For everyone worrying about the surgery post op.... This time passes quickly and you are back to normal quicker than you realize. The first week to 10 days is the worst. My surgery was 3 months ago and the only lasting effect is gas. No one told me that after effect... I used to room with someone for business when we traveled and now I insist on my own room. Morning is the worst. I LOVE my band and would most definately go through the discomfort post surgery all over again. I still have a lot to lose but am down 47 pounds so far. I haven't had soda since January and do not miss it (I was a Coca-Cola addict :devil:. We drink lots and lots of sugar free lemonade (from Walmart) and Splenda is my few best friend. I can eat any food, including steak and bread, which others said are a problem. The difference is I just don't eat much of it because I am FULL. You will learn that over-eating is uncomfortable and so you don't do it. You will know your band is right when you are full from one meal to another and don't crave in between. I was surprised that I had basically no restriction after swelling was gone from surgery until my first fill. I learned that is on purpose so don't judge your 2nd week hunger feelings on how it will be long term.