First Fill

After yesterday and the pain and discomfort I had with my first attempt for my fill totally freaked me out for the second try which was done today via x-ray. Last night I could barely sleep because the pain was so bad. (And I am no wuss) With bruising and swelling of the area as the night grew on, It makes me wonder if the next time will be like this.

Today I had to check into the main hospital to go to the Radiology center. I was escorted back and met with my RN who was to prep me. Prep me? Yeah, I had to get a gown on, a hair net and lay in a gurney. The doctor who was to do the fill spoke with me about what he was going to do, then I waited for the room to be open. I am allergic to contrast dye - so they could not use that but I guess the IV version is much stronger than what you swallow. I was rolled down the hallway into the room, laid on the x-ray table as they prepped me. It was the works for sure. It wasn't just an ordinary x-ray room - this was the most high tech room I have ever seen. From 6 flat screens, ceiling x-rays to even the bed I laid on. I asked about the room and I was informed it is a multi-purpose room meant for even the most complex x-rays. (Like putting stuff into people's brains)

The cameras were now on, and I was numbed. It is a live x-ray which was pretty cool. Even better because within seconds the fill needle was inserted and I never felt a thing. It was 4 cc's of fluid placed this time. I felt the pressure of him pressing against my port to fill it. He left the needle in as I drank some fluid. He watched it and I drank again. It went down and thru the port at the right speed so he took out the needle and cleaned me up. They also marked the area (which you can see in photo) where he entered. Way off from where my surgeon went thru. The best part was not only did it not hurt but the doctor went over my scans with me. I could see screen by screen the fluid going thru, the actual port, my stomach and the band itself. That was awesome. They rolled me back and I put my clothes back on. I had to go up to the surgeon's office so they could take photos of the entrance for when the doctor gets out of surgery.

I feel so much better having the x-ray done. I recommend it to anyone who has a bad fill experience. Zero pain. Glad it is over with and now onto solids in a few days.

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Top 5 NSV's:
1. Down from size 20 to a 16
2. Had my period (this is a big deal since it was 6+ months)
3. Rings fit (my fingers aren't as chubby)
4. Favorite jean jacket fits better (no more arm sausages)
5. No more high blood pressure!