Hi all - just wanted to say hello. Just made my first appointment for Lap Band. So many questions. So many fears but so excited. Happy I found your site.

Welcome. This is a great site with a lot of information. One thing you will find is every doctor has their own way of doing things. Always do what he/she says first. Congratulations on your choice to become healthy!

Thanks for answering. I have a question - no, I have hundreds of questions. But my first is - prior and post surgery, the regimen sounds very strict. If one has the ability to adher to this, what makes it different than regular dieting? A liquid diet sounds horrible. And after, liquid and then soft food? How long until you can eat regular food - although I know it's in tiny quantities?

Right before and right after you have to be on liquids. My dr requires his patients to loose 5% of their weight before surgery to shrink the size of the liver to make it easier to see when they go in to place the band. After surgery it is impportant to be on liquids for two weeks to allow the stomach to get used to the band and heal. If you go right into eating solids or even mushies it could cause the band to slip or cause nausea and vomiting.

The band is a "tool" to help restrict the "amound" of food you eat. You will be full faster and stay full longer if you go by the eating guidelines your dr gives you. Good luck and keep asking away!!!

Thanks for answering. I have a question - no, I have hundreds of questions. But my first is - prior and post surgery, the regimen sounds very strict. If one has the ability to adher to this, what makes it different than regular dieting? A liquid diet sounds horrible. And after, liquid and then soft food? How long until you can eat regular food - although I know it's in tiny quantities?

Yes every doctor has their own timing on liquid diets. I only had to be on clear liquids 2 days before surgery and two after surgery. Then I went on liquids, soup, protein drinks etc for 2 weeks. After that mushies for 2 weeks and then food. Your body has to heal. If you rush food you could do damage to yourself. It is important to do what the doctor says. You will hear all of us say that the band is just a tool. There is work you have to do. Once you are filled you will find it is the best thing you have ever done. I am no longer hungry and I feel great. Good luck and keep us posted.