LaMonica

For the first 1-2 nights after surgery I slept leaning back in a recliner, not all the way flat though because it was a pain getting up. After some of the pain subsided, I slept on my right side, with pillows under me and behind me to keep me still. I found the pillows helped relieve pressure on my port (on my left side) and helped me be comfortable. You just have to try what you can!

Well at first when I was getting prepped, about 10-15 minutes before surgery they gave me a "happy shot". Whatever it was, made me super relaxed similar to laughing gas, without all the laughing lol. I felt like I was floating, I barely remember being wheeled into the OR, and the next thing you know I woke up sitting up in a comfy chair with my dress on, under a blanket, with my Mom sitting there with me. You'll be fine!

I think my doc charges $150 cash for fills, but my insurance covers the visit as a specialist visit which for me is a $50 copay.

Happy Surgery Eve! I wore sweat pants and a tshirt and flip flops for surgery, which didn't matter much because they change you into a hospital gown of course and those comfy socks lol. Mine was outpatient, so I had a maxi dress waiting for after, no bra (the girls aren't that big) and I stayed in loose dresses for several days after.

My surgeon told me the first 30-45 days are more about healing than losing weight, and any weight lost is a bonus. Make sure to check with your doc to specify the proper amount of calories you are to eat, if it's too low then you may not lose weight due to starvation mode. Try not to pay as much attention to the scale at first. Just come up with routines that incorporate exercise, plenty of water, and learning how to eat properly. One day you'll wake up and your clothes will fit MUCH different. Hang in there!!

I try to keep a jug of water with me, and give myself small goals throughout the day. Sometimes I'll say I won't talk to my coworkers unless I drink __ sips of water first or I can't get up from my desk to make copies/see a PT (I'm a counselor) until half of my water is done. Little competitions like that, because it's motivating to me. At first it was hard because I used to only like cold water, but once you get it in, it's like your body craves it. I can drink room temp water now, and usually "hunger" is really thirst. Good luck!!

Glad to hear from you!! And I understand about security of information. You can add me on FB LaMonica Michele I will search for you too in the mean time.

Tina - I am happy to hear from you again although all the news isn't the best, it's not the worst either. I will definitely keep you and your boys in my prayers. I hope all of your legal issues get resolved smoothly and quickly also. Thanks for keeping us up to date, like I say often you are truly an inspiration and testament to strong will. Have a wonderful weekend

Maybe lower your caloric intake? Try 1200 per day instead of 1500

Just a note to those of you comparing how many cc's you have in your band - remember there are different types of band (Realize vs. Allergan/AP) and then also there are different sizes. I know that Allergan has 10cc (which I have) and also 14cc. I am not sure about Realize. And also the amount of Fluid is a very individualized process which is dependent upon the size of your stomach and more importantly the amount of fat around it. The reason you feel like you're at a good spot, and then weeks later you don't is because as you lose weight fat goes from everywhere including from around your stomach and the band gets more loose again. So remember that just because you and I both may have 5cc's even in the same size band, it doesn't mean we will feel the same amount of restriction. Think of 2 people, both size 14, with an XL belt on. Each of them may feel comfy, but have the notch at different levels. Good luck to everyone, keep up the good work!!!!!

Georgegirl - good for you! I thought it was restriction at first too but with the throwing up and stuff I knew it had to be something more. Luckily most of the time it is a quick fix with a little unfill...I haven't had any other problems since and it's been 3 weeks. Maybe in another month or so I will go back to get fluoro to see what my size looks like to see if maybe I should get a little Fluid put back in. Restriction is only restriction when it's healthy and doesn't hurt...so good luck!!!

oops...disregard this tried to delete but don't know how

That is AMAZING!!! Definitely worth it even if those 5 pounds keep being stubborn!!! Maybe try switching up something with your workout to get them out of the way...I remember I plateaued once for like 6 months lol I was soooooo irritated. I can't remember what changed but eventually my body pushed past it. Best of luck in your continued journey!!!

I haven't been here in forever...well I made it to my goal and actually passed it!!! Recently was having issues with vomiting, reflux, pain, etc and needed an unfill. Because of how swollen I was, they took out almost half of my fluid!!! Still trying to maintain my portions, etc. but I know that I needed this to not have any bad complications. Now just working on toning up my jiggly areas, but I am so happy that I can't put it into words. Almost 3 years, and I am at a place in my life I would have never imagined!!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! And keep up the good work...

You guys gave such great alternatives, they all sound yummy!!! I am one of those that if I deprive myself of the tasty things I like, I am more apt to go overboard. So I eat whatever I want (this started moreso after being banded 1 year) but since I'm at goal weight, I have noticed that keeping balanced and paying more attention to portion and exercise worked best for me. I don't just sit and eat junk all the time, but instead of eating a pint of ice cream in 5 minutes like I used to, I get the smaller 1/2 cup portion sizes. Or popsicles, etc. I like candy, but I won't buy a big bag. I'll get the individual size when I have loose change. I was going to suggest like a fruit/fondue bar, with all kinds of exotic fruits with melted chocolate, whipped cream, yogurt, etc. Like fruit sundaes instead of cake/ice cream. Which can be sweet, and you can get low fat/low sugar alternatives. I've never seen this in action, but it sounds like with time and someone with a good taste for fruit could be able to pull off, and boy would it make great pictures!! I am sorry that your inner circle is not as supportive so maybe try to find outlets with people that ARE supportive..in addtiion to LBT. )

This is a struggle often for me also! I think our society has been conditioned into thinking eating a lot is good...which is what got most of us in this obesity mess in the first place lol. Some days I am super tight, some days I get full quick. I really do get annoyed with waiters who repeatedly (after I've told them I'm fine) ask what was wrong, why didn't I eat, etc. I get tired of explaining myself whether it be talking about the band or just that I "eat small meals throughout the day" etc. Most of my friends and family that I eat with know and luckily they don't joke too heavily or push me too much. I get very nervous when going out with large groups, to conferences, etc. because I don't always know what's on the menu and how my band will do with it.