Im 4 weeks post op- my ultimate goal is about 70 pounds I havent lost a thing yet- from pre op maybe a couple pounds that were gained during and post surgery- in fact I think I gained a couple more because Im on vacation. I got one fill of 3 cc and the nurse said that probably wont restrict me much but its a start. Im as hungry as I ever was... Are you guys doing a lot of behavior modification? Becasue I think Immaybe even eating worse then before bec I know my food days will be shortlived. Any advice?

PS Is it possible that eating wrong can reverse the effects of the band?

Hang in there! It will get much better once you have restriction. Until then, I reccoment focusing on eating the right things, even if portions are larger than they will be once you have restricion. As far as damaging the band, I have read on this site about stretching the pouch. Don't know if that's possible without restrction (food is going right into your "big stomach") I would talk to your doctor about it. Good luck!

Until you find proper restriction you are relying on your own behaviors. Not impossible to lose, but not as easy as with restriction. Behavior modification is part of the band deal. Smaller portions, protein first, don't drink with meals, exercise, the works.

Last Supper Syndrome is common here, but remember, you will be able to eat your favorite foods again, just not as often or in the same amounts.

Is it worth it to gain now only to have to lose it later?

Get yourself in for your next fill as soon as your doctor will allow, and don't beat yourself up. This is a learning process and a long journey. You can DO it!

thanks guys, I appreciate your help and support. I am studying abroad now and dont get home for another 7 weeks- restriction will have to wait until then:(. My mom met a friend who said she got the band and it took a while for her to, so Im hopeful... I definitely think i can eat a lil less then before... not much however.. Glad to see you making progress- it gives me hope...

What are you eating? Until you achieve restriction (and really, even after!) you do have to modify your eating behavior considerably.

Once you hit restriction, the band puts brakes on how much you eat (and even, to a degree, what you eat). But it's important to make the right choices---the band can't do that for you, no matter what the fill status.

Get those habits in place now. Even with restriction, you will be able to eat around the band, so you really, really need to focus on making choices that give your body what it needs.