can_do

Awesome results from all of your hard work. Congrats!

A big change. Congrats!

Definitely a dress. I couldn't stand anything around my waist.

My hunger returned about this point after surgery. Once you start with fills, you'll be working with your surgeon to get into the green zone. This is a point where a small meal will keep you satisfied for at least four hours. Until you're there, it's going to take a lot of will power. Just keep following the rules. You can do this.

I'm SO happy to see this information posted. Most people, including those that are banded DON'T understand how a band really works. Thank you for bringing this to light.

For me: 24 hours of liquids, 24 hours soft and then regular

TMI for a first date. Who needs to know? So you don't eat much. That's your choice and you don't have to defend it. Have a great time!

I also left out measuring. My eyeballs are not good at eyeballing!

Congrats!

I read all I could prior to surgery. Alex's book was a great help. The link for it is on the bottom of the page.

My guidelines are: 60 or more grams of Protein Always eat protein first 3/4 -1 cup of food per meal Good carbs only - fruit and veggies No alcohol In between meals, only if needed - a Protein shake 800-1000 calories

Congrats!

The gas will dissipate. It's really not in your intestines, just flosting around in your abdomen. It was put there to allow the surgeon to get to your organs during surgery. The pain in your shoulder and neck are from that. It can take quite a while to go away, or it could be gone tomorrow. Everyone is diferent. Just keep taking sips of fluids constantly and you'll stay hydrated. I didn't concern myself with anything by staying hydrated for the first several days. You REALLY should not be lifting anything heavy, including your one year old. Try and find an alternative to lifting him/her. You've had major surgery. You'll feel better each day unless you overdo things.

Hang in there. It will improve each day. I had gas pain from the surgery for nearly two weeks, though it did lessen each day.

I didn't feel anywhere near normal for at least two weeks post-op. You naturally have fluid retention after major surgery. I just had gall bladder removal, didn't eat for 4 days and gained 9 pounds! It took nearly a week to get rid of all that fluid weight. Be patient and stick to the plan. You're doing great.

I'm four month post-op and my band is adjusted perfectly now. I eat my recommended food allowance each meal and feel no hunger or cravings for at least four hours. There is nothing I can't eat, but I follow the rules well. I figure after going through the ordeal of surgery for weight loss, I'm not going to sabotage myself.

The thing I researched most was choosing a surgeon. I wanted a very experienced one that I could partner with for this journey. The surgeon's office knew all the ins and outs of my insurance. You certainly can call your insurance or look in your insurance handbook (mine is online) to see if bariatric surgery is covered. You can find lots of support and answers here on this forum, so stay in touch.

My nutrionist suggests 800-1000 calories for me. Following the protein and serving size rules, no alcohol, no snacking etc, it's pretty easy to stay in that range.

And in the future, don't leave the doctor's office after a fill without drinking an entire glass of water, just to be sure. Feel better.

You are an inspiration to us all.

Congrats!

Gall bladder is a good possibility. I just had mine urgently removed. It frequently is an issue with rapid weight loss of any type, not just gastric banding.

I've had good results since my banding four months ago. Since my third fill, I've been completely satisfied after eating my small meals with no hunger or craving for at least four hours. I have NEVER been stuck or vomited. There is nothing I cannot eat provided I chew well and follow the rules. I've lost 40 pounds. I agree with B-52. Look at the chart and let that be your guide. You can do this!