I started the lapband journey in Feb 2005 with getting my first band installed (the 4cc) one and losing 80 lbs in 9months I was use to that band and doing well minus the acid reflux, then I had a slip. I had my band replaced (the 10cc) in Nov 2008 weighing 154 and I have never seen that weight again...unfortunately I have been really disapointed in this new band but they kept telling me "it's totally different than you first band" so I would need to change my ways. I have tried doing what they have said and eating protein first and yada yada but have had absolutely no restrictions or weight loss...only GAIN! I found out I was pregnant May 2010 and had all my fluid removed so I could take those huge omega and prenatal pills. When they removed my fluid they had written down that I had 7.5cc but only removed 5cc. They said you must have a leak or we miscalculated. I was thinking that's a big miscalculation! So I ended up gaining a ton of weight being pregnant 70lbs and got up to 242 before delivery. 4wks after delivery I started getting fills again and they kept saying that all the fluid was retaining but I was having ZERO restriction as usual so I went in to see my surgeon. He said they weren't being aggressive enough on my fills and gave me 1.5cc that day making me 5.5cc. The next time he took out the fluid and said my port had a leak and that I needed it replaced!! I knew that something has been wrong with this band not to be working all this time...
I had my port replaced Nov 2, 2011 and the surgeon put 5cc in during the surgery. I have yet to feel restriction and just feel really bloated now. I have been to see a nutritionist to change my eating habits and lost 7lbs on my own in 1 week. I probably shouldn't take all the supplements because of their size but I haven't had an issue. I am really ticked off and pray that my next fill on Dec 1 actually does something! I know all about having a band and the shoulds and should nots but I also know the feeling of restriction and haven't had that since 2008...boo.
I miss my old little band!! If you have the smaller band and start having acid reflux go get fluid removed immediately or you can have a slip...trust me you don't want that!
Cheers to weight loss and hoping everyone has a great success...including me
Michelle