I'm into week 3 of being banded and I don't feel like I have the band. I don't get my first fill until 6 weeks post op. I haven't had any trouble with the band except I started having a lot of acid reflux/ heartburn which I never had before. I tried Malox, didn't help, now Prilosec and finally relief. Other than that, I can eat anything withou trouble ( I cheated with a couple of bites that's how I know). I have lost 12lbs since the surgery. I don't measure any portions, I am not extremely hungry, I eat less than previously, but not as little as when you get a fill. Does anyone else feel this way?

I know I can tolerate regular food, but I am trying to stick to protocol and follow the diet. I just wish my doctor would do fills at 4 weeks! He did say he will put 4-5cc in on the first fill. I heard a lot of people complaining cause their doctor would only do 1-2cc at a time.

My dr has me keep a food journal for 2 days prior to my fill so he can see how much I can eat. For my first fill, he put in 6.5 cc. I felt the same way as you, like you never had it done. Thats actually a good sign because the swelling is going down and you are getting back to normal. I didnt get my first fill until almost 8 weeks because my port had flipped when I went in at 6 weeks for my fill. I had to have it fixed and he gave me the fill at that time. I go in next week for my 2nd fill, and other than bread or chicken, I can eat anything. I still get VERY hungry at times and I can tell I dont have enough restriction yet. Just be aware, even if you get 4-5 cc for the first fill, it may not be enough. Usually the first fill is the most, then only 1-2 cc (or less) at a time after that. It takes a while to get adjusted to the right spot for you

I'm out 14 months and up until my last fill (8.2 in a 9 cc band now) I was hungry. Could eat a 6 inch sub, a burger, etc....

Give it time. 4cc's to start out with in your band is a good starting point. Sometimes it's not enough for people, and sometimes it's too much! Such an odd thing these bands.