Hi everyone!

I'm new to this site. I'm at the very beginning of my journey and have been researching the different surgeries for about a year. I've had weight problems for my entire adult life. I've tried every diet known to man. Of course none worked long term. I think the lap band is the safest and hopefully it'll be the best choice for me. My consultation is not until April 30th so I continue to get as much info as I can. I would really appreciate it if someone could answer a few questions:

- Does anyone out there have experience with Dr. Anita Paula Courcoulas from the Univ. Pgh. Med. Center? (Pittsburgh, PA)

- Do fills hurt?

-Can you feel the port since it's close to the surface of the skin (or is it??)

-Does it ever make you squeamish knowing all that tubing is in there?

Sorry for the dumb questions, but I'm trying to figure out some things before my consultation. I sure hope this all works out.

Thanks in advance for the information. This web site has taught me more than all the internet sites I've been on put together! You guys are great.

Hi, I am new to this site too and just learning the ropes. My consult is on April 12th so it looks like we may be on the same path. I am also from PA and will eventually have my surgery in Erie. The site my doctor recommended me to is called www.mylapsurgeon.com

It has a lot of really useful information and FAQ's about the surgery. You should check it out! I have been told that the fills don't hurt, they are just a little uncomfortable (like getting a shot) and no, you can't feel the port from the surface of your skin. If anyone has heard differently, I would love to know as well!

I appreciate the info and web site, badonkadonkbutt (this name cracked me up!!) I'll check out the web site you suggested. Best of luck to you!

Hi everyone!

I'm new to this site. I'm at the very beginning of my journey and have been researching the different surgeries for about a year. I've had weight problems for my entire adult life. I've tried every diet known to man. Of course none worked long term. I think the lap band is the safest and hopefully it'll be the best choice for me. My consultation is not until April 30th so I continue to get as much info as I can. I would really appreciate it if someone could answer a few questions:

- Does anyone out there have experience with Dr. Anita Paula Courcoulas from the Univ. Pgh. Med. Center? (Pittsburgh, PA)

No, I was banded by Dr. McKeen in San Jose, CA

- Do fills hurt?

The only thing that hurts with a fill is the stinging that occurs when you get the numbing agent injected.

-Can you feel the port since it's close to the surface of the skin (or is it??)

I can only feel my port if I lay down and feel for it. It doesn't hurt.

-Does it ever make you squeamish knowing all that tubing is in there?

Not at all. I can't feel my port, tubing or band. It is pain free as well. Good luck!

I appreciate the info and web site, badonkadonkbutt (this name cracked me up!!) I'll check out the web site you suggested. Best of luck to you!

Thanks! I was looking at everyone elses names and had to come up with something different :mad: I heard a commercial where a girl was in a drive thru ordering food and she said she wanted a 'badonkadonkbutt with a side of thunder thighs'.....it cracked me up, so I stole it :nervous I thought it was perfect!

Thanks Juliegeraci for the response to my questions. It helps me so much just starting this process. :mad:

Badonkadonkbutt, keep in touch and let me know how your consult goes on April 12th!:wave: