I found that wearing one of those waist slimmer work out bands helps a lot. I don't have to walk slouched over and don't have to hold a pillow to move or cough. It keeps me from hurting as bad. I have also had to take my tylenol3 regularly which I did not think I would need. Boy am I glad I had them filled. Tylenol helps during the day but I can feel the bruising and pain and now it all itches. Guess that is a good sign of healing.
Take your pain meds as directed and WALK as much as possible. Also, holding a small pillow over your stomach, especially when you cough or sit up, helps tremendously. I slept with mine for the first 3 days (I was banded 12/30).
