Hi all,

Just turned 20 and am getting lap band on August 8th! I am very excited about the changes that are coming my way, but also nervous. Any advice?

I just got the band in March at 23 and would suggest you have a good support system and a local support group to attend. Also, take advantage of a bariatric dietician and learn which foods will be the best to eat.

Overall, realize this is a journey and not an overnight thing. There will be days when head hunger rules and others that rush by. Take the good with the bad and truly be involved in the experience. It's very rewarding!

Thanks for the advice! I find that I am so mixed with emotions because I have wanted to do this for a while now, but I'm still nervous for the process. My mom is actually going through the procedure with me so my intermediate family is very supportive, but as of right now it is pretty limited to just those few family members that know. I wonder if you have any regrets about having the surgery so young?

No, I do not. I have probably tried every diet out there, and gave my last hurrah in 2011 with a low cal/high exercise diet and it was unattainable to keep up. I have no regrets and have gotten back what I put in. You just have to remember that you have to work with your band and that it's not going to do all of the work for you.

I know its not an easy journey and I'm prepared for that. I think I just get myself so psyched up about the "what ifs" and it makes me so anxious. I have a wonderful doctor so I know I am in good hands, but anesthesia terrifies me! Its always good to have someone to talk through these issues with aha

I was banded on April 28th and although the recovery was not very pleasant I would not take it back for anything! I love my Lapbanf. It's been a great tool so far. My weight loss has slowed down, I have been at a loss of 28 pounds for about 3 weeks now but I went in for a fill today and know the weight will start to come off again. Losing the weight is much easier with this tool to help

I know its not an easy journey and I'm prepared for that. I think I just get myself so psyched up about the "what ifs" and it makes me so anxious. I have a wonderful doctor so I know I am in good hands' date=' but anesthesia terrifies me! Its always good to have someone to talk through these issues with aha[/quote']

I think we all worry about the what-ifs, I know I did. Statistically, if you are younger and in fairly good health, there really shouldn't be any problems with the anesthesia. Try not to create these scenarios because it will only worsen your anxiety.

Congrats on your surgery! It's cliche but take it 1 day, 1 meal, and 1 lb at a time. Your health comes first now.