Hi! My name is Katie & I'm 18. I was first interested in Lapband about a year ago. All criteria was met, except I was too young. In that time I worked hard & lost about 40lbs, but it was a short-term loss which resulted in gaining it all back, & then some. On December 15, 2008 I attended another seminar with my same surgeon as before, Dr. Allan Cribbins. This time around insurance was readily on board & as soon as we got the approval (about 3-5 days) everything happened very fast. I was scheduled for surgery on December 26 & was back at work (childcare) in 8 days. So far I've lost 9lbs & I'm scheduled for my first fill in mid-February. I'd love feedback from anyone regarding the first few weeks to months of their banding.

I had my lap bad surgery in June 2007, and the best advice I can give is to stick with the diet that your doctor has given you. I learned that trying to eat or do too much too soon after surgery will inhibit your progress. Even though you feel great on the outside, inside your body things are still healing. Protein shakes are a must!!!!!!!!! For me they made me feel better, and filled me up!

I definitely learned the horribleness of trying to eat too much real quick. Since then I've done pretty well with eating slowly & chewing. Regarding protein shakes, I've been drinking Body Fortress Whey Protein stuff. I like it a lot.

Yeah, I drink that too. For me, it really does taste better than they other more expensive ones. What vitamins are you taking? I take vitaband from bariatric advantage. I love them!!

I actually need some new vitamins. I have been taking children's ones & am now out. Can I buy vitaband from a store?

Not that I know of. YOu can get them at www.bariatricadvantage.com. My dietician recommended them and they are great! Make me feel good.