BandedBrunette481

There are a lot of differences among the different weight loss surgeries, but generally you can talk about the stomach stapling versions versus the LapBand. Here are some things to consider when deciding about a LapBand: It's adjustable to fit your individual needs, it can be removed/reversed if necessary, it has a lower success rate/lower weight loss rate, it requires more post-op care (there will be fill appointments and such, and I'm not sure how much those cost for self-pay). Why did I choose it? Because the though of having my guts rearranged and taken out freaked me out, for one. But I also like the idea of it restricting my food intake. That's what I need, personally. Obviously all weight loss surgery patients have restricted food intake, but if you have something like a sleeve and you overeat too often, your new stomach is going to stretch right back out and you'll gradually just be able to eat more and more unless you have the willpower to get back under control. At least with a LapBand, if I notice I'm starting to be able to eat too much, I can go get a fill before it becomes an issue. It helps you check yourself before you wreck yourself, haha All the more power to the people who are successful with weight loss surgeries like the sleeve, but I just know it's not for me.

They will tell you right off the bat at the first seminar you attend that weight loss surgery like the LapBand is just a tool. It requires an entire lifestyle change for it to work to its full potential. The LapBand won't make good food choices for you. It will help with hunger and Portion Control, but it won't stop everything from getting through that you shouldn't be eating. If you are committed to making the change, the LapBand will definitely help you achieve that, but the psychological side of eating will take some work. I think with the right support, anyone who is really set on changing can totally accomplish what they set out to do

There are a lot of differences among the different weight loss surgeries, but generally you can talk about the stomach stapling versions versus the LapBand. Here are some things to consider when deciding about a LapBand: It's adjustable to fit your individual needs, it can be removed/reversed if necessary, it has a lower success rate/lower weight loss rate, it requires more post-op care (there will be fill appointments and such, and I'm not sure how much those cost for self-pay). Why did I choose it? Because the though of having my guts rearranged and taken out freaked me out, for one. But I also like the idea of it restricting my food intake. That's what I need, personally. Obviously all weight loss surgery patients have restricted food intake, but if you have something like a sleeve and you overeat too often, your new stomach is going to stretch right back out and you'll gradually just be able to eat more and more unless you have the willpower to get back under control. At least with a LapBand, if I notice I'm starting to be able to eat too much, I can go get a fill before it becomes an issue. It helps you check yourself before you wreck yourself, haha All the more power to the people who are successful with weight loss surgeries like the sleeve, but I just know it's not for me.

There are a lot of differences among the different weight loss surgeries, but generally you can talk about the stomach stapling versions versus the LapBand. Here are some things to consider when deciding about a LapBand: It's adjustable to fit your individual needs, it can be removed/reversed if necessary, it has a lower success rate/lower weight loss rate, it requires more post-op care (there will be fill appointments and such, and I'm not sure how much those cost for self-pay). Why did I choose it? Because the though of having my guts rearranged and taken out freaked me out, for one. But I also like the idea of it restricting my food intake. That's what I need, personally. Obviously all weight loss surgery patients have restricted food intake, but if you have something like a sleeve and you overeat too often, your new stomach is going to stretch right back out and you'll gradually just be able to eat more and more unless you have the willpower to get back under control. At least with a LapBand, if I notice I'm starting to be able to eat too much, I can go get a fill before it becomes an issue. It helps you check yourself before you wreck yourself, haha All the more power to the people who are successful with weight loss surgeries like the sleeve, but I just know it's not for me.

There are a lot of differences among the different weight loss surgeries, but generally you can talk about the stomach stapling versions versus the LapBand. Here are some things to consider when deciding about a LapBand: It's adjustable to fit your individual needs, it can be removed/reversed if necessary, it has a lower success rate/lower weight loss rate, it requires more post-op care (there will be fill appointments and such, and I'm not sure how much those cost for self-pay). Why did I choose it? Because the though of having my guts rearranged and taken out freaked me out, for one. But I also like the idea of it restricting my food intake. That's what I need, personally. Obviously all weight loss surgery patients have restricted food intake, but if you have something like a sleeve and you overeat too often, your new stomach is going to stretch right back out and you'll gradually just be able to eat more and more unless you have the willpower to get back under control. At least with a LapBand, if I notice I'm starting to be able to eat too much, I can go get a fill before it becomes an issue. It helps you check yourself before you wreck yourself, haha All the more power to the people who are successful with weight loss surgeries like the sleeve, but I just know it's not for me.

Be happy you get to eat food!! Today is my last day of the pre-op diet and all I could have was Protein Shakes, broth, suger free popsicles, sugar free Jello, and diluted fruit juice! I would kill for a salad right now! Haha

I haven't been on my journey as long as some of the other people on here, but it still feels like I've been waiting for this day for forever! As of right now I'm scheduled to be to the hospital by 11:30am tomorrow, but my surgeon said that time might change and they will call if it does. I had to drink a bottle of magnesium citrate as per his instructions as well and that has been awful! I've heard not everyone has to do this and I'm kind of really jealous of those people lol I've had to stay close to the bathroom all day. To top it off, it's that TOM and it decided to show up this morning, as if I needed the extra hassle right now! I'm just hoping the rest of today flies by and I can manage to get a little sleep tonight. I really can't wait

@Cat225, I hate the "You have such a pretty face" saying!!! I imagine punching the person in the face as those words come tumbling out of their mouth. I have struggled with my weight since middle school and have done every diet out there. My Mom took to me to a weight loss clinic when I was 15 and the doctor told me to take the pills and drink coffee and not to eat. I am serious that is what he said. My weight has gone up and down and I am now at my biggest weight gain ever since having my 2nd child. I am now 36 and I feel that the Lap-Band is what is right for me and I am doing this for me and only me! I see so many wonderful posts here in this forum and can not wait to get my surgery!

My big day is on the 18th and I'm on my last day of the liquid diet (tomorrow is Clear Liquids only) and I have to say, at this point I'm not even hungry anymore. I drink the shakes because I have to, not because I'm starving. Of course, I mentally want to eat real food, but it's easy to get past if I just focus on something else. Staying busy will be your best bet! The first 4 days or so are rough, but once you get past that, It's much easier than it seems, I promise. And when you're done you'll have a whole new appreciation for food. Seriously! I crave vegetables and fruit right now instead of sweets! It's an amazing transformation to feel yourself going through best of luck to you!!

Got banded February 11.
Still recovering--a little slower than I expected. However, so far I am happy I did it.
Lost 16 lb already! I know it won't keep up at that pace, but it's nice to have a good start.
Slowly regaining ability to drink more than a sip at a time. But this morning, I was thirsty and drank my Crystal Light too fast--ouch! Guess that's what they mean about learning to listen to your body.

I'm about a week away from the mushy stage myself so I've been gathering ideas too! I have a blog with a recipes page. Here's the link to the blended foods ideas if you want to check them out
http://blissfullybanded.wordpress.com/blended-foods-aka-mushies/

I don't think it was too soon for mushy foods I just think you were eating too much in one sitting. My nutritionist said 1/4 - 1/2 cup per meal (with 4-6 meals per day), depending on when I feel full, but I shouldn't go over 1/2 cup per meal at this food stage. It doesn't sound like much, but you'd be eating every 2 hours or so instead of every 4 like you mentioned. It's easier on the band to eat small, frequent meals. As you are able to eat more filling foods, you gradually eat less meals per day because the food can sit longer in the pouch. Of course, every doctor has different instructions, and you should follow yours, but I think when you give mushies another go, you should try reducing the amount per meal. Don't be afraid!

I was JUST thinking about this today when I was folding my laundry. I was like "Wait...am I going to have to buy new underwear soon!?" Hahaha congrats on your nsv!

I was JUST thinking about this today when I was folding my laundry. I was like "Wait...am I going to have to buy new underwear soon!?" Hahaha congrats on your nsv!

I was JUST thinking about this today when I was folding my laundry. I was like "Wait...am I going to have to buy new underwear soon!?" Hahaha congrats on your nsv!

I was JUST thinking about this today when I was folding my laundry. I was like "Wait...am I going to have to buy new underwear soon!?" Hahaha congrats on your nsv!

I was JUST thinking about this today when I was folding my laundry. I was like "Wait...am I going to have to buy new underwear soon!?" Hahaha congrats on your nsv!

They did the exact same thing to me. After trying several others my nut told me to try premier ready-to-drink and I use those. Yum

I'm super jealous of all of you that got to have actual food during your pre-op diet!!! My surgeon requires a 15 day, liquids only diet. I can only have Protein Shakes, Jello, popsicles, broth, limited amounts of fruit juice, and Decaf tea/coffee. I'm only on day 4 and it's hard lol

You can do it! I'm on day 4 of mine. I'd be lying if I said it was easy, but it's not SO much of a struggle that it's unbearable haha just stay busy! It helps. Good luck!!!

K, so Swanson has these flavor infused broths that are so delicious. If you're tired of regular broths and need a pop then I highly suggest these. The tortilla and hot&sour are very spicy, so you may want to cut them with regular beef or chicken broth. I haven't tried the ginger yet.
Adding Protein Powder wasn't my favorite thing in the world, but definitely doable.

Congrats!! I just found out a few days ago that my surgery date will be February 18th so I'm in the same boat, all full of butterflies and excitement! It's a great feeling knowing that you're taking control of your life and getting healthy and not looking back isn't it?

That's so awesome!! I blog about my weight loss journey in the hopes that I'll inspire someone just like you have. I bet it's a great feeling congrats on all of your success!

That's so awesome!! I blog about my weight loss journey in the hopes that I'll inspire someone just like you have. I bet it's a great feeling congrats on all of your success!

That's so awesome!! I blog about my weight loss journey in the hopes that I'll inspire someone just like you have. I bet it's a great feeling congrats on all of your success!