melpaige

Yes, I too was banded in July. My beginning weight was 196 and I'm now about 160; down 36 pounds since starting this journey. I got overfilled in October, and had to have aparial unfill in November; just recently for the first time in three months I am beginning to feel restriction. If I had it to do over again, I would have done it years ago. I was self-pay, and it took me a long time to feel justified in the decision to spend that much on myself having a family and all. But, at the end of the day, an investment in my health is and will continue to be one of the best investments I've made, if not the best.

Buy vitamins in liquid form. Works perfectly!

I wasn't up for it. I was swolen and uncomfortable for about a week. It was kindof hard to walk and sit comfortably too. But, I was back to 100% after that first week. It's different for everyone though . . .

My biggest worry about getting the band was that I wouldn't be able to drink soda afterward. Reading through this topic, obviously, many of us have this habit. My doctor basically said that everyone is different; some can tolerate soda - some can't. I found that it was difficult to drink initally; but as time has gone by, it's been easier. One thing I noticed is that where I could drink a can of soda in two minutes before, it now takes thirty or more because I have to drink more slowly. One side effect for me is burping and gas (I know, gross huh???). That's enough of a deterant that if I anticipate a social situation or if I'm at work, I don't drink it at all.