Bandsters:

Was talking to my brother the other day and have been fascinated by his weight reduction from 429lbs to his current weight of 165lbs. Over the years...I've been asking him questions when I sense he is in a mood to answer them (he doesn't like my many questions as he never went to school and values good research like I do)

In a nutshell, I've been amazed as how "respectful" he is of his band. More specifically, I've observed an attitude (that he has) that he views his band as "THE BOSS"....and yields constantly to what his band his telling him. To point...where he SERIOUSLY doesn't play around when his band is giving him a warning sign. Its refreshing to see actually.

Yes...I know its also about aftercare, the surgeon, the foods you eat ect.... However...if you get all the areas correct...but fail to yield and be respectful of this new tool.....everything else is a loss.

He has a good surgeon, good aftercare but noticed he doesn't excercize that much and doesn't eat the right foods and notice he likes his beer alot now. But regardless, amongst all this observation.....I'm amazed on how he listens to his band and lets the band tell him what to do (not the other way around)

This advice may seem simple (and nothing new) but I can honestly say this tip of "Letting the Band Be Your Boss" is simply the #1 Reason For His Success.

Because of his success, my research and many posters here, I've now decided to take the step and get banded in July.

Blessings to all,

MD

Yes, I am another who has had to learn the hard way! Not only is the band the boss, but I need the help and support of my doctors and their team! I had surgery in December 2009 and was doing fairly well, until I went on vacation and didn't listen to my band nor follow bandster rules. I gained a few pounds and out of shame wouldn't go back to my doctor until I lost it. Well I never did! Actually gained 20lbs over the past 15 months! And I ended up with bad acid reflux which finally made me decide I really need to go back to the doctor. Turns out I stretched my pouch which has tilted my band! So I had to have all my fluid removed and will have to suffer trying not to eat everything in sight on my own now for at least 5 weeksn when I go back to have my pouch and band checked! Lesson learned! I will bow down to the mighty band!!!

Yes, I am another who has had to learn the hard way! Not only is the band the boss, but I need the help and support of my doctors and their team! I had surgery in December 2009 and was doing fairly well, until I went on vacation and didn't listen to my band nor follow bandster rules. I gained a few pounds and out of shame wouldn't go back to my doctor until I lost it. Well I never did! Actually gained 20lbs over the past 15 months! And I ended up with bad acid reflux which finally made me decide I really need to go back to the doctor. Turns out I stretched my pouch which has tilted my band! So I had to have all my Fluid removed and will have to suffer trying not to eat everything in sight on my own now for at least 5 weeksn when I go back to have my pouch and band checked! Lesson learned! I will bow down to the mighty band!!!

Interesting story...Wow...this just confirms about the power of the ultmighty band. Seems like we are seeing a trend about how we should truely LET THE BAND BE THE BOSS.... if you want to eat more (because of head hunger or want more taste...and you know you have eaten your fair share already).....force yourself to eat some Soup which could satisfy that "taste need"....instead of forcing more food down our throats.

getting stuck/throwing up etc. doesn't happen to everyone. i have never had restriction/fill because my tubing was disconnected, so my band hasn't done a lot of talking. although it did slow me down during meals. interesting topic. i now look forward to hearing from my new band! =)

i have never had restriction/fill because my tubing was disconnected, so my band hasn't done a lot of talking.

Why was your tubing disconnected in the first place ? Just curious....

great question! fluke i guess.