I had my surgery on 8/28/06. I know that I don’t and won’t have any restriction until my first fill. But right now I am eating just as I normally would pre-surgery, which is NOT healthy eating at ALL. And Ive gained back the 10 lbs I lost in the liquid phase. I’ve had no vomiting or uncomfortable feelings at all. (Which I kind of wish I had so that I could stop eating)

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How much of a difference does a filled band make verses an unfilled band? I understand that its not a cake walk but it has to be easier than this or I would have just dieted without the band to lose weight. It certainly would have been cheaper. I’m really starting to wonder if they even put a band in there, lol.

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I am really disappointed in myself but am mainly curious to know if this eating like this now could cause some type of problem when I actually get the fill. Am I setting myself up for failure?

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I guess what I am really asking is, how many of you pigged out when you found that solid foods were okay? And was it easier when your band was filled? Am I abnormal? I’m really depressed about this, no more’Yay, happy I’m going to lose weight’ feeling. :help:

You answered your own question in your very first sentence! Yes, this procedure costs a lot of money.....however, who told you it was going to be a picnic! You still have to work at it, however....when you do finally reach maximum restriction then it does get easier. You have to still watch what you eat.....no pints or litres of ice cream......but, if you have a bad day, proper restriction will prevent you from doing a lot of damage. And....the band will help to keep the weight off....maintenance should come easier...that is the main reason I got banded...maintenance.

You need to help yourself....the forbidden foods that got you fat in the first place didn't do you any favours...so why are you still eating them? Give your band a chance...it takes time to reach a restriction level that will work for you....its an entire process you go through. So....put down the crap food and help yourself through this journey.....suck it up and put up with the change in eating habits you need to acquire.

Carol

Hi

I have been banded for almost 2 years and I one thing I can share is that everyone has a different experience. It is like putting on different pairs of shoes - they all fit each person differently.

There is cause for concern however, you can stretch your pouch out and even though you are probably healed from the surgery, you still have some swelling around the band site. Your band could slip if you overfill the pouch.

You might not notice too much restriction in the first couple of fills - it depends on you...you might want to discuss with your doc or a dietician regarding the eating plan to follow pre-fill...I know, soft foods and progress to more solid fare...well, we have all been there and I am sure you are still hungry - that part doesn't just go away right after surgery.

Once you do have a fill and some restriction you will not be able to eat like you did pre-band - believe me, you will feel it.