Hello Everyone, :tt1: My name is Rhonda. I am new to the whole forum scene. I was banded February 27, 2008 in Orange, CA. My surgeon is Dr. David Oliak.

I am a self pay. Prior to surgery I lost 10 lbs. Post surgery I lost 10 lbs the first week and have struggled keeping it off the past 5 weeks. I'm flying to CA for my first fill April 8th.

It has been a very frustrating past 5 weeks to say the least. I attended a support group meeting and learned of this forum. The support group meets once a month. Right now I need all the support I can get.

It has been difficult not having my doctor near by.

Did I make the right decision to do the banding? I guess only time will tell.

Edited April 5, 200818 yr by galobis

Hi Rhonda, and welcome to LBT. Please do not be discouraged at this early stage in the game. It is important to remember that the band is designed to work when filled. Prior to having it filled, you are basically like you were pre-band. Many people do not lose any weight during this stage, in fact, many gain. I think you will enjoy the difference you see once you start getting fills.

Keep us posted on how things are going.

Hi Rhonda. From what I've read, you've made the right decision. I've heard lots of people say that it's taken several fills to reel any restriction. Since you're so far away from your doctor, it's a good idea to take it slow in case you're overfilled (you don't want to get on a plane to get some taken out). By the way, I'm being banded by Dr. Oliak on April 28. So far, everyone i've met in the office has been so nice and helpful. How was your experience?

Hi sis, well you are here this week and got your fill, i know you still dont feel any restriction but i promise it will come.. I love you and the time you have been here and you are doing a great job. I will see you in two weeks and you will see the difference in your second fill.

I love you,

Gina

Banded 10/31/07

Dr Oliak:thumbup:

Hi Susan, Thank you for your encouragement. I just returned home from CA. I received my first fill of 1.3 cc on 4-08. I felt a small restriction the first day and no restriction the second day. Thursday when eating dinner a small piece of fish it hit me. WOW! I felt restriction for two days and then back to normal. I lost 10 pounds the week of my fill. I'm going back to CA for my second fill 4-24. Thank You again hope to hear from you again.

hi Rhonda,

please try not to get discouraged. you can do this. join the February 2008 group and participate there, they are more than likely going thru the same thing as you at the same time.

post on the main board too. this board has been a wonderful resource for me.

if you have any questions, just ask.

congrats on being banded.

Hi galobis. I'm being banded at the end of this month by Dr. Oliak. Why did you decide to fly to Calif. for your surgery and are you glad you got the band?