Hi, I'm new to the site and hope I'm doing this right.

I was banded August 19th 2005 by doctors Ortiz and Martinez. I had my first and second fills in October and currently have 1.8cc.

I have a question for some more experienced banders and that is, do you experience a lot of restriction some times and then others little to none at all? I eat something one day with little to no problem and then the next day try to eat the same thing and I can't even pass one or two bites?????

I'm thinking about going for another fill in the next couple of weeks, not losing weight or inches and am usually able to eat too much.

I've only lost 25 lbs since being banded in August and I'm sometimes second guessing my decision to have the surgery. I know I need to use the band as a tool to lose weight and not rely on it completely to do the work for me. I'm still having a hard time staying away from sweets (chocolate) and other foods that I shouldn't be eating. Unfortunately the band does not restrict you from munching on things in between meals.

I'm basically here to re-focus myself on my goal and to hopefully get some support from others that are in or have been in my situation.

Please let me know if you have any words of wisdom.

Yes! I think most of us have issues with the band depending upon the time of day, time of month, or type of food. You are right, chocolate and junk slide right through that band!!!!! I've kept the junk out of the house and if I am tempted look at calories and nutrition. I might still have it, but it takes more work!! Be sure to exercise, that will help you lose and boost your metabolism..Shawn

Thank you so much for your responses. Hearing that 25 lbs is thought of as pretty good since August by someone makes me feel a little better. I know I still have a lot to work on with changing my behaviors also. I think I need another fill as well.

Keep up the good work guys.

i was banded 8/23/05 and have lost 27 lbs. It is not easy. I learn every day. I had my first fill in 12/05. I just keep going.

I was just banded 2 weeks ago and i am starving and eating as i can; soft foods, well brownies to me is soft???????? i lost 15 lbs initially but when you can eat normal again you are bound to gain right? i mean you are eating normal vs soup broth???? I hope when banded it restricts how much; I have 4 girls in my office who have been banded over 2 years; and they eat everything including chocolate and sweets, they just can't eat a whole candy bar in one sitting;