I had the surgery on 04/07/10 and since then have been having a stabbing pain in the middle of my stomach towards the left side. I passed all the tests before i left the hospital and was perscribed medication, but the pain will not go away. I am drinking fluids well and have not thrown up except for dry heaving right after surgery. I just want to know, is this normal or did i make a big mistake. Any assistance in this matter would be greatful.

Take a deep breath. Remember, even though your incisions are tiny, your body's been through a lot. You underwent general anesthesia, had gas and instruments introduced to your abdomen, had your organs manipulated, had a band wrapped around your stomach, and had a port attached to your muscle wall. (The latter is what causes the most pain.)

OUCH!

Yes, the pain you are feeling is normal. It will taper off over the next several days. In the meantime, don't hesitate to use the pain medication your doctor prescribed. It will allow you to be active; walking as much as possible really helps the gas they use to inflate the abdomen dissipate, which relieves a good deal of the pain.

I hope you feel better fast. (I know you will!)