Yep… I had my first band fill today… I was a little apprehensive going in to see the doctor but it was over and done with in 5 minutes… and I almost didn’t even notice the needle…
So what’s a Band Fill?
Basically it adds restriction to your pouch by adding more fluid 0.5ml at a time… When I was banded they put some fluid (sterile saline) into the band so it was snug around my stomach. In my case it was 4ml, and add that to today’s fill, I have now have 4.5ml. While the first fill generally isn’t that noticeable from the intial one; the 2nd a 3rd is when you start to feel it working, and may start having issues until you get used to that fill. My next fill is after I get back from Melbourne on 8 November.
So how’s it done?
Well remember my mention of the port that is located under then skin just below the breastbone… Basically the doctor get’s you to lie on the bed. He then feels round and find the port and puts a mark on your stomach. They then clean the region with betadine, before putting the needle into the port and adding the fluid… I felt a small pin prick, but it wasn’t as bad as I expected; and then before I knew it; it was over and done and he cleaned the betadine off and gave me a glass of water to sip to check I could swallow OK with no pain… I had to have a 2nd glass then before I left the clinic…
Before the band fill I had another appointment with Dr Roy and then my Physio group session. Dr Roy (my surgeon) is very pleased with my progress and was asking how I was going; and particularly how I went last week… He also gave me some photos of the placement of the band in my stomach which was fascinating… a nice little keepsake.
The Physio’s appointment was very informative; and explained the benefits of effective exercise to aid in weight loss… Once I’m back home from Melbourne I’m even thinking of finding a gym to join which will really help with the cardio and abs; although she suggested a cross trainer at home or even Wii fit is just as effective… She also drummed it in to us of the need to ensure the port region is protected at least until week 8, to avoid any problems… That will fit in fine for when I get back from Melbourne. And the exercise will help to get me fit – which despite the weight loss and finding it easier; I’m still not fit, which is something I found out on Sunday in Bathurst when I had to run from the pit garages to the compound a couple of times… after the first run (about 400 meters) by the time I had to do it a second time I had nothing left…
After the band fill, you’re back on fluids for 12 hours and then mushies for 12 hours; so I had a shake for lunch and had some tomato soup for dinner; both of which went down with no problems… Tomorrow morning and lunch is mushies before back to normal food tomorrow night…
Time for Rafters and All Saints so until next time
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