Lucky you that you don't have the gas. I have both upper and lower, back, shoulder... my husband says I sound like a drunken sailor! I was banded on May 10th. I find it funny how much the protocol changes depending on where you live and which doc you use. Some people had to do liquids for up to ten day prior to the surgery. My diet was low fat protein, no carbs including fruit. The day before I was on clear liquids all day. My first day of liquids began on the 10th. Some people say they had no appetite at all and I wish I could say that too. But I was very hungry yesterday and thank god I was able to move on to thicker liquids. I too have either the "fat gene" or a slow metabolism. I am a zumba instructor, teach three classes per week and would loose about 1 pound and by the following week gain 2-3 pounds. Very frustrating. Good luck and if you would like to keep in touch you can email me anytime.