Okay I was banned on 7/20/2011 I am pretty much the same size I was when I left the day of surgery. I have no restrictions I can still eat whatever I want or desire. I am slowly starting to understand my band after my 3rd fill. So this is were my problem starts everyone talks of restriction and you will know when u get there bc u will puke your brains out. Okay so are we promoting bulimia? Everyone I know who has had the band raves about this sweet spot and that is pretty much it or am I mistaken?

The goal is to eat the right way, eat the right foods, and stop eating when you first feel the Band working. Usually, if you stop for a few minutes, you'll be able to eat more. Not a portion like you're used to, but a "normal" portion. If you eat the right stuff (protein) you'll feel full for at least a few hours. By eating the right way, I have many fewer "episodes".

I've had my band for almost a year and I think I'm only just now using it correctly.

I have good restriction and think I am in the "sweet spot". I do not throw up. When your full, you will begin to feel a sensation higher than your stomach, almost in the middle of your chest. It's hard to explain but it feels like pressure in my chest. When I start to feel that, I stop eating. If I try to continue eating I will get stuck or just feel really bad.

I am loving the sweet spot. I waited several months to get to this point. I, too, was confused and frustrated because I heard others talking about it but didn't know what it was. There is not a set number of "fills" to get you to the sweet spot. I think it is different for everyone. I am 6 months post-op and have just in the past month felt like I am in the sweet spot.

Hopefully this helps.