You are telling my story. I am having the same problem and kind of wondering was all of this worth it if now I don't have any restriction at all. The doctor did say that when it got to be the 3rd and 4th week I would feel like I am not banded at all.

So now my thoughts are should I go back to the presurgery Atkins diet, when I was losing weight. On the regular diet now, my weight did not budge either. I am writing everything down that I eat. Taking protein first, chewing slowly, drinking and exercising and like you, no weight loss.

Are we being too had on ourselves?? What has everyone else been through. Maybe I should have had the bypass. Will it get better? God! I hope so!

YES!!! It gets better. My doctor advised me that the weeks after surgery are for healing, not for weightloss.... to let the band tell you when you have had enough. Eat til you feel satisfied. I know for me, I was still eating less than pre-surgery, even if more than thought I "should."

By doing this, I gradually decreased what I was eating with each fill, so it didn't seem as painful as trying to stick to tiny meals from day 1.

I am just past the one year mark, and I have lost 95 pounds. Hang in there!!

Thank you so much for sharing that bit of advice. I think that if the doctor would have explained this time with the lap band like you did, I would not be feeling so miserable and so uninformed. All that I know is what to expect from my meetings and support classes. We did not touch on the first month lap band.

The expectations and excitement are so high to lose weight, that sometimes I forget the most important thing is healing and getting healthy, creating the stepping stones for my new way of living banded.

Now knowing that, what happens after my first fill?

I think I'll post that question.

Thanks for your help again.

on your first fill...... everyone is different but in my case, each time was slightly more restriction until we got it right. I would go into the office, they would do weight and blood pressure. Then, a little poke to numb the belly, then another poke to add fluid.

My nurses usually give me just a bit of water to make sure it goes down with no issues, then you go home and see how you do. Sometimes it takes several tries, so your job now is to pay attention to what you eat, how often you eat, how long after a meal does it take to get hungry.

Same thing as now.... eat til you feel satisfied (not full and uncomfortable, but satisfied.) Maybe it is more than 1/2 or 3/4 Cup, but the point is.... that is the long term objective and to try and accomplish that without the right restriction in your band will just make you crazy.

Good luck!!

Amy (lifeafterband) on Twitter

I experience the same issue with hunger before my first fill. However, I followed my own diet of high lean proteins and vegetables. I was making sure not to go over 1100 or 1200 calories a day. I had my first fill in September. My next one is in November. I know I need more restriction. However, I know if I really want this to work that I must stay focused. This website really helps me stay focused. Keep coming back for support and know that you are not alone! Good luck....your first fill is around the corner.