Hi...I was banded in Monterey, MX by Dr. Sanchez. I could not be banded in the US at that time because I was not considered "morbidly obese". I did the yo yo with my weight most of my adult life and was never able to maintain a constant healthy weight. At that time the lap band was very new and a lot of people were going to MX for placement.
I have not had a fill in over 10 years and still have restriction. I still have to eat slow, chew well and am not able to eat certain foods unless I have had a drink or two (which loosens the band...relaxes me). I still have a difficult time eating out .... I eat much better at home. I can't eat in the mornings and have carnation instant usually. I try to get my protein in with cottage cheese, yogurt, organic chicken and eggs (eggs don't always do well). I juice occasionally to get my veggies and fruits.
I am considering removing my band this next year because I would like to be able to eat salads and fruit naturally and I do have to work at getting my nutrients in. Unfortunately, ice cream, candy and white russians go through very well, lol. I know I would lose another ten pounds if I would cut out the sugar.
I still slime a lot and that concerns me. Im not really sure what I will do. I am not being followed by a doctor and have not been for 10 years. I do have a lot of heart burn and am sure it is because of the sliming. I am going to see a doc to get checked out this year for that.
I do not regret getting the band as it has helped me in the long run. The band is the boss as you all know.
Any questions, feel free to ask. Also, I had a tummy tuck in Monterey with Dr Cardenas about a year after my weight loss and that was the best thing I ever did for ME....