Thanks folks... I did go to the Umass class and did ask them about self pay and they wouldn't do it. And they said if they considered doing it they would only to the Lapband and nothing else. I guess I am forced to travel which I don't prefer but expect if Umass DID offer self pay it would be cheaper to travel. It's just a comfort thing having the doctor a half hour drive away and not a plane ride. I am down to the GSP (Plication) in OH or VSG in MI or NC... No matter how I go it;s $11k+.

I am not sure you would have to call Umass and see if they will do it for you

 Relax, you're doing fine!  You JUST had major surgery; you're expecting a lot from yourself.  The day I got home from the hospital, I didn't even try my protein shakes; just drank water all day a couple of sips at a time.  Day 2 I started the protein, but after a full week I was STILL not getting in 64oz water plus 3 shakes.  At my one week follow up I was told to stop worrying about it and just do my best, it would take a little time and I was being to hard on myself.  Sounds like that's where you are!  The first week home was *really* hard.  Week 2 was better - still sore and tired but at least I was eating a little.  By 2 weeks post-op I felt like myself again, but still with a less energy.  By 3 weeks I felt GREAT.  I'll be 4 weeks tomorrow, and I am getting my 64 oz water every day and eating my 3 oz protein at almost every meal (breakfast is still a challenge, but I think I'm just getting sick of eggs).   

Just try to get through the physical healing time, after that you should see a very steep curve up in how you're feeling.  Hang in there, and don't force things down if you're not yet up to it.  I would be shocked if you did get in everything right now - I was sleeping so much at that point, there were truly not enough hours in the day.

-Lisa

I had my RNY on Monday (the 24th) at Tufts... Weird but it's all pretty much a blur, I don't remember waking up in the OR just in the recovery area. I can honestly say I don't remember "pain".  What I do remember is there was a pain pump clicked to my johnny... I just kept pressing it whenever I remembered too... not sure I "needed" it.  At Tufts as in most hospitals they ask you to rate your pain 0 to 10 (with 10 being excruciating), I recall Monday night being a 6 then Tuesday morning I was a 4, I left on Wendesday and was a 2 which was completely tolerable... sort of like a common muscle ache.  

I'm assuming no matter where you go the staff does not want you to be in "PAIN" but of course you've got to consider what we're putting our bodies thru!  It's not going to be a complete walk in the park, you'll have your moments!   I remember a slogan (not sure the source) but it reads something like: Pain is Temporary, Results are Forever.

 Congrats on you big day!!
CJ 

 I live in Mass and think I want the VSG. I have looked into Plication and may consider it too if I could get more feedback. It has been impossible to locate someone locally who will accept a self pay in the MA area. Especially keeping it reasonable. If you had a VSG and are from the area can you tell me who and how it went/going? Any self pay prices are helpful..

Thanks
Jeff