6 Day Post Op
I am new to the Realize Band Forum, since my doctor decided on the Realize Band about 15 minutes prior to surgery. I thought I would update everyone and find out if anyone has any advice or suggestions for phase I.
My incisions are healing pretty well with the exception of the large one where my port is located. It seems to be a little redder than the others. It is located above my waist line on my left hand side and seems to get pulled and tugged the most when I am moving. Last night was the first night I was able to shower and be in the bathroom with minimum assistance. This has truly tested my husband's love and dedication to his vows that is for sure. I am happy to report that he just continues to impress me with his love for me and his willingness to do whatever is needed to help.
After being on liquids for 5 days, yesterday was the first day I was really craving food. I just kept sipping on my 2oz of liquid every fifteen minutes in order to eliminate the desires to want solid foods. I have been compliant beyond words. I have been drinking two protein shakes per day mixed with skim milk which almost meets my carb and protein goals within those two drinks. I save the two shakes for breakfast and dinner. The rest of the 15 minute incriments are split between chicken broth, chicken noodle soup broth, water, G2 and sugar-free jello.
As I said before, I do have discomfort in my incisions however the greatest pain is air in my chest. It causes me to fold over in great pain. I called the nurse this morning who suggested that when I take my sips of my liquids to exhale before swallowing. Because of the small sips and the frequent intake, it is easy for me to get unwanted air in my breathing tubes and esophagus. So, I will be practicing that today.
I am still very excited about this adventure and this journey. If I had any doubt of how hard this would be, I no longer am filled with those fluffy illusions. I assure you this has been harder than any diet I ever did throughout my 40 years. At least on a diet, you could feel satisfied through salad and tuna. Haha! I so do not take that for granted now. Never let anyone tell you this is an easy journey... I ASSURE YOU, it is not. I said that weight loss surgery was a last resort for me and I do believe that I was at a place in my life where I needed this assistance to reach my goal. I look forward to my new life.
on 10/31/09 6:26 am
I am on my 3 day post op today. I took my first shower today and feel better for doing so.
Following the clare fluid schedule as you are. I have the disconfort with the port incision as well. Otherwise the feeling of pressure/burning is what's bugging me. Sleeping little naps helps too.
Well best of luck to you
And of course, I have saved you all a seat on the loser's bench in our winner's circle !!
Tom
“Nothing I will ever eat will give me the feeling I get as when I lose weight” The views expressed are based on my own experiences - and should NOT BE FOLLOWED IN LIEU OF DOCTOR’S ADVICE/INSTRUCTIONS. Only your Doctor knows your condition, and make sure you talk to them before making any changes to your diet
on 11/1/09 10:16 pm
Welcome to the Realize Band forum. Surgery is no walk in the park -- that's for sure, but it does get a little better each day.
For me, slow walking several times a day helped a lot with the gas pains. This whole process is hard work, but keep it up, you are doing a great job!
Trixie
Hello friends,
I had surgery on 10/23 and it's been an interesting run. I'm very excited about my decision to be banded. I had gas pains for one day. No pain at any incision sites. Day three and four were bad for me, but nothing I couldn't handle. On 10/24 I had to have a "bath" in the sink, but since then I've taken showers. I, too, have a great husband. He's been my total rock and I never thought I could love him more, but, yes, I love him more and I'm truly blessed to have this man by my side. I had a brief moment of insanity this past Thursay with eating a half cup of something I shouldn't have and my band brought everything back to me...lol. I'm thankful for this board and you all. Have a blessed day everyone!
HW-212 SW-205 CW-194.5 GW-135