I saw the law enforcement thread and wanted to make one to include fire and EMS as well. I'm a 25 year old paramedic from Texas. Got banded 2/4/08, so I'm 3 days post op.

I'd wait a couple weeks before hitting it too hard. I started some lifting of 50 lb bags after 2 weeks. By 4 weeks, I was back to normal. You young bucks might bounce back a little quicker...

Bruce

I also posted this in the other law enforcement thread.

Hey guys! It has been three weeks since my surgery and I am down 21 pounds. I will be having to get a smaller belt soon. I am getting a coworker to make some new holes in some of my other belts. I think this surgery is the best thing I have ever bought. The money saved on food is substantial. My social life is now improving as now I can afford to go out. I am getting used to consuming less of everything. I am now satisfied with two tasty adult beverages (crown with water). I used to drink a six pack on my days off. I am also getting a lot more exercise. I really want to run again, but I have to wait another week. Another 3 weeks I can get off light duty. Thanks for the fantastic support.

Robert

Its great to see a ems/ fire thread. I am a emt intermediate in Vegas , and I am going to paramedic school. just got the referral from my insurance company so I am well on my way I think. Just wondering if any medics out there had any problems with eating post band wile at work, we do system status posting so we are almost always moving , and as a result eating on the run.

I spent 18 months as a civilian firefighter in Iraq and never effected me one bit having lap band!

Hello everyone, I am on the countdown to my surgery it is going to happen on July 19th. That is my own personal independence day, like you guys I work in public safety as a Fire Captain and Paramedic. For the fire guys out there, has the port caused any problems with your uniform belt, SCBA belts or straps, rescue harnesses or turn out gear? I have always been proud of myself that even at my heaviest I have performed well and always passed my fit for duty tests. I don't know why, but now I am worried about the post-op fit for duty testing. What have been your experiences returning to work?