Hi Sinead, I am in Brisbane Dr Phil Lockie is my surgeon. I am now 4 days post op and doing better each day. I must admit coming out of the anaesthetic was a little more than I had bargained for as I had some breathing problems and couldn't quite seem to catch my breath, but once some drugs were administered into the drip I calmed down. That was my biggest issue and as there were 5 of us had it done on Friday and I was the only one with that problem I don't want you to stress over it. The others did have some post anaesthetic nausea which I did not have but I put that down to me being the only one who fasted the day before surgery which I think really helped. After the surgery when you actually come too I did have one of those automatic pethidine pumps which I didn't really use much at all. There really isn't a lot of pain actually associated with the surgery and your incisions. But and sorry there is a but when you start to take your first sips of water as they like you to do straight away there is an unusual spasm and contracting feeling when it hits your tummy which is uncomfortable for around 6 seconds. This also disturbs built up gas in your tummy which trys to come up sometimes as the water is going down, so expect to burp quite a bit over the week after as we have alot of gas left to make its way out of our body in various ways. Anyway Sinead I hope yours goes well , and I hope some of this has helped you and keep a positive attitude as well . Just wanted to mention I haven't had any problems with the diet so far, I have eaten some pureed avocado and salsa yesterday about 5 teaspoons slowly and I was full and have also tolerated small amounts of custard and apple puree and a protein shake (half cup), have managed to eat twice on Sunday and Monday as well as keep up the 2 + litres of fluid- water-tea and juice. It is a challenge though to keep up the fluids but you really must to stay feeling hydrated. The great thing is the hunger pains are not a problem at all. Have to go now ask any questions you like I am happy to help and best of luck for the 25th. Cheers Jenny

HI Paula, Great to hear that you are planning a trip to Australia. I am not from Austrlia, I am from New Zealand. Not sure if you know where that is. But I am also a travel agent so have alot of knowledge on the country. I saw the response from an ex Australian and yes her ideas are great. It all boils down to how long have you got , what are your interests?As far as the food is concerned , its pretty much the same as USA. Just smaller portions and us folk "down under" don't tip. Yes you can tip but it is not expected. However , as a result you may not good the same level of service that I have experienced in USA. Protein bars are readily available and so are protein shakes and yes we have electricity down here. tehhehe.However on that subject, we use 240volts and you have 110volts so you wont be able to use your appliances like hairdriers because it will blow up with twice the voltage but I think you can buy an adapter but check that out.Customs are very strict on entering Australia and New Zealand so if you do bring any protein powder , make sure that it is in its original packaging NO products containing milk or milk powder are allowed to be imported.

Hi, I am 41 a mother of 3 and this time next week I will hopefully be recovering after my surgery. I am excited as well as anxious but am looking forward to this operation as being an important tool in helping me get a healthy lifestyle on track. I am 120 kgs now and hope to be around 100kgs by Christmas. Any advice from anyone having the procedure or have had success from it would be really appreciated. Thanks Jennifer

Hi Toni and other VSG roomies I am due to have the surgery next month but do not have dates yet, will be in October sometime! I am on Optifast diet already getting ready for the operation and getting excited. I hope to hear from some more of you as this thread seems to have gone very quiet which is a shame, tell us of your experiences people!! Well until later, keep walking and exercising and keep on track with the diet off of you cheers nara

Hello there..I am leaving for Brisbane this Friday (America time)-any suggestions on where I can buy protein bars & powder in Brisbane? Should would appreciate some help. Thanks in advance