When Will I Be Full?

[loopdyloop 0]

I have had three operations for lap band, first for installation, second for hernia repair and slippage, and third for removal of old band and installation of new larger band. first band, I couldn't tolerate any restriction past 2ml and vomited and herniated with slip. second op repair, opened band, repaired the hernia, and replaced band in same position. Third op, removal of slipped band again, inserted larger 14ml capacity band higher up, two months now post op. Have 5ml and very little obstruction, have to remind myself to eat small meals, as restriction is minimal. No pain, no vomiting, no nightly regurgitation in my sleep, unlike previously, but unfortunately no restriction much either.

I am told I must eat smaller meals, I tried that seriously before lap band and lost 84 lbs, but put it all back on again. That is why I tried lap band! I attend for fills every months sometime 2 ml at a time. Has anyone else got the large band, and does it take longer and more fills to get to the restriction stage? I am beginning to wonder if I have stretched my easophageous as a result of vomiting, and hernias! I am concerned I may have to go up to the max to get the restriction I need with little room for further fills in future. Am I over anxious or has anybody experienced filling a larger band? Oh I should mention despite my dificult journey I did lose 88lb and have regained 26lb and still gaining gradually with 5 ml in band. the gain has slowed down and I am hopeful more fills will reign this in..

[Cazzy 725]

I have a 14 ml band and am 7 fill so far almost full restriction now, i did go to 8 but had to have some removed as it was just too tight

[loopdyloop 0]

I have a 14 ml band and am 7 fill so far almost full restriction now, i did go to 8 but had to have some removed as it was just too tight

Thanks for your comment, Cazzy is this a first time band?

[Cazzy 725]

yea almost a year ago on the 14th jan .. 5cc i didnt have that much restriction but when i hit 6 i really began to feel it more

Just bear in mind that we all feel the band at different fill levels and different stages of the process, what u have got is a nice big band to play with so u can try lots of fill amounts to find what works for you .. dont get disheartened, it may take a bit of time to get there but once u do the wait will have been worth it !

[loopdyloop 0]

Thanks again I feel so much better, You have done well, all the best from down under!

[honk 780]

I have 11 cc band and did not get restriction until 10.8 cc'

[54Shirley 105]

You have really been through allot ! Since you stuck it out all the way, why not get filled under Fluoroscope.

It's a big X-RAY Machine for your vital organs, and the band shows up completely ! The screen is up so the Dr,.

or N.P. can do the fill. You will be able to view the process, and it's done the same way with a needle threw the Port.

They look for your FILL LINE ! and fill you to it, or can stay just below it, if you want to try it that way, and then go back when needed to be filled.

I would think with all you had done that if you mention this to your Dr., they might agree with you.

He might not have the Machine in his Clinic, but the Hospital he works out of should have it.

It's a Out Patient Procedure.

This is what I have had done, and it works ! So it's a thought to pass your way, and maybe share with your Doc...

Good Luck, Shirley.

[hollykan 2]

I just got my first fill two days ago. I have a 10cc band and I have 4cc's in it now. I notice that I am eating less, but I get hungry often. I am getting a little discouraged because I have only lost a few pounds. I have read that it is normal to get discouraged in the first few months until the band is filled to the proper level. I also had a hernia repaired when I had my surgery. The nurse told me from now on that they will only put in 1cc until I get to 6cc's in the band and then .5cc's monthly after that (if I need it). The nurse lead me to believe that they hardly ever go over 6cc's in the band..Is this correct? After reading posts it seems people need alot of saline to feel full.

[Cazzy 725]

It really is an individual thing, some people feel restriction with no fills, others just a few some a lot, the nurse was probably right in that they rarely need to go over 6cc's in a 10cc band but it doesnt mean they wont if needed. Just concentrate on making sure u eat good Protein rich food and plenty of fibre from veg etc, u need to make sure that the food you do eat lasts u as long as possible, it really helps with the hunger in between meals. I know some people like to eat more regulalry but just have smaller meals, its all a case of finding whats right for u, waiting for fills can be frustrating but u do need patience with a band, so give it time im sure u will get where u want to be

[hollykan 2]

Thanks Cazzy!! Frustrated may be the wrong word .. I think more like depressed, thinking why did I do this ... just wanting the weight to come off quickly. But I totally understand what you are saying and I am glad that the fills are given a little at a time for safety precautions. Thanks for the advice .. I have been trying to eat better and exercise more! I am still learning. Thanks for the input.

[Cazzy 725]

Your welcome