I was banded on August 21st and am not due to have a fill until next Tuesday. In the last day or so it appears that I no longer have the band. I am to eat normally and I am hungry more often. Is this normal? Like I said, I've never had a fill, but there appeared to be some restriction the other day.

That's what happens when you need a fill or you're getting close to that time. It happens to everyone.

The band is there, and it's ready to do it's job. Usually they are installed with out any Fluid in them. Sometimes they have tiny bit to "prime" the device.

The restriction or lack of hunger you felt initially was probably swelling from the surgery itself and your body's adoption of the band around your stomach.

It is normal to feel that hunger return, and even though you feel as though you can eat like before you should make every effort NOT to do it!

You are a bandster now, and must comply with the rules of being banded. If your doctor put you on a diet follow it. Once you are able to get into the office explain your feelings to them and they may or may not give you a fill depending on what their policy for fills is.

This part is the hardest part I have heard people refer to it as bandster hell. Your hungry and you can't eat like you want to. Remember that it will all be worth it in the end. Follow the instructions your surgeon or nut gave you and you will do great!

I was banded 8/27 and am the same way. I just assume that I'm not as swollen as I was and am getting ready for a fill. I still can't eat a ton, only about 1c worth, but I get hungry as hell all of a sudden before it is time to eat again, so I've started snacking. Snacking good though, a heaping tablespoon of hummus, protein shake, etc. Just keep at it and use good sense, I'm sure after a fill we'll feel closer to green and have to adjust again...and again...until we are just right. We're goldilocks of the bandland!

Sounds like it's time for a fill!!