That is great you made the choice to have the Band. I was banded Oct 12th this year and down about 36lbs and I just now started to go back to the gym so very excited. I chose this vs the other because you don’t have the nutritional issues and you lose slower so less skin issues. This has been the best decision ever. This is a tool so eating like we did in the past will not fix the problem. The band basically makes you control your portions as we could not do that on our own without. So you see it's a tool not a miracle fix. I have looked at food in such a different light now. I view it as fuel and not the medicine I need to deal with stress or depression. I wish you the best and stay in touch. The surgery is pretty easy minus the recover week. You will have pain from the incisions but that is about it. Take the pain med's, try to move around after surgery and you will be fine. Bring a soft small pillow or blanket to the hospital; you will need it for the ride home under you seatbelt between your tummy!! See ya on the other side!! LOL