Help!! Having trouble w/pre-surgery diet

I'm scheduled for banding on May 14th. During my initial meeting with the dietitian, she told me to begin a 1200 calorie diet for the 3-4 weeks prior to surgery. (only liquids the 5 days immediately before surgery)

I did OK during the first week when I just had to eat 3 meals, small portions, extra chewing, and no liquids with meals. But as soon as I was supposed to drop to 1200 cals, I felt ravenous and unable to stick to it! I'm kind of panicking because if I can't do this for a few weeks, how will I be able to eat the right stuff after being banded?? I'm not worried about the healing period, because I really believe the fear of messing up the band will keep me in line, but its the long-term that concerns me. Did anyone else have this kind of trouble? I have plenty of diet pills on hand, but when I take them I don't really feel well . . . I would appreciate any advice!!

Thanks, Lisa