Attention Everyone! We want to invite you to a Special Surgeon Chat featuring guest speaker: Dr. Brad Watkins of Northwest Weight Loss Surgery Time: 9:00pm EST / 6:00pm PST Place: On ObesityHelp.com The Moderated chat room will be opened 15 minutes prior to the chat. At that time a banner announcing the chat will be activated. Just click on the banner to enter the chat room. Thank you Obesityhelp Staff Kirk Thompson aka CROW

Oh yes, definatley. The reason you start with liquids and puree is to allow you new digetive system to heal. My meal plan progression is: Clear Liquids 1-2 days next Full Liquids 10-14 days next Soft/Pureed foods week 3 to week 8 next Bariatric Diet week 9 to week 52 For my Bariatric Diet the only things listed are foods that tend to cause some individuals discomfort and they are: Gum Soda Gristle Dry meats Membranes of fruits, like oranges and grapefruit Skins of fruit, like apples or raisins Fibrous vegetables, like celery and corn Popcorn Nuts Fried foods Soggy or sticky foods, like pasta or white bread. Every Doctor and Nutritionist has a different plan and this is just what I got from my Doctor. My portions will always be small, I will start with 2 tablespoons and eventually work my way up to but no more than 8 ounces at a meal, starting with proteins first. I hope this helps. Hugs Wendy

Hi Dianna, Mom just told me today you were thinking of having weight loss surgery. I had Dr. Oakley in Boise, and he is awsome. I too had tried many diets and failed them, but if you go into this with the right mind set, that this is a TOOL to help you, you can and will succeed. Check out my profile and the updated pics, you will see what I mean. Have mom give you my email addresses (home and work), you can email me anytime. If you can ever catch me at home, you are welcome to call me as well. Just get the number from Mom. Best wishes on your journey, it is a wild one. Cindy

I have been reading lots of posts about after the surgery .. lots of protein drinks and tiny meals. How long does that type of eating go on? Does one ever get back to eating a "regular" meal .. not big ones like I used to, but be able to have roast beef, green beans, tomatoes, chicken, etc. ever again? Is there ever a return to something "normal"?? eating?? Dianna

Hi Dianna, I had my surgery Aug 6, 2004. I am doing well. The surgery has not been a walk in the park, but I take each day as it comes. Each week I feel better and more like myself. I have had no complications. My doctor is Dr. Korn. He has taken very good care of me. The only thing is he only does the surgery as open. I have heard very good things about Dr. Oakley as well. Best of luck on your journey. Peace, Sherry