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I'd go to the S. of France and leave them a contact number. Then, if they call you can come back to the states and "play." It just states that you need to be available, not sitting at home! Good luck, Shawn

I know my surgeon was aware of the items on ebay for sale. He emailed Inamed and they were already aware as well! Obviously, a good decision. Shawn

YES! Congrats. Shawn

Ask you surgeon what pills you can take. Most say you can't take anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS) like Aleve, Ibuprofen, aspirin, etc. However, if you can swallow it, then you can take it ..for the most part (whole, crushed, or liquid) Jodi, suppose your increased activity from beginning work and school has put stress on your joints? I know you're unsure about what is causing the pain, but the flare-up may be from the new activity. I've always felt this way, when I start a new job and have to be on my feet for extended periods of time. It's like you need to get "in shape" for standing all day. Give it some time, and see what you can take for pain relief. Good luck, Shawn

I am praying for you and your daughter! There is nothing like being a parent and then seeing your child hurt. My son, 17 years, has a learning disability with ADHD and has struggled in every aspect of his life. We also noticed his differences at 4 years of age. There have been really hard time, however, each year he has gotten a little better. Good for you at getting help early! As a parent, get help and support and listen to your gut instincts...Shawn

Mom, Mother and father-in-law, kids, husband, best friend, and sister and brother-in-law. Those who I felt would support and not judge!

Just make sure, if you're using a surgeon from Mexico or anywhere else far from home, to line up a doctor for fills. I know many have had their operation elsewhere but fail to keep up with the maintance (fills and checkups). My two cents..Shawn

I read an article on Star Jones a few days ago. She admitted to having a "medical intervention" but doesn't want to be the poster child. Also, her new book is out. Either way, I still feel it is a personal choice to break the news..even if she is famous.

Wonderful news. So great that you're back on track...Shawn

I had my first fill mid November. My band felt tighter of course, but during my cycle WOW- I am super tight. I just noticed this also.

Angie, how you handled it was perfect. It was your decision to have the band and it's still your decision who to tell. I don't see any harm in telling him later, when the subject comes up. Whenever it is, do it when you feel comfortable and state as a matter-of-fact.

I get numbed and don't even feel the numbing "prick." The surgeon said that most don't find fills uncomfortable without the numbing...No pain, for me, what-so-ever.

lapbandtalk.com, obesityhelp.com, inamed (band maker), surgeons website, 3 support group meetings, 2 visits to 2 seperate surgeons (1 had seminar), folks who had the band websites....It took me about 1 year of WLS research. I was ready to make a decision about the type of weight loss surgery I wanted and then I went for it! Shawn

I chew gum alot.. However, I am adjusted not too tight and have a feeling it would go down. Chewing a big wad of gum probably, in my case, would not be a great idea. Something more like Trident (smaller) piece is ok. Those who are on the "tighter" side probably would have more risk as I don't think gum breaks apart so easy and then there is ONLY ONE WAY OUT!

I like chichigirls idea with the gallbladder. Sometimes the gallbladder get removed during WLS anyway (if in bad condition). I am with you as far as telling folks. I only told a select few, those who I know could keep a secret (family and one friend) When people ask how I lost weight, I simply reply.."I watch what I eat." Shawn

Sorry about your protein shake, Nessa! That was downright funny...I have a feeling, others in your office are "trying" to resist the urge as well...Shawn

Gas issues right after banding. It went mostly away in about a day or two. No complications. Shawn

You are very normal! All you can do is my an informed decision and go for it! Ask yourself, how you see yourself in 5 or 10 years. What do you want for yourself? Shawn

Diane, this is a very good list and to the point. You've done very well with your weight loss. I am also like you, some weeks no loss and other several pounds. Patience is the key. I was talking to a girlfriend and she said she didn't think she could do it this way, nice and slow.

Our bodies are something else! I didn't have a period, before banding, without progesterone pills. After banding, I get a monthly period, without the progesterone! Hmmm. Shawn

This is a rough time of year, food-wise, before your first fill! I've had my first fill and have been doing so well, until this week! What is the deal, about every chocolate box and cookie tray has been given to my husband and I this week. I resisted and for the most part my husband hasn't been bringing these home (gifts from work). Now, they are showing up on my doorstep...EVIL!Try not to drink with meals as it washes out the food, from your pouch, and makes you hungry quicker. Try to stay with the hard protein first as it sticks with you longer. Good luck. Shawn

kguill, I'll say a prayer that your surgery is smooth and recovery smoother! Let us know how you're doing...Shawn

It was shocking to you, but the way your handling it is wonderful! You have a great attitude. You are right, the band will give you the tool to continue eating in a healthy manner during your pregnancy. Shawn

Sleep well and know that you made the right decision! As I stated before, I wouldn't go to a surgeon who treated patients this way BEFORE surgery. You peace of mind, surgery and aftercare are what's important. Shawn

Sorry about the rough patch! You should feel a little better every day. I'd imagine since they had to maneuver quite a bit during surgery, the swelling/bruising is typical. Don't worry about the weight loss, for now. Remember, you body is recovering inside and out. Relax, walk some, drink and pat yourself on the back! You DID IT (yea)! Shawn