Jeni, take it from me. I had my surgery two years ago and I lost to date 35 lbs. I have a big band and I feel restriction but listening to this old lady I was told the wrong advice and I have been stalled since 6 months after my surgery due to my cheating eating habits. Focus on one bite at a time, do not give up. This is a struggle that no one understands except you and the people on this forum. You can do it, you had the courage to do the surgery so you have the courage to develop the discipline needed to get this done. DO NOT cheat on your band or you will be sorry and fat like I still am.