J_BandRanger

This really is NOT easy!! Trust me! One thing I will say is that the process is widely misunderstood. I read about "banders" that wished they had NOT told a bunch of people what they were doing. I didn’t tell anyone other than my husband. I am glad I didn’t! It is not a "quick easy instant miracle cure". The band doesn’t even start to "work" until maybe 3-5 adjustments in / 3-5 months. In the beginning, it’s just determination and willpower honestly. Like you, I thought I could just follow the diet restrictions etc too, and skip the surgery. I tried.... but w/o the threat of doing harm to my band (requiring more surgery!), if I went off my restrictions, I just ate whatever... I was just banded April 27. I've only had my 1st adjustment. I haven’t even weighed in yet. I don’t think I've lost more than anyone would w/regular dieting... but I do think once I get my proper adjustment (sweet spot) I will be on the road to size 6! (Or at least a 8! smile) When is your surgery??

buy a pill cutter (any pharmacy...rite aid, walgreens, etc...) cheap too.... cut your pills in 1/2, 1/4s etc... works like a charm....

remember-your band is not tightened at all immediately after surgery...so yes, i was hungry! i've had 1 fill, which means my band is only a "little" tight...i still get hungry, but now is a time for healing (internally)..after another fill or two you shouldnt feel so hungry...I make my protein shakes w/a frozen banana and ice instead of water. its much thicker that way (but not too thick to go down smoothly!) and more satisfying!! hang in there!!!!

my sugery was 4/27/10...i've had only one fill...my second fill is in 2weeks... i was told that i wouldnt feel any restrictions until at least my 3rd fill and that the lap band wouldnt start to "work" until about 3months/3 to 4 fills after surgery..... so dont give up.....