Ashleigh'sMom

Oh my...this makes me even more confused about what to do. I was banded 11/22 and haven't had any fills yet. I have lost 37 pounds since surgery and was not required to do a pre-surgery diet. I sort of want a fill, even though I am steadily losing weight, because I get hungry (just don't eat), I eat and don't get full (just stop eating), and I can eat any and everything I want, including breads, pastas, meats, rice, etc (just won't eat a lot of it). I feel as if I am doing all of the work...so what did I get this thing for??? But then when I read about food get stuck and vomiting after fills...I'm like...no way....I will keep doing what I am doing. I go back to the doctor next week, and not sure what I should do...to fill or not to fill...that is the question!

I had the surgery already..11/22...just no fills as of yet.

OK, so I was banded on 11/22...and have lost 37lbs since that date as I did not have to do a pre-surgery diet. I have had 3 follow-up appointments with my surgeon, and since I have been steadily losing the weight, I haven't received a fill. I am averaging a little over 3 lbs of weight loss a week. Currently, I can eat any and everything without it getting stuck or vomiting (just force myself not too), rarely have a feeling of fullness when eating (but I stop myself) and I am usually hungry (but don't allow myself to eat outside of regular eating times). On one hand, I would like a fill, so the band could start doing some work and not just me; however, on the other hand, I do like the option of being able to eat anything I like (bread, pastas, rice, steak, etc) with it going down and staying down. Should I wait to get a fill when I stop losing weight or should I go ahead and bite the bullet and get it next week at my appointment? Not even sure if I have an option or not, can I even get a fill and I am still losing weight? Your thoughts are appreciated!!!

That's the same way I was. Starting weight 255, BMI 43, no high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea, nothing...just heavy. Very healthy, and I was approved on the first try! I decided I wanted the band in September, and had my surgery Nov. 22. I didn't not have to do a pre-surgery diet or anything. I am now down to 225 lbs and doing very well with the band. It was truly the best decision I have made. I have United Healthcare Insurance and no trouble getting approved. As long as your BMI is greater than 40...you are not required to have other health problems. Good Luck!!!

I was banded on Tuesday 11-22-11, stayed overnight in the hospital, I was out and about by Saturday, and went back to work on the following Tuesday (just took Monday off for a me day!).

That was my only concern when I went to my doctor for my 2 week follow-up (I was banded 11-22-11). My shoulder pain was absolutely horrible for those first two weeks. It seemed as if it was worst if my stomach was growling or making noises. Just horrible. My doctor said it was due to a nerve that sits close to where the band was placed and runs through the shoulder. He said once the band settles into place, it would stop. I must admit, now that I am one month out...it is not nearly as bad. I used heating pads, and he suggested motrin or aleave for the pain. I hope you feel better soon!

That's just wonderful! So Happy For You!!!!!

My doctor said until they fall off by themselves. At my 15th day appointment, I still had 3 on which he removed.

I was banded 11-22 of this year and struggled with this very question. I decided to tell only a very few friends and hardly any family members. However, I will tell anyone who doesn't really know me that well...kind of strange. I'm not telling basically because of the fear of failure. Because if it didn't work...I didn't want my close friends and family thinking "she went through all of that and haven't lost any weight". You know how family can be (well at least mine) ! Now I am 3 weeks out and have lost 23 lbs. When I get asked if I am losing weight, I simply say..."I'm trying", and don't feel dishonest about it. When I reach my goal (because I am determined that I will)...I will share my story with others, because I too know of others who might benefit from the surgery.

I am so excited and thought I would share...down 23 pounds in 20 days!!! I was banded on Nov. 22nd, and didn't have to do a pre-op diet. My surgeon said he was very impressed with my progress! I have one more week of soft foods, then transition back to regular foods. A little worried...hoping I will continue to be able to lose at this rate.

OMG...this pain is no joke. I was banded 11-22, and have been having this pain almost daily. Walking does not help me!!! One day it lasted for 10 hrs and it was no fun. I go see my doctor on Friday and this is on the top of my questions list. Any suggestion or strategies to allieviate or prevent it? Please help!!!

I truly understand....as I was banded on 11-22, and I too was hungry by the 3rd-4th day. My surgeon also allowed anything that could fit through a straw...so I could have pudding, runny oat meal, plain yogurt, and pureed soup...which I was doing in addition to the protien drinks. I emailed my nutritionist and she upgraded me to soft foods by day 5. It really helped. I think I an getting used to it now. I have lost 17 lbs! But I do suggest that you stick to the plan that your surgeon has recommended. Good Luck and it gets easier!!!

Count me in! I was banded Nov. 22! Would love to keep intouch with others who understand this struggle!!! I am doing well so far! Down 17 lbs and it is so exciting!!!

Good for you! I had my surgery on Nov. 22!!! I too had and am still having problems with gas pains, and left shoulder pain, which can get really bad. Other than that, I feel great! Back to work! Tomorrow makes 2 weeks for me and I have lost 17 lbs!!!