Make sure you have a comfy outfit to walk around the hospital in and slippers or flip-flops, Gas X strips, something to read, extension cord for your cell phone, gauze, bandages, tape, antiseptic and anything else that makes you feel comfortable. If you have any other questions feel free to ask. My only regret is that I didn't have the surgery sooner! Best Wishes

Hi Ipana36! Congratulations on your upcoming surgery. I am currently 2 weeks post op and doing well. I had my surgery by Dr. Valenzuela on August 3rd. First of all, the hotel accommodations were great as that is where 2 of your nights will be spent. We stayed at the Hyatt Hotel and I would rate it a 4 star hotel. The hotel is also set up to accommodate bariatric patients so they have free jello, broth and liquids for us. The hospital is very clean and my only complaint was that some of the young nurses do not speak any English (but not a huge deal). Once you are at the hospital the process goes quickly. They do your bloodwork, EKG and before you know it you are in the operating room. They have a recovery room that is right by the operating room. They have you up and walking as soon as you wake up and the next day you are given apple juice and Gatorade. Lots of walking should be happening as you are recouping to get rid of the gas that they fill your tummy up with to do the surgery. The drivers, nurses and Dr. Valenzuela are all very nice and happy to answer any questions. I met one of the coordinators there and he was a year post op and had lost 130lbs (he had the pictures to prove it). My sutures are almost healed and I have lost 18 lbs since surgery plus the 24 I already lost before surgery for a total of 42 lbs.