karynj

I am getting the lap band in Aug. '11.  I considered a vertical sleeve gastrectomy last year but decided that it was too extreme.  As a "low BMI" patient, I have to self-pay but I definitely think that not having to struggle with my weight and all my neuroses around my weight for the rest of my life is worth it.  I chose a great doctor and a great program.  Since I don't have any co-morbidities and I'd say that I am super healthy... except for my weight, I will just have the surgery and be out that night. 
 
My questions now are:
1) How long will i need to be "resting" and not working?  I work as a dog walker, so my work is fairly physical. 
2) How bad will the scars be?
3) Have people with tattoos noticed a huge problem with warping?  I have one very large one on my side (used to hide stretch marks) that I'm concerned will look very weird.
4) Does anyone know how long before or after the surgery you can be tattooed (not on the scars)?
5) How long has it taken people to be able to eat solidish foods?
 
Thanks!
Karyn