I am in the process of getting medically approved for the band, and while I wait, I second guess myself all the time. I am a huge emotional eater and often eat way past full. I am concerned that I will still eat out of control after the band and then feel like I have let my self down yet AGAIN with my efforts to lose weight and be healthy. I am really scared that if this fails, I am doomed to be fat forever.

Anyone out there regret getting the band? Would you do it all over again? Do you think it truly helped you lose the weight, or should I just find the willpower to lose 100+ lbs AGAIN the old fashioned way???

I appreciate your thoughts on the issue!

Anyone who scrutinises your dining habits is not a very polite dinner companion anyway, and not someone I would dine with!

Hi, I've only been banded since 8/30. I just advanced to pureed food. I have been out to eat twice since banding and had Soup both times (was on liquids). The waitress was pleasant and did not treat me any differently than anyone else at the table. I've told people I want to tell about being banded. And then life goes on. Yes there are changes, and no, I do not feel different eating different portions.

In the weeks before my surgery, I too vacillated back and forth. While I haven't "learned" all the lessons yet, I do agree, the band is always with you as a reminder. I've found things that I used to do as habit, I now think twice. Want to grab a candy bar out of that basket on my secretary's desk? Do I really want it? Can I really tolerate it? And I pass. Stress eating? Nope, have to find another outlet. I'm enjoying Minute Maid Lemonate light with sugar free raspberry syrup lately.

Is it worth it? ABSOLUTELY! Even if I only lose 50% of my excess weight. I ALREADY feel better, am off 3 meds, walk easier, sleep better, and have more energy.

Good luck!

Sue Stenzel