Hi everyone! I'm new to the Forum, and i'm here seeking a bit of guidance. I have been lurking for a couple of weeks as I have been trying to decide if the Lap Band is the thing for me...and i have decided it is!! So I figured I would stop being rude and sneaky and introduce myself! Now i'm not going to lie...i'm SCARED TO DEATH. I'm a 46 years old female, and took a job 6 years ago that requires that i sit for 12.5 hours a day with only 2 15 minute brakes and not being allowed to leave the room (or take a walk). The sedentary lifestyle has unfortunately caused me to gain about 60 lbs in 6 years...i've exhausted myself on a NUMBER of diets, and just CAN'T seem to get this weight off. I'm currently 5'5", 225 and feeling such utter hopelessness and despair it hurts to look in the mirror every morning. My insurance requires a Doctor's referral (which i got a week ago with his blessing), and he submitted the paperwork to my insurance so now it is just a waiting game from here. it's maddening...and i know it has only just begun. I must say though, that reading your success stories, and how so many of the "banded" wouldn't change their decision for the world, it really helps me to believe that i have made the right decision.

Welcome!!! You will be able to check threads with a lot of support. I am in a very similar scenario as you. I was banded 12/6. As of yesterday and today, I feel so much better. I have a friend who was non compliant and her band failed less than one year. I went into this knowing that. The most important thing to consider now is band is Only a tool. It will not be why you lose weight. After banding, you must must plan your meals. It requires researching which foods have highest nutrients and will keep you full longer. Cutting out greasy and high fat foods. If you will still be at the same job post surgery, you will have to take a lunch cooler and ice packs. Put in pre measured foods.

Be sure to try and use the foods you are to eat afterwards now. At a minimum, if your doctor doesn't order it, do a 1,000 calorie/day diet one week before of sugar free and reduced fat as well as slowly stop liquid calories (iced coffee, lattes, sugary sodas and teas). It will prep your body in many ways.

Lastly, post here as often for support and help toward your specific situation at the time. Best of luck to you!!

Hi there, don't you hate that 10 pound per year gain? Hate that, and know it well. I was banded 11/5 at 248 and I wish I had done it years ago. I am 52 and have struggled for two decades and am a dieting expert. I'm happy to report that I am not on a diet. I still love food, too, just in very small quantities and at intervals. It's a behavioral change for me to stop grazing, going back for more, etc., but I have to say that I'm not hungry and I am very happy to be out of food jail. I am just five weeks out and know very little except for my own experience. When I decided to get a Lapband last June, I had to go through a five-month process. While I was going through the various required appointments I also started seeing a therapist to try to nail down those food issues once and for all. I'm glad I did that as I was able to identify the areas that are difficult for me -- the ways I've used food to get through various things, etc. I am not doing that anymore. The best thing I did pre-band was kick up my exercise routine. I did it but did not enjoy it -- but I'm so glad I got moving more anyway. Then once banded I started walking at the hospital and that helped with everything (any gas from surgery, etc.) plus it just turned me into a walker. I believe exercise and walking are the secret to success. Problem was that prior to banding I just didn't have enough will power. Now I do. I credit the band with all that. Be positive and know that you are choosing yourself and your health -- that commitment to myself has made me into a much stronger and happier person. I feel that I have what I need to make this a success and I am enjoying every minute of my new banded life. Best wishes to you -- so glad you introduced yourself and that you'll be a part of the forum.