dkenis

Hey Dancing Fool, your reply sounds like something I would have written. Had surgery on a Wednesday morning, back to work on Monday. I have the same kinds of meals as you as well. I have 8, count them 8 incision scars. Kind of misleading though because I have previous orthoscopic kidney surgery. I show them off to my grandkids and say I was in a knife fight. Seriously, scars are not a big deal. - I can only feel the port but I notice the band if I concentrate on it when swallowing. It's not unpleasant though. - I experienced mild acid reflux right after the surgery but it only lasted a few days. - The band has been a positive reminder for me. I know it's there so I eat better. I used to scarf down food when I was in a hurry. The band prevents me from doing that now. - Toughest aspect? For me, it's following the rules. Eat slow, chew longer, drink a lot of Water. I have to think about these things and make them a habit. Many times, I forget I have the band and eat too fast. - Advice? Do your research. It's only effective if you make an effort. You can cheat with the band if you want to so make sure you are committed to the game. Good luck!

I am 2 weeks post-op today (May 27, 2015) and a couple of things have happened. 1. Someone (other than family) noticed my weight loss today! 26 lbs Since May 1st when I started the pre-op diet. 2. My blood glucose levels are awesome. I have stopped taking short acting insulin and reduced my long acting insulin by 40% I am so encouraged by these results that it has helped me stay focused and really want to eat healthier and exercise more. I have not cheated yet and that is something that I thought I would have a real problem with. Only problems I had were left shoulder pain (it's now gone away) and slow to heal scars. This is turning out to be the best decision I've ever made for myself.

I just had my surgery May 13, 2015 (This is my first post/reply) Liver shrink was a challenge but I stuck to it. Weight just flew off those 2 weeks so It was encouraging and it has helped me stay focused post op. Any surgery is scary but to be honest, it wasn't that bad. I'm 8 days post op now and so far so good. I will be thinking of you on June 8th and good luck!