Banded on 11/2/12, down 49lbs total. Lost about 19 pre-op (10 day diet) and 40 since surgery. I had one fill on 12/10 and that was it. I don't think I even really needed it, but it was small, 1cc. I've been to the Dr. twice since then and he has not wanted to give me any more fills, as I'm losing very well without them. I'm fortunate to not have any difficulties thus far. I read about people getting "stuck", not being able to eat certain foods, that's just not me, and I'm so thankful. It's as if I do not have a band at all. I keep my portions right around 1 cup, I eat around 1000-1200 calories per day, some days slightly more. I do not limit myself from sweets or carbs, however I calculate them and track them. I have not touched a soda, regular or diet in months. This is a BIG deal, I was like, 6 diet pepsi's a day a few months ago. I don't eat fried foods for the most part, but recently on vacation, I indulged slightly. Had a few Margarita's and some chicken wings...but again, I tracked AND exercised! I love the feeling of finally being able to eat the foods I love, just not a lot of them, and being Ok with it. I still have missteps, I'm not perfect. The fact that I own a cupcake/cake bakery doesn't help with my love of sweets, but I'm doing so much better. Instead of a giant muffin and a croissant for breakfast and a cupcake and a cookie in the afternoon, paired with a pile of fries, a burger and a diet coke...then dinner, oh my...well past 9pm...not good, NOW it's greek yogurt for breakfast, a high protein lunch and maybe, one cupcake a week or a taste of one of my new creations, or a small cookie. I eat something sweet everyday,but because I have to. I have to taste test everything I make that's new, and right now I'm testing superbowl and valentine's items. Nonetheless, I feel I'm finally winning the war against the fat and all the stupid diets I've spent so much money on over the years. I am currently knocking on wood that my success keeps going in the right direction. If I plateau, then I will adjust the carbs/sweets, but for now, it's working for me to keep it in my diet so that I do not binge. It's hard everyday, but seeing the results has been my motivation. Im in 16 jeans now (down from 22's) and my shirts are getting looser. Not loving the boobs, since they are not decreasing at all, but that's another story. Hoping to have a reduction when I hit onederland... It was so nice to go on vacation and dress up everyday because I loved the way I looked! Ok, enough of my bragging...lol. I'm just happy and finally ready to share it!

I don't know what your dr's policies are on caffeine but I drink the 5-hour energy shots. I am still pre-op but I haven't heard anything that my surgeon is against caffeine. Just a suggestion Congrats on your success!

Wow...you look amazing!! Congrats!

You look awesome! You really do look younger now. By the way, I am so jealous that your hair looks that good in Florida. Are you kidding me?! Mine is a puff ball of frizz there!

Thank you everyone for your kind words Yes' date=' I tend to lose in my face first....I didn't realize just how bloated my face was before! Yuck! I'm still struggling with energy, I'm so tired all of the time. I mean, I feel great, don't get me wrong, I'm ecstatic! But still battling being very lethargic at times. Maybe not enough Water? I take my Vitamins, but not sure what is going on. I'll chalk it up to -20 degree temps and hibernating up here in the mountains of upstate NY. lol

Thanks![/quote']

I live in upstate ny also

You look beautiful! Congratulations!

Wow! That's is a amazing. So happy for you. Keep it up. I hope and pray that I experience that type of weight loss.

Awesome!!! Congrats

So inspirational to hear!!! Thank you for posting this!!