Hello everyone!

I just received my insurances' ok and am getting ready to meet with the doc to get a band date.

I have so many things I want to know about everyone's experiences. I've been an up and down dieter all my life - like many people. I've looked at the Sleeve and the Band and just felt like the band would be best for me.

1st question...Did anyone smoke before and after their surgery? I know it is strongly recommended to stop but am not sure I can.

It looks like fills are done about monthly..Is that about normal?

What happens when you are on vacation out of the US and are due for a fill?

I'm hoping to be banded late December - early January. Am kinda scared that this will end up like all my other attempts at weight loss :eek: But looking at all the successes, I'm very hopeful.

Hello and welcome! Isnt this site great?

I too am in the process of getting banded!When who knows?! lol

As for smoking yes I did but only for like 3months,however my surg is recommanding me to wait THREE damn months before I can even get the surgery so you may wanna try and stop now if you can...

As for the fills its every 3months for the first yr and then at 18months they have you come back and see where your at,by 18months you should be somewhere near your goal weight from what I understand.

As for the last question I'm not sure...sorry!

I too am alittle worried with the thought of "chnage" but like you said its exciting!

Quite smoking!!! You do not want to go into surgery not being able to breathe. I smoked for about 10 yrs and stopped in 2003. It was still hard for me to breathe after surgery. Stop as soon as possible. It will save your health as well as your pocket book.

Most people get 3-4 fills a year. It all depends on the person and what you are needing.

If you go on vacation they can take fluid out of your band but just expect to gain weight.

I have tried multiple diets and I went up and down over and over again. I have lost 63 lbs so far and I am still going down. I love my band and wouldn't trade it for the world. Good luck to you and your band journey!