I totally agree with "plain" on every point. I was just banded in the middle of May (Dr. Kuri, TJ) and I am only really learning how not to drink with my meals, and for about an hour after. Its taken me awhile but I have the hang of it now. I was a self pay also, and my BMI was 37.2. I have dropped 22 lbs in the 3 weeks and would do this again in a minute. I have never been physically hungry. As 'plain' said the head hunger is what we have always tuned into in times when we need comfort, or love. I am just learning to love me again so the head hunger will become less and less. Lots to think about. I wish you luck on your decision.