morrisong

Update: 194 pounds, lapband is finally working (#4th fill)
 
Weight Loss: Pre surgery weighted 232 in May 2009.  Started pre-op diet and lost 18 pounds prior to surgeryPost Surgery: July 2009 still no restriction or feeling full, lost 15 pounds by my own effort of diet and exercise weighing 1991st fill Sept 2009 , still no restriction feeling,  can eat anything and as much as I want, weight creeping up 5 pounds to 204, hopefully next fill will find the sweet spot other banders have achieved.2nd filll November 2009 : Still no restriction, weight creeping up still, can eat anything and as much as I want. OCC clinic reassured no problems with my having stretched my pouch no leaks or slippage problems. July 2010, one year and still no restriction. Have noticed my pouch will not accept foods easily in the morning unless soft. But later I can eat anything and a ton of food if I allow myself. Weight is now back up to 212. Recommendations to other bandsters about Fills: First fill was done at Lapband USA fill center, not impressed. Doctors office was shabby and definitely not her focus, the "educator" was a front office assistant who couldn't answer my questions and just said she didn't know and to read the book they give you. Plus not having a scope to view your fill or see problems is a definite negative if you are having any issues with banding. If you use this organization, find a doctor with a fleuroscope (spelling?). My 2nd fill was back at the OCC and I always feel so safe and taken care of when I am there-they are so professional.Why did I fail? Not sure yet, I have an appointment to go see the OCC next month. I admit that since March 2010, I started to drink and eat meals together and even drank carbonated beverages, gin and diet tonics instead of wine, thought this would be less calories-so I might end up finding I have stretched my pouch. But prior to that, I never had restriction and that sense of fullness. So for me my banding weight loss tool has not done what it was meant to do-make me fell full after eating a small amount. What I am doing now: on a liquid protein diet (a longer version of the 5 day diet everyone talks about) to lose weight, shrink my pouch a little, and get back in control, then will add back protein & veggies again. Still want an occasional alcoholic beverage ( I know I sound like an alcoholic, but just trying to keep it real, love an evening cocktail), so am trying to think of something low cal and tasty. Keep exercising and see my doctor next month for fill #3 or whatever happens.         Wish me luck and I appreciate any comments, advice, or cocktail recipes ;}