Fill #10 - I think I'm finally where I need to be!

Okay - I just came from fill #10. The doc did something different, he usually takes all my fill out and then refills it. But since I've had so many fills, he just added to it. I was at 3.5 cc, he filled me .4cc, which gives me 3.9 cc's. I remember the last time I had pretty good restriction was at 3.8 cc, then he filled me to 4.0 cc's and all my troubles began.

All along, I've always thought 3.9 cc's would be the perfect spot. Well, finally after 15 months I'm at my sweet spot - or at least I think I am. Its still too early to tell. I will be on liquids all day today and possibly tomorrow, then I go on mushies for 2 days, then to regular food.

He had me eat some jello while I was there, I can still feel it in my pouch, I ate about 1/2 of the container, and I was stuffed. Now, the problem is, I'm always tighter in the am and loose in the evening, so tonight will be the real test.

Menu today

bfast - jello

Lunch - tomatoe soup - puree

Dinner - protein shake

Exercise - 3:00 pm - 15 min on elliptical machine

I am new to the fill stuff and I see I am not alone with my worries. I don't feel full at all. I am at 4cc's in a 14 band and the doc made it sound like I should be feeling really full with this last fill, but I am not! I heard it could take a few fills to find the right spot but seeing that others have six or more fills is reassuring, although I am sure hard on your end. I have been banded since Jan. 7 and have lost 16 lbs. but things have just stopped and it is too easy to cheat. I am getting so frustrated this is taking so long and feeling like I wish I had not done this for all the trouble it's been and the weight just doesn't seem to be coming off.

Just so frustrated!

Hang in there, I do think the band needs to be at least 1/2 full to start feeling something for most people. Some are lucky to never even have to have a fill.

I will say that I do have restriction, just not as much as I think I need. I never PB if I eat one too many bites, matter of fact I don't PB at all, I can eat whatever I want. I'm now at 3.9ccs in a 4.cc band. Go figure. When I'm at 4.0 cc's, I'm too full and completely closed up, can't even swallow my own saliva. I'm to the point that I am going to have to really use some self control.

I am now measuring my food, I'm no longer "testing" the band, I am using it as a tool. If I only eat 1 cup of food or 3 oz - It does make me full. If I eat 2 or 3 cups, I can eat it, but I'm making myself stop at the bandster portion. It seems to be working.

Hang in there and keep getting your fills until you reach the point you cannot. It is frustrating, but I do believe the band can be a valuable tool too.

Best wishes to you and congratulations on 16 lbs lost already. That is not bad at all!