Hi Everyone,

I am due to be banded on June 26th (12 more sleeps). I am really excited and scared at the same time. I have hit rock bottom as far as self respect and self esteem goes and desperately trying to find my smile again. I know this operation is not a miracle cure, but I am committed in making it work for me. I am afraid because I use food as a comfort and after the banding I will not have that to turn to. This week I have consumed all my favourite foods in excessive amounts knowing that I will not be eating them again anytime soon. What is it like when you wake up from surgery? Does it hurt? Can you still take pain killers as I suffer from migraines regularly. Do they use staples or stitches? Does it hurt when they come out? What should I expect in my first week? When can I go back to work? So many questions.......

Zeesmeow,

You are right to feel excited and scared, those feelings are normal because you really dont know what to expect. When you wake up from surgery you are going to be really groggy, I was a little naseous. When I finally came to I noticed my stomach felt sore like I had done lots of sit ups. I could still manage to take my pills after the surgers. I had stitches that were disolvable. During your first week you will be sore probably moving a bit slower and you may find that you are tired. Get your rest, your body needs to heal. It will be different for you on us liquids but remember to stay with it and not try to over do it on the first week. I took 2 weeks off but a lot of the folks on here have only taken a few days to a week so I guess you will have to play it by ear on what you feel like. Good luck to you.

I got stitches and staples. I don't think the staples bothered me till it was time for them to come out. And I don't recall being very sick, sore or sorry after the op either.

I agree with you, the band is no miracle cure. Otherwise why would there be so many bandsters who don't get to, or anywhere near a healthy weight? It's not easy, and it's not always fun. But it is so, so worth all the effort to live a normal, healthy, productive life.

Best of luck to you!