I told all of my friends when I was pre-op and got a lot of mixed reactions. While most of them were supportive many were concerned with the dangers of any surgical procedure. After the surgery I try to warn people, especially when dining or dating that I have been banded. However, I mention it less now because everyone sees the weight loss and wants to know how I did it and to be honest I feel like explaining the whole procedure takes away from acknowledging the hard work I've put into it.
Bottom line is that those who care about you and deserve to be in your life will be happy as long as you are happy and more importantly healthy. I try not to put too much emphasis on the cosmetic effects and focus on how much healthier I am and how good I feel. Anyone who discourages you from being healthy and feeling good doesn't matter anyway.
