Hi there. After my operation there was obvious pain and discomfort but not so much that I couldn't move around. Any operation is going to cause pain so I expected it, took the painkillers and tried to sleep. If your travelling by car make sure your not actually driving (know it sounds daft but some people attempt it) and a wee tip would be to take a small cushion or a soft pillow to put across your tummy under your seat belt. It would mean that you have extra support for when you hit the bumpy roads!! As for the weight loss, to be honest I am really disapointed with my weight loss to date. I have lost 20lbs since May BUT a stone of that was within 7 days of having the band fitted due to the fact I was on a purely liquid diet. My weight has yo-yo'ed up and down by a few pounds for a few weeks and I'm getting really fed up. I have had weight problems all my life and researched the gastric band for a year before I actually had the op so I knew it wasn't a miracle cure. A gastric band doesn't give you instant weight loss and a size 8 figure. It's a tool to help you lose weight but you have to be really committed to it. I stick to a healthy diet but due to being disabled I have limited mobility and can't hit the gym or anything. I had my first fill last month and had 3ml's put in. My 2nd fill is due on 16th July and I'm going to have a word with the Doctor and ask why Im still not feeling restriction. I was hoping to have lost quite a bit before my holiday in october so as I would be able to do more with my children. Anyway, Ive said way more than I planned to lol but good luck with your banding and I'm sure your username will change from wannabeslinky to iamslinky before you know it :thumbup: Take care x