NJMOMof2

I had the band and had a full slip. It was terrible. I was very hesitant to get the sleeve because of my nightmare. I can tell you it was the best decision I have ever made. I lost 95 pounds in 8 months and I am thrilled. I am 102 pounds down from my highest pre-lapband weight. Good Luck

I drink until about 5 minutes (sometimes less) before I eat but I wait the full 30 or more after. I chew gum right after eating to wet my whistle.

The first couple days are rough. I had NO naseau once I left the hospital. I only vomited once after the barium swallow study. I felt much better after a week. After 3 weeks I was 90% and 100% by week 4. I have LOST 95 pounds in 8 months. i am at goal weight and feel awesome. I feel great and would do it all again. It was so worth it. BEST DECISION EVER!!!!

I saw them every week for the first month. Then 3 months out since until I reach the year mark. Don't know what happens after that. I can't wait to show him that I will be at goal by then!!! Congrats on your surgery. LIFE WILL GET BETTER EVERY DAY.

My doctor said 4 weeks out, but since I had already detoxed, I not only drink decaf. Plus caffiene dehydrates your body. It's hard enough making sure you get your fluids in without something taking them away....just a thought. That half and half stuff does seem like a great idea though!

I am 5 pounds from goal and my weight loss literally stopped. I think when your body is done...it's done. 5 pounds won't make a difference in my appearance but I still want to get there..

I took 4 weeks off. My doctor said that having this surgery is like hitting "the control, alt, delete" button on my body. I am amazed about how many people go back so quickly. I could have gone back at 3 weeks, but I'm glad I was on regular foods by the time I went back. It takes so much effort to remember to track your fluids, there is NO WAY I could have concentrated on work. Plus I also had to get 2 kids up and off to school. Take as much time as you can, you can ALWAYS go back earlier. Good Luc,

I don't count carbs but I do eat Kashi for breafast. My NUT says high fiber for breakfast and high protein the rest of the day. The only type of bread I eat is wheat wraps or crackers. My weight loss has been steady. I simply don't eat the carbs because it wastes room in my stomach. I think people go overboard with the whole carb thing (just my opinion)

My own personal decision was to swear off soda forever, but I was never a big drinker pre-op. Chewing gum REALLY helps with my sweet tooth. I waited until 7 months out to drink a carbonated drink (very occasional beer), and I drink from a straw now. Straw drinking was important due to my OCD issues at restaurants

My doctor allowed it 4 weeks out but I figured since I went that long without it, why go back??? Plus, caffienated drinks DO NOT count toward your daily Fluid intake. Good Luck on Your Journey!

Irene, Love you story, love your posts and positive comments all the time. This isn't an easy journey, but we know it's so worth it! Funny how weighing less than the husband is so important to many of us. I remember that day very clearly. Now I am 30lbs less than him. Love it! Congrats to my friend on the opposite coast :0) Nina

Amazing you are lucid enough to type on the computer!!! You are doing awesome! Congrats!!!!

MY opinion is get the darned thing out!! I know first hand the horrible pain you are in. Get it out, let your tummy heal. If you really are intent on having both done, file an appeal. Insurance companies love denying the first time. Good Luck. It breaks my heart to read about the band horror stories. Should be taken off the market!

Get a small sugar free one. I don't believe is deprivation!

You didn't reach your goal because you didn't TRY!!! Start journaling, measuring and making good choices and those 6 measly pounds will be off before you know it. Congrats on your amazing weight loss. Celebrate your accomplishments

Your feelings are NORMAL! I was such a wreck the day of surgery, they had to drug me up in the prep room. My husband always says that he wished he had a crystal ball of me now (so happy) that day. Helpful hints: 1. Visualize yourself doing things your weight prevented you from (if needed, make a list) 2. If you have an ipod or iphone, download a relaxation app or soothing music. 3. Make an affirmation. For example, "I am having surgery and will have an excellent recovery and be successful" Hope these helps, I went to a therapist who specializes in people with food issues and she taught me these tips. You will proabably have feelings of regret after surgery....this is NORMAL and keep saying this is all temporary. I am 7 months out and life gets better EVERY DAY :D Good Luck NIna

GET TO THE ER SWEETIE!! Keep us updated. Saying a prayer for you.

You are doing amazing! I am so impressed that you were able to log on and type sentences!! On day 2, I was so out of it, I didn't know my mom visited! Keep up the great work and remember...all this inconveniece is temporary and life gets better every day. READINGTEACHER: Don't do the band!!! Check out my posts and you will know my horrific story. 99% of people have complications and over 30% will have the band out within 5 years, leaving you right at square one!

I vomited once after surgery (after I had the leak test, that stuff tastes gross). The meds controlled naseau in hosptial and I had NONE once I was home. Worst thing for me was the DRAIN... I had it for 10 days, and I didn't feel (mentally), I was getting better until it was out. It was difficult to sleep with that thing in. I would go thru it all over again and again. Thrilled with my decision!!!!

It is TOTALLY normal to have feelings of regret right after surgery. I sure did. Keep thinking that this inconvenience is temporary. No you will not be sipping for the rest of your life and you won't be in pain. You can and will enjoy food but much less. It took a while for me to master eating out. Don't bother until you are good and ready. Everytime you get nervous, Visualize all the things you will be able to do without the weight. If you have an ipod, download some relaxation apps or listen to soft music. It really helps. I was NOT prepared for "buyer's remorse" but I can tell you that after 7 months and 7 pounds to goal, I don't regret this for one second!!!!!!!!! LIFE IS GREAT

I also had to pay out of pocket for the psych eval. My surgeon had one that they used. I think she charged $120. Call your surgeon and ask if there is a perferred therapist that they used. It will make it a lot easier bc they will know what to put in the letter. Good Luck

I like Designer's Whey Chocolate. Just to give you perspective. I am 7 months out and have lost 88 pounds. 7 pound from goal. You have A LOT to look forward to!!

I lost hair but it was not noticable. What was noticable was the texture change. My hair was dry and brittle. It was between 3-6 months. I did wind up getting my hair cut above my shoulders to improve texture BUT with my new, thinner face, I can get away with it My other two friends had VSG and lost NO HAIR AT ALL, If that makes you feel better.

Be sure you call your doctor and get your fluids in. Boy, your dog is sure an awesome dog!

you MUST MUST get more liquid in. keep sipping from a medicine cup. I could not tolerate Water for almost 3 weeks. I drank powders?utm_source=BariatricPal&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_campaign=CommentLink" target="_ad" data-id="1" >unjury chicken soup, diet decaf tea, diet lemonade and sugar free popscicles were my best friend. Surgery is rough but dehydration is MUCH worse. It will get better and you will be able to tolerate more liquids as the days go on. Good Luck and DRINK