I can totally relate! I had my band 4 yrs & hadnt touched bread, pasta, potatoes or the like since-not even eggs would go 'down'. I had my band to vsg revision surgery a wk ago tomorrow...when I woke up-they gave me back my band-creepy-but it made me realize just what I had been dealing with...I've had no issues since my revision...never took a pain pill, not even for the 4 hr plane ride home. My Dr says I can start puréed anytime now, tho I'm a bit apprehensive...this is the longest I've gone without 'sliming, urping'...so, I'll wait a few more days & stay with the liquids. Good luck to u guys!! I already feel better havin the sleeve as opposed to the band.