altzma

July 30th. Down 25 lbs since surgery!

My nutritionist told me to use Stevia. It tastes pretty good.

I am nearly 6 weeks post op and my doctor said to get 60-80 grams of protein each day. He said eat the protein first because it fills you up and keeps you full. He is not concerned with calories or fat, just protein and water.

My eyes were blurry for the first 5 days but got better after I stopped my pain meds.

Four weeks post op and my doctor said I could have regular coffee and tea.

My surgery was on July 30th and I have only lost 18-19 lbs. I keep losing and gaining the same pound. Can you tell me how many calories you are taking each day and your exercise routine?

I never received a PPI and asked my doctor about it. He said he only prescribes if the person has acid reflex. I have not and haven't had issues. I am wondering why he doesn't prescribe when it seems the majority do?

My doctor said the process takes 1-2 years and won't give me a goal or benchmark. He said just keep doing what you are doing and don't obsess over a number. I am 3 weeks post op today and have lost 18 lbs. I did not have a pre op liquid diet.

Me too! Good luck!

Congratulations! That is impressive progress!!!

Good luck to you!

I was sleeved on July 30th and am returning to work (desk job) on Aug 8th. I will let you know how it goes.

Hi everyone! I got my sleeve on 7-30-13 in Las Vegas with Dr. Tom Umbach as an outpatient. Here is the rundown of the events: My surgery was scheduled for 12pm so I arrived at 10a. Completed paperwork, paid my co-pay and then answered questions with a nurse. Got in my gown, compression tights and non skid socks by 11a. Gave urine sample (for pregnancy test). Received IV and two Percocet (got fuzzy after about 45 minutes but didn't fall asleep). Waited with my husband in holding area for a few hours until I was taken to a final holding room with one other person. Note - Dr. Umbach and the nurses checked on me at least 10 times during the holding period. The Dr. apologized for the delay and I said no worries. Take your time - especially with me. Anesthesiologist introduced himself and asked if I had any allergies, questions, etc. Very nice guy - Dr. Link. Moved to surgery room at approximately 3pm. Dr. Link told me what he was doing and in 2 seconds, I was out. Surgery was an hour and another hour for recovery. I woke up and was incredibly tired and just wanted to sleep. Next I had to use the IV holder like a walker to go to the bathroom to change. It was so hard. Soon after they told me to pick a bear or moose as my bariatric buddy to use to cough on or help support my tummy (cute but I didn't really use it). They put me in a wheelchair and wheeled me out at around 5p. I was extremely tired and went right to bed, however it was difficult to sleep because I had some pain and was coming out of the anesthesia. Post Op - I took a pain pill every 4 hours until Thursday afternoon (two days) and then stopped. I started walking the next day (in my bedroom doing circles) about two sessions of 15 minutes and started drinking protein shakes and water as much as possible. The Pure Protein Chocolate shakes are packed with protein (36g) but are super sweet. I tried another power shake (Nectar Vanilla Bean Torte) with almond mike which tasted like vanilla cake mix. On Fri (three days after surgery), I had chicken broth and it was the best thing ever. I then had a sugar free jello and sugar free popsicle and later mixed chicken broth with chicken broth and vegetable soup mix I got online from Bariatric Choice (strained out the vegetable chunks). It was wonderful. I also mixed greek yogurt with Crystal light and it was great because it wasn't so sweet. Today more soup and popsicles, sugar free jello pudding and mixed protein shots with jello but haven't tasted it yet. The medical director called me today (Sat) to see how I was and said I could have unsweetened applesauce as well. BTW, I went out to eat with my family this afternoon and drank water and my soup mix from a thermal cup. I was fine and didn't eat anything from the restaurant. I feel extremely fortunate as I have not gotten sick yet. Regarding the outpatient vs inpatient, I think it's a personal choice. My doctor is in surgery twice a week and does about 10 bariatric surgeries a day so I was not concerned since that is his specialty. I hope this info is helpful in making you feel better. I am returning to work on Wed but actually felt I could have gone to work the next day....but I didn't. Good Luck!

Great news for you Spiritwind!

Count me in for tomorrow too. Surgery isn't until 12p but wish it was earlier. Seriously, at lunchtime? Ironic? Ha Ha to me

My first appt. was with the bariatric doctor in April and I had one in May, June and July. I didn't go to a PCP (didn't have one) until June and she sent me for the blood work and did the EKG, etc. She also signed the required letter stating she recommended me for the surgery. Keep in mind, if your insurance is like mine, you have to have 90 days elapse between the 3 physician visits before submitting. For example, you can't go for the first on June 30th, next on July 30th and last on August 1st. I am thinking you will have to submit in Sept which is right around the corner. My surgery is tomorrow. Woo Hoo! Good luck to you and stay positive!

Happy birthday to you! Just think, next year you will feel and look great to celebrate so much!

Hi! I am having my surgery with Dr. Umbach on Tues. Can you please answer some questions for me? How long you were in the hospital? Did you take Chapstick, your phone and charger, gas x strips, etc? What did you take and what did you use? Also, what brand of Protein Shakes are you drinking and what medication did he provide! I was given Percocet (generic) which scares me. Did you buy any antacids or use anything else over the counter or prescribed? Please let me know if possible. Thanks!

Hi everyone! I was approved! 1st appt - April 22nd Last appt - July 15th Submitted to insurance - July 16th Approved - July 22nd Surgery date - July 30th

Hope you feel better soon!

You too!

Thanks! My info was submitted to Cigna on Tues so I am hoping for an approval!

Did everyone have multiple visits with the nutritionist? My doctor's office said I only need one.

I am so excited for you and can't wait to have my surgery at the end of the month (fingers crossed). What an exciting journey you are about to embark upon. Take care and think positive thoughts. The power of positive thinking is amazing and you will do great! Please keep us posted on your progress.