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

thanks for this, i'm getting banded next wed 16th and i'm starting to get nervous. didnt help that i had nightmares about it last night. i'm scared too cos they are doing a hernia repair at the same time... but reading all the posts here, i know it will be worth it longterm.

t

Hi Thistledoe, Know the feeling. Getting nervous as well. Trying to keep calm and think of other things then it just sort of hits me. We'll be ok, I'm sure.

Saleel22

yeah if only we could fastfoward 3 weeks... and be on the other side!

but it is really helpful to have this forum!

t

I was banded on Tuesday and am doing well so far. Most of the gas is gone, a little constipated though (sorry). I finally get to take the bandages off today, they are driving me crazy! I plan on going back to work on Monday. The only real pain is trying to stand up to fast and some issues sleeping!