Thats All Folks

I read the exact same thing on multiple websites and it stressed me right out lol

I have a male friend who's over 400 lbs and he wasn't forced to buy another seat, so I'm not sure.

That is correct. I am flying in 5 days and am nervous as heck about the same thing.

I'm so sorry you're struggling. I think a big part of the problem is, you were mislead about what the band is supposed to do. It's not supposed to make you feel full nor is it supposed to stop you from eating anything. In fact, that's part of the reason it's so important for banded people not exceed a cup of food per meal, so you don't overeat. If you're eating until you have that "stuff full" feeling, then you're eating too much. Here's a really great link that I think explains it all very well and may help you: http://drsimpson.net/fills/Lap-band-eating/lap-band-not-restriction/lap-band-and-restriction.html The band is an amazing tool when used properly and with realistic expectations. The work will always be ours to do and the lifestyle changes will always be ours to make. Best wishes to you. Don't give up.

I actually think for the mushie stage, a blender is preferred. It will get rid of all the chunks, whereas a food processor can leave chunks.

I had surgery about 10 1/2 months ago and have lost 168 pounds... or...my boyfriend!! ...yeah he's a great guy but I really don't want to be carrying him around lol

I had surgery almost 11 months ago and I still have a protein shake for breakfast every morning- and it most certainly does fill me up.

Smokers are at much higher risk for -Excessive bleeding during surgery -Problems with anesthesia and breathing after surgery -Blood clots after surgery -Slow healing and/or infection -Post surgical pneumonia Many of these things can be life threatening. Quitting is your best bet.

I kinda suck at low carb days- I tend to eat the same things over and over. Lots of salad with meat and cheese in them, lots of various lunch meats with cream cheese concoctions wrapped in them, and lots of chicken and tuna salad wrapped in a piece of lettuce or cheese. Those are the only "quick" stuff I eat on low carb days. Everything else requires cooking, like pork chops or a baked chicken breast.

I would talk to your Lap Band surgeon and see if he can recommend a plastic surgeon. There are surgeons out there that will do the procedure regardless of weight or BMI. I mean, let's face it, it's your body. I know the results are better if you're thinner but it's 100% your choice to have the TT and breast reduction, regardless of your BMI.

I'm on low carbs today, too. In fact, for dinner tonight I had the chicken breast cream cheese spinach roll ups that PattyGirl posted on this thread a couple pages back. It was soooo good!

Your profile is out of date. When was your surgery?

You'll do great, it's a lot easier than it looks. Once you get the hang of it it's like second nature.

I agree with hely88 if I were in your shoes, I'd be asking for a slight unfill. I wouldn't be happy that tight at all. Being as you're not vomiting and are able to eat (though it's not easy), it comes down to personal preference. Some people are happy with super tight bands, others are not. I personally have my band so that I can still eat anything I want just in moderation. Plus, if eating is that much of a chore, the temptation to rely on slider foods is too great and that leads to weight gain. If you're not happy, then get a slight unfill. Regardless of what anyone here or even a nutritionist says, you're the one the has to live with your band so it needs to fit your needs and lifestyle.

I would speak to your surgeon's office. Be blunt- you are having surgery and you need clear cut directions and guidance. Ask them: -The pre-op liquid diet- exactly what should I be drinking? What is my goal? -Post op, exactly what are the diet phases I should follow? How long is each phase? Do not let them give you a half answer or blow you off. The luxury of being self pay is, if they're not willing to thoroughly do their job then you can fire them and hire a more competent surgeon. The nutritionist will help you a lot, btw. I'm really glad you're seeking one out. Best wishes to you.

Carbonation is the only "forbidden" food for banded people. The reason is twofold: First, it can stretch the pouch above the band. The more serious and second reason is, it can cause band slips. Liquids pass through the band immediately, but carbonation expands in the stomach. When this happens, the pressure pushes upward on the band from below, causing the potential for a slip.

Oh that looks so good! I'm trying that one too!

This is a really great idea!! Just go try on clothes! Take pictures of yourself in them as you do! It'll really help you "see" how much you really have changed.

Everyone loses weight at their own rate, so don't compare yourself to your friend or anyone else. You just had surgery 15 days ago. Losing 7kgs (15 pounds) in 15 days is a lot. The average is 1-2 pounds a week so you are losing MUCH faster than most doctors expect you to. Be patient. You didn't gain all this weight overnight and you won't lose it overnight, either. Best wishes.

If you're coughing really hard, like the type that sometimes results in choking, then it's possible but unlikely. If you're worried, I'd call your doctor. Perhaps they can call you in a script for a good cough suppressant.

If it was the one incident, and your band is empty, it's highly unlikely you did any damage. I don't blame you, though. I'd be a little scared too. Hang in there, I'm sure you're ok

I don't think hunger can cause that, but I'm no doctor and could be wrong. I think it's a good thing you're getting an upper GI. Your band definitely needs to be checked. Best wishes to youl

I'm an Unjury fan, too.

Yes, I am ashamed to admit I ate fast food at least 4-5 times a week before surgery. Not only is it quick and easy, it's comfort food. One of the many benefits I've experienced since being banded is that I no longer want or like fast food. My body is so used to being fed healthy foods, now if I eat junk it makes me feel really awful.