I am in the beginning stages of getting the lap band. To let you know how early in the phase I have my class next week then the next day I will see my Dr. to start lab work. It has taken me two years to get to this point cause of fear. I'm still a little afraid but I'm ready now. I just happened to stumble on this site! Can anyone tell me how long is the estimated recovery time, how long in the hospital and how soon can I return to work. I know these are questions I can ask at the class but I am eager to know. I am a single parent of 3 but I have not discussed my decision with them yet because I want to be able to answer all of their questions.

Most people have at most one overnight in the hospital. Many are done as outpatient. Most seem to go back to work in 7- 10 days. The complete "recovery" takes 6-8 weeks. Ask away, we are here to help. Lap Band is one of the best decisions I ever made for myself!

My surgery was out patient, took 1 week off work. I work at a desk job so working was not a problem. The hardest part of recovery is the shoulder pain from the gas that they use during the procedure, then the second hardest part is the post op diet. I was on 4 weeks of liquids.

The band was the best decision I made for myself. It is a tool and if you use it correctly by following the band rules you will see success. Take this time to read all stories here, read the successes and the failures, ask questions and research.

This site is full of wonderful friends who will love & support you every step of the way. Good luck on your new journey.

I had my surgery on a Thursday and went back to work on Monday I have a desk job, so, that helps. Remember, the first six weeks are for healing. As you get fills, the weight begins to fall off. Its a new day, everyday. Its your time now. So, drink your Water, take your Vitamin, get your Protein, exercise and get ready for a new you! Best of luck!

I struggled with the decision for years (at least 4) but the reasons why I wanted to have lap band surgery were greater than the reasons not to. Its a big decision, but, it is one of the best I have ever made.

Thank you all for the advice and encouragement! How long will the process take to get banded?

Hi, I'm being banded in 3 days!! I was thinking about having lapband surgery 12 months ago and a family member talked me out of it. Telling me it was a little to drastic. To this day I wish I had of went ahead with it as I would be well on my journey.

Before I decided i would go ahead with it I did a lot of research. Have read a lot of people's stories good and bad.. My surgeon also goes through the 8 golden rules.. You can google it. And also have read his book. It's good to do your research so you know what will be going on with your own body.

http://bodywellfitness.com/2012/03/25/de-mystifying-dr-obriens-the-8-golden-rules/

It took me 8 weeks from the day I called to make an appointment. 5 weeks to wait for the appointment and 3 weeks b4 going in.. I am in Australia though.

I've decided not to tell most of my family as this is something I'm doing for me. Good Luck with your decision.

Surgery is less than 1 hour.