I've read my paper about pre-op 7 day diet and all of the post-op diets, and lots more.... What are some of the other pre-op issues/difficulties or things you would like to of been told and weren't until "after" the fact?

Constipation, incisions, recovering, stay overnight post-op, pains and aches following the surgery.

i wish my doctor had this website to give me. it was and is what has taught me more about everything you mentioned in your post. i have now insisted my doctor give this website out to the other patients. just read all you can from here. you will learn so much. post a question when the need ever arises. everyone is different and has different problems. the only advice i have to offer right now is ...do what your doctor has ordered you to do....... the pre-op is a very individual thing that your doctor wants you to do. good luck

The best thing I can say is to beware of bandster hell and try not to get discouraged in the beginning! Everything else is healing and learning to be around people who can eat like you used to. This process is more mental than anything!

My best advice is be aware that you will get pumped with gas and then for the next several days have pain; if you ge tpain in your left shoulder, do not be alarmed! My best advice is to walk a much as possible, and try to do it upright! Best wishes!!

i was advised many things (good and bad).....but what i didnt expect was by having this surgery, and me beginning to lose weight would make me feel fantastic so soon after surgery...i expected it not to work because of all the up/downs/dieting/starving so why would this work for me......i didnt expect it to work..........but it did and it made me try harder and do my best...probably not the answer you wanted but its the one i wanted to give.

for best results, follow what your dr advises.......you can do it...

Like CG, I didn't expect to feel so happy -- relieved perhaps but also really, really excited. That took me sailing right through the temporary discomfort post-surgery. Incisional pain and even that dreaded left shoulder pain were tolerable because it was all for something. And not as bad as other pain I've had -- and not feeling ill at all, just uncomfortable. And the walking is so important. Did not expect to suddenly switch from exercising out of need to doing it out of want. Self-esteem increased so fast -- proud of myself for seeing this through and feeling very independent. Never expected a half cup of food to fill me up or to still love food but just in very small amounts. So happy about that!

I agree with the other ladies I had my done the 19 I feel great. I was walking right after I woke up from surgery. I was very lucky I didn't have shoulder pain so I couldn't help you there. I have more energy now then ever I have lost 40lbs since starting pre op diet. Never listen to the downers. You can do it!

It's a journey that you just have to take one day at a time. And if/when the day comes and you say "what the heck did I do to myself" (I did several times post-op)...push through it and know that you made the best decision to better yourself, your health and your life.

I'm down 51 pounds already and have such energy and self-confidence and feel really great about ME...what an awesome feeling to have again after so many years of hiding.

Don't let anyone frighten you into foods you can and cannot eat and when to or not to get your fills....everyone is different.

Personally, I haven't needed a fill yet and will not be getting one on my next check up on 12/4....I eat 3 small meals and one small snack and am satisfied and happy. And I can eat everything so far (although I wont eat triscuits any time soon--they gave me some grief....lol-just an uncomfortable feeling). You have to go through your own trial and error period once your doc gives you the ok for solids.

Follow YOUR docs advice only!

And last, but not least, cut yourself some slack after surgery when you begin to eat again. It takes awhile to adjust to the new routines and "rules" of eating with a band and time to get used to the mechanics (small bites, eating slow etc) Don't expect perfection ....it takes time..all in the learning curve.

Hope that helps you some and good luck...keep us posted!