bmomma2323

Hi Heather. I don't know if I am the best to give advice. But since you asked...here goes. My doctor has said that my success rate is not what he typically sees. We have spent some time discussing this together and what has worked for me is the following: 1. I am very vocal in the fact that I view my band is a tool...by itself I will not find the success that I want...life long health...I have had to learn to make good choices in the foods that I eat 2. I schedule routine appointments with my doctor -- before I leave his office from one visit I ALWAYS schedule my next one -- usually 5-6 weeks later. This has helped me because I KNOW that I am going to have to get back on the scale and then talk with the doctor about how I am doing -- accountability. 3. I weigh myself every morning. The scale helps me to set some mental goals for myself for the day. 4. If you think you might need a fill you probably do. 5. And, finally, find yourself a good support system. I have made good friends with several people who have also been banded. We are able to share both the successes and also the bad days. I hope this has helped a little. Don't worry if things slow down a bit -- you may need to start drinking more Water, or need a fill. Remember that every pound you lose represents weight that you NEVER have to see again. Happiness and health to you, Heather. Enjoy your journey. Peggy

Good response...this is a realistic way to look at your future successes. Again, my best wishes to you for continued successes....13# is awesome...and the best part is that you will NEVER have to see those pounds again. Take care...Peggy

As already stated by others you probably will not feel the benefits of the band until you start getting some restriction from the fills. One word of caution though -- it is importamt to remember that the band is a "tool" -- inorder for you to see the positive and life long effects that the band can provide you need to learn to make good choices about the foods that you choose. Foods such as pizza were probably not a good choice before banding and will definitely be problematic once you start getting fills and feeling restrictions. I was banded in 09/06. I am about 14# from my goal weight and have lost 186# so far. Believe me when I say that it has been a lot of work...and learning to make better choices in the foods that I chose to eat was difficult too. My life has changed for the better --I am so happy to be able to take long walks again and to really enjoy my health. Be patient as you continue to work through the early stages of your journey---you will be fine and I am sure will do well. Happiness and health. -- P

What a wonderful inspiration you are. This is my first time at any chat site for Lap Band and it was great to see that others are following the same general path that I have been on since I began my journey Sept 06. Like you, I have a goal of losing 200# -- I am currently down 186. I would like to get the other 14 off before May when I am scheduled to get all of the extra skin around my middle section removed. Nervous...but also can't hardly wait.