Are you following a diet? How much can you typically eat? Do you feel
deprived? What do you do for exercise? Your sweet potato chips
episode sounds unpleasant to say the least. Take it in stride and use
it as a learning experience. Keep me posted! Katrina

Friday, February 27, 2004, 9:10:06 AM, you wrote:
r
r
r
r
r
But is your husband going to eat them? Does he NEED them? If not,
run the damn things down the disposal. Or, lacking one of those, fill
the bag with water to sog them up, and then put the bag in the
garbage. Be sure you ruin them with water or coffee grounds or
something so you're not tempted to eat them out of the garbage.
Yeah, BTDT.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

-WARNING-
{The following is a gross accounting of being bad}
I had my first fill on the 21st with Dr. Vitello in
chicago. It was a great experience!!! Nice
restriction from day one. So yesterday I decided that
it was snack day and I proceeded to snack last night
off and on. I was eating spicy sweet potato chips and
boy were they good. The only problem with them is
that they tend to get stuck if I eat more than 3. And
this was before the fill. So I would eat a few, get
that pain in my back, and walk it off and then go for
more. I did it 3 times maybe having a total of 9
chips in all and the last time, I didn't make it
through. The chips would not go down no matter how
much hot tea I drank. I keep producing a ton of
saliva and I couldn't swallow. Suddenly I envisioned
myself vomitting everything I had eaten that day. I
walked in circles and swore that I would never do that
again. All of a sudden I was compelled to go to the
bathroom sink and spew. I put my head over the sink
and then.....
BURP!!!!
I made this horrendous vomit-like dry-heave burp and
nothing came out. Then I did it again and this time,
my saliva came out. (I just felt compelled to spit
something out.) I did it one more time and suddenly,
I felt great. I could feel those evil sweet potatoe
chips go right down and a wave of relief washed over
me.
I promised myself and my hubby that I would NEVER test
the limits of the band again like that. My band let
me off with a warning and I am taking it to heart.
Once I settled down, I karate-kicked that bag and
slammed it on top of the frig. I know I am the one
who ate the chips repeatedly but if the bag hadn't
enticed me in the first place, this whole episode
would not have happened..... ;-D
I have to say this is my first negative experience
with the band and one that I do not want to repeat. I
have lost 5+ lbs since getting my fill. hehe
I am on track to reach my first mini goal of under
200lbs shortly. I can't wait!! It has been at least
4 years since I have been under 200.
Anyway, I am telling this tale in hopes of helping
someone else avoid the lure of the [evil sweet potato
chips]. You can add in whatever food calls your name
between the brackets. :-D
Anyway, just wanted to share..
Bianca
10/30/03 Dr. Rod 230/203/199 mini/150

Thanks for the info!
May I ask - what he charged you?
Lisa
Kuri
2-16-04

I was very scared before I had my banding on 11/20/03. The pain was
not bad, and I think I recovered fairly quickly for a 53 year old.
I know exactly what you mean about reading the posts of successful
surgeries and having the up/down feelings. I followed the posts for
about six months. It took me nearly a year to make up my mind for
sure to have the band. I was always against having any WLS,
especially the bypass. I tried unsuccessfully to get my insurance
to pay. Even used an attorney. Finally I decided to take out an
equity loan on my home & just do it. I thank god I had the equity
to use. So far, I have lost 45 pounds. I was very happy with Dr.
Lopez in Tiajuana. I pray you find a way to have your surgery.
glenna

Assuming you were banded in TJ, ask your doc for his recommendations.
I'm doing that regarding getting a TT.
dan
Thursday, February 26, 2004, 2:53:02 PM, you wrote:
BM
BM
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

Can anyone recommend a dermatologist in Tijuana that does laser hair
removal?
Thanks
Beth

I just had a fill in Las Vegas by Eric Tiesi PA-C and is licensed
in Nevada. He came to my hotel hoom, answered all my questions and
then explained what he was going to do before he did the fill. He
called me every day to see how I was doing. I was to restricted so
he came back the next day to remove some fuild.
H E W A S G R E A T He really took care of me.
Eric's cell: 956-746-9812
Eric's home: 702-733-8674
Ron
Dr. Francisco Trevino
Monterrey, Mexico
August 11, 2003

Good luck to you. Find out what you can afford and go from there. I am trying too to stay out of debt for this. Dr Rodrigez has great prices and great referrals. I go to see him March 25th. Debby

Wednesday, February 25, 2004, 11:14:18 PM, you wrote:
jac
jac
jac
jac
Just call any time. (Well, prefer not between 10PM and 5AM, but do
what you gotta do.
jac
jac
jac
jac
I was at one of them, but was thinking it was February. Anyway, I
went to the second one they ever had, and I spoke up in the meeting,
as did Cathy from Boise. She's been banded several years. Look at my
website in the signature below, and you can then decide if it was me.
jac
jac
jac
jac
The Boise docs have done one band, and several more coming soon. Also,
if you're not already on IdahoBandsters, please join. We're having a
Soup Night at my house at 630 on Tuesday, the second. Just a few
days. You could meet a bunch of bandsters then. Again, call for the
info.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

I am too, and know there haven't been any posts from her. I'm hoping
that someone has her personal email, or even phone.
I know her husband has been failing, and she's commented before on him
probably not having too long. If she's dealing with that, I sure
wouldn't expect to see her here. I pray for her, and would send
flowers or something if I knew where to do so.
dan
Wednesday, February 25, 2004, 6:58:01 PM, you wrote:
Lcc
Lcc
Lcc
Lcc
Lcc
Lcc
Lcc
Lcc
Lcc
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

Hi Donna,

I don't know if Roz will be able to reply to ya,as I think she may already be on a plane,if not,she's probably still packing.As of 10pm last night she still wasn't packed yet! lol I know she was to depart this morning,and have surgery when she get's off the plane today.Thanks for emailing us.It's comforting to hear from everyone and to get all of the well wishes.

Nikki

There are several options in the Seattle area, or Portland, but doubt
there is anything closer to you. Oh yes, the docs in Bend will do
followup in case that is a bit easier. When you're out here in
nowhere-land, it t'ain't easy.
You might also find it easier and cheaper to go back to your doc if
you had a Tijuana doc instead of one further south. For me, and for
others, it is cheaper and easier to go to TJ than to go to some of the
places I've mentioned, since the doc doesn't charge for a fill.
dan
Tuesday, February 24, 2004, 9:53:31 AM, you wrote:
m
m
m
m
m
m
m
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

Great Article Dan!
I have to agree that reteaching yourself to eat and exercise is the
key to success. I have lost 75 lbs. but have been at a plateau for
about three weeks. I feel that this plateau has more to do with a
grazing habit I have recently developed at work. It seems I am almost
always hungry about 30 - 45 minutes after I eat. I have not gained
any weight back. I am sure exercising is keeping my weight off but I
am concerned that the weight will soon creep back. So, I will be
scheduling my 2nd fill very soon.
Any advise for grazers?
Stephanie A.
Dr. Rodriguez - Mty. Mx.
299/224/150??
12/05 - first fill

Hello! from Tulsa Oklahoma! I have been reading the messages on
this site for approx. 1 month and with every successful banding I
hear about I become happy and depressed at the same time as I would
love for it to be me. I am very scared of Dr. and Hosp. as I have
lost both of my parents to terminal illness all within the last 3
years and as of today father in law is on life support fighting for
his life due to pnuemonia. This is not very reassuring to me because
they keep telling us what they think we want to hear. I keep
telling myself that I need to get on the road to a thinner healthier
me but with 4 kids and a husband and not much money to work with I
feel defeated before I get started. Please tell me how in the world
you afford this type of surg. Is there a finance plan or what? I
am 32 and have alot to live for but I am SCARED out of my mind that
I will have alot of pain or complications. I will not consider GB
surg. even though my insurance would probably help me in some way.
Please tell me more info. GOD BLESS each and everyone of you.

Hey girls,
I wish you the best tomorrow. I wish I was going with you so I could
meet you, visit the team, and get a fill. Why don't the airlines
cooperate and give us better fares? Please tell Sady, Annabelle,
Camille, Dr. Susanna, and of course Dr. Sanchez hello for me and
think of them all every day. I am so grateful for everything they
did for me in January. I'm sure you're going to experience the
same. They are awesome. I'll be thinking of you during your
surgeries.
Donna

Lunch or Cash? Please vote.

http://snipurl.com/4qbq

Sylvia

Web site:
http://www.geocities.com/vegasbandsterball

Hi
I was banded by Dr. H in July. I went down to Mexico with a friend. I have
nothing but good things to say about the clinic and the staff. It was very
clean, nurses very attentive; overall a very good experience.
Lynn

I know there are banded people out there that have not had the weight
loss results expected. I don't know why they haven't been as
successful--different eating styles, metabolisms, exercise routines,
et. al., however, I do know from being on the boards for this past
year, the majority of bandsters do accomplish their goals. Keep
researching :)
Amber-CA
Dr. Kuri (My Hero)
07/03/03
189/119/120 at goal
TT Dr. Pena 02/05/04

unfortunately, to lose weight one must diet and exercise (damnit!).
The band is a great tool tho, and has enabled me to stick to my diet
and be successful at losing and keeping it off for the first time in
my life!
I think the most important thing pre-bandsters must know and truly
accept is that there is no magic solution, it will still come down to
the choices we make.
There is just no way around the whole diet/exercise thing.... :-O

Kimberly,
Yes, I eat until I'm satisfied, but I generally only eat healthy
band foods (protein, veg, then carbs), I do not feel deprived. And I
will have something off the band diet every blue moon. But thank
goodness I don't crave them much anymore! I have days when if I had
access to high calorie, low response food I would inhale it! So I
don't keep them available!
I exercize 5 to 6 days a week for min. 40 min. cardio. And I have
lost 52 lbs since Oct 1st 2003.
I hate exercize!!!! did I mention I hate exercize! But I know that
in order to reach my goals and maintain my goals, I will do this THE
REST OF MY LIFE. Sounds scary, but for now I will take it one day at
a time. But I can tell you I love the results! Damnit, it's the
price I'll have to pay. I will be adding weight training soon!
I have lost on average 2.2 lbs a week. I am happy with this.
I am not one of the lucky ones that the band does the work for me,
but I love it! IT IS MY BRAKES IF I NEED IT! But then I have only
had 2 fills with some restriction.
I only put on my plate what I plan on eating, I take 15-20 min to
eat it, eat small bites putting my fork down between every bite. ( I
lost 10 lbs before surgery this way!) and then I put my plate in
the sink and walk away! I don't give it a second thought! I have
never been able to do this without an extreme form of a PILL!
I try to get my water and protein requiremnts in daily. Most of the
time I am sucessful!
I eat out every now and then, but I choose my food wisely, like you
I so not feel deprived or on a diet. I give myself permission to eat
anything I want at anytime. But I ask myself, can this wait until
tommorrow, do I have to have this now or can I wait and pig out on
it tommorrow? I make a deal with myself, if I feel this strongly
about it tommorrow I will go to the store and buy it (what ever IT
is) and as usual the emergency passes and I no longer want it! But I
promise, if I did I would go GET IT!
If I have learned one thing about myself through this I did not know
before banding was that I really am rebelious(sp)! I had no clue! On
every diet I have ever been on I ended up sabotaging myself because
I felt deprived! I now have whatever I want if I REALLY want it!
I just don't keep IT readily available. THIS WORKS FOR ME, because I
have time to reason with myself if I take time to go get IT!
I also made goals:
235 by 12/25
213 by 2/28
199 by 4/17
187 by 5/29
165 by 8/14
150 by 9/30
People ask me how are you loosing your weight, I say " eating good
food and exercising, there is no secrets to weight loss"!!
So your not alone Bandsister!
Gaynell
Dr. Rumbaut 10/16/03
267/215/150

'Outeating' Weight-Loss Surgery:
Gee, I bet every person here could have told them this....
High-Calorie Grazing Negates Results
By Tara Parker-Pope
Wall Street Journal
Celebrities like Al Roker and singer Carnie Wilson have fueled an
unprecedented boom in weight-loss surgery. But for many patients, the
procedure doesn't live up to the hype.
A small but significant number of patients who have weight-loss
surgery regain much or all of their weight back after a few years.
Despite anatomical changes that make it impossible to binge or eat
large quantities of food, some patients learn to "outeat" the
surgery, grazing on small portions of high-calorie foods throughout
the day. Other patients lose only a fraction of the weight expected
and remain significantly overweight following the surgery.
No one knows for sure how common the problem is, but estimates of
these "failures," as they are known among surgeons, range from 5% to
20% of patients. Some experts worry that the problem may be growing
as new weight-loss centers attempt to cash in on the surgical boom
without offering patients long-term psychological and nutrition
counseling.
"It's a problem we really can't put our hands around right now," says
San Diego surgeon Alan C. Wittgrove, president of the American
Society for Bariatric Surgery. "We know there is a portion of the
patient population that will not be successful....Sometimes the
operation fails them, but sometimes they fail the operation."
Because of growing concerns about quality control and long-term
patient success rates, the society is pushing a new plan to be
launched in about six weeks that will designate "centers of
excellence" for weight-loss surgery, similar to those that already
exist for cardiac care and organ transplants, says Walter J. Pories,
a long-time bariatric surgeon and past-president of the ASBS.
To qualify as a center of excellence, a surgeon or weight-loss center
must document long-term patient results, physician expertise in
surgical procedures and a multidisciplinary approach that offers
patients long-term access to nutrition and psychological counseling
and follow-up care.
Bariatric surgery, typically performed in obese patients who are at
least 100 pounds overweight, is still the only proven long-term
method for significant weight loss. The most common form of gastric
bypass surgery, which both shrinks the stomach and routes food past
much of the digestive system, helps most patients lose 50% to 70% of
their excess body weight and keep it off for years. In the vast
majority of patients the surgery also helps eliminate diabetes,
hypertension and a number of other health problems associated with
obesity.
But while surgery helps control the quantity of food consumed, most
patients are still plagued by the same eating demons that caused them
to gain weight in the first place. In one study, 80% of patients
reported that they regularly felt a loss of control over eating just
six months after surgery. Several studies show that beginning two
years after surgery, many patients begin to regain at least some of
their weight.
In a small percentage of patients, the weight regain will be
excessive. Some patients regain the weight by drinking sweetened soft
drinks, juices or milkshakes, or by grazing on crackers and dollops
of peanut butter.
But the problem may be widely under-reported because many patients
are simply too ashamed to tell their doctors they are again
struggling with their weight. That's what happened to 29-year-old
Beverly Popolo of Clairton, Pa., who had stomach-stapling surgery
about 10 years ago. After losing 80 pounds, she returned to
overeating, and regained the lost weight and ended up 70 pounds
heavier than she was before the surgery. "I felt like I was a
failure," says Ms. Popolo. "I screwed up my only chance."
But doctors in Pittsburgh agreed to do a gastric bypass after Ms.
Popolo proved she was committed to making the needed lifestyle
changes. Unlike with the first surgery, she met with nutritionists
and underwent a psychological evaluation. Two years later, after
intense counseling and the help of a support group, she has dropped
190 pounds and feels more confident about maintaining her weight.
Last year, doctors performed about 100,000 procedures, up from an
estimated 40,000 in 2001. While top weight-loss doctors report long-
term results in major medical journals, nobody is tracking the
results of the vast majority of patients who undergo surgery. But
doctors are reporting anecdotal evidence of patients who come to them
complaining that their first doctor didn't provide any care other
than the initial surgery.
"It's not automatic -- people have to be taught," says Madelyn H.
Fernstrom, director of the University of Pittsburgh's weight-
management center.
Some doctors think a new gastric banding procedure approved by the
FDA in 2001 may be compounding the problem. The procedure, which uses
an adjustable and removal silicone band to shrink the stomach, is
cheaper, less risky and easier to perform.
But in the U.S., the band procedure also has resulted in less-
impressive weight loss than gastric-bypass surgery. Critics say the
problems are due in part to the nature of the procedure, which
doesn't include bypassing intestines where food is absorbed. But they
also blame a lack of follow-up and counseling. In U.S. studies,
patients who were given the banding procedure lost less than 40% of
their excess weight three years after surgery.
Inamed, the Santa Barbara, Calif.-based maker of the gastric band,
says the band has produced better results in other countries,
possibly because of a stronger emphasis on lifestyle changes. More
recently, results in the U.S. have improved, with patients losing
about 50% of their extra pounds, says an Inamed spokesman.
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

I'm not banded yet but can answer part of your question. When over wt. most
of us have 1) have gotten where we can do most things with less activity.
We do not jog to mail boxes, take the 1st open parking place ( I drive until
one closer opens up if a walk is involved, take stair because it is faster
( I'd wait tell hell is getting pretty cold before hitting the stairs to
save 90 seconds!) I'm to big to have a "spring" in my step which again uses
more calories. I am not lazy but being over wt. hurts my joints, makes it
hard to breath etc. Anyway we develop habits to make our life easier.
2) But these habits lower our metabolic rate sooo... we use less energy to
do the same task as others involved in the same activity. A shame saving
money is not as easy as saving/storing fat! sorry just popped in my head!
We must gain healthy muscles, new habits, and then we will be closer to our
thin friends as our metabolic rate perks back up. But we have done "things"
to our bodies by being over wt. and how much we return to pre fat stage is
different with each person. Just fact! We have big fat cells always trying
to bank fat that thin people don't wrestle with. I'm glad you are able to
see the up side, if not rosy side of the band. People say the band is for
thinking people because you still have to use some self control. The band
gives us "the tool to use" not "the job done."

Tuesday, February 24, 2004, 6:26:02 PM, you wrote:
JB
JB
JB
JB
JB
Yes, we are. Look at my stats below. Some stupid insurance charts
say I should way 170-180, but I have a lot of muscle and shouldn't be
that low. Even if those charts are right, and I've "only" lost 107 of
my "150 excess pounds" (assuming 173 for a theoretical weight), I'm
still over 70 percent excess lost.
The Inamed stats are based on the FDA trials and were not followed for
long...and back then not many patients or docs knew what they were
doing or how to do it.
Basically, how much you lose is up to you, with your little plastic
band to help you out. It is certainly possible to lose it all.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

I was banded 9/30/03 and am now working with a personal trainer 3
times week and he also has me walking 30 minutes twice a day every
day. I also am on a high protein low car diet given by a
nutrionist.
I am loosing again so I'm not complaining. I know my doctor said,
walk and eat lost of protein and low carbs but for some reason I
didn't believe it would really be necessary for my to loose.
I mean if we have a 4 oz pouch then should be loose just by cutting
our food intake in half? Or is it our eating habits were so bad
even half is not good?
Oh well I'm happy to be a looser again but only wonder if others are
having to "diet" and "exercise" to loose weight. I do it whithout
feeling deprived but I still have to say "no" to sweets and junk
food.
I stress again, I am not complaining but I am on a diet without
feeling deprived. Are all the loosers dieting too?
Kimberly
314/287/150
9/30/03

Hi Laura,
I am leaving tommorrow morning. Having surgery tommorrow evening. I even remember writing my first post on here. Everyone has been wonderful. I've even made some friends and will be getting banded at the same time as one of them!! Do your research, just as it sounds like you have begun to do!! While you will might have a tendency to listen to others on here and they can be extremely helpful, do yourself a favor and make your own phone calls and your own decisions! Whats good for you might not be good for someone else! Once this is complete for me, I will be glad to share the remainder of my experience, strength and hope!! Good luck, you'll be guided in the right direction if you ask for help I'm sure!
Take Care,
Roz

Thank you Sylvia! I see many on here have used Dr. Kuri so I assume
he's pretty good? I think I'll check him out first.

Hello every one,
Just want to take a minute to say hello. I am very interested in learning
more bout the skills and services one can find south of our border. I have a
great love and respect for the Mexican people and am hoping to visit Mexico this
year. Perhaps I can mix a little business with pleasure and locate a good
surgeon there.
Is everyone in this group interested in the lapband or are there other
weight losss surgeries discussed as well?
Thanks for listening,
Mary W.

hi all,

just reading literature on lap band at inamed.com

their percentages of weight loss seem awfully low

please tell me that actual banded people are losing more than 30-50 percent of their excess weight!!

http://www.gailndan.com/lapband/lapband.htm
OK....yeah, a massive crosspost. But I've been hassled (nicely) by a
couple dozen people to get the rest of my story on the web. So I did
at last, a few minutes ago. It is one long page, but not that slow to
load.
Pictures will probably be updated next week, but not sure that I'll
look that different. OK, now off to the gym for the second time
today.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

why cant you have aspirin this close to surgery? i have not been told to stay away from anything. -Jen

nikki <nastybrat@...

Hi everyone! the day is getting close! Can't wait. Ok..My question.Right now,I'm retaining alot of fluid.Would it be a problem if I took some fluid pills so close to surgery? I know I'm not supposed to take any thing with aspirin,that's fine since I'm allergic to it anyway.What about Tylenol? And I really want to know about the fluid pills. Thanks for your help everyone.

Nikki

Where do I find a list of the south-of-the-border doctors and their
prices? Also what the price includes? I've been reading but haven't
run across that information yet! New to all of this and very anxious
to get started soon! I've been overweight for waaaay too long! So
far the people here seem so warm and caring, something that is hard
to find in the real world where I'm told to 'just stop eating'. Thank
you in advance!
Laura

Hello,
My name is Charlene Jarms and I am in the process of getting a date
for surgery in Mexico with Dr.Joya.
I live in Cheney WA just west of Spokane and would like to know if
anyone out there could give me any names of Dr's in that area that
will do follow ups and fills as needed.
I am very nervous about this whole thing but I know that I need to
get my life and my health back.
Thank you for any information,
Charlene

can anyone tell me their experience and how many cc's they had on
their first fill? What to expect after and how soon before solid
foods

My first experience was not that cool. Two appointments and two doctors, could not find my port. So.......I am off to the Radiologist for the fill. Guess that's the only way to go if you cannot feel your port or are not with the doctor that did the surgery. I say do not allow any needles until they are positive of the spot. I am quite bruised and very sore from being poked at to find the "spot". Also, pretty depressed because I could not get an appointment for another 1.5 weeks and I have been ready for my fill for awhile. My recommendation to anyone going for the surgery, get an x-ray to bring home with you. Good Luck!!

Beth H

01/06/04

-23.5 no fill yet

Hi everyone! the day is getting close! Can't wait. Ok..My question.Right now,I'm retaining alot of fluid.Would it be a problem if I took some fluid pills so close to surgery? I know I'm not supposed to take any thing with aspirin,that's fine since I'm allergic to it anyway.What about Tylenol? And I really want to know about the fluid pills. Thanks for your help everyone.
Nikki

can anyone tell me their experience and how many cc's they had on
their first fill? What to expect after and how soon before solid
foods, etc. any help would be appreciated.

You are in good hands! Dr Kuri is such a dear man, not to mention a great surgeon.

I had my surgery thee and it was fine..doesn't look like much from the outside but inside it looks like a hospital, it's spotlessly clean and the nuns (the nurses) are very gentle and kind.

Sylvia

Dr Kuri

5ft 10

350/236/192

hello,
I am not new to the list- but new to posting. I have been reading and
studying all of this for 8 months now and have finally planned a
date. I am getting banded by Dr Kuri in Tijuana at the San Fransisco
Hospital- anyone who has used Dr Kuri and this hospital...I would
love to hear your experience. You can email me directly
pattiecaroline@....
I appreciate group and look foward to the journey.
P~
prebanded
240//150

There are public computers, free, with web access, both in the
hospital common area, and in the lobby of the Lucerna.
If you choose to take a laptop, don't know about access in hospital.
But in Lucerna you can make a dialup connection for fifty cents. No
time limit, just fifty cents for each call. That dials you up to a
local internet connection where you can get web access, use your
email, etc.
dan
Monday, February 23, 2004, 2:24:38 PM, you wrote:
MO
MO
MO
MO
MO
MO
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/216/199 Age 61

Donna,
Thanks so much for emailing us.I do feel a bond with Roz,she's a great person. I
really appriciate hearing from people who have recently been banded,and what the
situation was like for them.For some reason it seems to set my mind at ease,know
that someone else was there just a short awhile ago. I will definatly keep in
touch.I know I will come back begging you all for answers.Thanks again for
mailing.
Nikki

hello,
I am not new to the list- but new to posting. I have been reading and
studying all of this for 8 months now and have finally planned a
date. I am getting banded by Dr Kuri in Tijuana at the San Fransisco
Hospital- anyone who has used Dr Kuri and this hospital...I would
love to hear your experience. You can email me directly
pattiecaroline@....
I appreciate group and look foward to the journey.
P~
prebanded
240//150

Roz and Nikki,
You two will see each other at the guest house Thursday or Friday
night. I can feel a bond between you two already with your emails.
You'll be band sisters or band buddies for the rest of your life. It
is a great experience and even if you don't bring someone with you,
you never feel alone. Dr. Sanchez offers the guest house for the
family atmosphere. It helps the healing. I had a great experience
last month. I was banded on the 16th of Jan. and can't remember a
bad day since. I've only seen the scale numbers go down. However,
they have been sitting still the last three days. No worry though.
As far as the money exchange. All restaurants, taxis, stores will
take American money. However, your change will be in pesos. There
are plenty of places to exchange if you want. Now that you're in
the guest house instead of a hotel, you won't have a lobby to
exchange. I personally wouldn't go through the trouble of exchange.
Keep in touch. The house has a computer for use with internet
access. I'll be thinking of you.
Donna

I too am looking for anyone going to Dr. Rodrigez. Debby
Good luck to you.

Did you see the special on last thursday night with Stone Philps i think. the hour was devoted to the adkins diet and their foods. as well as the low carb restaurants adkins store had the closest correct carb count.The restaurants faired poorly due to portion control.
2 years ago i lost 70lbs on low carb diet. but now its back and i am getting banded. But plan to keep atkins in my diet plans. yet cutting alot of the treats. Debby

Just an update that I will be "crossing over" soon to the Banded side. My surgery will be this Friday, February 27th, in TJ, MX with Dr. Ariel Ortiz. We should be returning to Ohio on Wednesday, March 3rd (at the whim of Delta Airlines Frequent Flyer miles LOL!!). I don't know if we'll be taking our laptop(s) or not so I will be going "no mail" on all my groups.

It's been quite the wild & winding road to get to this point -- MANY, MANY, MANY THANKS to Hildi & Sybil for starting me down the road... and to Christie for showing me the final steps that led to Dr. Allen & Dr. Ortiz! I'm a strong believer in there being a reason for coincidences... and through a lot of coincidences I have avoided making a few wrong decisions about the doc that bands me... finding a SUPER doc to do my fills... and finding one of the top docs to do the surgery.

I tried to be a bit pre-emptive of the "head changes" that are before me by having my Zoloft bumped up, but I think what I am most worried about at this point (you know, beyond the typical pre-surgery jitters of "Just WHAT IN THE WORLD am I about to do to myself??!!!!????) is that I'm going to damage my band right at the get-go. I have just HORRIBLE reactions to anesthesia -- whether it be oral surgery or my c-section -- I just throw up for HOURS. Yep, nothing to ruin that movie-perfect moment of being handed your newly born sons (twins) just moments after being sewn up.... like screaming hysterically at the nurses, "Take them back! I can't take them right now - I need to THROW UP!!!!". Yep, that was me - puking EVERY 15 MINUTES FOR EIGHT HOURS until they figured out the right "cocktail" of anti-nausea meds for me. I made sure I put that I have extreme reactions on my health survey and don't worry - I will DEFINITELY tell the anesthesiologist. Also had saved an
e-mail where someone said they asked for motion sickness patch and that helped. Also saved the e-mail where someone said they asked for pre-surgery calming meds <wink

Now I just need to figure out what all to pack and get it packed. Have been trying to stay calm through my kids' freak outs about not getting to go away with us (we haven't really explained WHAT I'm doing -- just that we're going to Mexico for a "few days" -- good thing four year olds really don't have a firm grasp on time concepts!!). My parents have TONS of fun outings planned for them, plus I'm bundling up "surprises" for them to open each day (sticker books, Hot Wheels, Disney Dollars, tossable cameras for their trip to the circus, etc....), but it's still hard to know I'm going to be leaving them for eight days when I'm with them 24/7. Sigh....

Hey - just a "what do you think" question.... I've heard that the doc I'm using for fills is just SLAM DUNKED with patients and it takes quite a few weeks to even get in. Should I start once I return from my surgery with trying to get a fill appointment?

Well, guess I'm more nervous that I'm letting myself know, since I keep babbling on! Ack!!

Hi,

I believe I would be what is referred to as a prebandster. I just wanted to comment on this email. I have to say that I absolutely agree. Im 25 years old and have dealt with this battle since I was in grade school. I have been pretty lucky while talking to people about the surgery. I have been contemplating it all year and in December decided to save some money and have the procedure. My family doesnt seem that thrilled with the idea. My response was to just tell them, let them know what I know and leave it at that. My two bestfriends have been great. They have seen all of my efforts and are very encouraging. For a long time I too thought of the surgery as the easy way out. I dont believe that to be the case any longer. However, even if it is the case I have to agree with Deb. People seem to be more in favor or accepting of plastic surgery than weightloss surgery. Oprah would frown upon people discounting her weightloss journey simply because she can afford
every piece of new equipment, the best trainer, personal chefs, etc... so my question is why should she see the lap band as the "easy way out." I think an attitude adjustment is needed. And some education. Most of the people that complain about such things dont have the knowledge to speak on it. Well, theres my two cents. Im keeping my fingers crossed that I will be able to come up with the money very soon.

Take care,

Sarah
Deb Jones <debj@...

Hi All,
Someone mentioned something about people saying "that's taking the easy
way"... I've heard this is something that Oprah says (as a negative) too..
I've been thinking about this a lot lately as someone said that to me as
well. My response? "SO??!!" Now, don't get me wrong, as a banded person,
I know damn well this isn't the easy way (whatever that means..), but it
sure as heck IS easier than dieting. Not to mention, actually being a
permanent solution. I also asked this person, who of course also has a
weight problem "If some drug company came out tomorrow with a new drug that
took away your excess appetite, and this drug was safe and had no major
side-effects, tell me you wouldn't be first in line to get it?" and if
THAT's not the easy way, what is?
Who says maintaining a healthy weight is supposed to be some moral Mt.
Everest?? I don't get that.. Nobody tells a diabetic who gets an insulin
pump 'you're just taking the easy way out'.. Again, even if that's true, SO
WHAT??... I for one have no desire to wear a hair shirt. Life is too short.
I will still look as good in my size 6 jeans regardless of the degree of
suffering I endure. Heck I will probably look BETTER because I won't have
had to live with the daily stress of 'can I keep this up today, tomorrow,
etc.?'.. With my band I KNOW I can do it.
Peace, Deb
banded 1/3/2003 Ortiz/Martinez
222/204/135

Kathy,

Hi! I am leaving for Monterrey this Thursday.......3 days !!! I will definitely email you when I get back and let you know how it went. I'm not going alone, I am going with two other women that work for me. We are excited and nervous, but I think it will go well!! Good luck and I will be in touch as soon as we get back !!!

Thanks,

Roz

Hi Nikki,

You made me laugh!! I am leaving for Monterrey on Thursday and will be banded on Friday! I don't have a clue about money or anything like that. I'll be reading the responses to your emails though so I can get some info too!! I'll look you up in the hospital and maybe we'll meet at the guest house !

Take care,

Roz :)

Hi All,
Someone mentioned something about people saying "that's taking the easy
way"... I've heard this is something that Oprah says (as a negative) too..
I've been thinking about this a lot lately as someone said that to me as
well. My response? "SO??!!" Now, don't get me wrong, as a banded person,
I know damn well this isn't the easy way (whatever that means..), but it
sure as heck IS easier than dieting. Not to mention, actually being a
permanent solution. I also asked this person, who of course also has a
weight problem "If some drug company came out tomorrow with a new drug that
took away your excess appetite, and this drug was safe and had no major
side-effects, tell me you wouldn't be first in line to get it?" and if
THAT's not the easy way, what is?
Who says maintaining a healthy weight is supposed to be some moral Mt.
Everest?? I don't get that.. Nobody tells a diabetic who gets an insulin
pump 'you're just taking the easy way out'.. Again, even if that's true, SO
WHAT??... I for one have no desire to wear a hair shirt. Life is too short.
I will still look as good in my size 6 jeans regardless of the degree of
suffering I endure. Heck I will probably look BETTER because I won't have
had to live with the daily stress of 'can I keep this up today, tomorrow,
etc.?'.. With my band I KNOW I can do it.
Peace, Deb
banded 1/3/2003 Ortiz/Martinez
222/204/135

Hi everyone,
You'll have to excuse me for the next few days.I'm being banded onSaturday,and I'm getting a little antsi.I'm really ready for this.I can not wait! I just seem to have a bunch of little dumb questions.Like..for instance,I'm going to be banded by Dr Sanchez in Monterrey Mx,will I need to get some money exchanged for my husband to spend while I'm there? I'm so scattered,I can't remember any of my other questions.Thanks for your help
Nikki

Well, this is only my second post here, but I now have a date (with
Dr. Sanchez that is....) I will get my band on March 12th. Would
like to hear from anyone who has recently been to Monterrey, as I am
contemplating whether to go it alone or take someone. Kinda funny, I
live just 3 hours from Monterrey, but the flight will take 5 hrs.
since I have to go through Houston first. Didn't have a problem
going on bus down, but thought that ride home might be a little
uncomfortable. Hope to hear from some recent bandsters.
Kathy
346/elevator going down from here.....

I only told three of my closest friends about me going to Mexico for the
surgery. They had raised eyebrows until they looked at the website for Dr.
Ortiz (obesitycontrolcenter.com), and they were very impressed with the
staff and the hospital. I think that most of the problem with folks that
aren't supportive of us going to Mexico is that they are afraid (fear of the
unknown). They have suspicions about us going out of the country for
surgery (eeee gads, you're going to MEXICO? LOL). I didn't tell my daughter
that I was going to Mexico because I KNEW she would freak out and be pretty
worried, so I waited until I returned to tell her.
If you can educate your family about the reasons you are going to Mexico,
they will probably be fine, although remember that some people will NOT be
supportive no matter what you do or say. Sometimes people will tell you
that you're taking the easy way out (NOT), that you just need to try one
more diet (NOT), or things of this nature. You know yourself better than
anyone and you know if you are ready to do this. Sometimes the only support
that folks have is on these boards, and I'm really glad the boards are here
to help people and give them the support they need.
Good luck to you!
Suzanne
Dr Ortiz 1/9/04

2nd Annual Vegas Bandster Ball Agenda.
Only 1 week away and yes you can still register if you hurry!

Sunday 3 p.m Registration.
Pick up your bags and name badges then head on over to the Meet and Greet in the hospitality suite near by. There will be coffee/tea/snacks and a water station available for you. The clothing exchange will be a continuing process, and a before and after picture display board will be waiting for your transformations; grab a pin to secure 'em, grab a pen to write your name, then stand back and be proud.
Monday 9 am: Speaker Meetings.
Come early to the meeting room, help yourself to coffee and tea, some fresh fruit and muffins..very handy for those who didn't have time for breakfast.
Approx 9.30. a.m. Our first speaker will be Dr. Garcia - Plastic Surgeon. Next will be Dr. Kuri - Bariatric Surgeon. Then we have Cindy Earl our clinical social worker, and last but not least, is Patricia Hedtke one of our Bandsters who has lost over 200lbs.

Monday 1 p.m: Lunch
There will be a short break for lunch approx 1 pm (on your own) and in the afternoon, round table discussions (in the same room) one led by Patricia regarding Plastic Surgery in general, and her insights into Plastic surgery in Costa Rica. Another led by Mike (PolarbearMike,) regarding overcoming obstinate mindsets..and one with Tom Ahern (subject yet to be announced.) There may be also be others.
5.30 - 7 p.m Professional Photographs.
Sue Altenburg, a professional photographer (and a Vegas Bandster) will be available to take your portraits at a very reasonable cost. Sue will only be available from 5:30 to 7.00 p.m as she wants to enjoy her evening as well, so if you would like to take advantage of her generous offer, please go here click on "add record" to list your name.
7 p.m - approx 9 p.m Dinner Buffet and cash bar till midnight. For the menu go here
During dinner we will have a prize give away (with over 35 prizes so far.) Monday morning you will be given a wrist band, please keep it on as you will not be allowed into the room without one and you wont be eligible to win a prize. Each wrist band has a number on it with a matching detachable number which is torn off and placed in a container; to win a prize, the number on your wrist band must match the number picked at random from the container. The first prize winner will pick the number for the next prize winner and so on. We need to keep it moving so if you are not present and you number is picked, sorry but we'll will have to pick another number.
8. 30 - midnight: Entertainment
Dave our Dj will start the music and dancing with a little karaoke in between, and the rest is up to you :-)
9:30 - 10 a.m Tuesday (the time most of you picked.)
Meeting for breakfast at the TI buffet (the most popular choice by 2 - 1.) They have a good selection of foods which you can have or not have depending on your mood or restriction ;-) and at reasonable prices. If you would like to join us sign up here (click on "add record" to list your name.)

Please go to the website for more information
http://www.geocities.com/vegasbandsterball

Hi Jenny,
I went to Mexico alone to have my surgery with Dr. Ortiz on January 9th of
this year. I wasn't the least bit worried, in fact, I didn't mind going by
myself because I knew then that I could relax and do things at my pace. I
didn't feel like I had to keep anyone entertained or occupied (it's in my
nature to want to take care of others).
The minute I arrived in San Diego, I met up with someone else who was having
surgery with Dr. Ortiz on the same day. We were in the same shuttle to the
Lucerna Hotel to meet Mrs. Ortiz. During the course of the pre-op testing,
I was actually able to meet up with four other ladies who were having
surgery, too! It was great. We all went out to dinner together that
evening and left together to go to the hospital the next morning for
surgery.
If you decide to have surgery with Dr. Ortiz, you need not worry at all
about needing to know any Spanish. Dr. Ortiz, Dr. Martinez, Mrs. Martinez,
Marissa (the nutritionist) ALL speak PERFECT English and they will all be
there to help you with whatever you need. The nurses who took care of me
(Randy and Sergio) also spoke perfect English.
Let me know if you have any other questions. I'd be happy to help you
through your surgery experience.
Suzanne

Hi Jen,

I'm just curious,what made you change doctors?

Nikki

Friday, February 20, 2004, 11:48:56 PM, you wrote:
D
D
D
D
D
Well, it got moved again. It is now in the middle of my body, about
eight inches below my belly button. I have to be careful it doesn't
get caught in my zipper, though.
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

Jennifer,
I will be having surgery with Dr. Kuri on March 5th! I will be
traveling with someone I met on one of these bandster groups! She
will be having surgery with me on the 5th. Are you having surgery
on the 4th?
You can email me privately if you'd like. bethrn97 @ bellsouth. net
(just leave out the spaces)
Beth

During his presentation at the International Bariatric Conference of
World Leaders in Bariatric Surgery currently being held in Whistler
Canada, Walter Lindstrom announced yesterday that after his failed
gastric bypass surgery, he had a Lapband successfully placed by Dr.
Ariel Ortiz in Tijuana, Mexico! He had his Lapband surgery several
months ago and has lost a significant amount of weight.
It is also rumored that Walter and Dr. Ortiz will be on the cover of
Obesity Health Magazine with the full story.
Dr. Ortiz is giving his presentation today and excepts will soon be
available for us to read!
Sandy
Dr. Ariel Ortiz F.A.C.S.
328/225/180

Over the last 6 weeks I have lost an additional 16 lbs, and
without much effort!
Before I got my last fill my weight was pretty stable. Not losing,
and not gaining much. After the fill I decided to try the Atkins
approach. Not only has it been effective, but it's been no sweat.
There are so many fabulous low carb foods out there now. Every
day I have a wonderful desert or two. Last night it was chocolate
fudge cake (purchased on QVC, 3 carbs a serving.) Most
evenings it's an Atkins chocolate covered ice cream bar.
When I go to the movies I bring along Atkins candy or another
low carb brand. There are cheesy low carb snack foods for
munching and even delicious cereal bars and cookies.
If you feel stuck you might want to try the low carb diet. I eat no
more than 20 carbs a day. I feel satisfied, guilt free and
successful.
Write me if you want more info.
Lorane
9/18/03 Dr. Ortiz / Martinez
205/166/150

Will anyone be having surgery by Dr. Kuri or any other surgeon around
March 4th? -Jennifer

--- Oh Dan oh Dan!
You are so funny..Sometimes people forget that things they say
caually may seem like a hit and run attack to others. Just fall to
your knees and beg for forgivness! Most of these people may not
know or remember you are the guy that had his port moved to the
middle of his forehead lol.
Diane Age 55
03 04 03 Dr Joya
209 136 135

i have a surgery date of march 5 with dr ortiz
i will be arriving on march 3 in sandiego for my trip to tj.
anyone else going to be there during this time? would like to
actually meet someone who will be taking the journey with me
julie bray
fairhope al. usa

Hello Bipley,

I believe that you shouldn't have liquid calories IN GENERAL or
regularly. I believe that you'll see the Inamed literature and that
of many docs says the same thing.
But remember I ALWAYS to say whatever YOUR doctor says.
Once again, to each his/her own, as there is no "one right path", and
giving my opinion, experience, strength and hope is taken as
"instructions", so be it.
I also have a protein shake on occasion in the morning when I'm tight.
Usually I just have coffee, though.
dan

Hi All,
I live in the Phoenix area and am considering having lap band
placement in Mexico. Does anyone know of a Phoenix area doctor who is
willing to do fills on "MexicanBandsters"?
Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
LH

I believe there is, but you could also ask on AZBandsters.
dan
Friday, February 20, 2004, 6:18:54 PM, you wrote:
N
N
N
N
N
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

Hi,
Why do you need a prescription - do you go back to Mexico for your
fills or are you getting the adjustments in the states? Who is your
doctor?
I was banded in Mexico and get my adjustments in the States and I
didn't have to have a script!
Ardie/Fl.
Dr. Sanchez
//

Hi,
I am considering lap band surgery in Mexico.
This sounds like a frustrating situation for you.
Which surgeon did you lap band surgery?
Laura

In a message dated 2/19/2004 8:10:14 PM US Mountain Standard Time, fhambright@... writes:

Hi, I was banded 11/21/03, first fill 1/8/04, and not really
restricted still. I have emailed my surgeons office again asking
them for perscription for another fill so I can get adjusted, they
say the doctor says it is to soon for another fill, and ask me if I
was losing weight. I said yes I was loing about 1 pound a week,
but that is because I am fighting tooth & nail with my will power to
keep from eating to lose it, not because I am restricted which is
why I paid (out of pocket) and my will power is running thin (as it
always has in the past) Duh!!!!
I am crazy?? Haven't other people had a 2nd fill in a matter of
weeks if they know for sure they are not restricted??
Has anyone else had this problem with their mexican surgeon???
And of course I can't get the fill without the perscription.

My appointment is at 10:30 a.m. Hopefully I'll see you there!!
Robyn

Hi, I was banded 11/21/03, first fill 1/8/04, and not really
restricted still. I have emailed my surgeons office again asking
them for perscription for another fill so I can get adjusted, they
say the doctor says it is to soon for another fill, and ask me if I
was losing weight. I said yes I was loing about 1 pound a week,
but that is because I am fighting tooth & nail with my will power to
keep from eating to lose it, not because I am restricted which is
why I paid (out of pocket) and my will power is running thin (as it
always has in the past) Duh!!!!
I am crazy?? Haven't other people had a 2nd fill in a matter of
weeks if they know for sure they are not restricted??
Has anyone else had this problem with their mexican surgeon???
And of course I can't get the fill without the perscription.

what time is your appointment? I need to go in for a fill with him too. Let me know I am calling right now to make the appointment, I would love to meet you and talk about our experiences.

Gaby

12/29/03 Dr. Lopez

200/190/125
robynleem <robynleem@...

This Saturday morning (2/21) I will be going to see Dr. Lopez for a
fill. I would love to meet anybody who also is going that day.
Robyn M.
Dr. Lopez
9/7/03
221/163/150

This Saturday morning (2/21) I will be going to see Dr. Lopez for a
fill. I would love to meet anybody who also is going that day.
Robyn M.
Dr. Lopez
9/7/03
221/163/150

Thanks Dan :) I certainly do appreciate your opinion, I do belive that's the reason we are on here ??? Well, that's the reason I'm here anyway, and def. welcome yours and everyone else's opinion......actually, it's the opinions of others on here that has helped me form my own since prior to this, I had no knowledge of this topic!!! So, please keep them coming and I will do the same !!
Thanks,
Roz --- Pgh PA

When I got my fill Jan 7th I had restriction it was good and tight.
I ate out daily, lose 2 lbs a week made better food choices but also
ate less of the foods I love to eat.
By early Feb. my restriction loosened and the "smart" food choices
and smaller portions didn't stick. So I went for a fill on Feb.
11th and was only able to get about .1 cc in. That .1 cc hasn't
made a big difference in my portions (I was looking for the same
restriction I had after my Jan. 7 fill).
What I am learning is how to eat more food while consuming fewer
calories. For breakfast I may have 1 egg, 1 piece of toast and one
bowl of oat meal. I usually have a morning snack of a high fiber
breakfast bar, watermelon or an apple.
For lunch I have a bowl of pinto beans a chicken caesar salad with
ready made grilled pieces from Tyson (you can find them in the
freezer section with only 90 cals, 1 gram fat, 20 grams of protein
per 3 oz serving. For a afternoon snack I usually have watermelon,
an apple, or a protein drink.
Then for dinner I usually fix grilled grouper, chicken or a frozen
entree with broccoli. If I get hungry after dinner I have another
snack of cheese and milk or a protein drink.
I know I can eat a lot more than most but I have learned to eat more
without being hungry and making great food choices. Also I don't
like a variety of foods and don't get burned out so I love eating
pretty much the same things throughout the day but vary at dinner
time.
I actually like eating this way better because food doesn't get
stuck and even though I eat more, also am loosing more 2-3 pounds a
week!
Kimberly

Thursday, February 19, 2004, 6:35:26 AM, you wrote:
Rac
Rac
I assume you're referring to my comments from yesterday. The "top
three" are the ones who, in my personal opinion, fit in that category.
Others may list others in that category, or have other categories. I
don't plan to go into any details on my reasons for that opinion, at
least in public, mainly because I don't want to start any more "doctor
wars". If anyone has a serious interest in this, contact me
privately.
As always, my opinion is as good as anyone else's, and worth every
penny you just paid for it.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

I was banded by Dr. Sanchez on Jan. 16, 2004. It was a terrific
experience. I notice on alot of posts that people want to meet with
other people having fills or bands at the same time they are. That
is the beauty of seeing Dr. Sanchez. All his patients stay in his
guest house where you get to meet one another and exchange stories,
ideas etc. I wish I could afford to go back to Monterrey for my
fills because there is a sense of family there. The radiologist,
assistant and Dr. Sanchez himself come to the house pre and post op
to see everyone as a group or if you wish privately. The staff who
works at the house is great also. I would recommend Dr. Sanchez to
anyone.
Donna
banded 1/16/04
-26 lbs.

Will anyone be seeing Dr. Ortiz for a fill, or having surgery, between Wed 2/25 and Tuesday 3/2??? My hubby & I are flying in on 2/25 & I have surgery on Friday 2/27... then we'll be flying back out early morning on Wednesday 3/3. Would love to meet anyone that will be there at the same times!!

Elizabeth wrote:///Dr. Maugunbat in Seattle The price quoted was for $175.00.//
I've been told that Dr. Mangebout in Tukwila is no longer doing fills. He came
to the bash in January and talked to the docs and folks and realized that his
insurance didn't cover it. He's apparently a cosmetic surgeon whose assistant(?)
is banded, or something.
Darn!
Cathy G. Olympia
Dr. K 12/8
250/215/150

I am also a patient of Dr. Verboonen and am quite satisfied also. I
experienced a flipped port and the dr. here wanted to do another
surgery to turn it and stitch it. I contacted Marlon, arranged a fill
visit and Dr. Verboonen and Dr. Ponce de Leon both saw me and turned
my port around and did a fill without any additional surgery. It did
take a little longer than my first fill, as it took some manipulating
to turn it, but it sure beats having ANOTHER belly button, and it
didn't hurt, just some pressure. I have nothing bad to say about any
of the doctors that I have had dealings with. All have been qualified
and caring and they all just do things a little differently.
I would be happy to answer any questions regarding my experience off
list, so please feel free to email me.
Best regards
Janice
Dr. Verboonen 8/12/2003
-51

I was looking into Dr. Sanchez too but decided against it for the
same reasons. Then I was going to go to Dr. Kuri until I found Dr.
Rodriguez in Acuna Mexico.
All the doctors are great but it comes to what you are looking for.
If you are looking to get banded in a nice clean facility that is
competitive in cost with a great doctor then Dr. Rodriquez and Dr.
Kuri are the most competitive. (about $1000 difference in price
depending on the hospital you choose with Kuri).
If you plan to return to MX for a fill you want to go somewhere that
is closest or offers the best prices in airfare. (Dr. Kuri includes
his fills for life in his price where as Dr. Rodriguez does them at
$50 a fill). If you don't plan to go to the same doctor for fills
who does your banding this cuts costs drastically.
The MX doctors are great as far as skill but what they offer and the
hospital facilities are what you need to examine. I chose Dr.
Rodriguez because of his skill, prices, assistant, ease to return
for a fill (his assistant Barbara shuttles fill patients to Mexico
from San Antonio for only $20) and his full service hospital where
(God forbid) if an emergency occurs during operation I won't have to
be transported to another hospital.
Kimberly

Hi. I am trying to figure out which doc I should choose. Originally
I had decided on Sanchez, but after hearing some stuff have started
looking into Kuri and Ortiz as well. I would like to hear any
comments you have on those three doctors. Feel free to e-mail me
privately. -Jennifer

Ortiz and Kuri and Rumbaut are probably the "top three". First two in
TJ, latter in Monterrey. I'd gladly go to any of them, and am a very
happy Ortiz patient. Email privately if want more info, as don't want
to start any "doctor wars" or "my doctor is better than your doctor"
stuff.
dan
Wednesday, February 18, 2004, 8:46:53 AM, you wrote:
JaS
JaS
JaS
JaS
JaS
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

Wednesday, February 18, 2004, 7:08:13 AM, you wrote:
Lac
Lac
post?? Could
Lac
be
Lac
Search the archives of SmartBandsters for Grossbard and I'm sure
you'll find it. Same for archives of any other boards you're on.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

My daughter Michelle Woodard has been on your message board she had her lap band done yesterday by Dr Ortiz in TJ I talked to her today and she is feeling great up walking around. She said she has a little tight feeling but really no discomfort. She will be going back to the hotel either this afternoon or tomarrow probably today. I had gastric bypass 2 years ago and have lost 152 pounds so I know how important this is too her and I am so reliefed that it has gone so well SHe said Dr Ortiz is wonderful The hospital is very good clean and the nursing staff has been wonderful. They hope to go back to San Diego on thrusday.. Thanks for all your prayers and help for My Shelly.. Love to all Corky Osborn

I hope there aren't any problems with it because I added my surgery
cost to my unreimbursed medical. I was wondering if anyone has used
the cost of fills in their unreimbursed medical. I am paying $300 a
pop to do it in the states and have had my first fill in Jan. of this
year (and expect I'll end up needing at least one or two more). So
I'm thinking ahead to 2004 and wondering if anyone had used fill fee
in unreimbursed medical.
Laura

--
I'm not a Dr. but I was told this type of pain could be caused from
air bubbles left in the abdomen after the op. and they will go away
soon.

Hi

I had my lap band and hernia surgery 11 days ago. Everything went well and I have been feeling fine. However, in the last 3 or 4 days I've started getting pains in my shoulders and arm. I am not doing any physical exercise except walking. I have lost 15lbs. Does anyone know what this may be. It feels like I did exercise or strained my arm but I haven't. I started some protein drinks yesterday. Go figure.

kim

Monday, February 16, 2004, 12:58:04 PM, you wrote:
cac
cac
cac
cac
cac
cac
cac
That sounds too tight to me, but only you can judge it. I'm about
seven weeks since last fill, and it is a touch looser than it was. I
have to be careful with solids, but at least most of the temptation to
have "soft crap" is gone.
But only you, not your partner, can decide if you can live with it.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

Valerie
When you say the mid band do you mean the lap band? US drs only do fills on
the lap band . i am having a lapband in March and want to be sure i get the right one. Thanks for your comments and answer to this question ahead of time. Debby

hi everybody i am stayce somebody hack my account my email was
staycewether23 since saturday a friend of my told me about change
the password two times a month he is an computer analisist and he

I had my second fill, and then a refill due to not having enought restriction last Tuesday. OMG!!! I am so tight, I have been on liquids since. I cant even drink a protien shake due to its thickness. I am lucky to hold water down without chucking it. Dan, I know your last fill was very tight...when will it loosen up?!? Solids are just not an option right now, and my partner is threatening to take me back to get some taken out.
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
-43.5

No problems. Nowhere does the IRS ask or care where your medical
treatment was done. I'm not an accountant, but I can assure you that
a zillion bandsters have done this with no problems. My taxes will be
done today, I hope, and they include the unreimbursed medical.
dan
Monday, February 16, 2004, 10:34:51 AM, you wrote:
D
D
D
D
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

Monday, February 16, 2004, 9:44:23 AM, you wrote:
Rac
Rac
Rac
Rac
Rac
Rac
All depends. If you're going back to the surgeon for fills, no.
Doesn't matter. If you're getting fills in the USA, there are MANY
docs who will fill only the two FDA approved bands. Some will fill
any band, however. Talk to Dr. Sanchez about fills BEFORE you go to
see him. Also talk to him about what bands he prefers and why.
Rac
Rac
Rac
Rac
Many have minimal restriction right after banding. Many consume lots
of liquid calories right after banding. Those are at least two
reasons to not lose at first. Others of us were VERY tight after
banding, and lost a LOT at first. Like all other things in bandland,
it all varies on you, your band, your habits, your willingness to
change, and so forth.
Rac
Rac
Rac
Rac
Rac
Talk to YOUR doctor about what to drink and eat and when. They vary
quite a bit. Sure, he's not likely to prescribe milkshakes and ice
cream, but that doesn't mean that some don't consume them anyway.
Rac
Rac
Rac
Whether you eat junk or not is up to YOU and you ALONE. The band
can't stop you from having milk shakes and lots of other liquid
calories.
You seem to have your head in the right place and be asking good
questions, so I'll bet you'll do fine. And, don't forget the
exercise, which is vital.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

Has anyone experienced any problems claiming their surgery done in
Mexico as a medical deduction on their taxes?? Just wondering
because I am getting ready to file ours and don't want any
surprises. Any Accountants out there? Thanks ~~

Hi,
I'm hearing so many different things I'm getting really confused!! I guess confused isn't such a bad thing though!!! I am going to Dr. Sanchez on the 27th of February..........I guess I need to know which bands are FDA approved and if it is important to have an FDA approved band?? Also, I have been reading many posts from people who are not losing weight or who haven't lost weight in the beginning. I guess I'm confused about why, if we eat the right foods, and eat less of them......would one not lose weight immediately after being banded. I understand that our bodies have been on a roller coaster, but I can't help but think that if one eats healthy foods and less of them, that with the band, the weight should come off almost immediately ?????? True or false??? I was told that I would be on liquids for a few weeks..........I'm assuming that liquids does NOT meam Milkshakes and drinks high in calories???? Is Slimfast okay to drink in the beginning...??? See, I am
totally clueless !!! Can someone let me know what a healthy "liquid diet" might be............my desire is to this the best way possible..........I don't want to eat junk anymore and I want to do this right so I lose. Help !!
Thanks,
Roz

Sunday, February 15, 2004, 4:47:00 PM, you wrote:
H
H
There are three inamed bands. The 9.75 and 10 cm are approved for use
in the US. The 11 cm is not, but is used by some Mexican and other
foreign docs.
dan
Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.gailndan.com/lapband
Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03
323/217/199 Age 61

Valerie, did you go back and get another free fill from the doctors at Red
River Radiology? Was this your first fill? I think if you told them you
needed a certain kind and they did not use it and it leaked out, then they
would give you the kind you need and should do it at no charge. Did you do
that? What happened if you did? I want to know if they stood behind their
work, because we refer people to them. Did you go back?
Martha

Inamed makes various size lap bands to fit various needs and it is important
to be sure your surgeon uses one of those, you have to have the fills to
make it work, you control how much you eat and therefore how fast you lose
weight, the band helps you control portions depending on how tight you have
it filled. Some people have chosen bands not FDA approved and they can not
get them filled here by most doctors. That is really important for you to
consider. I think all Mexican doctors offer the Inamed band, or use it on
American patients but be sure you discuss it ahead of time and insist on it.
Remember nobody can foresee the future, you don't know for sure that you can
always be able to get back to Mexico to be filled. If it happens that you
can not go back, you will need to have a band that can be filled in America.
Martha

I don't post on this board much. I usually on post on
Dr. Rodriquez's board. For those of you who have a
midband and go to/plan to go to Red River Radiologists
to have a fill done, you have to insist on the
Iopamadrol solution for your band as the saline that
they put in comes out within a few days. The midband
handbook does state that you need the Iopamadrol.
When I was in Paris, Texas, I told the doctor who did
my fill this information but he stated that he saw
substituting saline as no big deal. The saline will
not stay in your midband for very long. Mine stayed a
few days at most. I am not meaning to dis these drs.
but am just letting others know my experience.
valerie in oklahoma
dr. rod, 11-25-03

I'd like to let everyone know about Dr. Walter Dobson in Dallas Fort
Worth. He is providing aftercare for many mexican bandsters! He
charges $150 for a fill, $250 w/ floro. IV therapy is also available
if you should get dehydrated or nausea. He also provides IV
suplimentation including B-Complex and/or Albumin. Dr. Dobsons phone
number is 972-660-3188. Does anyone know how to add him to the list
of fill surgeons in the United States? I tried but it did not work.