Question:
Has anyone else's surgeon told them

that they will be required to buy the protein supplememnts needed for the 1st month post-op directly from him? He said he's not making a cent on doing this. He just wants to be sure of what we are taking in for those first 30 days. I don't mind doing this and want to know if this has happened to anyone else? Thank everyone. Claire    — gramof3 (posted on September 18, 2003)

September 18, 2003
That sounds a little shady to me. Why couldn't he have just given you a list of suppliments and strict directions on the types to get?
   — Rosa F.

September 18, 2003
I was told not to do protein supplement until the 3rd month. To just stick to the meal replacemts.
   — CJ M.

September 18, 2003
While it does sound a little odd, it has at least a couple of advantages. He knows you're taking what he recommends. You have to pay for it which increases the chances of you actually taking it. Both of which could mean success for you. :)
   — ladyphy

September 18, 2003
My surgeon requires that you buy the protein shakes and also the vitamins from him for the first month. It saves on me having to travel a good distance to the store to get the items he was wanting me to drink, and the vitamins to take.
   — Karlene E.

September 19, 2003
I think that there are some positive signs here: its only for the first month; your surgeon knows for a fact that you're not taking something of low or questionable quality (Carnation Instant Breakfast, for instance); your surgeon always knows exactly the dosage and content of what you're taking, so s/he can rest assured that you are getting exactly the right nutrition in the critical first month. Good luck!!!
   — Deborah M.

September 19, 2003
My surgeon has us buy HMR 500 protein supplements from his office. You can only get HMR from a physician because it's one of the products that they use for the medically supervised weight loss programs. I think it's reasonable for our surgeons to require this so they know you're using the correct product and that you have enough of it. HMR costs about $50 per week or $200 for the first month. Good luck!
   — aferrendelli

September 19, 2003
We are required to have the necessary supplies, yes. But we are given the strict parameters, some suggested brands, some suggested places to buy, but otherwise are free to buy them anywhere, as long as they fit the criteria.
   — vitalady