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Hello Slimjem and best of luck on the 5th. Please make sure to let us know when you get home and how you are doing. This is exciting to share. I am now on day 10 post op and feel great for the most part. Took off the compression socks and bandages. It creeps me out a bit to see where they made the incisions but it all looks well healed.....LOL! Now for a shower tonight to help loosen up the steri strips...no more cling film cover up. Awww the joys in baby steps.

Does anyone know if you can stretch your pouch if you've never had a fill? I have only lost 13 pounds since my bandin 10/1/07 and i can know eat almost a "normal" sized portion. Do you actually have a pouch if the band has no saline or flouro in it? HELP! I am worried.

I love too eat Indian/Pakistani foods as well. I have steered clear of the very hot Vindaloo's but using that 0-10 scale I think I've climbed to a 7 as well. I do sip small amounts of water while eating. It's not reccommended but for many of us it is still do-able. The problem is that it can "flush" the food through the pouch faster making you hungry sooner or if you wait until you have already started eating to take the first sip it can set on top of the food already in the pouch and feel very uncomfortable as someone else already mentioned. When it gets a bit hot I can also eat very small amounts of rice and Naan if I chew it EXTREMELY well, I chew and chew until by the time I swallow it is the consistency of a very thin paste. A possibly better alternative to any of the above is actually to try using some a little extra Raita with the dish. I find it very helpful on removing the heat from my mouth and its definitely better for the band that the water, rice or Naan breads.

I had a complete unfill. I had 5 cc's in my 10 cc band. And now I'm dry as can be. Teri

One of my best friends, who actually went with me to the hospital and was my "responsible person" and biggest supporter just said something the other day that really hurt, down to the core. There are only 6 people that know I had WLS, so it's a big secret. I had surgery 6/22 (started with a low BMI so I thought I would have a slow weight loss journey), and I've lost 34.2 in 6 weeks. I think that's pretty darned good! Also, I decided to cut my hair and have a sassy "do", to start this new chapter in my life. We went to dinner......I was rockin' a great dress (and looked fabulously thin). she didn't mention the haircut until 10 minutes into the dinner or the weight loss.....then she said "I'm glad your weight loss is going slowly. If the weight was coming off quickly and in addition to the short haircut, people would think you have cancer or something". WHAT??????????? I quickly told her that NEVER in my entire life, even in my 20s, was I able to lose 34 pounds this fast. I'm halfway to my goal, but obviously it's not noticeable.

hi just had mine done with wga on the 19 feb 08 everything went well it cost £4950 and that includes 1 free fill and 2 appointments with the doctor, they were great so far i have no complaints.

That's just what I wanted to hear. I thought that way... that I'd feel just like that. I love how you said "second chance at life". I want that, that feeling right their. I HATE feelings how I do about myself. I NEVER let my husband see me naked (sorry if that TMI). I have so much shame and I rarely bother to put on makeup or do my hair... what's the point. I know that's horrible to say. But it is how I feel. I never go out looking unclean or anything... but.... what's the point in putting hours into my appearance.... no one notices me. I used to be bulimic. I've been thin in my life. My teen years, I was hot. But since the birth of my daughter I've been nothing but heavy. Now I've had my son.... I'm just gone. I'm still inside this massive amount of flesh and fat... but no one sees me, not really. Guys don't notice me when I walk by, not if I spend 10 minutes or 10 hours on my looks. Not that I want guys... I love my spouse. It just would be nice not to feel like I don't exist sometimes. UGHH! I just can't wait for this surgury. I'll do whatever it takes to get it and I will be so good. I just need that little bit of help. To protect me from myself, and falling back into depending on food for everything. Pray for me! :biggrin: Thank you for being so inspiring.

Hello Blogger!! My name is Renada and I am 27 years old I have been obest for about 10 years know. I have read a lot about the lap band surgery and find it a little better that the gastric surgery. i am very scared and I know this is not a drug or a mirical. this surgery will help regulate the amount of intake of foo. And I understand that, I am just tired of the yo-yo diets. I have speat countless amount of money on Slim and Six, Yoga booty ballet, Eat more and lose less, and the bun all, walking and many many more. I have a docotor's appointment to get more information about this. And I wanted to know if I can get some more feed back on what to expect. Renada:confused:

Ok fellow banders, it has been a while since I've been on but I have a concern. Please let me know if this has happened to anybody else out there. I was banded 10/15 starting weight was 284 I have had 3 fills the first two fills I really felt no restriction and my weight was stuck at 255lbs. On 4/9/09 I had the fill under the fluroscopy and it took my doctor the longest time to find my port(this has never happened with his office visit). But this time i had the best restriction I have ever felt since surgery. I was a little discouraged because i went to two visits and didn't lose neither did I gain but I thought it was because I incorporated weights into my workout regiment. Now I did lose clothes sizes (inches). So now since 4/9/09 I have lost 8lbs now I am 247 and I feel good...and I have so much restriction I am actually satisfied with my smaller portions. Do you guys think it is possible that my doctor MISSED PUTTING THE SALINE IN THE PORT WHEN I WAS AT MY TWO OTHER DOCTOR VISITS?:wink:

Ode to You I admit it; I was desperate - no wait!: I was in need Then you came into my life through a kind and thoughtful deed::sneaky: I was told that maybe I should ignore my 'usual' choice and was suggested ... you my love; the reason for my voice:wub: You looked great & gave me confidence; a rare yet vital thing :crying: I felt so new, so young, so alive; you DID make my heart sing! Now as I look at you - for the final time? I look at you again.. I can't believe how far we've come Could this really be the end? In my minds eye I recollect, fold & smooth each self igniting thought; How maybe I, yes ME maybe could do better? A new life right then was sought!:w00t: You weren't perfect, nor was I - I recall - but I knew that we'd be fine we went everywhere together and were happy.. for a time:tt2: I knew what I now wanted and strode out; I would achieve it As time went by you needed more support and I admit I struggled to relieve it:sad: So now it's time to move on dear friend -tho you still excite my eye.. Fair well pair of natty slouch Evans jeans -size 22- Goodbye my love GOODBYE!:drool: RIP - I hope: FOREVER! Angelfizz Oct'10 xxx

I was also banded by Dr , Jay ! He is awesome and I would highly reccomend that you go to one of his seminars. They are very informational and informative. I was banded January 19, 2006 and I have lost 186 lbs to date.. It is by far the best decision that I have ever made. Dr. Jay takes the time to listen to your concerns and he makes sure that you are given the time you deserve when meeting with him before your surgery. I recently had to have my band unfilled and he came to the ER personally and saw me .. that says something about his bed side manner I think .. he takes good care of his patients.. I hope my input has helped .. Good Luck ! Julie

I'm in Caifornia, Its not even 10:00pm my time.. and I'm so ready for Vegas! So proud of you Hey... got TO LOVE HER. Your Beautiful

Jane - we can work something out... and it is understandable... we all have our issues... shoot, i didn't go to the bathroom for 10 days because I was sharing a condo with some friends, I even had my own bathroom. so see... LOL

I have been very busy and haven't logged on in the last 10 days. I lost 5 lbs this past week for a total of 25. My exercise is still only walking as my doctor wants me to wait until six weeks before working out. I am really looking forward to my first fill and being able to work out. Godd luck and keep up the great work everyone.

im luckly on full liquids for a week, mushies for 2nd week, 3rd week real food added in slowly. ive been getting in 30-40 grams Protein in. felt better yesterday after had a cream of chicken soup with milk added in. seemed like more substance/nutrition that the shakes or pudding. my nutrionist person just sent me a think of that unjury chicken broth flavor to try. I am hoping to get down to a 10-12 size in the end, but never know i cant ever remember being under 200 pounds. my first goa is to get back down to the 235 i got to a few years ago, then to get under 200. well am going to go laydown and hopefully fall back to sleep. i work graveyard hours, but have switched to days while off work, but getting up at 4am every morning is draining. the only up side is it lets me get in the meds i have to take on empty stomach and seperated by hour or 2.

I felt the same way, I'd like to lose it normally but I know I can't. I've gained and lost the same 50 pounds probably 10 times since I was a kid. I can't lose 150 pounds on my own. I don't have enough will power to do that or enough hours in the day to do that much exercise, I need some assistance. I feel like the band is built in will power. I go out to eat, and I'm a little sad I can't eat what I always want, but since I physically can't eat it, I won't!! Then I'm ok, and I'm full on what it is I can eat. Before I would of ate it anyway and justified it in my mind. If my family wants to eat their 2,000 calorie meal they can go ahead, but I feel full and happy and healthy with my small portion of food I can eat. I'm starting to realize I don't need most of the food I was eating. I was scared too, I tried to convince myself that I shouldn't do it. But I did it. I'm feeling good now, I don't have a fill yet, but I think i can handle it. I'm sure I'll feel a million times better when I lose a lot of weight, and can do normal things like sit comfortably in a movie theatre or an airplane, and do things and not be tired all the time, and shop at a normal clothing store.

Hi there and congrats!!! I am being banded on the 19 of Jan. There are many emotions. I am feeling guilty to do something for myself and pay for my part of it. I feel like it is taking away from my kids.... In reality I know it is not taking away at all. It is keeping me around longer. As for you feeling embarrased etc. I am sorry you feel that way and I get it. First as many on here have said they are not telling anyone but those close to them. I myself don't mind telling people. When I got information from my doctor on this procedure I was told that this procedure especially is for people who can lose weight just have a hard time keeping it off. It is a tool. It isn't like you are going to just sit in front of the tv all day eating nachos and pizza and it is just gonna fall of. You will have to work hard. In turn it will make you feel so proud of yourseld for accomplishing this for yourself. I know these emotions come in waves. Some days we will feel strong and others we will feel weak, but you are doing such a great thing for yourself and you will do a great job!!! Hold your head high and be so proud of the step you are taking for your self esteem and your health!!! Congrats and good luck!

Things are really gearing up for my surgery on 10/21. I have my pre admission testing on Thursday and Monday is my EGD. My problem is two part..The main thing is my sitter. I have a daughter who is almost 5. During the day she goes to a sitter while I am at work. She has been with this lady since she was 6 weeks old and, honestly, my sitter is like family. That is why my daughter is supposed to stay with her while I am in the hospital having surgery, and a day or two after. Well here is my problem...My sitter has a sister who is in end stage of her battle with cancer. She is in Hospice care now and it is just a matter of time. My sitter needs to be with her family when the end comes, so she may have to go at a moments notice. Normally that would not be a huge issue, but with these major appointments coming up it really is. I do not have a large extended family. I do not have a back up sitter available and will have to scramble big time should the sister pass during the daytime. My only option is MY 94 year old grandma who has dementia, and let's face it- that is no option! I have already missed nearly two months work earlier this year due to health issues, and have been lucky they are ok'ing another week for surgery. I cannot take additional time because of no sitter! Plus, the way my PATs are scheduled Thursday it will take most of the day. ( Have to check in one hospital at 8:45 for gallbladder ultrasound, upper GI series, EKG, and blood work. Then have to go to a DIFFERENT hospital by 12:45 to attend a mandatory class until 3pm) Now the second part of my issue is my EGD next Monday. You are NOT allowed to drive yourself home as they administer propofol during the test. I have someone to give me a ride to the hospital, but my sitter's daughter was going to be my ride home. (this wasn't even a certainty) Well now, if her aunt passes away, I cannot be certain she will be available to give me the ride. I am so close to the finish line and rescheduling is NOT an option. I am just a bit panicked about what is going to happen. I do feel great empathy for my sitter and the loss she is about to experience. I wish more than anything her sister wasn't ill and she didn't have to go through all of this. ( Her mother died earlier this year. That too caused a lot of disruption and scrambling to find someone to watch my child.) My sitter was actually one of the first people to discuss the possibility of me having bariatric surgery years ago, so she is supportive. It is just the fact my support network is extremely limited and when one person is unavailable, it creates a huge domino effect. Right now my mind is reeling trying to think of alternate possibilities, and not having much success. I could sure use some positive energy and thoughts right now. I am not doubting my path at all, just worried about how it will all come together.

Ok so today I made my Husband take the scale out of the bathroom and hide it from me....I was driving myself completely crazy...I would get on the dang thing everytime I walked by it...I mean I'm not sure what I was expecting to see everytime I got on it...I mean it's not like I was gonna drop 10 pounds every 10 minutes lol but apparently that's what I was looking for...But it's gone now and I only want to see it maybe once every 2 weeks....hopefully this will lighten the stress and craziness in my head!!!

I had the Band on January 30th, 2006. I am having a big problem. Whenever I eat, no matter how much I chew my food, the first few bites seem to go down just fine, then about 2 minutes later, I feel an intense pain in my esophagus/stomach. It feels like someone is choking me, but in my stomach. I've talked to my doctor who said he's seen this only once or twice before and stated that he really isn't sure why it happens. He suggested that I take a few sips of warm Water first before each meal. The problem is, I don't always have access to warm water when I eat. I haven't been given a fill yet, and to date I've lost 41 pounds. My issue seems to be that it happens most when I eat denser foods. If I eat a salad with dressing the problem doesn't exist, but when I eat chicken, fish, breads etc, this pain comes on strong. I'm then unable to drink water or even swallow saliva. The pain is very strong and lasts for about 10 minutes. I'm unable to remedy the situation after it starts, and eventually, the food drops into my stomach and I feel fine again, but my appetite is completely gone. PLEASE HELP!!! I had an episode tonight at dinner, eating a small piece of chicken, and I was getting frantic cause I couldn't figure out how to make the pain go away.

I love this site, I am not alone I was banded on 12/19 samething 18 pds off right away and now I just keep bouncing with in a 2pd up and down. I called today and go this friday for my first fill hope it helps. I to have been exercising more then I ever have 1-2 miles a day. So sounds like we are all in the same boat ,we can do it. patience patience,never been my best friend lol

I had a surgery date 5/18/10. I was already a bit nervous! On the day of the pre-op class 5/12 I found out that my dad needs to have open heart surgery which is scheduled for 5/17 so I had to cancel. I know there is a reason why this happens but it was hard. I had been waiting for this date, i was already on the liquid diet and getting use to it. The next day I went to see my sugeron and told him I had to cancel. I was able to get a new date right away 6/1/10:thumbup: So now I can go spend time with my dad and be there for him! Now I feel ready to go and be a June bandster!! We do have to find a name for June but I am not good with coming up with a name either!

HI guys! I was banded 6/7/10 and am feeling pretty good. Granted, its only been 5 days, but honestly, its been not so bad. I did not have a fill at surgery time and will not get my first one till 4 weeks out but honestly am not hungry much at all. Feel like I get really full after just a few bites which is something I don't think I have ever in my life felt before. I think its probably just swelling from the band being placed causing some restriction but honestly, I feel great. I have lost 10 pounds, I know that's from the liquid diet and pureed foods. Having a hard time getting in very many calories and an even harder time getting in the Protein. But I'm working on it every day. Hope to hear from all of you soon. And anyone that has already had it done around the same time as me. I need a buddy!! I kinda feel all alone. I did not tell anyone except my husband about my surgery, so I've been avoiding everyone in my family like the plague all week!!! Julie

You have to not stress because the second you stress you’ll probably either stop losing or start gaining. Due to the stresses of life I put 30lbs of my 103lb weight loss back on. Take it from me, don’t stress! At the same time I’m most successful when I think of this journey as a lifestyle change and not a diet. My surgeon did not require weekly weigh ins, I only weighed in when I went for fills so I can’t relate to that. Take it day by day, you can do this but changing your lifestyle won’t happen overnight it really is a process. When I was first banded I always use to ask myself “If my body hungry or is my head hungry?” 9/10 it was my head and I passed on the food.

Last week i got weighed and measured by my trainer to see how i have been progressing and i can say i hit ONEDERLAND!!!! i have lost about 25 inches totally of my body (10 inches of that is my waist) and lost almost 10 percent of my body fat. when i started my journey in july i weighed in at 265 and last week friday i weighed in at 199. i still got a ways to go but i just wanted to share my success on here and maybe it will motivate someone else who is thinking about doing this. this is not a miracle band of any sort. i have had 2 fills and dont even have 5 cc in my band and yes i can eat like a horse sometimes and i can eat anything i want but i choose not too. i watch what i eat and i also excerise pretty much daily. i cant believe i have gotten down this much!! the other day i went to the mall and saw some jeans on sale 50% off so i decided to try them on. my friend tells me get a size 10 i was like no way i cant fit into that im still close to 200 lbs. then she said just try it i picked those up and also a 12 and a 14 (i wasnt sure what size i was but i knew my 16's were falling off my a**) and i tried on the 14's first and they were too big so i tried on the 12's and i couldnt believe they actually fit..OMG then i went to the 10s to try them on i knew they werent going to fit. well im half right and half wrong. i couldnt believe i was able to button them up. another OMG.... well i didnt exactly look like a model in them lol they were way to tight and i have to prob lose another 20lbs to be able to fit in them nicely but im almost there. i cant believe 2 more sizes i will be in the single digits again in jeans. when i weighed in at 185 i wasnt even in 12's or anything i was like 14's so i have to say i have to give probs to my personal trainer for shaping my body. i got so much to go i got atleast another 10 percent to go in body fat and maybe another 40 to 50 lbs depending how i look at the weight. if im in a 8 i think i will be happy and satisfied. just got to get rid of this baby/beer belly. lol .........