CHEZNOEL

I think it is typical to be able to eat more as you heal. I eat to feel satisfied. Usually if I feel full, later I regret it. It means that I really overate. That's just me though... everyone is different. We all experienced being able to eat more as we heal. Trust your doctor to tell you when it is time for a fill. Just be honest with him about how much you eat each meal. Logging food still helps me with that.

Everyone needs a different kind of support at different times. It is often hard to tell when reading whether "help" is a swift kick in the butt, or an answer like... "Yes, that happened to me too and here is what I did." Tone of voice is lost in the written word. Assume that when you read responses and questions. I do, and I find the forum to be a great support tool!

If you feel you need a hospital go to one. Anyone! We cannot diagnose you online.

Yay! Good for you!

I think some of the variation is whether or not the surgery is outpatient or inpatient. I was outpatient, and for self pay it was 9500, but... I pay for each OV and fill as well. For some unknown reason however, and I am not complaining, the insurance pays all but copay on fills and OVs. Go figure. Make sure you are comparing apples to apples! Bee Well!

Congratulations... keep up the good work and more NSVs will come your way! Bee Healthy!

First time I have heard of 7 but the research keeps expanding. Next time ask... there are no stupid questions! Bee Good!

The sleeve may not be the answer either. I have a friend who had to move to the sleeve, and has now many of the problems of the by-pass... dumping etc. And is starving all the time. The band will work if you pay attention to what you are eating. It may be easier for the doc to switch you to the band because he may feel you are not band compliant, but personally, I would give the band another honest committed chance before gong through a second surgery. Be well!

It is best to spread your nourishment out across the day. In my opinion that means at least three "meals: per day.

By the way... I did this for 3 week post op!

My prescribed diet was 2-3 oz of Protein liquid at the top of each hour while awake. I used Protein shakes for this. Then at least 203 ounces of liquid every 15 minutes. If you do the math and you are are awake at least 12 hours a day: 12 x 2-3oz - 24-36 oz Protein drinks (Avg was 20 g protein per cup or 60 g protein) 12 x 3 other 15 minute segment/hour x 3 oz = 108 oz of liquids. If you need more protein, drink it at the half hour mark. This plan easily gets in the required protein and liquids we need for post-op recovery, and it is a schedule you can follow anywhere. Bee Healthy!

Trust me, you don't want to have your band FULL! Just as we are not supposed to eat until we are full! We eat to fill satisfied. The band helps slow us down so we noticed being satisfied. It is not there to keep us from eating a healthy meal. Full means nothing goes down!!! Not the place you want to be. n Please be careful comparing band fills, some bands hold more fluid than others. Bee Healthy! Fast is not the answer.

Many people feel restriction from the beginning. Often there is some fluid in the band after surgery, this varies by doctor. Sometimes just eh swelling and healing process made me feel full. I know several people who have lost 80+ pounds with the band with NO fills. Following the lap band eating rules and measuring and weighing your food is just as important. Don't count on the fills to make you thin. The band is a tool, you have to use it the right ways. It is a journey, not a destination! Bee Well!

Congratulation! I love my band. Just keep the positive attitude and you can do anything! Bee Healthy!

I took my bottle of liquid into the movies with me as well. Smuggled in my purse! Bee Good!

Bee Healthy!

Wow Jean... sorry to hear about your sleeve experience, but thank you for sharing your experiences with us. Bee Well!

I think we all notice overweight people more now that we are banded. I know that I do. That said, I would never approach anyone. I have not even tried approaching my friends. They are adults who can read and they know there are options. It is up to them to seek the help we did. If it is not time in their heads, nothing we say will make it better, and would embarrass them even more about themselves. Yes, they know they are overweight without our help. When they come to the forum, I will be there for them, until then it just makes me sad.

Measure your protein. Our eyes can deceive us after a while! Bee Well!

I stuck to herbal teas for warm drinks and now I don't drink coffee at all! Bee Well!

I would double check with the doctor about caffeine. It is a dehydrator so it may be a bit early. Try decaf?

The first week is the hardest. It gets easier! Congrats on you surgery!

$3.19 in NC

Depends on what you eat... ice cream goes down real easy!

Most people who follow their doctors orders do not throw up. I have had a stuck episode with smile, but no throw up in 13 months. Nervous just means you are normal. Stick with the plan and you will do great!