I got my first call today to start the process for banding! I meet with a nurse practitioner and mental health therapist on June 16. I think if I 'pass' that, I'll be scheduled for an 8-week class to learn more about the surgery, post-op care and the impact this surgery will have on my life.

I am 5'6" and weigh about 265 pounds. I never thought I would weigh this much! I have read several books on bariatric surgery, though most of them are for the hardcore surgery, not banding, so I'm not sure which side effects I'm likely to have. I've read lots of comments in the Forum which is helpful.

I suppose the earliest I could have the surgery would be in September. What would be a reasonable expectation of my weight by Christmas? I am soooo looking forward to feeling better, improving weight-related health problems and having more energy, not to mention looking better!

Congratulations on taking that first step towards better health. There is a load of information here, look around and learn all you can. If you have nay questions you can't find the answer to, please feel free to post them!

Your possible weight loss between now and September would depend on a lot of factors such as pre-op diet requirements, exercise program, and your body's natural rate of weight loss.