To Fill or not to fill???

Sultana · February 1, 2004

Hi All,

I have read all of your fill experiences, and while some of the news is positive and seemingly easy, I am still scared because there sure are some horror stories. I have an appt. with my doctor on 2/18 at which time I will be almost two months post op. I want to get a fill because I still feel like I can eat too much. I do certainly eat less than I did, but I get hungry again in a few hours. I really think I need a fill, but the thought scares me. How much saline is put in the band after the operation? I have not had any problems eating anything, but I do avoid rice, bread, steak, potatoes, Desserts, and carbonated beverages. I lost about 20 pounds the first few weeks, but I have not lost weight since then. I keep thinking that if I don't use this band how it was intended to be used, then I will not lose weight, but I do not want to be sick and PBing all the time either. I would appreciate your help and suggestions...as always.

Alexandra · February 1, 2004

Hi Sultana,

Usually the band is not filled at all at surgery. So the band that's in you now is empty and is not creating any restriction to speak of. What little restriction you have felt so far is probably a result of your stomach beling swollen after surgery. As your stomach heals the restriction fades.

Now it's time to inflate the band a little to create restriction again. My experience with the new restriction was a lot like it was right after surgery, minus any pain.

There is no "sick" involved, even when things get stuck. PBing is not at all like vomiting, though it can be painful if the stuck episode is prolonged. All that's needed to avoid this completely, though, is care. When I'm paying attention things NEVER get stuck. It's only when I'm eating too quickly and not chewing enough that anything ever gets stuck.

You're right about not being able to lose weight if the band is not adjusted--some people can but obviously it's designed to be inflated and that's the way it's supposed to be used. I need more than a mental barrier to overeating, so I had my band adjusted and will be going for my second adjustment on February 19.

Don't worry! :confused:

Sultana · February 1, 2004

Alexandra,

You do have a way with words, and as always, you made me feel better. I am going to try a fill. Good luck with your second fill; maybe it will be the "sweet" one, eh? Let's keep in touch.

Holly · February 2, 2004

Sultana,

Your post really hit home for me! I have been feeling the same way. Thanks for letting me know that I'm not alone. My next follow up isn't until 3/22/04, which seems so far away.

Goog luck

Holly:Bunny

Sultana · February 20, 2004

Hi Holly,

I did have my first fill--.6, and it was very quick and painless. I heard the pop into the port, but didn't feel it. I do not feel much restriction, but it is early yet and I have been doing liquids and mushy foods, so we'll see. I suspect that I will need another in a month or so. I have decided that this banding process will take a while until the proper restriction is reached--enough to lose weight consistently, but not too tight so as to interfere with nutrition. I think I will just have to be patient; it is NOT one of my virtues! Good luck, and keep us posted.