surgery next week any advice

Hi all ,
I am new to the site. I am having the band next wednesday and I would love any advice from all bandsters. From tips to do and dont's please let me know.

I would first like to say congratulations. My advise to you is to make sure to follow your pre-op diet because it's very important in preparing your body for surgery. Make sure you have anti-gas pills stocked and a heating pad to help relieve abdominal pain. Get some comfy prop pillows so you'll be comfortably propped up when laying down(that helped me, it may not be necessary for you). And make sure you stock up your post-op foods. Other than that, I think you're covered. Keep us posted.

I am scheduled next week too!   I am going the pre-wedding jitters! 

Lots of luck to you!

1.  follow YOUR doctor's orders -- regardless of anything you read here or hear at support group meetings --- you are putting your life in their hands, you should trust them.

2.  I had several types of protein drinks on hand (Muscle milk ready to drink, Isopure, Carnation instant breakfast, Syntha-6, Unjury -- etc). It helped me to have choices.

3.  I had several options for clear liquids -- Campbell's Chicken noodle (strained), sugar-free popsicles, sugar-free jello, etc.

4.  A heating pad helped me be more comfortable

5.  A pillow for the car ride home -- between the seat belt and my belly

6.  Slip on shoes --- and a pair of socks for my always chilly toes!

7. A double dose of PATIENCE!!!!   

Best of luck!

Your time is almost here!!  How exciting!  Nervewracking too!!   I hope all goes as well for you as it did for me.  No problems at all.  Sore for awhile but not bad.  Following your doctors orders is vital.  Don't fool around thinking you can have this or that.  Do as you're told.  You want to take care of your new pouch and band.   Get up and walk as much as you can to get that gas moving around and out.   Take tiny sips.   I went thru my banding over the holidays and it was very hard but I did it.  Let us know how it goes.

In addition to the comments above, I would suggest some comfy loose clothing (without tight or binding elastic at the waist) and slip-on shoes.  Oh, and maybe some chapstick for your lips.  Mine were pretty dry after surgery from being intubated.  Also, it might be a good idea to go ahead and try some protein drinks to see what you like.  It's alot easier to shop and experiment before you are recovering.  Hope everything goes smoothly for you.  Good luck!

Lots of good responses here...and good luck!! :)

Thank you all for the great advice. It really came in handy.I am now banded as of 5/06/11. Thank you Lord for letting me begin this wonderful journey.