Let me apologize in advance if this doesn’t make sense and contains a bunch of grammar and spelling errors. I blame the drugs that are still coursing through my system!

I had my surgery today (Jan 7) and thought I’d pass along my experiences in case anyone is interested and doesn’t mind wading through a long post. My wife has been super supportive (as always) and by my side every step of the way and I so appreciate that! We arrived at the hospital at about 1045 this morning. I filled out a bunch (more) paperwork and learned that they were running about 20 minutes behind, so they expected to get things rolling around 1220. I was no. 3 of 4 bands being done today. An interesting aside—they had 5 planned, but evidently one fellow got cold feet and backed out after reading the informed consent. It is a scary document in some ways, especially for a self-pay such as myself who is liable not only for the band operation, but also for anything additional if problems arise.

We waited around for a little while after they weighed me and took my vitals. I really hadn’t been nervous at all up to that point. Eventually I went back to the preparation area, changed into a gown and some booties, and waited. Had to remove everything, even my wedding ring. The nurse had a little trouble getting my IV in, so the nurse/anesthetist got it done, and then added a bunch of drugs to the cocktail. My wife was allowed to come back and wait with me, and then my wonderful surgeon came by to say Hi and see if I had any questions. After she left we waited some more and something odd happened. I began to get really nervous and feel almost claustrophobic. It was really strange and I found I couldn’t lie still on the bed. Almost wanted to cut and run! We mentioned it to the nurse/anesthetist and he said that it’s rare, but about 1% of the people have a reaction like that to the drugs they put in the IV. He then added something FANTASTIC to the mix and I was A-OK! They took me to the OR, put an oxygen mask on me and the next thing I knew they were waking me up. I had NO pain at all at that point. The only thing that bothered me was a minor sore throat from the breathing tube. I have four small incisions and a medium sized one for the port. The whole surgery took 40 minutes and doc said it was “textbook.” She also said my liver was so small they had a hard time holding it with the retractors. Guess that’s a plug for the preop diet. I received the Allergan APL band.

We were on our way home by 2:30 PM. Since we got here, I’ve just been relaxing, napping, drinking Clear liquids and watching the football game. I get up and walk around (up and down stairs) every hour or so to avoid blood clots and do some deep breathing they want me to do to make sure my lungs are functioning well. Believe it or not, I felt hungry almost immediately, but that has dissipated as I have gotten hydrated. I’ve been taking my liquid pain-killers and plan to continue for at least a day or two. My throat is still a little sore and my stomach is somewhat tender, but that’s it so far. I am on clear liquids until I have my band study Wed. morning and then I get to progress to full liquids for three weeks. After that it’s three weeks of mushies leading to my first fill.

I feel so relieved to be through this and, so far, am very happy that I did it. YOU can do it too. God bless and wherever you are in this process, just take it one step at a time. Thanks so much for all the good wishes. Good evening.

Jim

So glad to hear that you're doing good Jim. I was banded yesterday and at this point I think the most pain has come from the blood pressure cuff and the iv insertion and removal!!!

It was emotionally taxing for me though cause they walked me to the operating room and positioned me on the table and everything before they knocked me out. I guess I'm not one of those people who enjoys walking to the operating room. It made me nervous while I was laying on the table waiting for the surgeon so the anesthsiologist (sp?) gave me something for that. All I remember is someone saying "He's Here" and the next thing I was waking up in recovery.

Jim -

So glad your surgery went well! Mine was on the 2nd and our experiences are very similar. (I did freak out as the surgery approached and I'm lying there with IV in my hand.) I am on day 6 post-op and all is well. I have weaned myself from the pain meds. I still have gas pains throughout shoulder area and I have to remind myself not to do too much. I find myself very hungry as I make meals for my son and husband - but I am making this a total "mind over matter" thing. I WILL follow the post-op eating instructions because I paid a lot of money for this - and to me its a minor price to pay to be thin and healthy in the future. Thursday I can start Full liquid Diet which includes Soup, yogurt, mashed potatoes, etc. - I CAN DO THIS!

Hooray to us! Things will be great in 2008! I have not officially updated my ticker because I want to go by doctor's scale (tomorrow appt.) - but my scale says 15 lb weightloss since starting pre-op diet! Woohoo!!

Jim, Everyday is getting better. I think its the muscles from the heaving and the hernia repair that are getting to me pain wise.

I am still not hungry, and can't get down Protein drinks, I am primarily still on broth, with tea, some carnation instant Breakfast and ice pops.

I emailed the nutritionist today to maybe add some creamy Soups to get me some more nutrition.

I am at work, and taking only a half of the vicodin pill in the afternoon when I feel the bruises on my belly the most.

But it is so uplifting to see all the rest of you guys healing so well and fast. :eek:

Good to hear Chrisann. Sounds like NukeChik and racetrackweary are doing great as well. There's another large group being banded today. Hopefully they will check in later.

I am at work, and taking only a half of the vicodin pill in the afternoon when I feel the bruises on my belly the most.

Chrisann, bless your heart, you're a trooper going to work and staying positive. I hope each day continues to get better. Take care of you and thanks so much for sharing with all of us.:eek:

Carol

Good luck for Monday Alfie.

Saleel22

Hi Jim - I was also banded yesterday, but I just got home from the hosptial today. I feel pretty good, but I'm still sore. My husband is picking up my pain killers now. I should be good for a nice long rest once I get those on board. Glad to hear you did so good!!!!

<p>Hi Chrisann, You area real trouper. I can't believe you are working during this time, especially being in pain and hungry. good luck, I hope it gets better for you very soon.</p> <p>Saleel22</p>

Congrats Jim! Glad your surgery went well and that you are home and feeling good. How nice that you have a supportive wife to help you through everything.

Thanks guys. I feel much better going to work at this point then sitting home. I am an HR administrator/Office Manager so I am sitting behind a desk most of the time. People understand I can't lift things.

I am dressing kind of funky though. The pants I have without zippers and buttons and really large shirts, because my belly is still sore, and swollen. Not my usual somewhat corporate type stuff. Its weird going to the bathroom and looking at myself dressing so frumpy, but my boss is ok with it.

hello all,

i am being banded on friday 11th. can't wait. thanksfor sharing your experiences. it help to be prepared.

Hi Brez1015, Good luck for the 11th. I hope every thing goes smoothly for you. We'll be thinking of you.

Saleel22

thanks and good luck to all the friday people

Jim - thanks for the heads up on the informed consent form - I'm self pay too.

CONGRATS!

Stephanie

Congrats on the surgery !!! I had the claustrophobia also, they must have added something to my IV too. It must not have just been me then, good to hear.