Dr. Garcia???`

I am just wondering who all had Dr.Garcia from meritcare for their surgery? Also how long before a person can have a drink or two? My surgery is listed for Oct 22 and my 21st is on February 17th. Just wondering for some imput! Thanks!!!!

I didn't have Dr. Garcia for my surgery, but know several that have.  He is a very good surgeon.  He is the doctor *****leased me from the hospital after my surgery and he was very nice.

As far as the drink goes, this probably isn't protocol, but.....I had surgery July 2nd of 2007 and my son got married on September 1st.  I did have a couple of glasses of wine at the wedding.  I had asked prior to doing so, and was told it was OK but to try it at home first to see how you react to it.

You will feel the effects of the alcohol much much faster than ever before.

From my understanding they request you have no drinks for the first is it 9 months to one yr later. It does knock ya on your arse a lot faster then prior to surgery, be careful.
As far as Garcia goes, he is very good at what he does. I have total trust in him and he has done 2 surgeries on me this far. He always says "Don't worry will take care of you" and he always did.
His bed side manner is on the odd side, When I give answers to his questions there is a barrier of him not understanding me or vice versa LOL
Have faith in him and enjoy the ride!
Kelly/tink

I had Dr. Garcia too and I have to agree with Kelly that I trust that he's very competent and takes the best care with his patients, but odd is probably a good word for the office visits. He's really kind though and you'd be in good hands.

Becky

I had the band and the only thing i can say about drinking is be very careful...It was a few months after surgery when i had my first glass of wine and the alchol really hits you harder then before surgery...prior to surgery i could have 4 or 5 drinks and then i would get a little buzy (when buzzed my nose and lips start to go numb...wierd i know) and after surgery i have 1 glass of wine and my nose and lips go numb...I would agree with the previous poster and try a drink at home before you try it out...