Hey all, I am going to the seminar in two weeks in St. Louis. I have pretty well made my decision and short of some very drastic news or information I am planning on going ahead with the procedure. I know they will be giving me a lot of info at the seminar but I would much rather hear from real people than depend on the accuracy of the literature (and I’m just that impatient).

What is the procedure from seminar to surgery? How long does this take? I am a self-pay so I don’t have to get insurance approval. I read in here somewhere about “Myocel” are you put on a liquid diet prior to surgery?

How much weight do they want you to loose pre-op? I would like drive from the seminar to the hospital if they would let me. Is there anyone else in the St. Louis on this board? How often do you have to be seen by a support member (Dr’s visits, nutritionist etc?)

I also want to make sure I say this upfront, I was looking for a message board regarding lap-band surgery today and have spent a good part of the day searching this site. I am completely amazed at the generosity of support you guys all give each other on this site…. you all deserve a great big hand! :clap2:

Becca

Hi Becky,

I think you found the best site around for help, answers, and general support. I cannot help you in giving you a time line from seminar to surgery. I went through a couple of insurance denials, prior to making the decision to go self pay in Mexico. Once I made that decision tho, it was just a matter of about 3 weeks. I did do a pre-op diet, however in comparison to some of the other banders on here, mine was very simple. I had a high protein, low fat diet for the week prior to surgery. I would suggest following the seminar, giving yourself time to get supplies together, get some liquid protein, and some variety of liquids, so you do not have to spend the first days shopping for necessities. You can also do some taste testing of protein shakes, or bars, and get an idea of what you like before needing it. I found a couple of items I felt helped me. For the first weeks after surgery when I was on clear liquids, I used Zero carb Isopure, it comes in a bottle, similar to the Sobe drinks. It has 40g. of protein in one bottle, I would drink half in the morning and half in the afternoon. I bought it at GNC. I also orderd online from a company called Unjury (www.unjury.com). They have a powdered protein mix. I used a lot (still do on occasion) of the unflavored protein powder, I put it in broth, or jello, anything at all. It has 20g. per scoop. Your energy level will remain much higher if you get your protein in followig surgery. You can also use the sugar free flavored syrups, to help some of the OTC vanilla protein shakes. I love some of the DaVinci and Torani syrups. I have been using them this summer to make popsicles....keeps me cool, and is handy when the munchies hit!!

I had a very easy time with surgery, no serious pain, no gas issues. Was up and shopping within days. I have lost over 30 pounds now since then end of April. I have had one fill. I use a Dr. here in the states for follow up. I would recommend this surgery to my own Mother or Daughter if I felt it was something they needed. My only regret so far is in waiting so long to do it. It is a wonderful thing to feel control again!

Good Luck to you. Once again I feel this is a great site. Ask anything, there are sooooo many knowledgeable people on here! Welcome!!

Kat