Hello everyone! Long time no see...I had bypass in August 2008 and now seem to be packing on some pounds..I am disgusted with myself, I know part of it is from losing my very physical job back in December, but I need to get this off.  I have struggled with constipation as well, so I know that has something to do with it too.  I want to work out, have some knee problems, but nothing I can't handle.  I just seriously need some support and unfortunately when you are in a household of "can eat whatever I want" people who have never struggled with weight, makes it a bit difficult.  Someone please kick me in the butt!! I am so busy trying to find a job, that I end up sitting all day....sigh...

Thanks Bil, I forgot to tell you that, despite the complication, I would do this all over again in a heartbeat.  Sure, I have to watch what I eat, but I was supposed to know that before I even started.  They do suppose you can have some whole-grain carbs, which I can't, but I can still eat good food.  All I can say is that not having my own body get in my way when I try to move is worth everything I've been through.  I feel I'm facing my "golden years" in good shape.

 Hey Bil!  Good for you.  I actually retired last year.  Going to Portland for check-ups, etc., is a drag, but as it turns out, I ended up with severe hypoglycemia (they think it might be something called nesidioblastosis) so I have to go to Portland to see the endocrinologist anyway.  Not something that happens very often to RNY patients, but it did happen to me.  Basically, it means that I have a condition that only allows me to eat healthy food.  No bread, cookies, crackers, rice, pasta, potatoes, etc.  They put me to sleep and occasionally cause my blood sugar to drop so low I'm in danger of seizures or coma.  So much fun!!

If it were me I would go to Dr. Saucedo in Monterey, Mx.  I have heard nothing but good things about him and he works with a lot of WLS patients.  The prices can't be beat and you get a vacation at the same time.  If you have a LBL with him he pays for your hotel for 2 weeks.  I have heard people who went there who said it was like they were at a resort.  

I have posted before about Plastic Surgeons in OR but thought others may have gone for consults since that time.  I have had facelift/necklift etc.  & am getting ready for next round.  Had it done in Portland, had some complications but nothing life threatening.  Getting ready for BA/BL & brachio next, if I have it done in Portland.  If I go to AZ (where prices are fairly competitive), they do the LBL & BA at same time; thigh lift & brachio in the next surgery). I will have to be away from home for awhile either way so there is the cost of housing as well for either place.  Procedures in AZ are 8 hours and done in a hospital; in Portland are done in office surgical suite.  I like both surgeons so it is really a matter of procedures done together, distance from home as well as discomfort, complications and healing.  Has anyone had the upper body done before lower body?  If they do arms and thighs at same time, how slow will the healing be?  Is being in a hospital setting for the LBL essential?  Having trouble deciding and will need to do so within the next week or so.  Any comments are appreciated.  (Chose AZ because I go there in the winter sometimes and it was far less expensive than CA)