Mindi-less

If I eat and drink at the same time--it HURTS!--and then I pb. My doctor told me that the fluid puts pressure on the food/band. Stopped me fast from drinking and eating!

Jonathan, Good luck in your surgery. I'm sure you'll be happy with your decision. It doesn't matter where you get it done, only that you do it! It's a decision I'm really glad I made..although I did get banded in TJ, luckily it's only a 3 hour drive and I love staying in San Diego anyway! And I love Dr. Ortiz and Martinez!

I was also banded by Dr. Ortiz in Mexico, and I cannot praise them high enough. All the nurses but one spoke English, and I LOVE Dr. Martinez and his aftercare at their clinic. I'm grateful for them, and would do it again in a heartbeat. I know I'm just starting this journey, but I'm glad I'm taking it!

Fran, The liquids weren't too bad, my doctor had me drinking Gatorade, so I got different flavors, that helped a bit. What made it worth it is the weight loss. I feel better, and the 20 pounds gone is wonderful! Good luck and keep us posted!

Fran! Congradulations on your decision. You won't regret it.

Danyielle, I was banded two weeks ago by Dr. Ortiz in Mexico. I couldn't be happier! I wasn't "fat" or sick enough for insurance to even think of covering for a little of it. Dr. Ortiz and his facility are the best. Oh and by the way, I took the train from my home in Sunland to San Diego on Thursday, was picked up by their team, and was taken care of the whole time until they dropped me off on Sunday to take the train home---by myself. It was scary at first to think I was alone, but my cell phone still worked and I called all my friends, and then I wasn't alone. If you decide to do it, and need a hand to hold, I'm only about 3 hours away from San Diego, and wouldn't mind holding someone else's hand! (Although the staff did a great job!) Take care!

OOPs! Looks like I misread and misunderstood Dr. Ortiz's Nutritionish, Dr. Miranda's writing. They have changed the fourth week. I'll go back immediately! Don't want to ruin this!

I thought I was following my surgeon's advice. I will check into it further, and go back to liquids for now! Thanks for the advice.

Thanks Leatha, I'll try that, and I'm glad (I guess) that I have that restriction.

Hi, I'm really new to the banding, as well as forums. I was banded on October 22 by Dr. Ortiz in Tijuana, Mexico. So far I have lost 18 pounds, and am thrilled by that, but am a little depressed by the inability to eat most anything without it getting "stuck" and painful. Probably am still eating too fast...years of training as a nurse on the job! Any hints about the eating? soon to be less Mindi!