I'm 20 and just got the band!

[supernurseD 5]

I'm doing really well! It hasn't really been that bad at all.

good I'm so glad!

[DaniGurl87 4]

Congrats for Joining the bandsters! I was banded 7 Months ago. I've Lost almost 40lbs! Its Exciting and I don't have to much more to go.

[haleyray72 0]

I'll be twenty this year, and I am so sick of being fat! I am looking to lose 130lb. I am early pre-op. How hard was the decision to go for the band? How do you feel post-op? I feel like the stigma of the band at such an early age is something that is hard to deal with. How do you deal with that?

Thanks! And congrats on making it this far!

[haleyray72 0]

I'll be twenty this year, and I am so sick of being fat! I am looking to lose 130lb. I am early pre-op. How hard was the decision to go for the band? How do you feel post-op? I feel like the stigma of the band at such an early age is something that is hard to deal with. How do you deal with that?

Thanks! And congrats on making it this far!

[ev1988 36]

I am 24 (25 next week) and I am so glad that I chose to get the band last February. Since I started this process in December 2011, pre-op included, I have lost 116.5 pounds. I still have about 45 more pounds I want to lose, but I wouldn't change a single thing so far. My friends and family have been so supportive since I got the surgery, and I haven't really dealt with any negative comments about the band. Everyone is just happy for me that I am starting to feel better and look better too. Don't let the fear of what other people will say keep you from doing it, because I wish I would have considered it when I was 18.

[moonlightdreamer 4]

I'm 25, I'm looking at getting it and I don't know that I have a fear of what other people are saying as I'm worried about having this for the rest of my life. I mean, I'm only in my 20s and I'm wanting to get this band inserted that I'm stuck with forever? But I'm so wanting to get it set up, I know that's something else I'm going to mention to the doctor at my first intake appointments on the 14th. I feel like it's my last hope for getting this stuff under control.

[daisychains7 427]

I'll be twenty this year, and I am so sick of being fat! I am looking to lose 130lb. I am early pre-op. How hard was the decision to go for the band? How do you feel post-op? I feel like the stigma of the band at such an early age is something that is hard to deal with. How do you deal with that?

Thanks! And congrats on making it this far!

The decision was hard for me initially because it is a huge commitment and I did not enter into it lightly. I was afraid to lose my unhealthy relationship with food. Life does change after the band, but for the most part we all live normal lives. We still enjoy food in a balanced way and stay physically active. I was afraid that being in my 20's I wouldn't be able to enjoy going out for happy hour with friends or social events. I still occasionally get anxiety surrounding that but I ALWAYS go in with a game plan.

People definitely notice when you start dropping weight and when they see your unusual eating habits. I have gotten a couple insensitive judgmental comments but not many. There are certain people I don't tell I have the band because I don't feel comfortable. Never feel you OWE anyone an explanation - your body and your health is personal. The only people i care about, who love me, and know my struggle with weight support my decision. Please don't let other people's opinions dissuade you.

The surgery was more painful than I expected, but pain medication is a wonderful thing. Recovery is quick, and in 6-8 weeks you're ready to start working your band

It has been a blessing in my life. Now I can enjoy my 20s to the fullest. Do as much research as you can. Examine the pros and cons. But once you make the commitment, embrace the changes because you will get only as much as you put into it.

Sorry I rambled but hopefully that answered your questions.

[Sheylbe 1]

I'm 25' date=' I'm looking at getting it and I don't know that I have a fear of what other people are saying as I'm worried about having this for the rest of my life. I mean, I'm only in my 20s and I'm wanting to get this band inserted that I'm stuck with forever? But I'm so wanting to get it set up, I know that's something else I'm going to mention to the doctor at my first intake appointments on the 14th. I feel like it's my last hope for getting this stuff under control.[/quote']

That's the thing about the band... It's removable. It was a huge decision for me... It Honestly wasnt that painful for me. I'll be honest.... Losing has been very slow for me. I'm 2 months in and Ive only lost 15 lbs. However, after my last fill (with proper eating & working out) i feel like it's starting to come off!! It's a huge decision and you have to be ready... I feel like it's more mental than anything!!

[harmanm 17]

I'm 26 and here for support as well!

[supernurseD 5]

I'm 26 and here for support as well!

Welcome! I am 25 and had the band done last June! Best decision of my life!

[harmanm 17]

Welcome! I am 25 and had the band done last June! Best decision of my life!

I just had mine removed but still here to support those with it.

[supernurseD 5]

Gotcha, well thank you!

[ev1988 36]

Harmanm, do you mind sharing why you had yours removed? Did you have complications?

[harmanm 17]

Harmanm' date=' do you mind sharing why you had yours removed? Did you have complications?[/quote']

I had to have it removed. It was moving down my stomach and making me very sick. I had the option to reset it but the crap I've been through for two years I couldn't do it. I just wanted it out

[ev1988 36]

I am sorry to hear you had that issue. I am always worried something will happen with mine, but so far so good.