BeanieandRosie'smom

Hey So Ready! I am doing ok! Just walking around, still have major gas pains... I would love it if you'd email me!

Jjansen71, I am in the same boat as you! Lost 30lbs...kept most of it off until I got completely drained in March and then gained 50 back... Do You have your sleeve yet? Erika

Hey there! I am currently in Tijuana, got converted last night. It was quite the rough night...I had a lot of nausea, but theyve taken care of me here! My Dr. I Jose Rodriguez. He did my band as well. I would highly reccommend him. He has done over 3,000 sleeves! He is a very nice man. I got to talk to him for about an hour the day before my surgery. he really specializes in tough cases so I feel safe with him. Please feel free to hit me up with questions you may have! Erika erikaj@aol.com

Sorry for two posts. I'm on my iPhone at work and it told me I couldn't post bc it timed out so I wrote a new one!

Hey! Don't panic! I cheated on Saturday and contacted my patient/surgical coordinator and she said it was fine!! She said they only expect people to try their best to stay on it. I cheated on the same pre-op before my Lap Band surgery in 2010, and the surgeon told me my liver looked great. My friend had her sleeve done in may and her surgeon didn't even have a pre-op diet for her. She did beautifully. I am sure you will be fine! I am around 250, so I'm not sure if the cheating makes a bigger difference if you are in the 300's, 400's, etc...but my guess is that you'll be just fine. Main point: no one is perfect, or expects you to be! Best of luck!!!!!!! My surgery is Friday! Eeeek! Erika

Hey!! Don't panic! I cheated Saturday and told my surgical coordinator. She said it was fine, and they only expect you to "try your best." I felt horrible, but then I didn't feel so bad after she said that. My friend who had her surgery in May didn't even have a pre-op diet, and she was fine. I doubt there will be a problem. I had the same pre-op diet with my lap band and I also cheated, and they told me my liver looked great. I am around 250lbs. I'm not sure if how big a deal Cheating is the bigger you are. Main point: don't beat yourself up. No one is perfect! Good luck!!! Erika

I am on my pre-op diet as well. It feels so strange because I have done this all before with the lap band! I even said goodbye to my beloved diet pop two years ago, only to realize I could have it again. I feel more mentally ready this time because I have dealt with some of my emotional eating, and I am wholly aware of just HOW emotional eating is for me. (That is something that the sleeve will not fix!!) I have a great book about emotional eating that has really helped me. It's called: "The Weight Loss Surgery Coping Companion." I highly recommend it to you guys having emotional eating issues, it will not get easier unless you address it! Now I'm here again, doing the pre-op and clinging to my diet coke & Pepsi (I would give up alcohol for diet pop in a heartbeat!!) But I am okay giving up gigantic portions because it will mean a healthier me. Much love & luck to you all! Erika PS Yes it has made me gassy...and it did the first time too...too much meat and vegetables. My husband is doing the pre-op with me to be supportive....and let me tell you...his gas is making our house liable to burst into flames...ughhhh!!

Hey Karen, I am ultra sensitive and I think a few of the things that have been posted were not as kind as they could have been. Everyone has those moments like "Ahhh! What have I done?!" But you'll get past it. I have had a lap-band for two years. I have hated every bit of it, but you know what's funny? We all kind of learn to adapt to whatever is thrown our way. It is only human. My "normal" became making sure I had empty cups with kids with me at all times in case I slimed! I am with you on being a big eater!! I love my huge portions and for me, food is a huge part of my comfort. I have been to counseling, which I'd recommend-find someone who specializes in weight loss surgery patients! I am getting this surgery and I don't think all my issues are resolved yet. I am working, one day at a time. Just remember that soon enough, this will be your new normal, and you'll be happy with how your body is looking and feeling!! Best of luck to you, and HUGS!!! ????????????

CowGirlJane, You look fantastic! And reading your post made me cry! I think we all know how deeply emotional the "weight" issue is. I am so happy that you feel "normal!" I want to feel that way too. I hate my band so much and I am very nervous about my surgery (one month from today). It is so encouraging to hear that you can eat, (gasp!), veggies! With the band, I'd be sliming till every last bit was back up. I love carrots, peppers, all the fibrous stuff... Congratulations to you and much luck in the future!! ????

My surgery is one month from today and I'm freaking out. I have a buddy I'm talking to about her experience with the VSG, and she has done wonderfully. I am just afraid that I will hate it. I have had my lap-band for almost two years and I'm 10-15lbs heavier than I was when I GOT my band. I threw up or "slimed" every day. I am so nervous and afraid I will feel trapped in this new decision, even though I'm so desperate to get this weight off. I am also scared that I'm not mentally strong enough! Anyone with helpful words or advice either way would be so appreciated! Thank you!

I was just hoping to find a surgery date buddy on here...I am getting my sleeve done 8-17-12 with Dr. Rodriguez in Tijuana, Mexico. I had my Lap Band done with him in 2010 and had a great experience! Feel free to email me: erikaj@aol.com. Have a great day!!

I wasn't trying to be mean about other's surgeons. I was just saying what I had heard and thought it was pertinent to the discussion. I said that he seems to be a good surgeon, but here are the reasons why I, personally did not choose him. (Him being Dr. Almanza, my mistake). Personal comfort, we all make decisions every day that are different based on who we are. I didn't think it was unfair to present the criteria of why I chose one surgeon over another. I wasn't trying to run a slander campaign. Good luck to you in your journey!

OMG! Sweet Susie...I got myself mixed up! I meant Dr. Almanza all along. I have a feeling I wrote that late at night?! :{ How embarrassing. I meant Dr. Almanza, not Alvarez...please accept my sincere apologies for the mix up!

http://www.verticalsleevetalk.com/topic/29062-opinion-of-dr-almanza-and-his-facility-in-tijuana/ Read....This isn't the only place I've heard these things. It's all personal choice and comfortability level. I have no doubt that Dr. Almanza is a competent and capable doctor, (as I did say before). Obviously there are many happy with him! I am not a "hater," and I'm sad that this was said, not exaclty classy. I have friend who is connected closely with the mexican surgeon's community, and has had several surgeries herself there, one with Dr. Almanza in 2010. She told me what she knows... I was just presenting the info I had, and did not try to "knock" him. I am just more comfortable paying more and getting a different setting. And FYI, Dr. Aceves is one of the pricier doctors. My quote for surgery with Dr. Almanza--for a Lap Band removal and sleeve revision was more than half what Dr. Aceves' quote for the same procedure. Dr. Rod is in the middle of the two. I'm glad you are happy with your decisions! We are all entitled to our own respectful opinions! Good luck to everyone, and let's keep it positive on here.

It must be awful to not have that family support! I wouldnt have been able to get it! My mom has encouraged me to do the sleeve (and is footing the bill!) My dad is supportive, mainly because I think he's worried about my health. He was a little concerned that I thought WLS was a panacea (I know better after a failed lap band!) but he wants me to do it! My husband is so laid back. He is supportive of anything that makes me happy. To say I don't deserve him is an understatement since I am the nagger/moody/grump of the year! Even though my immediate family is supportive, I am not telling my extended family. I know theyd be against it and I didn't tell them about my lap band. I had to tell my boss since I'm taking time off, and she was not supportive, and neither were my coworkers. It's hard when they have no concept of what the sleeve is or really WLS in general. They don't think I'll be safe, and just don't understand. Mainly because they are naturally stick thin! Good luck to everyone. Don't let anyone get you down---or as my mom says "Don't let anyone steal your joy!" this is your decision for YOU. You know the risks, this is a choice you will live with, and no one else! My husband keeps telling me to ignore others and not psych myself out! Hugs! Erika

I was actually just talking about this with my mom. I am not lactose intolerant, but I have a fairly strong IGg delayed allergy to milk, as well as an "instant" allergy. It makes my stomach upset, but I've been in love with dairy my whole life. I've never been able to tolerate milk shakes too well, straight up milk is hard for me. After I had my gallbladder out last September, everytime I ate dairy for a few months, I was extremely nauseous and even vomited. I have a strong feeling that I may not be able to eat my beloved Greek yogurt and cheese after surgery! I guess I will be searching for soy protein shakes?! I bet I will have a hard time with whey. Good luck to all of you with dairy tolerance!!

I am paying 7800, but I am a band to sleeve revision. It is more like 7000 for an initial sleeve through Beliteweight.

I forgot to mention that I was at INT hospital in Tijuana like one of the other people posted--just a different doctor. It is not a huge hospital, but very clean and professional. I don't know your location, but I know Dr. Rod does surgeries at Star Medica hospital in Juarez also. If I wasnt close to San Diego, I would definitely go there...it looks super nice. It is also a very large hospital--so again, personal preference. I will get you a price as well! I can't remember exact, I will ask my husband.

Hi Sunshine Squirt! I had my lap band done in Mexico in 2010 through BeLiteWeight, with Dr. Jose Rodriguez. I am again going back for my sleeve surgery. I believe he is a superior doctor, (there are many in Mexico!), and I really felt safe and taken care of when I was there the first time. His prices are a little more than Almanza, but far less than say Aceves (who has received excellent reviews). I contemplated using Dr. Almanza because he is so cheap. I did a lot of research and although I think he is a great surgeon, I read some things that scared me. He does do several surgeries in one day. Most of the Mexican surgeons do, but some of them do far less which is reassuring. He works out of a clinic which makes me a little uneasy, even though I've heard there is a nearby ICU. There were a few hold ups/robberies that were confirmed by Dr. Almanza's staff. (Louise) That freaked me out. They also have recovery houses that people can choose to stay in, or a hotel. The recovery houses have more than one bed in each room and relatives/spouses cannot stay with you there. I have heard from a reliable source that there are reasons why doctors like Almanza can do their surgeries so cheap. They don't use brand name staples and materials. I know for a fact that Dr. Rodriguez uses Johnson & Johnson staples, Allergan bands, etc... That is worth the extra money to me. My facilitator said you can contact companies and ask them if a certain doctor or hospital uses their products. With Dr. Rodriguez, I'll be staying at the hospital for three full nights which is all included in the price. My husband can also stay in my room with me. I stayed there in 2010, so I know that the rooms are very clean, and have private full baths with shower, toilet, and sink. (And a flat screen tv with English TV!) Dr. Rodriguez and his staff of doctors all speak English which is comforting. I've heard that Almanza does not speak English but has a translator. (Not vital, just personal comfort levels I guess). If you want more info, I'd be happy to connect you with my AWESOME facilitator, Jessica. I've known her since 2010, and she literally gives you her home phone to call her. She answers my emails within the hour. She is amazing. I love Beliteweight and I totally trust them. http://www.beliteweight.com/ Good luck to you!! Erika

This makes me so sad. People, children and adults can be so cruel. I am a teacher (Pre-K) so I know all too well what kids innocently, and not-so-innocently say. I hope this can make you feel better. I have an adopted brother who is 9 years old. His name is Humoody and he is from Iraq. He was shot in the face with a shot gun he was two years old and his face is disfigured, he is completely blind and missing an eye. The one he does have is covered by a fake eye cap that looks real. He has been through hell as far as being teased and made fun of, having adult strangers come up to my parents (IN FRONT OF HIM) and say "what's wrong with your kid's face??" Too bad he is blind, not deaf, and he happens to be extremely intelligent. He is at the top of his class in math and reading and has a personality and sense of humor matched by few. I only thank god that he can't see people's rude stares at him. So just remember, it's not all bad. You could have been disfigured or blinded. You are on your way to a healthier, thinner you. People that give you crap or say rude things have their own insecurity issues. People that are secure don't make comments to their children or others about some families "must eat fried food." You have to feel sorry for their kids because they are learning from example. Your kids will have compassion and character for dealing with this. I used to get yelled at: "Sueeeyy! Suueey!" when I was in elementary school. It was tough, but I'm better for it. Check out these links if you like, they could give you a new perspective on being made fun of, etc... http://community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/archive/?date=20060711&slug=muhammed11m http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2003714541_iraqboy20m.html http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2003316900_iraqboy22m.html http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2003544835_iraqboy28m.html http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2003989172_iraqboy02m.html http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2008123196_hamoody19m.html Humoody is my little brother and he is now 9 and in the 3rd grade and thriving! He tells me he doesn't understand why I am having surgery because I have a great personality. If only we could all love like a blind child! <3 He sees what really matters.

Hi! I am getting my sleeve 8-17-12 in Tijuana, Mexico with Dr. Jose Rodriguez.

Spelling correction! " the next YOU'RE dead asleep." Re-read my post and caught that grammatical error.

You can request a sedative before being put under. I had that done when I had surgery in Mexico because I was really freaked out that I was there, not because of anesthesia. I fell asleep before surgery! I am one of those people that hates that loss of control you have when you faint, get really drunk, etc... But going under anesthesia is nothing like that. I've been put under about five or six times and it's no big deal. The last time, my doctor told me she was putting a margarita in my IV! That's the last I remember. It's not gradual, it's like one minute you're there, the next your dead asleep. It's like taking a nap, and you feel really groggy when you wake up. You don't blackout or slowly fade into it. I usually say "bye!" and I'm gone! Also, wanted to comment on the calories thing. Just got me a little worried for you. You are unfortunately going to still have to worry about calories for the rest of your life. After surgery, food becomes a much bigger part of your life in a different way. I had lap band surgery thinking the same thing. I am now ten pounds higher than I was when I got the band. You can eat around it. You can cheat and drink with meals and help wash things through. You can get lots of calories into a small amount eating crappy foods. You can eat bits of high calorie food all day long. It's not a panacea, and WLS means something much different to me now than it did before. It's just a tool. I have to change my behaviors in order for it to work! Best of luck to you!!

Tulipstar, you are what I would love to be!! I'm so happy to hear you love your sleeve! So, I hate my lap band for lots of reasons. Fills and unfills are expensive. Ive had them cost up to $400. I never got to a sweet spot. I have the small Allergan band. It is extremely finicky. I only was filled 3ccs at the end and was sliming (puking) everything I ate. As someone else said, it encourages bad eating habits. You still have your whole stomach with the band. I only ever felt "full" in my esophagus. (which was painful) That doesn't equate to full in my brain. I was eating healthy foods, puking them, puking them, no matter how hard I tried. So, I'd eventually just go for some cream Soup, ice cream and candy! It goes down and fills you up! Unfortunately, my anger made me rebellious and I would just overeat that crap because I was so upset and felt like such a failure with the Lap Band. I ended up with scar tissue in my esophagus and my lap band slipped because I puked/slimed so much. It is a miserable existence. I'd tell the nurse/surgeon and they'd unfill me and we'd "start all over" (if you throw up a lot, your stomach swells and then nothing goes through). Then you have to start all over on liquids, then mushies, etc... And try to be disciplined enough to not over eat untill your next fill. Then you slowly get filled up (they can't do it all in one fill) and hope you have enough restriction, or not too much. I lost 30 lbs with the band, but I believe it was all puking/my effort. The band was a hard tool to use. You're never able to eat in the morning, because your stomach swells at night while you're sleeping. (it happens to everyone I've ever talked to :/ ) Now, I'm unfilled totally, miserable and 10lbs over my band start weight! the port is very sore and if you wear jeans or anything that cuts into your waist, you'll feel it all day Hope that helps! Erika