There's A Lap Band In There?

[jennypenny 6]

I was banded 13 days ago. I am at the point now where the swelling has gone down, the gas has subsided, and other than the big hard lump under my abdomen skin, I feel all but normal. You would think this would be good news, but in fact I feel a bit scared...why? Because I had thought I would feel more restricted. I know the fill will do that, but I'm getting hungrier (3 more days of full liquids) and thinking about food more, not feeling as satisfied. I don't want to wait 4 more weeks for a fill! Can I ask for one sooner? I'm starting to feel like I'm just on yet another diet.

[brbm6 6]

Most doctors won't do a fill until 6 weeks post-op. You are in the stage that is lovingly called "Bandster Hell". It may take several fills to feel satisfied after a small meal. Now is the time to use your will power. I recommend tracking every bite that enters your mouth. I use myfitnesspal.com but there are other free sites as well. Tracking calories is what has helped be be accountable. When I think I am hungry I drink about 16 oz. of Water and wait 15-20 minutes to decide if it is real or head hunger. Good luck! We have all been in this stage. Hang in there. It gets easier.

[jennypenny 6]

Thank you! It's comforting to know that it isn't just me! I haven't started 'eating' yet, but have been counting my calories even through full liquid, so I'm ahead of the game! I really appreciate your input.

Most doctors won't do a fill until 6 weeks post-op. You are in the stage that is lovingly called "Bandster Hell". It may take several fills to feel satisfied after a small meal. Now is the time to use your will power. I recommend tracking every bite that enters your mouth. I use myfitnesspal.com but there are other free sites as well. Tracking calories is what has helped be be accountable. When I think I am hungry I drink about 16 oz. of Water and wait 15-20 minutes to decide if it is real or head hunger. Good luck! We have all been in this stage. Hang in there. It gets easier.

[Debora Anne 3]

Onced you get on mushies and solid food your hungry will decrease Hang in there

[blondielou 2]

Hi! I'm not banded so can't offer advice but just wanted to offer some support, you only have 3 more days!!! You've done such a good job so far!! Look at how far you've come! Out of the whole process the full liquid diet & pain are the worst things I'm scared of but I know I'll be able to do it because I get to read about people like you that are doing it, have done it & will make it! Congrats on your progress so far!

[Rachel412 116]

You're in the worst part! Once you hit mushy foods you should feel more satisfied... but it might take a while to get to a good fill level. Keep following your doctor's rules and think about how proud of yourself you'll be once you get through all of this

[highland 168]

I was banded 12 days ago and I know what you mean. I've been playing mind games with myself! lol I sit down and slurp my Soup really really slowly and I convince myself that I truly am filling up. The shakes actually do a better job of keeping the hunger pains away for longer. I did just start soft proteins; cottage cheese and canned chicken and tuna so it's a little better. As someone before said, drink lots of Water. I'm able to gulp about 8 ozs in one gulp and it does fill me up for a bit. Otherwise I just try to keep busy, knowing from others on the forum that it will get better. Hang in there!!!!!