kdakj
Surgery Info
Jul 02, 2007
Well, I had my surgery on June 28th. Doc says everything went well, and I have pictures to prove it. Yes, pictures of my new pouch "gut" thing, lol. He brought the pics to hubby, and he wasn't impressed. Bless his heart. The first day, I slept a lot. Got my pain meds every 4 hours. They didn't bring them to me automatically, so I had to call for them. The only problem I had was on Friday, apparently no one "got the message" after I had requested them 2x. I had to go to the nurses station and request it again. They tried to bring me more of the liquid version, but I said I had waited 2 hours, they would give me a shot. so they did, lol.
Friday morning, they came and got me for the leak test. OMG, the stuff you drink is awful. I believe they said it was a combination of salt water and iodine? Nasty stuff. They will hand you a large cup of it, but you only have to take small sips. At the end of it, I thought I was going to throw up. Now, let me say, I felt like throwing up several times during my stay, I would have someone hand me the bucket, sit holding it like my first born, only to burp a couple times, and the feeling would pass. If you experience nausea, I hope you only have to burp, as they don't want us to actually vomit so close after surgery.
On departure day, I came to some realizations. I could not dress myself. Hubby, being the amazing man he is, agreed to put my panties and pants on up to my knees, and I would pull them up from there. Bless his heart. He also had to put my socks and shoes on. I was able to put on my own bra and t shirt.
Oh yeah, most people want to know about the catheter. Mine only bothered me when I tried to turn over. My feet would get caught on the cord and pull. Needless to say, that was not very comfortable. Neither was the removal of it. It was not pleasant, but it didn't hurt.
One of the things I did while packing for the hospital, was take a lot of items to help keep me occupied. Oh, I took a deck of cards, some play doh, my mp3 player, electronic Sudoku, my Weight Loss for Dummies book, and my binder given to me by my doctor. Well, I never used any of them. I was up walking if I felt like doing anything, then it was back to bed, or time to eat. So don't over pack, you may not feel like using any of the stuff you bring.
Meal times, those were interesting. Each tray consisted of a broth (chiecken, beef or vegetable), a packet of Crystal Light Raspberry Ice, a bottled water, 2 packets of Beneprotein, a 4 oz fruit juice. Breakfast came with a cup of decaf coffee, and lunch and dinner came with iced tea. The directions they give you are as follows: Spend 45 to 60 minutes eating 3 - 4 oz of anything on your tray. Then wait 30 minutes, mix the protein into 4 oz of whatever is left, and spend the next hour sipping on that. It will seem like you're finishing one meal as they are bringing the next one in. And you'll feel like you're constantly eating. Just remember, what you don't use, bring it home, lol. I would eat an ounce of broth, 3 ounces of tea, then 30 minutes later, mix the protein powder in with the fruit juice and drink that for the next hour. All the water bottles, Crystal Light, extra protein powder and juices came home with me, lol. They are almost all gone now.
Well, if there is anything else you would like to know, just let me know, I'm sure at this moment, it's just an oversight.
Tomorrow, I have my staples removed and will let you all know how that went, and anything else I learn from the good doc.
Friday morning, they came and got me for the leak test. OMG, the stuff you drink is awful. I believe they said it was a combination of salt water and iodine? Nasty stuff. They will hand you a large cup of it, but you only have to take small sips. At the end of it, I thought I was going to throw up. Now, let me say, I felt like throwing up several times during my stay, I would have someone hand me the bucket, sit holding it like my first born, only to burp a couple times, and the feeling would pass. If you experience nausea, I hope you only have to burp, as they don't want us to actually vomit so close after surgery.
On departure day, I came to some realizations. I could not dress myself. Hubby, being the amazing man he is, agreed to put my panties and pants on up to my knees, and I would pull them up from there. Bless his heart. He also had to put my socks and shoes on. I was able to put on my own bra and t shirt.
Oh yeah, most people want to know about the catheter. Mine only bothered me when I tried to turn over. My feet would get caught on the cord and pull. Needless to say, that was not very comfortable. Neither was the removal of it. It was not pleasant, but it didn't hurt.
One of the things I did while packing for the hospital, was take a lot of items to help keep me occupied. Oh, I took a deck of cards, some play doh, my mp3 player, electronic Sudoku, my Weight Loss for Dummies book, and my binder given to me by my doctor. Well, I never used any of them. I was up walking if I felt like doing anything, then it was back to bed, or time to eat. So don't over pack, you may not feel like using any of the stuff you bring.
Meal times, those were interesting. Each tray consisted of a broth (chiecken, beef or vegetable), a packet of Crystal Light Raspberry Ice, a bottled water, 2 packets of Beneprotein, a 4 oz fruit juice. Breakfast came with a cup of decaf coffee, and lunch and dinner came with iced tea. The directions they give you are as follows: Spend 45 to 60 minutes eating 3 - 4 oz of anything on your tray. Then wait 30 minutes, mix the protein into 4 oz of whatever is left, and spend the next hour sipping on that. It will seem like you're finishing one meal as they are bringing the next one in. And you'll feel like you're constantly eating. Just remember, what you don't use, bring it home, lol. I would eat an ounce of broth, 3 ounces of tea, then 30 minutes later, mix the protein powder in with the fruit juice and drink that for the next hour. All the water bottles, Crystal Light, extra protein powder and juices came home with me, lol. They are almost all gone now.
Well, if there is anything else you would like to know, just let me know, I'm sure at this moment, it's just an oversight.
Tomorrow, I have my staples removed and will let you all know how that went, and anything else I learn from the good doc.
June 10, 2007
Jun 10, 2007
I can't believe it's been nearly a month since I've posted on here. Well, a lot has happened. I have decided to go with Dr. Davidson as my surgeon. I have to lose 15 pounds before he will do the surgery on the 28th of June. I've lost 5 so far, just got to get rid of the last 10. Anyone up for a walk? lol Have been reading all my materials repeatedly. I don't want to forget anything or do anything wrong. Since my surgery is on a Thursday, hubby won't have to take anytime off work. I'm grateful for that and the fact that he'll be able to be there with me. My sister in law will be taking the kids to Six Flags that day, so they'll be looked after as well. Everything is coming together quite nicely.
last night I had the opportunity to meet up with some of the many people here on OH> Oh my goodness, you wouldn't believe the fun we had, lol. We started with dinner at Joe's Crab Shack. We had a great time getting to know each other, laugh about our antics on the Express, and just enjoying the company. We danced to several of the songs they played as well. That was great fun, lol.
Then we headed over to the Reflections lounge at the Admiral Hotel. Wow, that's a nice place. If you ever need a room in Arlington, check it out. The band thay had was called " The Heat" and were they ever heated! Mercy, they heated something up in Connie and Charlene, cause those 2 gals hardly left the dance floor! It waas a great time and I highly recommend attending one of these events if you ever get the chance.
Anyways, just 18 more days til my surgery. I'm so excited!
last night I had the opportunity to meet up with some of the many people here on OH> Oh my goodness, you wouldn't believe the fun we had, lol. We started with dinner at Joe's Crab Shack. We had a great time getting to know each other, laugh about our antics on the Express, and just enjoying the company. We danced to several of the songs they played as well. That was great fun, lol.
Then we headed over to the Reflections lounge at the Admiral Hotel. Wow, that's a nice place. If you ever need a room in Arlington, check it out. The band thay had was called " The Heat" and were they ever heated! Mercy, they heated something up in Connie and Charlene, cause those 2 gals hardly left the dance floor! It waas a great time and I highly recommend attending one of these events if you ever get the chance.
Anyways, just 18 more days til my surgery. I'm so excited!
May 11, 2007
May 11, 2007
Wow, I keep going through waves with thoughts about this surgery. I still want it, but my husband's wavering 100% support confuses me all to pieces.
I had my consult with Dr. Ihde. He was taken aback at my directness. I think because I've done so much research, my questions were not about the surgery, what was right for me, complications and such, but they were about his mortality rate, how many surgeries he does per day, and if he's a morning or afternoon person. He has had 2 deaths, the first, escapes me for a reason. The second was due to a patient having a blockage, and refusing to let him operate to correct the problem. I liked his attentiveness and the fact that his staff explained some things to me about my insurance that no other offices had done. He has a seminar/work up on Thursdays that he'd like me to attend. The only problem is that it's $300 and is payable up front. The money is not terribly a problem, and will be for the most part, reimbursed by insurance. Hubby just is not sure about the whole thing because Dr. Ihde is not in our network. Why did I not notice that before?
Today, I had my seminar consult with Dr. Davidson today. It was mostly the same information as the other seminars I've been to. It seems some go into deeper detail about the water issue than others. It was hardly mentioned here, but it was mentioned. I like that he kept the group size small. I have an appointment on June 6 with the nutritionist and dietician. The only requirement he would like from me is to lose 15 pounds. I think I can accomodate him there. If I get my approval before then, I could be having surgery the week of June 18th. He said he could see no reason to validate the extra testing other doctors have asked for.
It's so funny, I've seen 5 surgeons now. One wants me to have a sleep test, one wants me to have an abdominal ultrasound and lots of bloodwork (prior to insurance approval), one wants me to lose a little weight. They're all so different. How do I choose? How did you choose? Dr. Davidson's staff did also point out the same little thing about my insurance that Dr. Ihde's did. I like that.
I had my consult with Dr. Ihde. He was taken aback at my directness. I think because I've done so much research, my questions were not about the surgery, what was right for me, complications and such, but they were about his mortality rate, how many surgeries he does per day, and if he's a morning or afternoon person. He has had 2 deaths, the first, escapes me for a reason. The second was due to a patient having a blockage, and refusing to let him operate to correct the problem. I liked his attentiveness and the fact that his staff explained some things to me about my insurance that no other offices had done. He has a seminar/work up on Thursdays that he'd like me to attend. The only problem is that it's $300 and is payable up front. The money is not terribly a problem, and will be for the most part, reimbursed by insurance. Hubby just is not sure about the whole thing because Dr. Ihde is not in our network. Why did I not notice that before?
Today, I had my seminar consult with Dr. Davidson today. It was mostly the same information as the other seminars I've been to. It seems some go into deeper detail about the water issue than others. It was hardly mentioned here, but it was mentioned. I like that he kept the group size small. I have an appointment on June 6 with the nutritionist and dietician. The only requirement he would like from me is to lose 15 pounds. I think I can accomodate him there. If I get my approval before then, I could be having surgery the week of June 18th. He said he could see no reason to validate the extra testing other doctors have asked for.
It's so funny, I've seen 5 surgeons now. One wants me to have a sleep test, one wants me to have an abdominal ultrasound and lots of bloodwork (prior to insurance approval), one wants me to lose a little weight. They're all so different. How do I choose? How did you choose? Dr. Davidson's staff did also point out the same little thing about my insurance that Dr. Ihde's did. I like that.
April 28, 2007
Apr 28, 2007
Wow, I had forgotten to update here, lol.
I went for my surgeon's consult with Dr. Stewart on Tuesday, the 24th. He was very patient and answered all the questions from me, and my friend. I found out that he only does 2 surgeries a day, and does not get in a rush to finish them. He likes to make sure that everything is closed securely, where as other doctors may think something is closed with just one stitch. I just have to schedule my psyche eval, bloodwork and abdominal ultrasound. I also have to write a diet history letter to my insurance company and get a letter from my gyn.
I thought I would hear from Dr. Kuhn and Dr. Green by now about setting up consults. Haven't heard from either one, so I'm wondering if that's why Dr. Stewart feels like the right match? I'm currently working on getting all my testing and paperwork together for my next appointment on the 24th. I need to figure out where I would find a medical record for 2003. What happens if I don't find it? Will I have to wait til 2008? Good grief, that's a long ways away, ya know?
I've put in for a new position at work, Customer Service Manager. I know that the 3 store managers and the lady who is currently CSM all want me to get the position. Since they'll be doing the hiring, why do I feel there is still a chance I won't get it? lol
I went for my surgeon's consult with Dr. Stewart on Tuesday, the 24th. He was very patient and answered all the questions from me, and my friend. I found out that he only does 2 surgeries a day, and does not get in a rush to finish them. He likes to make sure that everything is closed securely, where as other doctors may think something is closed with just one stitch. I just have to schedule my psyche eval, bloodwork and abdominal ultrasound. I also have to write a diet history letter to my insurance company and get a letter from my gyn.
I thought I would hear from Dr. Kuhn and Dr. Green by now about setting up consults. Haven't heard from either one, so I'm wondering if that's why Dr. Stewart feels like the right match? I'm currently working on getting all my testing and paperwork together for my next appointment on the 24th. I need to figure out where I would find a medical record for 2003. What happens if I don't find it? Will I have to wait til 2008? Good grief, that's a long ways away, ya know?
I've put in for a new position at work, Customer Service Manager. I know that the 3 store managers and the lady who is currently CSM all want me to get the position. Since they'll be doing the hiring, why do I feel there is still a chance I won't get it? lol
April 22, 2007
Apr 22, 2007
Hubby and I went to Dr. Green's seminar yesterday. He had a pretty full crowd, but no where near the size as Dr. Kuhn's. Maybe because Dr. Green will actually be the surgeon for those at his seminar who choose to proceed, where as it would be one of six surgeons for all those who proceed from Dr. Kuhn's? I don't know. Hubby really liked Dr. Green's personality better as well. And of course the price was better. We should hear back by Thursday about setting up a consult. I did learn that UHC does not require anything except for a 40 BMI or more. So hopefully things will go rather quickly, no matter where we decide to have it done. Oh, and Dr. Green has a payment plan. Bonus!
I have my consult scheduled with Dr. Stewart on Tuesday, taking a friend from church with me. She told me last week she was making a list of questions to ask. Today I loaned her my book "Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies". Told her it may answer some of her questions or spark others. This is when she informed me that her questions were personal, about her. Hmmmm, why is she asking her personal questions at my surgeon consult? I think maybe she doesn't understand what the appointment is all about. I'm sure it will all come to her though. I don't think it's intentional. I will invite her to ride along with us to the next seminar we attend though.
I have my consult scheduled with Dr. Stewart on Tuesday, taking a friend from church with me. She told me last week she was making a list of questions to ask. Today I loaned her my book "Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies". Told her it may answer some of her questions or spark others. This is when she informed me that her questions were personal, about her. Hmmmm, why is she asking her personal questions at my surgeon consult? I think maybe she doesn't understand what the appointment is all about. I'm sure it will all come to her though. I don't think it's intentional. I will invite her to ride along with us to the next seminar we attend though.
April 20, 2007
Apr 20, 2007
Oh my goodness! I feel like I have appointment coming out of everywhere! Tomorrow we go to Dr. Green's seminar, a consult with Dr. Stewart on the 24th, consult with Dr. Ihde on the 2nd, and a seminar/consult with Dr. Davidson on the 11th. As you can tell, I'm still checking out surgeons to see who I might decide on to do the surgery. I must say, if money is going to be a factor for us, Dr. Stewart is winning so far. He's going to cost us less than half of what Dr. Kuhn charges. I think part of Dr. Kuhn's charges are because it's at BUMC. I can't afford to pay some college students tuition! lol
I would really like to have this done before summer, but May is just around the corner. UHC would have to move really fast for me, not to mention, we would have to have the money pretty darn quick. So many things to take into consideration.
Can anyone tell me why someone would say they will support you 100%, then say things like "I hope you don't expect me to eat like that after your surgery" or "I don't understand why you can't eat like that now and lose the weight." Oh man, to me, that does not sound like 100%, ya know? I'm having a hard time with this right now. I was so depressed yesterday. I mean, how many times have I tried to eat healthy like that? How many times has this person and others around us, whined about what was for dinner because it was healthy? grrrrrrr
I would really like to have this done before summer, but May is just around the corner. UHC would have to move really fast for me, not to mention, we would have to have the money pretty darn quick. So many things to take into consideration.
Can anyone tell me why someone would say they will support you 100%, then say things like "I hope you don't expect me to eat like that after your surgery" or "I don't understand why you can't eat like that now and lose the weight." Oh man, to me, that does not sound like 100%, ya know? I'm having a hard time with this right now. I was so depressed yesterday. I mean, how many times have I tried to eat healthy like that? How many times has this person and others around us, whined about what was for dinner because it was healthy? grrrrrrr
April 17, 2007
Apr 17, 2007
Went to Dr. Stewart's seminar today. It was long, lol. Noticed a few people dozing off, but I was too interested to fall asleep. I think my mom may have snoozed a bit though, can't take that woman anywhere. I feel confident in Dr. Stewart and Leah. I'll know more Tuesday. I'm going back on the 24th, my birthday to have a consult and see exactly what is what and all that. I need to go by my chiropractor's office tomorrow and pick up my paperwork from them. I also still need to call my gynecologist and Curves to get all my records from them. I think I'll call Curves now and see how soon they could have that ready for me.
April 16, 2007
Apr 16, 2007
Well, I've decided to meet more surgeons. After much research, I've decided on the following ones: Dr. M. Green, Dr. J. Davidson, Dr. D. Stewart, and of course, Dr. J. Kuhn. I have called and arranged to go to Dr. Stewart's seminar/class tomorrow morning and will be going to Dr. Green's on Saturday morning. Need to tell hubby about that, he's not sleeping in on one of his days off. Oops! I'll just go Saturday ready for work since I have to close that night. Tomorrow at Dr. Stewart's seminar, I'll actually be able to meet with him and discuss my surgery alternatives and such. Instead of having to wait 2 weeks for a consult. I like that.
April 14, 2007
Apr 14, 2007
Well, I thought I was ready for all this. My husband and I went to the informational meeting on Thursday night. They were experiencing some technical difficulty, so we missed out on the video. Then, our presenter (Dr. Kuhn), was running late in surgery. The dietician spoke with us and answered as many questions as she could. She was very pleasant. She then went next door to a support group meeting and brought over some ladies who could tell us their experiences and answer what questions they could. Finally, an hour and a half later, the doctor showed up and was able to give his talk. He seemed so dry at first, like a talking text book. But once it came to the question and answer segment, it's like he blossomed. He came into himself and you could tell he was having a good time answering our questions. Many of the questions people were asking were easily answered in a book that had been recommended to me "Weight Loss Surgery for Dummies". The only question I had was if there were any support group meetings closer to me. The doctor and his hospital are in the Dallas area, and I'm not. Even though he only had one that was a bit closer (still not close enough), I did meet someone who lives further out than me. She agreed that if I would ride with her, she would do the driving. What a God send! Oh, and Dr. Kuhn stated that the surgery costs between 20 and 40 thousand dollars. Well, insurance will pay 70%, leaving us with $12, 000 if ours is in the 40K range. OMG, where am I supposed to come up with that kind of money? Hubby says he can change insurance plans in November, which will make our total at most $8K, but still, it's a lot of money. We could buy our daughter a cheap new car, or pay off loans with that. Then again, it's my health that's at risk. I just don't know what to do. We should hear from the surgeon's office by the 26th to set up a consult and see what it actually comes to and if it's something we're going to be able to do or not. I hope so. I don't know what else to try that won't leave me in failure mode again. Oh yeah, I will also be calling a Dr. Stewart to attend one of his classes. Maybe his fees will be different? Plus, how am I supposed to find a surgeon I like, if I don't meet several of them?
