I have had my band for about a month. Since the surgery, I have had no problems. I have been able to go off 6 medications (for Diabetes, high blood pressure, and acid reflux)! I am not yet back on regular food (still on a soft, mushy diet) but have had no hunger.
So here's my advice:
-- A good Protein is essential for success, I think.
-- Don't be afraid to quiz your doctor about any aspect of the procedure (before or after the surgery).
--Don't bend over or lift things for 3-4 weeks (you don't want the port to break loose from where it's stitched to the abdominal wall and flip over).
-- To follow the "don't bend over" advice, surround yourself with a good support system. Don't try to bend over and feed the dog, assign that job to a family member or a hire a neighbor kid to do it for you!
-- If you live alone, start getting rid of all the junk food (this doesn't mean eat it all!). If you live with others, sign them up to be your allies not enablers.
-- If you drink caffinated coffee or tea, switch to Decaf now.
-- If you drink soft drinks, start weaning yourself off of them now.
And finally, realize that you are doing this for you! If you read something on this site that sounds negative, it is what someone else went through and very well may never apply to your situation. So use this site as enlightenment but don't think of anyone elses postings as a guarantee of how easy or difficult your experience will be.
I can only speak for me -- I was estactic I did this.
--Bridget
In case you haven't heard of these, my sister uses the "nasal pillows" instead of a mask. You might ask about those for your claustrophobia. Just thought I'd mention it.
If you liked someone's post enough to give them credit for it, you can click the little scales next to the "online" indicator. Leave a little message and click "OK".
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