first fill

September 2, 2004

Where is Covinton?

From a geographically illiterate person.

Tammy

First Fill

>

> Hi all,

>

> I was banded 7/9/04 in France by Frering. It's almost time for a

> fill....both time-wise and the amount of food I can eat-wise, i.e.,

> way too much. But I have lost 18lbs since banding, so I am happy with

> that. Anyway, I have been looking for files on groups, such as Smart

> bansters, and I can't find the location of those files that contain

> names and contact numbers of fill docs. Can anyone send me a link to

> files such as these within whatever group they might exist?

>

> I have found a doc Oregon named Fiztpatrick and she seems very nice

> and has had good outcomes on some 100s of fills--first and otherwise.

> Her number for those interested is 503-235-6589. Her price is $150

> w/o flouro--$25 for an adjustment. She likes you to stay over night

> in case there is a problem. She said she considers too tight of a

> fill an emergency. But, as I consider the 5 hours r/t drive, hotel,

> and, of course the fee, I wonder if I should not try a doc here. From

> a price only consideration I could get a fill with flouro here for

> about the same expenditure and save 5 hours of driving (I live in

> Covinton.). I did like her though and was impressed with her

> willingness to talk with me among other things. From reading other

> posts I have gathered that rapport, personality, and communication

> may be more important than price!

>

> Well, sorry for not posting before. I am enjoying reading the posts

> on this group, and the information they contain. I know I need

> support through this---and want it! Thanks for being here. Brett

>

> PS I have been giving away clothes that are too big for me. 20 pounds

> has gotten me into my next level of archived clothes. I like that I

> feel sure I will never need the larger ones again. It's very

> liberating. Peace all.

>

> Brett

> Frering-midband 7/9/04

> 342/324/210

September 2, 2004

The MexicanBandsters (NOT MexBandsters) group has a database

or file of dr.s that will fill mexican/other docs patients.

a, 33 y.o. F, 5'6 "

-8 lbs.

highest 250, surgery 227, current 219, goal 140?

Banded 8/26/04 - Dr. Rumbaut, Monterrey Mexico

Follow-up: Dr. Fox, Surgical Weight Loss Clinic, Tacoma WA

> Hi all,

>

> I was banded 7/9/04 in France by Frering. It's almost time for a

> fill....both time-wise and the amount of food I can eat-wise,

i.e.,

> way too much. But I have lost 18lbs since banding, so I am happy

with

> that. Anyway, I have been looking for files on groups, such as

Smart

> bansters, and I can't find the location of those files that

contain

> names and contact numbers of fill docs. Can anyone send me a link

to

> files such as these within whatever group they might exist?

>

> I have found a doc Oregon named Fiztpatrick and she seems very

nice

> and has had good outcomes on some 100s of fills--first and

otherwise.

> Her number for those interested is 503-235-6589. Her price is $150

> w/o flouro--$25 for an adjustment. She likes you to stay over

night

> in case there is a problem. She said she considers too tight of a

> fill an emergency. But, as I consider the 5 hours r/t drive,

hotel,

> and, of course the fee, I wonder if I should not try a doc here.

From

> a price only consideration I could get a fill with flouro here for

> about the same expenditure and save 5 hours of driving (I live in

> Covinton.). I did like her though and was impressed with her

> willingness to talk with me among other things. From reading other

> posts I have gathered that rapport, personality, and communication

> may be more important than price!

>

> Well, sorry for not posting before. I am enjoying reading the

posts

> on this group, and the information they contain. I know I need

> support through this---and want it! Thanks for being here. Brett

>

> PS I have been giving away clothes that are too big for me. 20

pounds

> has gotten me into my next level of archived clothes. I like that

I

> feel sure I will never need the larger ones again. It's very

> liberating. Peace all.

>

> Brett

> Frering-midband 7/9/04

> 342/324/210

September 2, 2004

Welcome!

Bandsters has a list of fill docs, but it is not very up-to-date.

I have used , I recommend her often and she is excellent at

fills, but she is only basically familiar with the band and how it

works. Her skill with fills is from many years as a chemo nurse. She

has no BAND experience per se, only experience with executing fills.

There is a great deal you must learn to do well.

It is ALWAYS wisest to have a local doc,( a BAND SURGEON or other

person in a BAND practice) who can advise you about the many, many

intricacies of the band. there is MUCH more than just getting

fills!! It is best to arrange for a fill doc long before you are

banded, and especailly if you are going to another country. Many docs

will not touch the non-US-approved bands. (I'm assuming you got the

US-approved Inamed band - Dr Frering does both)

Sandy R (Portland)

> Hi all,

>

> I was banded 7/9/04 in France by Frering. It's almost time for a

> fill....both time-wise and the amount of food I can eat-wise, i.e.,

> way too much. But I have lost 18lbs since banding, so I am happy

with

> that. Anyway, I have been looking for files on groups, such as

Smart

> bansters, and I can't find the location of those files that contain

> names and contact numbers of fill docs. Can anyone send me a link

to

> files such as these within whatever group they might exist?

>

> I have found a doc Oregon named Fiztpatrick and she seems very nice

> and has had good outcomes on some 100s of fills--first and

otherwise.

> Her number for those interested is 503-235-6589. Her price is $150

> w/o flouro--$25 for an adjustment. She likes you to stay over night

> in case there is a problem. She said she considers too tight of a

> fill an emergency. But, as I consider the 5 hours r/t drive, hotel,

> and, of course the fee, I wonder if I should not try a doc here.

From

> a price only consideration I could get a fill with flouro here for

> about the same expenditure and save 5 hours of driving (I live in

> Covinton.). I did like her though and was impressed with her

> willingness to talk with me among other things. From reading other

> posts I have gathered that rapport, personality, and communication

> may be more important than price!

>

> Well, sorry for not posting before. I am enjoying reading the posts

> on this group, and the information they contain. I know I need

> support through this---and want it! Thanks for being here. Brett

>

> PS I have been giving away clothes that are too big for me. 20

pounds

> has gotten me into my next level of archived clothes. I like that I

> feel sure I will never need the larger ones again. It's very

> liberating. Peace all.

>

> Brett

> Frering-midband 7/9/04

> 342/324/210

September 3, 2004

>

> Where is Covinton?

Oops! It's Covington with a " g " , and it's roughly east of kent where

hwy 18 goes over Kent-Kangley Rd. Does that help? I always say it's

15 minutes from everywhere--meaning it's kind of out of the way.

> From a geographically illiterate person.

> Tammy

>

> First Fill

>

> >

> > Hi all,

> >

> > I was banded 7/9/04 in France by Frering. It's almost time for a

> > fill....both time-wise and the amount of food I can eat-wise,

i.e.,

> > way too much. But I have lost 18lbs since banding, so I am happy

with

> > that. Anyway, I have been looking for files on groups, such as

Smart

> > bansters, and I can't find the location of those files that

contain

> > names and contact numbers of fill docs. Can anyone send me a link

to

> > files such as these within whatever group they might exist?

> >

> > I have found a doc Oregon named Fiztpatrick and she seems very

nice

> > and has had good outcomes on some 100s of fills--first and

otherwise.

> > Her number for those interested is 503-235-6589. Her price is

$150

> > w/o flouro--$25 for an adjustment. She likes you to stay over

night

> > in case there is a problem. She said she considers too tight of a

> > fill an emergency. But, as I consider the 5 hours r/t drive,

hotel,

> > and, of course the fee, I wonder if I should not try a doc here.

From

> > a price only consideration I could get a fill with flouro here

for

> > about the same expenditure and save 5 hours of driving (I live in

> > Covinton.). I did like her though and was impressed with her

> > willingness to talk with me among other things. From reading

other

> > posts I have gathered that rapport, personality, and

communication

> > may be more important than price!

> >

> > Well, sorry for not posting before. I am enjoying reading the

posts

> > on this group, and the information they contain. I know I need

> > support through this---and want it! Thanks for being here. Brett

> >

> > PS I have been giving away clothes that are too big for me. 20

pounds

> > has gotten me into my next level of archived clothes. I like that

I

> > feel sure I will never need the larger ones again. It's very

> > liberating. Peace all.

> >

> > Brett

> > Frering-midband 7/9/04

> > 342/324/210

September 3, 2004

Hi,

Thanks for the reassurance. I researched bands and looked at fill

options in the Seattle area for over a year. I guess I should have

set up a consultation with some of them or talked to them before I

went to France. Mostly I just noticed that there were many options,

and that I was sure I would find a fill doc that knew what he/she was

doing. But one reads good and bad about all. I was glad to not hear

anything about . I first noticed she was doing fills some time

ago back when she charged $90, which seemed like a very nice price

considering the local options.

And to answer you question, no I did not get the Inamed band.

Personally, it was not a good choice for me. I do not want to, nor

will I participate in, a debate about which band is better for

whatever reason. I have been down that road and leads nowhere. I will

ask however:

Is this a group that only supports those who have had the Inamed

band?

PS Am I replying to an individual or the group when I hit reply? If

an individual, how do I reply to the group?

Thanks, Brett

Frering--midband

07/09/04

342/324/210

> > Hi all,

> >

> > I was banded 7/9/04 in France by Frering. It's almost time for a

> > fill....both time-wise and the amount of food I can eat-wise,

i.e.,

> > way too much. But I have lost 18lbs since banding, so I am happy

> with

> > that. Anyway, I have been looking for files on groups, such as

> Smart

> > bansters, and I can't find the location of those files that

contain

> > names and contact numbers of fill docs. Can anyone send me a link

> to

> > files such as these within whatever group they might exist?

> >

> > I have found a doc Oregon named Fiztpatrick and she seems very

nice

> > and has had good outcomes on some 100s of fills--first and

> otherwise.

> > Her number for those interested is 503-235-6589. Her price is

$150

> > w/o flouro--$25 for an adjustment. She likes you to stay over

night

> > in case there is a problem. She said she considers too tight of a

> > fill an emergency. But, as I consider the 5 hours r/t drive,

hotel,

> > and, of course the fee, I wonder if I should not try a doc here.

> From

> > a price only consideration I could get a fill with flouro here

for

> > about the same expenditure and save 5 hours of driving (I live in

> > Covinton.). I did like her though and was impressed with her

> > willingness to talk with me among other things. From reading

other

> > posts I have gathered that rapport, personality, and

communication

> > may be more important than price!

> >

> > Well, sorry for not posting before. I am enjoying reading the

posts

> > on this group, and the information they contain. I know I need

> > support through this---and want it! Thanks for being here. Brett

> >

> > PS I have been giving away clothes that are too big for me. 20

> pounds

> > has gotten me into my next level of archived clothes. I like that

I

> > feel sure I will never need the larger ones again. It's very

> > liberating. Peace all.

> >

> > Brett

> > Frering-midband 7/9/04

> > 342/324/210

September 3, 2004

Hi, this is Dan, the group owner.

Friday, September 3, 2004, 9:05:55 AM, you wrote:

b> Is this a group that only supports those who have had the Inamed

b> band?

Nope. In fact, don't know of any groups that are so limited.

Certainly the majority have Inamed bands of one type or another, but

this group and others have plenty of patients who have other brands

obtained in the US (under tests) or usually elsewhere (England,

France, and Mexico come to mind).

b> PS Am I replying to an individual or the group when I hit reply? If

b> an individual, how do I reply to the group?

Default reply is to the group. Just look at what it says in your

email program to see where it is going. How you choose to reply to an

individual instead depends on your email program.

Welcome, and enjoy. I too discourage debates of one band vs. another,

and particularly so here, since we all have bands already, and don't

have to deal with the not yet banded folks who are stressing about it.

dan

Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk

Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03

323/209/199 Age 61

September 3, 2004

You are replying to the whole group Brett. This group (if I can speak for

the list owner) is for anyone with a band. I have the larger Inamed band

which isn't approved in the US. That makes it a bit harder for me to find a

fill doctor. I got my band done in Acuna, Mexico. That makes it even harder

to find a doctor for follow up. There are issues with each and every type of

band out there. May I ask, which type do you have and what made you choose

it? I chose the larger one because, quite honestly, I didn't do my research

very well. This is one of those things you wish you could do over in life.

But, it works the same as other bands. Just restricts my options of follow

up a little more. But, I agree with you, to each his own.

Tammy

P.S. I know where Kent is )

Re: First Fill

> Hi,

>

> Thanks for the reassurance. I researched bands and looked at fill

> options in the Seattle area for over a year. I guess I should have

> set up a consultation with some of them or talked to them before I

> went to France. Mostly I just noticed that there were many options,

> and that I was sure I would find a fill doc that knew what he/she was

> doing. But one reads good and bad about all. I was glad to not hear

> anything about . I first noticed she was doing fills some time

> ago back when she charged $90, which seemed like a very nice price

> considering the local options.

>

> And to answer you question, no I did not get the Inamed band.

> Personally, it was not a good choice for me. I do not want to, nor

> will I participate in, a debate about which band is better for

> whatever reason. I have been down that road and leads nowhere. I will

> ask however:

>

> Is this a group that only supports those who have had the Inamed

> band?

>

> PS Am I replying to an individual or the group when I hit reply? If

> an individual, how do I reply to the group?

>

> Thanks, Brett

> Frering--midband

> 07/09/04

> 342/324/210

September 3, 2004

Actually, Tammy, the larger Inamed band is now approved in the US and

available to all band surgeons. At first it was called Vanguard, and

for some reason they changed the name to VG. But it is the softer

band, about 11cm long, and holds about ten cc max. You can see it on

the Inamed website now.

As to the bands, I figure we're paying the doc for his/her surgical

skill AND his knowledge. That includes choosing the right band for me.

Many docs don't choose the band until they get inside, and then choose

what will work best based on what they see in there.

dan

Friday, September 3, 2004, 9:18:28 AM, you wrote:

T> You are replying to the whole group Brett. This group (if I can speak for

T> the list owner) is for anyone with a band. I have the larger Inamed band

T> which isn't approved in the US.

Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk

Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03

323/209/199 Age 61

September 3, 2004

Wow! I'm glad it is approved. That opens up a few more options. Now if I

could remember which doctor told me they would see me if I had the approved

band. I think it was someone in Bend. Who knows.

Tammy

Re: Re: First Fill

> Actually, Tammy, the larger Inamed band is now approved in the US and

> available to all band surgeons. At first it was called Vanguard, and

> for some reason they changed the name to VG. But it is the softer

> band, about 11cm long, and holds about ten cc max. You can see it on

> the Inamed website now.

>

> As to the bands, I figure we're paying the doc for his/her surgical

> skill AND his knowledge. That includes choosing the right band for me.

> Many docs don't choose the band until they get inside, and then choose

> what will work best based on what they see in there.

>

> dan

September 3, 2004

Hi Tammy,

Well.....all I can say about the band I chose is, I am happy with my

choice. We have many options around the Seattle area for fills. At

this point I am trying to figure out where to go based on " consumer

opinions " . It's like ice cream though, everybody likes a different

flavor and has opinions on who makes the best. I guess ya gotta just

try 'em out. I usually don't have a problem with that, but when it

comes to healthcare...I like to be in control. So what I look for in

a fill doc is someone that will listen to me and take into account my

wishes. I run from any doc that won't talk to me and discuss my

wishes and the reality of those wishes. That's why at first glance I

liked Fitzpatrik. She talked and listened. But, I am also going

to check out the place in Puyallup. I don't like what I have read

about TR. But it's good to keep in mind that people tend to tell more

people when they have a bad experience than when they have a good one.

Peace, Brett

> You are replying to the whole group Brett. This group (if I can

speak for

> the list owner) is for anyone with a band. I have the larger Inamed

band

> which isn't approved in the US. That makes it a bit harder for me

to find a

> fill doctor. I got my band done in Acuna, Mexico. That makes it

even harder

> to find a doctor for follow up. There are issues with each and

every type of

> band out there. May I ask, which type do you have and what made you

choose

> it? I chose the larger one because, quite honestly, I didn't do my

research

> very well. This is one of those things you wish you could do over

in life.

> But, it works the same as other bands. Just restricts my options of

follow

> up a little more. But, I agree with you, to each his own.

> Tammy

> P.S. I know where Kent is )

>

> Re: First Fill

>

> > Hi,

> >

> > Thanks for the reassurance. I researched bands and looked at fill

> > options in the Seattle area for over a year. I guess I should have

> > set up a consultation with some of them or talked to them before I

> > went to France. Mostly I just noticed that there were many

options,

> > and that I was sure I would find a fill doc that knew what he/she

was

> > doing. But one reads good and bad about all. I was glad to not

hear

> > anything about . I first noticed she was doing fills some

time

> > ago back when she charged $90, which seemed like a very nice price

> > considering the local options.

> >

> > And to answer you question, no I did not get the Inamed band.

> > Personally, it was not a good choice for me. I do not want to, nor

> > will I participate in, a debate about which band is better for

> > whatever reason. I have been down that road and leads nowhere. I

will

> > ask however:

> >

> > Is this a group that only supports those who have had the Inamed

> > band?

> >

> > PS Am I replying to an individual or the group when I hit reply?

If

> > an individual, how do I reply to the group?

> >

> > Thanks, Brett

> > Frering--midband

> > 07/09/04

> > 342/324/210

September 3, 2004

From what I've just read on PNW Bandsters, Puyallup doesn't do fills

any more. Call them before you head out there.

dan

Friday, September 3, 2004, 9:44:43 AM, you wrote:

b> I run from any doc that won't talk to me and discuss my

b> wishes and the reality of those wishes. That's why at first glance I

b> liked Fitzpatrik. She talked and listened. But, I am also going

b> to check out the place in Puyallup. I don't like what I have read

b> about TR. But it's good to keep in mind that people tend to tell more

b> people when they have a bad experience than when they have a good one.

Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk

Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03

323/209/199 Age 61

September 5, 2004

HI Brett,

Welcome! This group is for anyone with a band who wants support or to

learn from each other. No agendas here, and we don't care who did your

band or what kind it is!

mary

Dr. Ortiz

5-21-04

> > > Hi all,

> > >

> > > I was banded 7/9/04 in France by Frering. It's almost time for a

> > > fill....both time-wise and the amount of food I can eat-wise,

> i.e.,

> > > way too much. But I have lost 18lbs since banding, so I am happy

> > with

> > > that. Anyway, I have been looking for files on groups, such as

> > Smart

> > > bansters, and I can't find the location of those files that

> contain

> > > names and contact numbers of fill docs. Can anyone send me a link

> > to

> > > files such as these within whatever group they might exist?

> > >

> > > I have found a doc Oregon named Fiztpatrick and she seems very

> nice

> > > and has had good outcomes on some 100s of fills--first and

> > otherwise.

> > > Her number for those interested is 503-235-6589. Her price is

> $150

> > > w/o flouro--$25 for an adjustment. She likes you to stay over

> night

> > > in case there is a problem. She said she considers too tight of a

> > > fill an emergency. But, as I consider the 5 hours r/t drive,

> hotel,

> > > and, of course the fee, I wonder if I should not try a doc here.

> > From

> > > a price only consideration I could get a fill with flouro here

> for

> > > about the same expenditure and save 5 hours of driving (I live in

> > > Covinton.). I did like her though and was impressed with her

> > > willingness to talk with me among other things. From reading

> other

> > > posts I have gathered that rapport, personality, and

> communication

> > > may be more important than price!

> > >

> > > Well, sorry for not posting before. I am enjoying reading the

> posts

> > > on this group, and the information they contain. I know I need

> > > support through this---and want it! Thanks for being here. Brett

> > >

> > > PS I have been giving away clothes that are too big for me. 20

> > pounds

> > > has gotten me into my next level of archived clothes. I like that

> I

> > > feel sure I will never need the larger ones again. It's very

> > > liberating. Peace all.

> > >

> > > Brett

> > > Frering-midband 7/9/04

> > > 342/324/210

September 5, 2004

Brett

Hi I just joined this group since it was started last month and this

is my first reply. I don't really see that it matters what band you

have as they all basically work the same. They restrict how much food

you can eat. The differences come with the adjustments that need to be

done. Some need more fluid for restriction, some need less. It is all

individualized.

Your message went to the group when replying you should see who the

message is going to. Any way welcome to this board.

Dawn

7/8/03

248/163/150

Dr. Fisher

msverdrup@... wrote:

HI Brett,

Welcome! This group is for anyone with a band who wants support or to

learn from each other. No agendas here, and we don't care who did your

band or what kind it is!

mary

Dr. Ortiz

5-21-04

> > > Hi all,

> > >

> > > I was banded 7/9/04 in France by Frering. It's almost

time for a

> > > fill....both time-wise and the amount of food I can

eat-wise,

> i.e.,

> > > way too much. But I have lost 18lbs since banding, so I

am happy

> > with

> > > that. Anyway, I have been looking for files on groups,

such as

> > Smart

> > > bansters, and I can't find the location of those files

that

> contain

> > > names and contact numbers of fill docs. Can anyone send

me a link

> > to

> > > files such as these within whatever group they might

exist?

> > >

> > > I have found a doc Oregon named Fiztpatrick and she

seems very

> nice

> > > and has had good outcomes on some 100s of fills--first

and

> > otherwise.

> > > Her number for those interested is 503-235-6589. Her

price is

> $150

> > > w/o flouro--$25 for an adjustment. She likes you to stay

over

> night

> > > in case there is a problem. She said she considers too

tight of a

> > > fill an emergency. But, as I consider the 5 hours r/t

drive,

> hotel,

> > > and, of course the fee, I wonder if I should not try a

doc here.

> > From

> > > a price only consideration I could get a fill with

flouro here

> for

> > > about the same expenditure and save 5 hours of driving

(I live in

> > > Covinton.). I did like her though and was impressed with

her

> > > willingness to talk with me among other things. From

reading

> other

> > > posts I have gathered that rapport, personality, and

> communication

> > > may be more important than price!

> > >

> > > Well, sorry for not posting before. I am enjoying

reading the

> posts

> > > on this group, and the information they contain. I know

I need

> > > support through this---and want it! Thanks for being

here. Brett

> > >

> > > PS I have been giving away clothes that are too big for

me. 20

> > pounds

> > > has gotten me into my next level of archived clothes. I

like that

> I

> > > feel sure I will never need the larger ones again. It's

very

> > > liberating. Peace all.

> > >

> > > Brett

> > > Frering-midband 7/9/04

> > > 342/324/210

September 7, 2004

Yes, there is a doc who will fill bands in Bend. Not sure of what his

rules/restrictions are. Think he's listed on the list of fill docs on

the MexicanBandsters site, and know that a member on IdahoBandsters used

to work for him. Also know that he's listed by Inamed if you search

their site for docs.

dan

Friday, September 3, 2004, 9:30:02 AM, you wrote:

T> Wow! I'm glad it is approved. That opens up a few more options. Now if I

T> could remember which doctor told me they would see me if I had the approved

T> band. I think it was someone in Bend. Who knows.

Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk

Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03

323/209/199 Age 61

September 7, 2004

Thanks Dan! You are always a wonderful resource! What a blessing you are!

Tammy

Re: Re: First Fill

> Yes, there is a doc who will fill bands in Bend. Not sure of what his

> rules/restrictions are. Think he's listed on the list of fill docs on

> the MexicanBandsters site, and know that a member on IdahoBandsters used

> to work for him. Also know that he's listed by Inamed if you search

> their site for docs.

>

> dan

>

> Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk

> Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03

> 323/209/199 Age 61

October 6, 2004

Hey Katy, My doctor said to wait at least 6 weeks before your first fill but

yes the first day my stomach felt tight and I stayed on liquids almost 10 days

after having it. When I started on solids I PB'ed a lot, it took me a lil

while to get used to the fact that I would never again be able to eat like I had

in the beginning. That was 4 months after surgery, after having had 2 other

attempts from louisiana doctors I went back to Mexico to have it done. Just be

careful, dont eat or drink anything after 6pm except water and dont drink

water in the middle of the night and lay down, if you do it'll go into your

lungs. That is if your fill is as tight as mine is (at only 1.6cc). Just be

careful and be aware of what you're putting in your mouth and when. Hugs, Tasha

October 6, 2004

Too early to tell if it is ok or too much! As long as you can get

good liquids down for the next few days, you can wait and see. there

is always a bit of swelling the first day or two, which may make it

more difficult to swallow freely.

after 2-3 days, you should be able to drink very freely - with

perhaps just the slightest temporary backup. and when you eat, you

should be able to eat 1/2 - 1 cup pf SOLID foods within 15 minurtes.

Remeber to start with VERY tiny biotes and chew VERY well. Eat very

slowly and listen to your body after each bite.

You're very tight - but may noty be TOO tight. You'll know in a

couple days.

Being a little sore and " heavy " is ok at first - the stomach is a

very sensitive organ and reacts to the slightest manipulation.

Just wondering - who is your doc?

sandy R-

-- In , " katydidit1313 "

<kay.bolen@c...> wrote:

>

> I had my first fill yesterday. 4 weeks post op. I belive it was

1.2.

> I am back on liquids for 4 days. I could feel it imediatelty when

> he did it. My stomach feels sore and " heavy " like I have a ton of

> bricks in there. Is it normal to have some soreness after your

first

> fill? I am drinking only very small amounts and it kinda come back

> up half way. then goes down. Will this get better?

> Katy

> THanks you guys!!

July 21, 2005

As just noted to someone else the AMOUNT of the fill is irrelevant.

The question is do you have restriction?

If you've lost twelve pounds in six weeks, that's great. This is NOT

a crash diet. One to two pounds a week is normal. Also, many don't

lose ANY until they get a fill.

I know we're all impatient, but this will happen....really.

dan

Thursday, July 21, 2005, 7:20:34 PM, you wrote:

c> I got my first fill today. I only got .5 cc. Is this unusual? I am

c> going to Dr. Philip Leggett here in Houston. I was banded in Mexico by

c> Dr. at Ready 4 a Change. After 6 weeks of no restriction I did

c> manage to lose 12 pounds. Woo Hoo. I guess I was expecting about 1 cc

c> or more. Any comments?

Dan Lester, Boise, ID honu@... www.mylapband.tk

Dr. Ortiz, Tijuana, 4/28/03

323/209/199 Age 62 Fair is whatever God decides to do.

July 22, 2005

Nope, perfectly normal! Inamed teaches that a 0.5 cc fill is a good

first one, but many of the more experienced band surgeons and fill

people, especially those competant at using and reading fluoros with

fills, are confident about sometimes giving more for the first fill.

Fist fills of people I know persoanlly have ranged from 0.3 ro 2.5 in

a " 4 " cc band. Many factors come into play to help the experienced

doc decide how much to try.

Still, no matter how much the first fill, it still often takes 3-5

fills to get it tweaked to " just right. "

12 # even before a first fill is well above average! Great job! The

average amy of loss - AFTER a good fill - is 1-2 # a week.

You'll know, by your weight loss, if this fill is enough. If not, you

can get more in a month, and more still in another month, if you need

it. Persevere until your fill is just right! (And then you'll need

more still, periodically, as you lose weight). Sandy R

> I got my first fill today. I only got .5 cc. Is this unusual? I

am

> going to Dr. Philip Leggett here in Houston. I was banded in

Mexico by

> Dr. at Ready 4 a Change. After 6 weeks of no restriction I

did

> manage to lose 12 pounds. Woo Hoo. I guess I was expecting about

1 cc

> or more. Any comments?

>

> Carole Tissue

> 6-10-05 Dr.

> 268.5/256.5/ 150 *goal*

August 3, 2005

Sandy, you say that Inamed teaches that a 0.5 cc first fill is good.

What is Inamed schedule as far as fills go? First, second, ...

I am curious to know what I can expect for the second fill.

thanks

carole

---

In , " Sandy " <MoonshadowRN@y...>

wrote:

> Nope, perfectly normal! Inamed teaches that a 0.5 cc fill is a good

> first one, but many of the more experienced band surgeons and fill

> people, especially those competant at using and reading fluoros

with

> fills, are confident about sometimes giving more for the first

fill.

> Fist fills of people I know persoanlly have ranged from 0.3 ro 2.5

in

> a " 4 " cc band. Many factors come into play to help the experienced

> doc decide how much to try.

>

> Still, no matter how much the first fill, it still often takes 3-5

> fills to get it tweaked to " just right. "

> 12 # even before a first fill is well above average! Great job!

The

> average amy of loss - AFTER a good fill - is 1-2 # a week.

> You'll know, by your weight loss, if this fill is enough. If not,

you

> can get more in a month, and more still in another month, if you

need

> it. Persevere until your fill is just right! (And then you'll need

> more still, periodically, as you lose weight). Sandy R

>

> > I got my first fill today. I only got .5 cc. Is this unusual? I

> am

> > > > Carole Tissue

> > 6-10-05 Dr.

> > 268.5/256.5/ 150 *goal*

August 3, 2005

Carole, There is no set schedule, and NEVER could be, since there are

so many variables involved with each individual person that help

dtermine what a good fill might be. You just have to start slowly,

and add small amounts at a time until you are at a good level. It

doesn't matter a BIT what level that is, or what the exact amount of

fill is. You just want a good fill for YOU - and that can be 0.3 cc

or 3.8 cc in a 9.75 cm band. Never ANY way to guess beforehand.

These variables include the band size, how much fat was shaved off

the stomach before the band was placed, the start weight of the

patient, the weight loss progress, the distribution of fat on the

patient's body (apple-shaped or pear-shaped), height, the experience

of the Bandster (a doc might try a bigger fill later , knowing the

client is more experiencefd and knowledgeable about handling a

possible overfill and getting help), the distance a client lives from

the doc, what the fluoro shows, and MUCH more. This is why choosing a

highly-experienced surgeon and fill person is so important.

Even though Inamed teaches the first fill " should " or " might " be

about 0.5 cc (in a 9.75 cm or 10.0 cm band), almost all of the highly-

experienced docs put in more when it is indicated, after assessing

all the above criteria. They have had the longterm experience to

trust their " gut " feeling, and hundreds of fills and client's

reactions to judge by.

You can't " expect " any certain amount with any fill. Those Bandsters

that have asked for a certain amount very often get into trouble

(even if a less-experienced doc might give what the client asked

for) , as they don't have the knowledge to know what might be ok. the

exception to this might be a very experienced Bandster that is very

knowledgeable and might ask fo like 0.1 cc more because they

are " almost " perfect. Even this can and has backfired, since even

tiny amounts like 0.1 or 0.2 cc can be the difference between " just

right " and " AACCKK!! Too much !! "

IMO, the " perfect fill " doesn't really exist anyway. If we are

following the band rules and doing our part, a " good " fill is all

that is needed. Learning the things we need to do ourselves is

particularly important as we get closer to goal, becuase it's looking

like a small unfill at goal is important to keep as little pressure

on the band as possible longterm to help prevent slips and erosions -

and then one will need to depend on the good habits we have developed

far more than on the band's fill. Sandy R

With the present technology, fills will continue to be elusive and we

just gotta accept that. We have no choice! Sandy R

> > > I got my first fill today. I only got .5 cc. Is this unusual?

I

> > am

> > > > > Carole Tissue

> > > 6-10-05 Dr.

> > > 268.5/256.5/ 150 *goal*

May 24, 2006

You sound very knowledgeable - good for you! The more we know about

what to do and what to NOT do, the better we will do and the better

care we will be able to take of ourselves.

The first fill is not a big deal at all, and you're right that it

often takes 3-5 fills to get to " just right. "

We have people from a great many different docs her, and I'd like to

learn more about Costa rica. Where do you live? Why did you choose

there?

I'd suggest that you be certain, as with ALL of us who went out of

teh country for banding, that you know exactly where to go locally

(or within 1-2 hrs at the most) for urgent care, if needed. If you

are overfilled, it will not be possible to safely take the time to

make plane reservations and crawl back on a plane for a long flight

for urgent care.

this is something WE ALL must plan for, well before we may need it.

Not doing so can and has cost people their bands, and a lot more.

Gald you're with us here!

Sandy R

www.BandsterME.com

>

> Hello everyone,

>

> It has been a long while since I have posted but I have been

reading

> everyone's comments, suggestions, etc and I have been learning a

> wealth of information. I was banded on March 17, 2006 in Costa

> Rica. I have lost about 24 pounds so far and I am not sure if I am

> doing well or not. I am going back down on Thursday the 7th of

June

> and I am going to get my first adjustment for the band. At the

> moment I do not feel any restrictions but from reading what you

guys

> have written, I have learned that that is normal until I get my

good

> fill which may take 4 to 5 fills. I am a bit nervous abotu the

> first fill, I am confident about my doctor, he has been with me

> every step of the way and I can talk to him anytime. I have his

> cell number! Something that not many doctors here in America will

> do. But I am just asking for some feedback on what to expect, how

> to mentally prepare myself and how my diet will go. I will ask my

> doctor all this and I have researched but the best information for

> me is from bandsters themselves. Thank you all soo much and if

> anyone wants my doctor's information, number, etc I can give you

the

> contact. He does not charge that much for adjustments (I do not

> want to say the price) so if you need one or want to change to an

> excellent doctor, let me know.

>

> Thanks

>

> Bertha

> 296- Starting weight

> 272- May 24, 2006

>

May 24, 2006

I live in Miami, Florida and my doctor has a colleague here that I can go to in

case of emergencies. I researched Costa Rica and found that it was the best

place for me to go. Also, the fact that the doctor called me to give me

information or answer any questions I may have was reassuring. A friend of mine

had gone to Costa Rica to have plastic surgery and told me about how they really

take care of you.

Well, I was really taken care of. I stayed at the retreat called " Chetica

Ranch " (www.cheticaranch.com) and they treated me like royalty. It was up in

the mountains, the weather was always perfect and I had a vacation. At the

hospital I had free internet service, plasma T.V., wonderful and caring staff

and free international calls. I had a private room. This was at Clinica

Biblica in San . I had my own personal transportation chaffeur that the

retreat provided for me. The people made me feel like family. I have personal

contact information for my nutritionists, the doctor and the team that worked on

me. I tell you, I would not recommend a better place.

Nonetheless, if you know of anyone that I can go to for emergency care then I

would gladly like to know of them in my area.

Also, you can look at www.plasticsurgerytravel.com , Elise Steffens

coordinated my entire trip and I received a discount. They do not charge for

their fee but they can do all the research and work for you. My doctor's name

is Dr. Gustavo Jimenez; please tell him Bertha sent you..... :-)

Sandy <MoonshadowRN@...> wrote: