kayzoog

I was scared of what my doctor would say too. I had gained 10 lbs since my last fill! But, he was actually nice and gave me a little tough love advice. All the things I needed to hear. I am super happy I went back in. That's the benefit of Lap-Band. You get a chance to start over, reset and adjust whenever the routine of life takes you in a different direction.

I was banded over a year ago and I have always used DoTerra oils. Lemon in my Water, Peppermint in my coffee. I have never had a problem.

That's so great to hear! Congratulations!

Are you drinking Protein shakes or just liquids? Protein Shakes should curb your hunger. Premier Protein from costco is a great choice (my fave)! Also, buy some powdered whey protein and mix it with low cal Soup (like a cauliflower bisque). If you are keeping the protein up, but still feel hungry- then that is probably mental hunger. When you feel mental hunger, do something like cleaning, blogging, or playing a game. My house was so freaking clean during my liquid diet 5 week phase (3 weeks prior and 2 weeks post op). Learning how to manage mental hunger will be a big key to success with Lap-Band. Good luck!

I took a week of vacation time off for the surgery. I had surgery on a Monday and thought I would be ready to go back the following Monday. I actually needed a couple more days off and didn't go back to work till the following Wednesday. I told everyone at work what I was doing. They were more than accommodating and happy for me. They even sent me flowers to my home as I was recovering. I guess telling people all depends on where you work. I have never heard one negative thing - in fact it has been all positive encouragement. I would definitely take off a little more than you think you will need. That way you don't feel stressed about getting back to work.

Congrats on your surgery date! It will go by so fast! I hardly remember mine from March 2014. I just feel normal but skinnier! Good luck to you!

My surgeon gave me recipes that involved mixing sugar free jello powder with vanilla shakes and ice for a variety of flavor combos.

I was scared of doing more damage than I already had being over weight. In other words, I was worried surgery would go wrong and I'd be in even worse shape. But, then I had to remember that if a doctor told me to have surgery for another type of disease, I would do it no questions asked. Obesity is very much a disease. I was very happy with my decision and don't regret it for a second.

I was banded over 7 months ago and the result is no carbonation for me. Ever. I tried it just recently and it does not sit well at all. My surgeon told me no carbonation, but of course I had to try it.

I'm dealing with the same issues. First 3 months post-surgery was amazing - 10-12lbs per month. Another 3 months have passed and it's been 6 lbs total. Going in for a fill tomorrow. I hope that kicks it into gear. I am happy I am still losing (and not gaining) - but the slow pace is difficult!

I didn't need much help. I slept in a recliner, slept, got on the computer, and watched bad daytime TV for a week. But I didn't have little kids to take care of. If your hubby can handle the kids, or maybe the nanny can come earlier? You will most likely need some help with little ones, but not much for yourself. You are supposed to walk, but you are not supposed to lift anything. So keep that in mind.

I did a 5 week liquid diet. 2 weeks prior, and 3 weeks after surgery. The first week is hardest. But you can do it! Protein shakes, broth, sugar free jello, sugar free popsicles. It's not the end of the world. And SOOOOOO worth it!

I agree with everyone else. It hasn't wasted my time. Find a surgeon that is an advocate for you. Also, with your history of hair loss and gum disease, have a surgeon review the issues of nutrient consumption post-gastric bypass. You avoid those issues with the band.

Congrats on making the decision. There is a lot of support here on the forum, even if you don't have it at home. I am almost 6 months post-surgery and don't regret it for a second! I still have not had a carbonated beverage. I think I could physically drink one, but it will make me feel bloated. I gave up lattes because they made me feel like that. So, I have no desire to try it. As you prepare for surgery, the important thing is to stay on the pre-op diet that your surgeon tells you. That can be difficult if you have people around you who are not supportive. You have to be strong for yourself. You are your own number one advocate. I was on a 5-week liquid diet (2 weeks pre and 3 weeks post op). It would have been super uber hard without the support of my boyfriend, family and friends. Good luck! - Kristi

Hi! I had my surgery back in March. I read on the forums all the things to bring. You can read about my prep items in my blog: http://banderland.weebly.com/my-lap-band-journey/surgery-is-tomorrow There is a bit of a wait before surgery, so I biggest suggestion is to bring something to occupy your time. I mostly played Candy Crush on my phone. Congratulations and good luck! PS- I'm 152 days post op and would do it all over again in a heartbeat!

Love my band, too! Congrats on your success and others just starting the journey.

I noticed that I am also losing clothing size faster than pounds. Crazy!

I was on liquids for 3 weeks post surgery so you may just want to be very liquidy with the foods. I started with soft scrambled eggs. I think instant potatoes expand so might not be the best choice. Hope you do better in a few days.

I remember the worst part of post surgery was trying not to laugh! I couldn't watch any comedies and had to tell my boyfriend to stop being funny. Oh that really was painful!

A new bike seems to be a common reward on Bariatric Pal for staying on track and making the band work. I told myself that when I was 1/2 way to goal (50lbs), I would splurge on a new bike just for me. In the past, I have bought crappy old bikes with squeaky seats and loud breaks. Oh sure, I have spent good money to get my kid the bike he wants year over year, but for myself, not so much. Well this time I splurged on myself! I bought an Electra 7-Speed Cruiser. The base model comes without fenders, so I had them add white fenders to give it a retro feel. Of course I also bought a basket and the required bell to ring "Hello!". Yesterday my friends and I went on an adventure on the train. We took the bikes on the train about an hour south from my house in So Cal and then rode around San Juan Capistrano. My bike was so luxurious! It made no squeaks, and rides smooth! Definitely a great moment to appreciate my weight loss and how far I have come. Here are the pics: What goal rewards have you given yourself?