Question:
Traveling one week after first fill

I will be traveling by overnight train one week after my first fill, which is scheduled at approx. 5 weeks post-op. I know I need to go on the liquid diet for 2 days, then mushy for a few days, then I will need to "test" my newly adjusted band. Does anyone have any advice? Foods I should take with me? I will be staying in a dorm room, no refrigeration, and there will be several "food events" (receptions, cook-out lunch, gala dinner, brunch). Tips for surviving a reunion weekend? Thanks in advance.    — mum (posted on May 16, 2008)

May 16, 2008
I was fine after my first fill, but maybe you should postpone it a week, so you can enjoy your reunion and trip and not worry? My second fill caused me a bit of discomfort for a while. Just an idea....
   — loisdierlam

May 16, 2008
I will probably get flamed for this but: I would suggest you delay getting your fill until you return. You will be in an environment where you will not be in full control of what food is available in an early stage. Wait until you are home and can make the transition in a comfortable setting.
   — nursenut

May 16, 2008
I agree w/ the first two post. I personaly would postpone the fill. I would be terrible if you were too full and had problems w/ it. You may want to talk to your dr about. I'm almost 7 wks out and won't get my first fill until the 30th, And am doing ok. Just eat carefully and don't overindulge. Good luck.
   — Kristi H.

May 17, 2008
ok...my answer was going to be the same but different. Maybe the others know better! The first few fills I didnt feel the effects.... They say wait a week but personally I learned differently. I had surgery 12-20-7 and just went to disney in april. It didnt totally ruin my vacation but sort of. The only thing I suggest and or learned and didnt thinik of was...I was eating heavier meals than before (meat, etc) and eating later. My symptoms were coughing or rather choking at night...I did not relate the two. Anyway, I didnt connect it till 2 days before I left. I wish I had waited. You get anxious to lose weight, but it is not worth being miserable and being away. probably you will be fine, but why chance it? If you do go, lighter meals in the evening or rather be conscious of eating more and dont eat too late
   — Linda R.

May 17, 2008
Take plenty of familiar foods with you. Those that you are sure you can tolerate and hold down. Make sure to eat before going to the "eating" events and listen to your tummy not your mind. If you eat before you go, you will be full and the only battle will truly be taming your mind from telling you it wants all you favorites. Arrive late and even choose to walk away when the temptation feels overwhelming. You have the power in you, Good Luck.
   — bariatricdivalatina

May 17, 2008
Hi Alice, I would tend to agree with the other folks about postponing your fill until your return. I had surgery in January 23rd and had my first fill (2cc's) in March. I was told to stay on liquids for 24 hours. I had no problem with getting and keeping down liquid or food. My second fill was in April, (1 cc) and I didn't have any problem there either. For food, I ate yogurt, sf canned fruit (1 oz), sf gelatin, and cream soup and my protein drink twice a day. More than likely, the food at your event will have a protein and raw veggie choices which could be a little hard with the fiber on your stomach. There may be some soft veggie choices and probably desserts. Good luck with your journey and your reunion! Regina ([email protected])
   — Bigwyfan1964

May 19, 2008
Thanks, everyone, I have posponed my first fill from 5 wks post-op to 7 wks post-op. I am still losing weight (down 20# in 3 wks) and appreciate that advice. I will be staying in an historic dorm room with no private bathroom access, much less kitchen facilities or refrigeration, and no car. So it would be difficult to say the least, to manage a program esp. if something goes wrong. As was suggested, I'll just focus on the company and try to make smart, protein-rich choices at the official events.
   — mum