I was banded 12-11-07. I lost 8 pounds by 2 weeks. I went back at 4 weeks and had lost 4 more for a total of 12, I've been averaging about 12 pounds a month. Everyone is different, the more you have to loose the faster you loose. I've had to be careful to stick to calories I can count, like liquid, yogurt, Jello, pudding, Soups,etc. I was off for 4 weeks. I was really tired that first couple of days back. I'm a nurse in a busy unit. That was the most work I had done since surgery.
I can eat out if I'm careful what I choose. Cream soups, verry runny potatoes or foods. I like Panera Bread, I get soup and eat the meat out of a sandwich, but very slowly. I had a fill at 4 weeks, (1cc), and felt like post surgery. It's better now. I have found Protein bars in chocolat and yogurt nut that help with the candy bar craving. I don't want those sugary Desserts any more. I do occasionally eat a small piece of mint, chocolate, or cookie.
The best part is trying on clothes that use to be tight and hang on you! I can also go into regular XL clothes in some stores. What a Rush!!
Good luck to you. I definately know this is what I needed to do. I don't relapse to the old size after a month of dieting, I see permanent progress.