Chapamar

I notice the hair loss but I started Biotin right at the time of surgery so the loss isn't noticeable because it seems to thicken the hair. I've done okay in terms of weight loss but have to start exercising more. Between the rain and cold I have backslid on my Couch to 5k program. I hit Onederland this week and am so happy. I want to NEVER see 200 on the scale again. My non scale victory was trying on old formals (Mardi Gras season coming up) and one that I had to actually get "wrapped" for (the seaweed wrap, suck you dry to lose a couple of inches) was actually so big I could take it off and on without unzipping it. Amazing. Very happy with my band.

it makes me think of bacon

Is it Beyonce ?

You're still in the recovery process so I'm guessing this will not always be the case. But, if extreme tiredness and coldness persist, you may want to have your iron levels checked.

Am I reading that your blood pressure went up after you drank orange juice? If so, you could have a problem with dehydration. Also, 102/54 is fairly low and you will feel the effects if you typically have a higher BP. As for sugar, not sure but, the only way to find out is by having it checked out. I would certainly get in for a check up to see what the problem might be.

Ooh, or maybe Elizabeth Taylor. (Both when they were young)

Barbara Streisand

The mummy or scarecrow from Wizard of Oz?

Is it Ernie ?

Phyllis Diller?

Hi All. I got banded in September overseas in Europe (Belgium). It was a great experience and only a third of the cost. I live in Daphne, AL......just across from Mobile and I'm receiving follow-up from a center in Pensacola. I am loving the band so far and it's great to see so many people from our state here.

Dr. Fiedman is providing my aftercare and I couldn't be more pleased. It's great. (Hi Amy)

I was self pay. You hear a lot of people who are self pay that go to Mexico. I went to Europe and the total cost of everything, including airfare, was about $6500. The surgeon who did my procedure has done over 6,000 since the early '90s and they use the newest type band. I would do it again in a second.

I'm able to swallow mine fine.

IF you can eat asparagus (yes, it fibrous), you can get a lot of protein from that as well as tuna.

Hi! I am also from Alabama (lower near Gulf Shores). Like you I was self pay. I chose to go to Europe to have my band done. There is a thread for Dr. Chris De Bruyne in the doctor/surgeon forum. He has been doing this procedure for 20 years and he's done over 6,000 surgeries in that time. He uses the newest type of band. From what I hear, Mexico uses the older band that was previously used in the US. He is located in Belgium and my total cost with airfare was around $6,200. The price is in Euros so, if exchange rates change, your's may differ. He has a complete package including hotel, surgery, hospital stay and all transportation from the airport, to the hotel, to and from the hospital, medications, etc. Also, for fills....Dr. Dewitt in Birmingham accepts patients who have had their procedure out of the country.

Am I the only one thinking Lien is giving off a pervy vibe? And I don't mean because of the piercings.

I have a 7cc band and my surgeon said it would hold up to 8.5 cc's. So, you may have more room than you think.

I'm surprised you already gave up your car lease and are basing a decision to move because of this bill that is obviously inflated. I would advise you to discuss it with them and if you can't reach a satisfactory agreement, then pursue legal alternatives to dispute the bill. Also, I would get in to see another physician who can do fills for you. Otherwise, you're right, the piece of plastic isn't going to do you any good.

Hi Dan, I was banded the week after you, on 09/23/2009 and I'm right there with you in bandster hell. No restriction and more hunger but still kicking along. I have a fill next week and am anxiously awaiting. Good luck to you.

Hi, I was banded outside the country last month and will be going to Dr. Friedman in a couple of weeks to be evaluated for follow up. I would love to hear anything you can tell me. I've got price info. already but would welcome any insight on the visits or his staff. Thanks in advance.

Let me clarify. The Surgical Associates in Mobile told me (after I got banded and called them for post care) that they will NOT see anyone who had their surgery out of the country. Bad information from them up front.

In Mobile, Mobile Surgical Associates will do your follow-up care if you had your surgery somewhere else.

Will be banded 09/23/09 in Belgium.

I found this in the nutrition thread. It may help. http://www.lapbandtalk.com/f9/lapband-food-stages-lists-suggestions-3995/