I'm so glad I read your post. I had surgery on July 18th & have been wondering if the band is really there. At first I was so uncomfortable because of the soreness, but as I heal I just feel normal. I haven't really tested the band (I'm still on soft food--my Dr says baby food consistency), but I haven't really felt "full" yet. I have lost about 15 pounds, but I think that was mostly due to the pre-op/immediate post op period.