Hi everyone! I am new here from Texas. I went for my evaluation at True Results in Dallas on 9/25. I have to do the 6 month supervised diet, so I won't be banded until next year. I am trying to get as much information as possible before then. I am curious about the band at surgery. I have read different posts about the band being empty at the time of surgery and then I have read that some are actually filled at time of surgery. Is this a decision made by the surgeon on a individual basis, or am I just misunderstanding the posts I have read? I know it is something that I will eventually need to discuss with my Dr., but I am just curious as to other's experiences. This has been a really informative site so far. Really good information to know before surgery, so one can be really prepared and know what to expect, bad or good.

Welcome to the party, msmadonna. I'm a Texan too. Yee-Haw! State fair time!! As far as I know, the decision to fill or not at the time of band placement is entirely the surgeon's preference. The biggest thing I've learned from being on LapBandTalk was how different doctors take different approaches. Snoop around, there's a TON of good stuff on here!! Good luck with your journey.

Hi, I had surgery with Dr Benavides on 9/11 at The Surgery Center of Richardson. He installed my band with a fill....though I'm not sure of how much? I have my first fill appointment tomorrow, so I guess I'll find out then.

I've had only positive experiences with his office, the surgery center, and true results (AIGB). My post-op nurse was amazing....she took such good care of me while I was having nausea issues (from anestesia) and even called me at home the next day to check on me and offer some suggestions to help the nausea.

Please feel free to ask me any questions that you have...I'll try to answer everything that I have experience with.

Sherri,

Thanks for the quick response. I am so glad to finally hear from someone who had Dr. Benavides for their surgery. He is the one I chose at my first consult. I have a while to wait, so I have plenty of time to do lots of research. Thanks so much for your kind offer to answer questions. Let me know how your appointment goes for your fill. I will be interested to know your results. Thanks again,

Donna

Thanks a lot! glad to be here!

Thanks a lot! glad to be here!

Just curious....why did you pick Felix as your Avatar?

I've always loved Felix........Plus, he makes me happy! Doesn't he look jolly?