I was banded 13 days ago. I am at the point now where the swelling has gone down, the gas has subsided, and other than the big hard lump under my abdomen skin, I feel all but normal. You would think this would be good news, but in fact I feel a bit scared...why? Because I had thought I would feel more restricted. I know the fill will do that, but I'm getting hungrier (3 more days of full liquids) and thinking about food more, not feeling as satisfied. I don't want to wait 4 more weeks for a fill! Can I ask for one sooner? I'm starting to feel like I'm just on yet another diet.

Most doctors won't do a fill until 6 weeks post-op. You are in the stage that is lovingly called "Bandster Hell". It may take several fills to feel satisfied after a small meal. Now is the time to use your will power. I recommend tracking every bite that enters your mouth. I use myfitnesspal.com but there are other free sites as well. Tracking calories is what has helped be be accountable. When I think I am hungry I drink about 16 oz. of water and wait 15-20 minutes to decide if it is real or head hunger. Good luck! We have all been in this stage. Hang in there. It gets easier.

Thank you! It's comforting to know that it isn't just me! I haven't started 'eating' yet, but have been counting my calories even through full liquid, so I'm ahead of the game! I really appreciate your input.

Most doctors won't do a fill until 6 weeks post-op. You are in the stage that is lovingly called "Bandster Hell". It may take several fills to feel satisfied after a small meal. Now is the time to use your will power. I recommend tracking every bite that enters your mouth. I use myfitnesspal.com but there are other free sites as well. Tracking calories is what has helped be be accountable. When I think I am hungry I drink about 16 oz. of Water and wait 15-20 minutes to decide if it is real or head hunger. Good luck! We have all been in this stage. Hang in there. It gets easier.

Onced you get on mushies and solid food your hungry will decrease Hang in there

Hi! I'm not banded so can't offer advice but just wanted to offer some support, you only have 3 more days!!! You've done such a good job so far!! Look at how far you've come! Out of the whole process the full liquid diet & pain are the worst things I'm scared of but I know I'll be able to do it because I get to read about people like you that are doing it, have done it & will make it! Congrats on your progress so far!

You're in the worst part! Once you hit mushy foods you should feel more satisfied... but it might take a while to get to a good fill level. Keep following your doctor's rules and think about how proud of yourself you'll be once you get through all of this

I was banded 12 days ago and I know what you mean. I've been playing mind games with myself! lol I sit down and slurp my soup really really slowly and I convince myself that I truly am filling up. The shakes actually do a better job of keeping the hunger pains away for longer. I did just start soft proteins; cottage cheese and canned chicken and tuna so it's a little better. As someone before said, drink lots of water. I'm able to gulp about 8 ozs in one gulp and it does fill me up for a bit. Otherwise I just try to keep busy, knowing from others on the forum that it will get better. Hang in there!!!!!