Well, after 5 years of struggling with reflux issues I broke down and had my band removed yesterday.

I did it out of fear of long term esophageal damage. I did it to feel "normal" again-whatever that is. It was a tough decision because I kept reminding myself why I had the band and kept thinking that I could overcome the negative side effects.

Now, I'm faced with life without the band. The little helper that reminded me not to over eat. (it certainly didn't stop me from eating Cookies and chocolate, but it did stop me from eating a whole pizza!) Whats a girl to do without a friend like that?

In the last 2 years I've gained 30 lbs. I've tried diet after diet because I didn't tolerate fills only to see small success with easy return of the minimal amount weight that I'd lost. My fiends tell me that I've learned good skills in the last 5 years that will carry me through. I have my doubts. What's a girl to do? Any advice for when the hunger monster returns in a few days?

I feel your pain......I have been suffering with severe reflux and burning stomach issues for 4 months. I battled my wt because it was easy to turn to slider food. I finally got a small unfill and that has relieved my reflux and most all my symptoms. I was so scared that I had erosion and was going to lose my band. I knew I would be back to 236 in a short time. I wish you the best and I am so sorry you lost your band. All you can do is diet and exercise and keep your portions small.

Mimi

Condolences on your band loss.

As far as what you can do when the hunger monster returns... The same old things we tried before. Water load, vegetable load, solid Proteins, exercise... That still didn't stop me from regaining 133 pounds. I had to get sleeved to regain control.

Wishing you good luck.

Donali