Dr Abkin's Preop Class?

Hi everyone, I have my preop class on Thursday, and I was just wondering what will be covered there. They said it will be about 3.5 hours long and that I need to bring someone else with me. I'm just curious about what I'll be learning. Thanks for any info. Carol

Hi Carol ! I dont know Dr. Abkin's preop proceedure, I had surgery in Iowa. BUT.. mine was very informative. Mine had a breathing thingy *(sorry cant remember the name) that had plastic balls in it.... to learn to DEEP breathe after surgery. I had a whole list of things to remember to do, about diet, and what it would be like after surgery. I was supposed to take someone with me but I didnt have anyone. They have you take someone to help give you moral support but also to help have a support system... **someone* else around that knows details of your pre surgery and POST surgery issues and needs. RELAX. Take a pen and paper... between now and then jot down any questions you have, and ask LOTS of questions on Thursday. This *HERE* .. this NJ page is a great place to ask questions about the pre and post surgery issues. Take notes, relax, and focus on one day at time... I promise you will get through this surgery better if you realize that... its not the big picture, but just focusing on one little day at a time...... I was 601 the day of surgery .. December 22nd, 2004 (last christmas) Today I am 429.2.. and have lost 172 pounds. In about 9 months My LIFE is returning to me.. (you know... that existance that we all had when were young before getting big : P) Its not as HARD as it seems.. and you have support and people out here who WANT to answer your questions. Be encouraged.. ask us lots of questions here okay? Hang in there Hugs Timmy Ray

Hi Carol - been there - done that - 2 times - once with my hubby for his surgery on 8/2/04, and once for me for my surgery on 1/31/05 - both us us with the WONDERFUL, REMARKABLE, TERRIFIC, CARING, LIFE-SAVING, DR. ABKIN!! If I can remember it correctly - First - his nurse goes over everything that happens to you from when you enter the hospital, has you fill out some papers, answers any questions. Then the nutritionist goes over and explains your new way of eating (ok - I guess you can call it your new "diet" but it's not like diets that you have been on in the past - this is truly the new way you should feed your body.) Also they talk abou****er, protein and vitamin requirements. Then Dr. Abkin, or one of his associates comes in and answers questions an also explains the surgery, after care etc... Dr. Popkova came into ours - she is a very caring and special Dr. too. I think I wrote something about my pre-op class in my profile if you want to take a peak. As far as having someone with you - it is a good idea if you can bring the person who will be your main or closest support through this, so they know what to expect too. Let me wish you all the best! But wait - you pretty much already have it, since your Dr. is Dr. Abkin!!!! My biggest advise is to follow the Dr's orders(rules) and you should do just fine! Good luck to you - if you see Dr. Abkin, tell him that Sheryl and Phil Caramico say HI, and told you that you were in the hands of the BEST DR. around!! God bless - Sherri

Yes Carol - I just checked my profile - there is a blurb in there dated 1/13/05 - regarding my pre-op class - I found it very infomative, and learned that you can't take iron and calcium together. Take care, Sherri

Ok - one more thing - everything that Timmy said is true -(welcome back Timmy!! - wanted to say Hi to ya too!) So relax - take things one day at a time - and make a list of questions to ask about anything you are unsure of. Remember, the only stupid question is the one that isn't asked!

Hi Carol, If you go on my profile, I wrote about the pre-op meeting. I just had my surgery on May 17, 2005. Dr. Abkin did my surgery and I absolutely LOVE that man. He is not only a talented and educated Dr., but a beautiful, compassionate and understanding man. He treated me with the upmost respect and answered any and all questions that I had. After leaving the pre-op meeting, I was in such peace to have this surgery done. PLEASE, PLEASE-tell Dr. Abkin that I said hello... and I just want to tell you that you could not have chosen a better surgeon than this genius of a man. If I can be of any further help, feel free to email me personally. Keep using this board for ongoing support. Good Luck, Fran Placek (In Jersey)

Thanks so much for the replies everyone. It's so nice to be able to ask questions of people who've BTDT. I'm feeling much more at ease with my decision to have wls than I did a few weeks ago. I'm ready now, and I can't wait for my surgery date to get here. Carol

Hi Carol I went to the class back in May(had my surgery by Dr Pupkova on Aug 1) The meeting went over the different types of surgerys and the benefits and the possible down side to surgery(risks)Then post-op patients come in to tell their stories.At the end you can start to make your appointments right there.I went for my first visit with Dr Pupkova because of my schedule and i loved her and stayed with her for my surgery. She is a wonderful surgeon and a great person to deal with.Good luck Nancy

Hi all. It's so wonderful to read such good things about Dr. Abkin. I was referred to him by my mom's friend. Her daughter had the lap RNY, and she had other surgery with him. So, I'm going to the information seminar tomorrow night. I'm really looking forward to meeting him and the other surgeons and starting the process. Your advice and experiences are truly inspirational. They also help to ease my own nerves. Thank you! ~Kim

Hi Carol Carol How did your Pre Op class go? When you get a chance share with us how it went? Take care Timmy Ray