POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A

For the past couple of days regardless of what I eat and how much I chew it keeps sticking for a few minutes and I get a throbbing pain under both breasts until it passes. I called my surgeon yesterday and she said to do what I could and if I needed to she would meet me at the hospital today for a slight unfill. I was actually able to eat normal food again last night with no problem. My last fill was May 20th. I'm wondering if this happens to anyone else? Can the band just get randomly tight like that?

The last month or two, I've been losing about .5 lb per week. I hit 201 June 13th, but put on 4 pounds on my 5oth birthday, it took me almost a month to get back to 201. Yesterday, I suddenly lost 2 pounds in one day and slammed through the 200 pound barrier. It took just under 7 months from surgery date, but I'm here. The last time I was under 200 was 1988. I'm hoping within 2 weeks to be at my goal.

I'm not getting my Protein in. I try and try and if I get 30 g's I'm lucky. It takes hours for me to finish my Protein drinks. I thought it would be easier when I was able to eat 'real' food but I'm not being successful at that either. I can just about get 4 - 5 small forksful of chicken salad in. Last night we went out and I ordered sashimi thinking that this would do the trick. If I got two ounces in, I'd be surprised. I'm afraid to push it because of all the bad stories so when I start to feel full I quit eating. Since it takes me so long to get the shakes in, my other liquids are falling behind. I really want to be compliant with this program. I'm working…

I am 6 months post-op and a couple of weeks ago I got the stomach flu which of course lead to a lot of vomiting. I thought that the band might have slipped. tho I started eating more than I use to after I got healed. But now I feel extreme tightness where it is really hard to eat anything. Why all the sudden ? Is this normal ? Because I was thinking about the fill but now ..

This morning i had 1 egg and 3 egg whites i measured them in a 1 cup meas. cup. it was 3/4's full making it a total of 4 oz. of food is this right? :confused: and i was satisfied.

i was banded 14 days ago and i did the liquids for the first week but i go so tired and so hungry from all the liquids that i introduced soft foods early. i'm now able to eat anything. its very small portions but i'm able to eat. i have noticed that if i take one bite too much my back starts to hurt so i'm learning when to stop. is there anyone else that has started eating sooner than they should? what kind of problem will this cause me later down the road? im just afraid i've ruined things but i couldnt take drinking another liquid drink again. i wanted some texture in my mouth!! thanks for helping, elizabeth

:thumbup::thumbdown:Hey guys, so three weeks ago, I went in for a unfill in my band. I was eating very little and knew that it was time to take some fluid out. So, I did....WELL since then, I have gained 10pds, I can eat more however, I am gaining weight and I don't know why! I charge my eating and I am eating around 1200-1400 cals. Can someone help me? Is this normal, to gain that much weight, if any? I don't want to gain!!! I have about 60 more pds to go and I am sooooo upset about this! PLEASE HELP Me!!!

I have a question for all the experts out there. I am 3 weeks post-op LB. I did great on preop liquid diet. Did as I was told 2 weeks after was on clear liquids then mushie foods. However on day 14 post op doctor said to eat regular foods. I have no restriction currently as my first fill is schedulded for Aug 5. Can you stretch the band even though you dont have a fill. It seems as if everything goes down easy no pain or nasuea or anything. My appetite is a little smaller than before and I hope the fill will make that even greater. I am concerned that eating regulary can stretch the band. I am eating more than a cup per meal, trying to chew slowly but since I have neve…

Hello all! I just had my surgery yesterday and I'm looking forward to being back to normal! I've been moving around quite a bit and walking or climbing stairs doesn't really bother me. Also, I have that "worked out too much" type pain in my neck, stomach and legs that I think will go away in another few days. But, I have no desire to eat or drink anything. My throat is very sore, but I've still been trying to make sure I get enough protein in with shakes and yogurt. I'm also trying to wean myself off the pain medication - makes me too sleepy. We have visitors coming this weekend who are staying at our house for a week - lots of activities in the area planned - I ho…

I was banded with no fill and I am starving. Has anyone else been banded with no fill and how are you doing?

I was banded in Oct. 2002. After 150 pounds of successful weight loss, I gained back 50 and have suffered the past two years from recurrent high fevers, severe fatigue, port pain, headaches, reflux. The list goes on. I haven't seen my surgeon - yes, I know, bad me - and all my regular doctors are at a loss as to why my body seems to have an infection they can't find. The symptoms are body flu-like. And constant. I can barely get up most mornings and now can't eat. Constant diarrhea, bloating, gall bladder pain. Has anyone else been banded this long and had these kinds of complications? Please, help. Thank you so much.

I had my 1 week post-up visit today and will be returning 8-25 for my 1st fill. I asked the Doctor if he filled small amounts frequently or what and he said he starts at 5cc's. Is this a good fill amount?

Ok, so I'm doing really well with the amount of food I eat and all of that, nothing like that has been bothering me, I'm not even tempted by other peoples "bad" food anymore. BUT, I am having a really hard time getting used to not drinking before/during/after meals. Especially, during. Anyone else having this problem? I just felt like venting a little bit because for some reason, it seemed really difficult for me this weekend. I didn't give in, but it's been hard.

I am so discouraged. I had hoped to be down 100lbs by my one year mark. I haven't lost anything for a month. I had a fill a month ago. And I had another fill yesterday. I am so hopeful this will be the one that helps. I do feel restriction now. I am at 6.5. I feel like I am eating well, but the weight is stuck. I feel like a failure.... Example menu 6am protein shake 9am yogurt nonfat 1130 salad with tuna 2pm cheese 630pm grilled chicken and salad. So why am I not losing!!!! HELP!!!!

I could really use some insight or support from all my fellow bandsters. I went for my first fill on July 6th and got 2cc. Before my fill I went from losing weight steadily to not losing anything but staying my current weight and now since the fill I have gained 2 lbs. It is really getting to me because I was doing so good, I was strict on myself and ate all through out the day , a lot of little meals. I'm still not eating like I used to but I am eating more normal foods now but I don't feel like I should be gaining weight. I don't know what to do and while my family is very supportive, I don't think they get how disappointed I feel in myself the fact that I am now ga…

I have noticed tons of people from this website have blogs and I would love to follow everyones but I dont know how to locate them all so if you have a blog post the link here I would love to view it! Here is a link to mine! www.ladylapband.com

I am about 6 weeks post-op and can eat all foods (except Breads, Pasta, etc.). I don't have any fills. Last night at dinner I was eating some Tilapia and some well done string Beans and about 3 bites in I got some minor pain and had to stop eating. Got a lot of slimey stuff in my mouth and thought I was in trouble because I read these boards alot. I realized that I was eating the food like the old days, kind of just shoving it in without worry. Started to get red faced and sweaty and my family was getting worried. I told everyone to relax. I just stopped eating for a couple of minutes and it subsided. Nothing came up. I was able to finish my meal and felt fine afterword…

Hey Guys I just need support :thumbdown: I went to my Drs office on Thursday because for a couple of weeks I had really bad acid reflux all of a sudden.. I had my fill on 04/15 and was fine until just recent.. anyway he said he thought I was ok and he ordered an upper GI for me, and prescribed me Proilosac, and told me he was on vacation all this week so no rush for the upper GI because I was able to eat and drink ok.. well go figure come friday night I was unable to eat or drink, hold any liquid down or food, I went to the ER because I knew I was dehydrated and they treated me for GERD and gave me fluids thru an IV.. I thought I was fine on sunday I felt a little better …

I was just wondering what everyone was told. I have given up soda, which wasn't hard, probably only had one or two diet sodas a day. I am 4 weeks post op and just this past week I started having coffee again. Just one cup a day. My friend told me that was a no-no. (She said it can dehydrate you and make you hungry) I honestly can't function without a cup first thing in the morning. I haven't noticed anything different-meaning it affects me just like it did before surgery, no more no less. Is anybody else having a cup of joe in the a.m? I guess I could give it up if I'm doing major harm but I'd rather not!!!

I know this may be a little soon to think about, but I have to ask. I know that once able, that alcohol effects you a lot quicker and with a much smaller amount than previous to being banded. However, how soon did you start to attempt even a sip of alcohol? If so, what kind? I know people who have had the lap and the gastric. Some of them are back to drinking beer (I already miss this!) like they were prior to surgery, and some still play it safe with wine and clear liqours. Please dont assume that I am an alcoholic, but I am curious because I have 3 weddings to attend within the coming months, including bachelorette parties and I was curious where I stand. I dont…

I was banded with the Realize Band in 10/2008. And about 3 weeks out, my port incision came partially open and about 4 to 6 ounces of fluid (tannish/reddish tint in color) came out. The fluid had no odor, nor was there any pain. I immediately called my doctor who promptly put few stitches in and did a culture. However, no infection was found. After a few weeks of drainage (and daily changes of bandages), the doctor decided to remove the port and clean out the wound (December 2008). Every indication of this wound indicated some sort of port infection or band erosion, but without any sign of infection present. So, after wound care for 4 months, the incision healed. BTW, I…

I go for my EGD ( Upper Gi) scope this morning. When I talked to my surgeons office on friday they said if they didnt find anything on the scope the band could be the cause of this horrible heartburn and stomach aches. Then went on to add they might have to remove it if that is the case. I'm not done losing weight. Wonder if they will take the band out and do the Roux-en-Y surgery. I am to far ahead of myself. I need to stay into today and quit worrying about the future. Well got to go, I will check in later. Jackie

Protein a day. How many Protein shakes a day are you usually allowed and do they count as a meal or towards the 64 oz of liquid I am supposed to have each day? Any advice would be helpful!

I was banded on 6/25. My port is on my right side about a hand width away from my sternum. The first week I slept sitting up then started sleeping sort of on my side laying down. I had been sleeping on my stomach for about a week now. Now for the question. Today it hurts if I lay down its not a sharp pain more of a dull ache and almost a pulling (yes i know its sewn into my muscle). Its gotten so its actually uncomfortable to lay down. Could this be a port that is trying to flip? Any advice would be welcomed. Thanks.

I am home from the hospital today. Surgery was on Friday, 4 days ago. I am having severe heartburn with every sip. I don't know what to do. Help!

I was banded 6/29 and have not yet had a fill (so feel no restriction right now). I am going on a 4-day cruise Thursday and am worried about eating. As of now, I can eat just about anything (but don't since I want to heal well). I have been on many cruises and know what food is typically available, but as this is the first cruise of my new life, I'm anxious about making the right food choices. Suggestions?

Hi all, Was banded on 07/07 and starting to feel really good. I never had any real problems to begin with just a lot of gas inside my stomach, which was miserable the evening after I got out of the hospital. I can't burp normally now, but at least I now know how to get the gas out. My question is were any of you able to eat popcorn ever again? I absolutely love popcorn and each time my husband makes some I just want to dig in! lol Oddly, this has been the one food in which I wanted to cheat with on my preop diet!! HOw about pickles? Were you able to tolerate pickles? Thank you so much!!

What can I do to stop this. I am 5 months post op and still losing a lot of hair.. I had extremly thick hair and not it is thin? Will this stop? What can I do to make it stop? Any help would be appreciated. I don't want to be bald...I would have rather stayed heavy then be skinny and bald... Jackie:cursing:

I'm trying to figure out which band to have placed. My doctor told me either is good. Not a lot of help there Doc! I thought I would start this thread and see if based on your answers I could get a more accurate decision. What I would like to know is Which band you had placed and how much weight have you lost in what amount of time. I have until Wednesday to figure this out, everyone's help is GREATLY appreciated. Thanks, Stacy

I'm new and don't know all the lingo:blush:

This might sound strange to some, but for those of you who have been through surgery, how long does your throat hurt after? I have been asked to sing a solo in church August 9th and my voice is pretty delicate anyway, so I'm worried I won't be in full voice by then. My surgery is Tuesday, July 14th

Hi Everyone, Hope all of your bands are doing well!! I was wondering if anyone else experiences nightly or frequant evening band tightness. Also, does Alcohol burn anyone's band? Anytime I sip Alcohol it burns right where the band is. Anyone have good drink ideas that aren't carbonated? Hard A and juices from now on? Anyone have any good meal ideas? I'm getting bored with chicken. Anyone have any tips let me know Thanks you guys! Good luck everyone!

Hey everyone...I will be going for my first fill on Monday and I am nervous...not only that I need someone to talk to about all this. Its all so new and I dont know anyone who has had this procedure done. I know Im only 4 weeks out and my determination ashould be strong...but its not now. My hubbys in Iraq, I work full time and have two kids home by myself.....i have no family around here. Anyway I would love a talk buddy! Vicki vickiwilson78@yahoo .com Yahoo IM also

I am looking at getting banded. Just wondering if anyone has been banded at Central Baptist in Lexington, KY - if so - what was your experience? Any helpful information - good, bad or indifferent. Thanks so much.....

I was wondering how much people have lost in their first year. I've only lost 53 pounds, I exercise like crazy. I do very well with my portions, although sometimes my food choices could be better. I just wondered if I'm in the average range for the 1st year or is there someting I can do to improve my progress. I WANT MORE PROGRESS!!!!:thumbup:

So I am not close to having sx yet but one thing I struggle with is the loss of aspects of my body I adore. Not that I would trade being fat for anything but for instance my boobs are great just the way they are. I have heard of people getting a lot smaller, some so small they get plastic surgery. If anyone would comment about this and how it has or has not made an impact in your self conciousness. Currently I have ddd's so I can definately stand to loose boobage but I have this sinking fear of being in the itty bitty titty club. LOL Okay very light hearted post but seriously any thoughts would be appreciated.

OK HERE IT GOES, FOR THE LAST 4 DAYS I HAVE BEEN HAVING UPEER LEFT SIDE BACK PAIN, MY BACK HURTS WORSER THAN A TOOTHACHE, I AM WONDERING IF THIS IS BAND RELATED OR MAYBE I NEED TO GO TO HOSIPITAL? HELP ANYONE THANKS.:thumbdown:

I will have had my band for a month on the 5th. I've done excellent on my eating and pretty good on my working out up until last Saturday and Sunday. I tried to get back on track yesterday. I did okay, but didn't exercise. I'm beginning to feel like life with the band is too hard. Finding the right things to eat, getting enough to eat, making time to exercise. It's making me very upset. I get my first fill next week, and honestly I'm really scared about how I'm going to handle it. My Mom recently asked me if I thought my band cost me too much. I asked her what she meant and she said "it seems you've lost your relationship with your best friend (which is likely true)…

I have posted before about the problems that I have been having since my last fill in April. I haven't been able to eat hardly at all and when I am able to eat, 90% of the time I end up throwing it back up. I constantly keep horrible heartburn and hardly ever have any energy (guess its from not being able to eat). I have been told by family, friends, people on here, and even my hubby that my band is to tight. Although I haven't been losing weight like I was before my last feel I haven't been gaining any either and didn't want to admit to myself that my band was to tight. Why I haven't wanted to admit to it, I have no earthly idea. I finally decided today to call t…

I am 5 days post op and have had a headache for several days, been feeling extremely weak, dizzy and light headed. I'm a severe anemic as well. I called my doc who said I'm dehydrated and I need to up my fluids. I'm hoping that's what it is but of course I'm concerned. I was told to sit up and take a moment before I stand up....and move slowly. Take cool showers instead of warm. I'm hoping to feel better soon.

Mine is on the left.

PS I mean PORT FLIPPING!! So Im 3 weeks post op and within the last day or so, I can REALLY feel my port. I was always able to feel it before, but now the "lump" feels bigger. Do you think this could be a flipped port or something else? I am sooooo worried about any isues occurign cause Im a cash patient and cant afford another surgery to fix anything. Can you share any of your port flipping stories and how you knew it was flipped? Did u have symptoms? Can you guys feel your port really bad?? Ive been excersizing pretty intensly at 2 weeks, but was told that was ok.

I am three days post-op and I am regretting that I ever had this done. I have had two crying spells in the last few days, which is so out of character for me. I absolutely hate the protein powder mix, it tastes awful! My family is eating out tonight at the Outback and I'm at home sipping on water and dreading the next two ounces of protein brew. Help!:confused:

I'm confused and looking for some of your experiences. I was banded on 6/17. I got my first fill this past Friday, July 10th. The whole process wasn't bad (although I was looking forward to having a topical anesthetic that I didn't get). He said that I already had 3cc in--which surprised me because I thought they said they don't fill it at all during surgery. The Dr. added 1cc. So, I thought, wow, 4cc I should feel something. Nope, Nothing. I don't feel any different restriction wise. I asked and he told me I have a 10 cc band. Should I be concerned that I don't feel anything? I've read that it can take a week or two to feel it? Delayed reaction?? I'm hoping for that. Or …

I was banded on the 26th of May and randomly throughout the whole day, I get this pain in the middle of my chest and have to burp to relieve it...this goes on ALL day...rather embarrassing at work :thumbup: What is causing this? Also, I am starting not to have any restriction at all - I can eat more and more each day it seems - will this continue until my first fill? Every time I drink liquids though, I get that pain again in the center of my chest for a minute, then it passes....will this last forever or go away as time goes on? Thanks!

I posted yesterday that I was having SUCH a hard time getting any liquids down at all because I would have such painful spasms in my esophagus afterwards. I was tempted just to skate by on a little Protein and Water - and hope that was good enough. But then did a lot of reading and I'm SO grateful that I got scared enough to man up and act like an adult in charge of her own health, not a helpless kid hoping things would somehow come out okay without much effort. (I've seen where that strategy has gotten me in the past with other things. Nowhere good.) TODAY - Wow, I'm feeling SOOO much better. What a difference a day makes. I decided I had to tackle this as head on as…

Hey guys, I was just wondering if anyone else was banded on 7/7 and if anyone is from Sierra Vista/Tucson. Looking for some support buddies! -Doc

In your humble opinions, what is the best source for protein shakes our there? I'm still in the healing phase and have to get protein via supplements right now, but I'm so sick of protein shakes, I almost vomit just thinking about them! Any advice?

I'm almost out of the Nexium I purchased in Mexicali--any suggestions on something comparable that dissolves? Thanks!

I'm 5 weeks post op and I'm scheduled for my first fill this thursday. I've lost 40 total since pre-op diet. I still get full very fast. I eat very little and no snacking. For example today for lunch I had 3 little grilled chicken nuggets (mcdonalds sized) and I'm almost miserable because I ate too much. Breakfast is usually one egg or half a chicken thigh and I'm so full I feel like I'm stuffed. My surgeon wants me to go ahead and do the fill, but I'm sort of leaning towards cancelling. I don't want to be overfilled and I'm certainly not eating a lot. What do ya'll think? Oh and my port site still is pretty sore 5 weeks out, is this normal? Lisa