Newbe!

I am new to this site. Had gastric lap band 1/21/05. Looking to chat with others who have had or are contemplating banding.

Hi Gail Would love to chat with you. Will get the band on June 2nd. Did you have it done in RI? I am going down to NYU. Would love to hear your experience. Warmly Maryellen

Hi Maryellen, Thanks for responding. I did have the band done in RI. The two weeks before the surgery were the hardest. My doctor has his patients on liquids only. It was hard but I stuck to it and lost 18 pounds in those two weeks. The band procedure itself was a breeze. In the hospital overnight. Some soreness but no real pain. When I could start eating regular food I thought the band wasn't working because I could literally eat everything, even pizza. But afer my fist fill (4 weeks after surgery) that all changed. I couldn't eat as much but still could eat more than I thought I should be able to. I just had my second fill last week and now it's a whole new ballgame. I feel full before I eat and cannot eat much at all. To date I have lost 38 pounds. I wish you luck on your surgery and I hope we can keep in touch. If I can be of any help, let me know. Do you live in NY? Gail

Hi Gail Glad to hear about your experience. Who was your MD? Do you know how many bands they have done? I decided to go to NY because each of the surgeons have done over 3000 bands, and the surgeon himself has been banded. Now, I am wondering if it is smarter for me to have the surgery done in RI. Just trying to check it out. I have a June 2nd surgery date. Would love to hear any thoughts you have on your experience! Thanks Maryellen

Hi Maryellen, I really don't know how many bands Dr. Pohl has done but he has been doing it for about two years. I love him as a doctor. He is very soft spoken and caring but truthful and right to the point. My experience actually was quite good. Was in the hospital overnight, got terrific care and when I got home it was pretty uneventful. The first few days I was restricted from anything really strenous but basically could do anything, even drive. Didn't have much of an appetite for a few days so basically ate soup and protein shakes. That's basically it. I see Dr. Pohl every four weeks. So far.....so good. keep in touch and keep me posted. Gail