annestoy

Jenn, I changed to the sleeve because I didin't want to have to find a doctor for my fills since I had my surgery done in Mexico. My BMI was only 31 so insurance wouldn't pay.

Jasonsmom, I changed my mind on the band and got the sleeve 9 days ago. I'm still on (supposed to be on) Clear Liquids which give me no energy at all. I should have waited until I could take full liquids before returning to work. Otherwise, all is well. The experience overall was great. How about you?

Randall, I'm way ahead of you! I checked out your rocking site a long time ago when doing my own research! You are doing so well and look really, really good!! Anne

Ilse, That's great about getting the sleeve. My doctor in Mexicali said that he is doing about 20 sleeves now to one band and will probably quit doing bands by next year. If you haven't thought about it, you might want to buy a few of those instant heating pads from Walgreens or Walmart. I thought the heat felt good while in and out of the hospital. Also, a good tip after you get out of the hospital, is to get a Coke Icee or Slushie. Something about the cola and caffine makes things a little better on the tummy. Good luck! Anne

Hi everyone! I just got banded 6 days ago and everything everyone has said is true about Dr. Aceves and his team! Here are things you can get with Dr. Aceves and his team that you won't get in the U.S: Someone to drive you to the hospital and hotel and airport as needed. Someone who speaks English that will walk you through pre-testing, the hotel features, the hospital procedures and features. Everyone is ready for you when you get there. Very little waiting around for anything. Three doctors who come by three times a day and really care about YOU and your spouse if you bring one. Press the nurse call button and you get someone in 5 minutes or LESS! No charge to repair a hiatal hernia found during my procedure! Fluffy, white, clean towels and soft toliet paper in the bathroom/shower which has a hand-held shower device. A sofa with clean sheets and a blanket and pillow for your spouse. My husband and I had a good time visiting with other patients and their families and comparing notes. You get an extra day in the hospital. All nurses wear white uniforms and the female nurses wear the little nurse caps! So professional and sharp! No BEEPING, IRRITATING I.V. drip stations or anything else that beeps in the night for no good reason. You get the old timey kind that work just fine. I'm sure I've left some things out, but these are the ones that impressed me most! Anne Powell Sleeved on July 14, 2008 Dr. Aceves, Dr. Lopez and Dr. Campos

How is it going? I got sleeved 6 days ago and I'm back at work and 8 pounds lighter! The hospital and doctors were great. Now, I'm trying to figure out what I can drink that tastes ok, not too sweet and will give me energy. I made popsicles with my protein powder and fruit and yogurt and put them in the freezer for this, but they taste gross. I've been trying all kinds of stuff. I'm going to try Slim Fast low carb in chocolate, I hear on the forums that it's a favorite.

I asked the doctor if he would change my surgery to VSG which is the sleeve instead of the band. I should hear something today.

Lynlynkr, Are you getting excited? My surgery is scheduled for the 14th!! and I see you are scheduled for the 16th! I've made some frozen fruit smoothies with protein powder and yogurt and put them in the freezer already. I hope I don't have a problem with cold things. My husband has a lap band and he has a hard time with cold things in the mornings. I am also going to buy some V-8 Splash that is mostly fruit and also made with carrot juice and make some smooties in order to get in my vegs. How about you? Are you getting ready for the big day?? - Anne (Dr. Aveces in Mexicali)

I'm scheduled for July 14th in Mexicali with Dr. Aceves!

Lyn - I get to go first on July 14 so I can tell you what to expect if I get online, and I hope to.

In response to:I know I haven't had a fill yet, but shouldn't I be losing weight since I'm netting 500-700 calories a day after subtracting the calories I burn in the gym? Is this normal? - I don't know if it's normal but it sure is discouraging! Let us know if you find out what the problem is. My guess would be that you need a fill, but maybe someone who has experienced this can give a better answer! AP

I forgot to add that I have a surgery date of Monday, July 14th. Also, I am taking the week off and my hubby is good at taking care of me if I need it but I hope I don't need much. Hi to you guys in Alabama! I grew up in Mobile and have family in Wilmer now if that is familiar to any of you. Roll Tide! Anne

I'm self paying because my husband had his band done through insurance and it cost him more out of pocket than I will pay by having it done in Mexico. My doctor is Dr. Aveces in Mexicali and the cost is $8,2000 for everything except airfare. My husband paid over $10,000 out of pocket. I am hoping my husbands doctor will do my fills but if he won't, I can drive about 3 hours to a fill center in Austin for them. I am 45 years old, 5'6" and weigh 211 pounds so I have a low BMI. I am on medication for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and acid reflux. I am also starting to get plantar fascitis (heal pain) in both feet. I was a skinny kid with small bones. I quit smoking about 13 years ago and the weight has been creeping on ever since and my body needs relief! I feel so sleepy and tired all the time so I'm fairly sure I have sleep apnea. Hubby says I snore.:Angel_anim: I am so excited to get a jump start on loosing weight! I've started exercising on my stationary bike and I've ordered Protein powder for post-op. I hope the band will allow me to get into some better eating habits because I sure can't seem to eat smaller portions without getting hungry soon after the meal. I'm going to start the South Beach diet a week prior to surgery in order to shrink my liver. Anne