Anwyn

Too cute... Happy Halloween!

Yup, I think you're too tight. Get a small unfill. An all ice cream diet can't be good for you.

Congrats on your first fill! You're going to see a huge difference once you get that restriction.

Tommorrowsdream, There are many, many people who go through this process without any problems. I am one of them (so far at least). I had no hunger pains during the post op diet and I have great restriction after 1 fill. I couldn't be happier with my band. Remember, many of the people posting are facing challenges, but that doesn't mean that the majority of people have problems. People who are doing fine don't have as much reason to post. Can the post op diet be frustrating? Yeah, but it's a few weeks and then it's over. Do you need a good fill amount for the band to work properly? Yes, and it can be frustrating for some people to find that level. But once you do, boy is it worth it!! I'm not trying to downplay the risks and complications, because they certainly exist. If you want to hear about other peoples experiences I would suggest starting a new thread with your concerns so that they can be addressed specifically.

Please, please don't be so hard on yourself. There's no need to punish yourself with another week of liquids. This journey really starts after you get a good fill. I know the waiting stinks, but hang in there. You will succeed!

Thanks for joining us! I completely agree that everyone should investigate all of their options before choosing a surgery. You can never be too educated, and I appreciate you taking the time to set the record straight. Congratulations on your weight loss!

Becky, you are amazing! Congratulations on your phenomenal weight loss!!

I was told to eat at least 58 grams of protein a day. I started on protein on my first day home from the hospital and I was never hungry. I used the low-carb slimfast cans. Our bodies need protein to heal from the surgery, so I think it would be pretty hard for a newly banded person to get in too much.

You just have to take it one looong day at a time. Have you tried sugar free popsicles? They really helped me through, but there's no getting around the fact that the clear liquid phase is awful. I'm sorry - I wish I had some fabulous advice, but you will make it!

I'm so sorry to hear that you are losing your band. Here's a big ((((((HUG)))))) for you. Feel better soon!

Nice to meet you Paul! Good luck with your surgery on the 17th.

Then: 4 pieces of a large pizza, pop, and on a really bad day maybe even an entire pint of ice cream for dessert an hour later Now: 1 small piece of pizza without the crust and a little sip of Water

I've had 2 c-sections, 2 back operations, laser eye surgery, and the lap band (and I'm only 32). I was still nervous for my lapband of course, but knowing how to find the surgical suite and what they were going to do to prep me for surgery was reassuring. For me the worst part is getting the IV put in. And that's not really bad - it's just a mental thing. After that, it's a cakewalk. You're going to do great. It'll all be over before you know it!

Thanks for the info Victoria. It would have never occurred to me to go on antibiotics before a dentist appointment because of my band, but I think I will now. Better safe than sorry...

I'm only 3 months out, but I'm happy to share my experience so far... I had no complications with the surgery. My first fill went very smoothly, and so far I have perfect restriction. I get full very quickly when I follow the food guidelines (Protein first, then veggies, then carbs), but I can still eat ice cream and Cookies without much restriction so I need to be careful with sweets. I lost 15 lbs on the pre-op diet and have lost 10lbs per month since the surgery. I'm sure that rate is going to slow down soon but I'm enjoying it while it lasts! Plateaus are also common with the band, but I haven't personally experienced one yet. I have no problem with any type of food as long as I eat VERY slowly. As far as exercise goes, I do yoga once a week and I'm trying to walk for 1/2 hour 3-4 times a week. Sue has a good point - make sure you check out all of your surgical options. If you have any questions, please feel free to PM me. Good luck with your decision!

Good luck to both of you! Just imagine... a holiday season where you don't gain 15 lbs. You're going to LOVE your bands.

Thanks for the link! My son had me "carve" pumpkins for 10 minutes...

Hmm... I guess you could have told her you have a severe case of flesh eating bacteria.

Congratulations Vines!!! That's a great milestone. Can't wait to join you there...

So glad to hear you're home and recovering. Feel better soon!

You have made amazing progress in such a short time! I hope you get the restriction level you need with this last fill. I'm wondering, are they certain that you have a full 9.6 ml in there? Did they pull it all out at your fill and start fresh? I've read several posts here where some of it disappears. Maybe you have more wiggle room than you think.

Great job Maria!!

Congratulations!! What an amazing kick off to your weight loss. Try refried beans for a mushy - I lived on them during the mushy stage.

I think you'll continue to see an improvement... I remember reading once that fat tends to come off in a certain order, and the face was the first place listed. Good luck with your surgery!

He is too cute!! I'm glad I don't have to change his diaper though...