DELETE THIS ACCOUNT!

Talk to your doctor. Not all doctors forbid them on a case by case basis. I still take NSAIDS almost daily with the blessing of my surgeon to do so. His reasoning is, I've never had GERDS or ulcers before the band, and my band isn't too tight, so there's no reason to think I'd have problems with NSAIDS post banding. Again, talk to your doctor because everyone is unique.

I am no nutritionist nor a doctor, but I'd be counting calories. It's the only way you can be positive you're not eating too much or too little. I know for sure I wouldn't have lost the weight I have if I didn't track my calories. Just my opinion.

If your band is too tight, you won't lose weight because you can't eat healthy foods. When is the last time you saw your doctor? How many calories do you eat a day?

I'll definitely be keeping you in my prayers for a speedy recovery. I can only imagine the discomfort you're dealing with. Btw, I second your thoughts about getting the band unfilled for surgery. I just had surgery 2 days ago (gallbladder) and it was performed by the same surgeon who did my Lap Band. He gave me a choice before going under to have Fluid removed and I declined- bad move on my part. Like you, with all the swelling (I'm retaining a ton of fluids) I am seriously struggling to eat solids. I know it will pass and what's causing it, but in retrospect I should've got the unfill. Rest well and recover quickly!

Did your doctor say you could lift weights? He would know what's best. Personally, I wouldn't do any lifting or do anything that strained your abdominals until the seroma is gone. I wouldn't want to risk making it worse or prolonging it. But again, I'm not a doctor and that's just what I would do.

Yup, that is what happens when tissue/muscle is injured. It releases a lot of Fluid. Usually your body just reabsorbs it and they never realize it, but sometimes a build up or seroma forms. Even if you don't drain it will eventually be reabsorbed, but draining decreases discomfort and risk of infection. Just an FYI, that is why after some surgeries (like tummy tucks) doctors will put in temporary drains so that fluid has a place to exit the body. You're fine

If he didn't seem concerned and it's going away, I wouldn't worry about it either. You probably just bumped it just right and had a small amount of swelling/internal bruising.

Everyone's journey is very different so there is no answer for your post. As Chez said, browse the forums to see different people's stories.

You won't lose every day or even every week. It's very normal for weight loss to slow down. The average weight loss is 1-2 pounds a week so you have to be realistic in your expectations.

Did he say the cause of the Fluid build up? If a suture holding it to the abdominal wall tore loose, it would make sense because when muscle is injured there is fluid released. Same if the muscle was injured.

Talk to your surgeon about it. It's not normal and shouldn't be overlooked.

The first 4-6 weeks after surgery are for healing, not losing. Weight loss generally comes once you're back on a regular diet and can eat regular foods. So, don't be discouraged if you don't lose right away.

All doctors have their own rules, just follow your surgeon's guidelines and you'll be fine.

I sip Water pretty much constantly all day long to get it all in. Something I learned in recent days- nothing replaces water. Even if it has water in it (coffee, tea, juice, etc) it doesn't replace plain old water. A little crystal light or Mio is the only flavored drink that is close to plain water. Up until this past week, I drank a lot of crystal light and green tea thinking it was the same as water. Apparently it's not. I'm currently dealing with some kidney issues and the doc told me very specifically that "nothing can replace pure water" and 64oz of water needs to be actual water. Just sharing my new found info

I believe any weight loss is a success. Be proud you lost 3 pounds. Just keep doing what you're supposed to do and the weight will come off. Best wishes.

Just concentrate on sipping Water and other clear fluids so you don't get dehydrated. If you can't do that, call your doctor. Best wishes and heal well.

I also space out my pills. I find if I take them one immediately after another I also get a heavy feeling. Just a minute or two between them seems to do the trick. And btw, not all surgeons say no pills. I was just sent home from the hospital with pain killers in pill form- by my bariatric surgeon.

Once I can eat normally again I'm totally trying this! Thanks for sharing!

oh my gosh!! Can you switch to a different surgeon in your area? I'm so sorry!

Are you aware of the fact they are being sued for wrongful death and pursued for criminal charges? I wouldn't let those people cut my birthday cake let alone my body. http://www.scribd.com/doc/129662739/Betty-Brown-Complaint http://www.scpr.org/news/2013/03/11/36265/california-medical-board-failing-to-fully-implemen/ http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/800-getthin-fire-lap-band-surgery-deaths/story?id=16324523#.UVNl6BzqmHM http://laist.com/2011/09/24/oc_woman_dies_after_lap-band_surgery.php

Congrats on your weight loss! You say you "can and do eat everything". Keep in mind the band isn't supposed to physically stop you from eating nor is it supposed to force you to decrease your portions. It will always be your job to stick to band sized portions and make smart food choices. Have a look at this link, I think it will help: http://drsimpson.net/fills/Lap-band-eating/lap-band-not-restriction/lap-band-and-restriction.html Best wishes

When was your surgery and have you had any fills?

That's an excellent idea and yes! Your blender will be your best friend during this phase lol. You could blend in a little ricotta or cottage cheese, too. It will give it more Protein and flavor. Best wishes!