I'm thinking of Dr Otriz

What do you think ?

I've heard good things about him, Tamara. But I don't know from personal experience, so I'll leave it to the others to elaborate... Dina

I was banded by Dr. Ortiz one week ago and I cannot speak highly enough of him. If you'd like more information, feel free to email me. (I haven't updated my profile yet!) Marcie 290/280/165

Marcie! You've already lost 10 lbs! Way to go!!!!! How are you feeling now anyway? Are ya running marathons yet? I'm one to speak - you wouldn't catch me running unless a bee was chasing me! Tell us all about your experience - how was the trip? Dina

Thanks Dina! I'm okay now except for some intense port pain. It is really bad and it worries me! (I'm a worrier! ) I had some complications following surgery (a really tight band and intense swelling) and I was unable to keep anything down for the first 4 days. On Day 5, Dr. Ortiz & Co. gave me a barium swallow checked out my band and all was well--although as I said, I am very tight and fluid was just trickling through my band. SO that was kind of a hassle. I had to stay in TJ for 8 days (4 days longer than planned) and had to have an IV while staying at the hotel. It was terrible! However, Dr. Ortiz, Dr. Martinez, Dr. Kelly, and everybody else took great care of me. See you around the OR board! Marcie 290/280/165 P.S. I also found out I weighed about 10 lbs more than I thought I did. But the good news is the doc told me my goal weight of 155 was too light and I should shoot for 165 ;)

Not having a band I'm ignorant, but I'm curious if you think that port pain is normal or not? Have you checked with other bandsters? Is this the place where they put it next to the skin for fills and such? Hopefully it's just painful because of the surgery and will calm down after awhile. Good news on the goal weight! I would give my eye teeth to be 165 again, but then I guess I don't have to do that now huh? I'm so glad you got good care from Dr. Ortiz and all. It sounds like he is shaping up to be a favored doctor for the lap bands. That's really good to know. It opens up opportunities for everyone who wants the band. I know I wasn't a candidate for it myself, but many others prefer that. I hope he proves to be another Dr. Aguirre in his own way!!! Dina