Greetings:

My name is Lebeed and this is my first time on this site. I have attended many seminars and have been through all the procedures for lab band surgery. I will be seeing my surgeon on 1/5 for the last time and my surgery is scheduled for 1/15.

I am feeling anxious:crying: about the procedure. I am more concerned about the psychological impact more than the physical. Any advise from the people who are already banded is greatly appreciated?

Thanks

Lebeed

Well, lets be honest in the talk (getting past the retoric for a bit).

It is common to be nervous, both before and after.

I was, it seems, one of the easiest cases to get my surgery (made the call to ask questions on July 6, had initial consultation on July 10, had surgery on July 25),

I was, it seems, also had one of the harder recovery times. Lots of pain, lots of gas for about 10 days.

As things go, the surgery is one of the easier, but you are still having surgery, going in and placing a band around your stomach, using general anesthesia. All of the complications that go with internal surgery can apply. As such, you have reason to be apprehensive.

Then there are the lifestyle changes. Some, like me, have only slight changes in what they can eat. I don't have a lot of problem with what some call "trigger foods." Some people have lots of problems with Pasta, rice, some meats.

But there will be lifestyle changes. NO SODAS, less caffeine. You must eat slower, smaller bites, and smaller amounts. That makes restaurants a challenge, some social situations might be changed.

And still, you might have times of throwing up, gas, and other "not so social" behaviors.

But in the end, if you stick to it, it can make it work, and it can be a great thing.

I don't regret being banded, but it is because I was willing to make some big sacrifices to do what is best for me. If you are willing to make it work, then in the end, I think you will be pleased too.

Now on to those who want to give the cheerier side of LB.

Hi Lebeed, I too was anxious prior to being banded on December 5, 2008 in Mexico. Having read several people's experiences before having the surgery helped prepare me for after the surgery.

The surgery itself was an experience - no complications, but during the 2 weeks of pure liquids, I mentally felt I had made the wrong decision. Not feeling well, excessive pain from gas, etc., all cause you to mentally question the decision. Support, support, support is key to combatting this. My friend who went with me and had the surgery also has been paramount in helping me through that phase. Although I haven't had a fill and can literally eat most things, I know getting the band was a good decision and I am excited.:confused: