I am being banded Oct 29 and I would like to "emotionally" hold hands with someone that morning who is having surgery that day.

My doctor won't do a fill until 6 weeks has passed. However I convinced them that I need one on Dec 1st given I am moving two weeks after that, so if there are any complications I would like to be close by. They reluctantly agreed. I am down 26lbs.

Hi Altoonasoup, I also had a lot less pain than what I expected, which made the recovery much better. I don't know when I will be getting my first fill. I'm not sure if I need one because I feel full on very little food and I do not want to start throwing up. I go see the surgeon again on Dec. 5th, so I will see what he says about it. Happy Thanksgiving to you. Maggies:shades_smile:

yes I am getting a fill soon I go the day after you so on tuesday. My weight loss pretty much is at a stand still I think I am about 9 pounds after surgery and 10 on the preop diet. so I agree I cant wait for it to start working. you will have to let me know how the fill goes after so I can be prepared

I don't know if every Dr does it this way or if each has their own unique method. This is how Dr Lusco (Louisville KY) did mine: First he had me lay down on the table and put my hands behind my head. Then he had me lift my head like I was doing an ab crunch. That helped him locate my port. When He had that he put the needle in, but then he had me sit up. He handed me a cup of Water and told me he was going to overfill my band. Then I took several swallows of water until I felt "stuck" I could feel it sitting in my chest and it would not go down. Remember the needle is still sticking out of my port. Then he pulls some of the saline out of the band until I feel the water empty into my stomach. It was not painful, but you are helping the Dr to know when your band is at the "sweet spot". He says it usually takes about three fills before we get it exactly right, but I will have enough restriction that I will start losing weight again. Good luck tomorrow!

I lost 2 1/4 this week which I am happy with. Maggies:shades_smile:

So? It's almost a month later! Where are all yo guys. Learnings? I am loking at getting it done as well.. soo watchi:confused_smile:ng for responses!

Hi Canadianbutterfly, We still visit and post on lbt, but one of our great gals started a yahoo group for the Oct. 29 people. Have you got a date yet for surgery? Maggies:shades_smile:

Thanks Maggies! Yes, it looks like I am set for end of January. Still have to visit the anesthesiologist though, so we will see how that all goes.

Looks like you have done great in a month! Any learnings?

Canadian Butterfly

My fill was about the same with the only exception of the needle was removed before I sat up or was given the water

Hi, I have been following the "oct 29th group". I am going through the pre band process. Planning on a banding in Feb.09. Just want to keep in touch on all of your progress. Keep up the good work. Your are encouraging!!!:tongue2:

Just checking in to let you know how great I am doing! I just had my second fill yesterday. I am down 39 lbs from my highest wt. and I am thrilled! The Dr. was pleased that I had lost 11 lbs through the "dieter's nightmare" time of the year (Thanksgiving and Christmas.) This is the first time I can remember getting through the holidays without GAINING!

My scale is steadily going down about 2 lbs a week. I have slacked on my exercise through the holidays, but I'm getting back to it TODAY!

I am really enjoying putting on previously too tight clothes and finding them too big! Last night I wore a dress to church that fit a month ago, and my friends said it looked like it swallowed me.:laugh:

I am still learning what I can eat and what gives me trouble. Through the holidays I tried turkey several times, and it didn't do well no matter how long I chewed. I can't eat apples either (not even applesauce). I guess it is very individual.

I hope everybody is as happy as I am with their progress. Tell us about it if you get time!

banded oct 11/08 have lost about 15 lbs finding it hard 10 kids, christmas and wedding and now new years. will be glad to get back on track