Gaining weight and Optifast...

I am wondering if anyone has gained weight between the surgeon consult and the PAT day and had to do the Optifast... I am wondering if it is based on how much weight a person gains or if it's based on BMI??I have my PAT day Thursday and have put on a couple lbs... I'm praying I dont' have to do the Optifast!!! Anyone ???

Hi Amber, I had my surgery on 3/7 by Dr. Ben Meir. During my PAT, only 1 person out of the 4 of us had to do the Optifast. They said it was based on the way she carried her weight. It was mostly in the upper stomach and chest area. I was so afraid I would have to do it too, but I worried for nothing!! Enjoy your "last supper" syndrome!

Hi there Amber! I'm afraid that I will be the only one who will probably have to do the Optifast in the group. When I went in for my consult with Dr. Ben-Meir I was told then I would have to do it. It is based on your BMI and where the weight is carried and mine in in the stomach. See you in a few days!

I'm so new to all this... can anyone fill me in on what the optifast diet is? I'm nervous because I carry most of my weight/fat in my stomach too and I'm trying really hard not to gain any weight but it's so hard! It's really exciting to meet other members who have the same doctor as me and will be having the surgery at St. Vincent Charity hosp! Good luck everyone!

Hey Lisa, Optifast is a liquid meal replacement drink for dieting that will help you lose wieght prior to the surgery. It is VERY EXPENSIVE!!! for a two week supply and it cost between $240 - $310. ALL MOST ALL INSURANCE COMPANIES DO NOT COVER IT! And of course you can't just buy it anywhere. You have to get if from the Dr. office. Coinscience, Hmmmmmm, I wonder!! LOL When I went in for my PAT's I almost had to do it b/c I had gained 10 pounds since my consult in 9/2006 until 1/2007. We got it to only 9 lbs. so I didn't have to have it. I reviewed the PAT letter from St. V and it did say that it was based on your BMI not on weight gained (sorry Amber. My bad) From my understanding the heavier you are the larger your liver so the Optifast helps you lose weight which helps decrease the size of your liver. Hope that helps. ps...... its very exciting you have you as a member as well. We are very fortunate to have such kind and wonderfully sincere people here. So welcome to you!!! Kym

Opps..... I meant COINCIDENCE...... Not coinscience (I was spelling two words together.... Weirdo!)

Thanks guys for your posts!!!

Hi Lisa, How is it going. I am also having the surgery at St. Vincent with Dr. Ben Meir. I have a date 3-28 for the Lap Band. Is that what you are having? Debbie

I just spoke with a nurse at CCBS and everyone is right!! She said the Optifast is necessary if: a) Your BMI is at a certain level b) You carry your weight in the abdominal cavity mostly c) You gain 10 lbs. between your consult and your PAT day.

I noticed that we all have the same doctor. I have a date of 3-28. i am on Optifast and my BMI is 38. I didn't think that was high. Also are you having Lap Band? Nervous and excited, Debbie