Hi! I'm brand new and I'm seeing Dr. Carter in Arlington, Texas. I was wondering if anyone else has used him and what you thought. I've filled out my paperwork and it's currently being reviewed. I have UHC EPO and I know my plan does not have any exclusions so I feel pretty good about the outcome. I certainly qualify and I'm MO and have been since being a teenager. I've figured out in 25 years I've lost over 300 pounds with yo-yo dieting. I've been researching the band since November 04 and I made my final decision last month. However, I am a little un-nerved about having something foreign in my body and I was wondering if anyone else has felt like that in the beginning. That's about my only hang-up and having to give up my diet coke habit. Well, if anyone has any thoughts on the above, I'd appreciate it. I've never posted anything before so this too is new to me! Thank you! Laura

Welcome! We do have someone here that goes to Dr. Carter, but I can't remember who. Just be patient and they will see your post. I think we all went through the part of having a foreign object in our body, but you will do fine with it. It really isn't that bad, you can feel the port, but that is about it. As far as the diet coke, believe me once you give it up you won't miss it. You might want to start tapering down so it will be easier. I don't miss the cokes, I do drink tea, crystal light, coffee, and lots of COOL CLEAR WATER! lol

Dr. Carter did my procedure on Feb 25 2005 and so far it's been great! He is a great doctor with an incredible bedside manner! I felt totally comfortable from the beginning. As far as the port goes, I have a little swelling around the area but unless I cough or bend too much I can't tell it's there. But that's because I am only 4 days post op One thing though is Dr. Carter doesn't give or prescribe any pain medication. He does give anti inflammatory meds. The pain wasn't too bad for me; I described it as feeling like a tackling dummy for the Cowboys. By Saturday I was more comfortable than uncomfortable and today I am back at work. Good luck with it and keep us informed!