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sunshine531 · June 12, 2008

Hi, my name is Linda and have recently had the lapband surgery on May 21, 2008. I started out weighing in at 261 and my height is only 5/3". The surgery went well, with no complications. I did have to spend the night just because of insurance coverage. The first two weeks went really well, but now this past week, I'm struggling. I had lost down to 242lbs by the 1st of June, but am now gaining. This morning I am up to 246. Is this normal? I am watching what I eat, but I do feel that the quantity is more than I had expected I would be able to hold. I can handle a Lean Cuisine or Healty Choice entree with no problem. Is this normal? I hope someone out there can give me some insite, because right now I am really discouraged. Thanks for listening. Oh yes, my next appt with surgeon is not until July 2.

sunshine531 · June 12, 2008

I forgot to say that I was banded by Dr Clifford Black in Anniston, AL.

A great physician.

June 12, 2008

Sunshine531. What you are going through is completely normal. The first six weeks after surgery is for healing, not weight loss. So if you lose anything during that time period it is a bonus! My weight fluctuated the same five pounds for three weeks - up and down. Especially when I was on soft and mushy foods.

About five weeks out I started exercising and it made a big difference for me. Don't get discouraged. Right now just try to maintain until your fill. If you gain a little it is okay. Your body is adjusting and the swelling from surgery has gone down and you are able to eat more than you could at 2-3 weeks post op.

You will probably be this way until your first fill. You are in what we call bandster-hell right now. I know how you feel - I am there now too. Not much restriction, which allows you to eat more. Hang in there! (hugs).

Brandy~ · June 12, 2008

Hi Sunshine and welcome :teeth_smile:

Yes, what you're experiencing is normal. Until you begin getting your fills you're going to have a little roller coaster of a ride. After surgery you have some restriction until the swelling goes down. Once the swelling is down we call it bandster hell... You should be getting a fill within the first 6 weeks after surgery. Some people feel the restriction with 1 fill and others it takes up to 6 fills.

Be patient and read around on the forums theres alot to learn that comes wtih having a band. The more you know the more successful you will be :biggrin:

Remember the band is a tool if you use it right you cannot fail.

Ann D · June 12, 2008

Sunshine,

Just another bandster, adding to the mix that it is normal. I was banded in December and from December to April I lost 20lbs. most of that was from the pre-diet and the liquid phase immediately after surgery. then nothing lost until last month. I am up to 6ccs w/3 fills and I losts 19lbs last month. It will happen beleive me. I was very doubtful and thought I made a huge mistake. But now, I am loving it.

Hang in there and stick to what the doctor and dieticians tell you. Good Luck and welcome aboard.

AZChick289 · June 12, 2008

Hi sunshine ,

I was banded on the 19th of May and feeling the same way you are. I could eat everything if I let myself .. I keep thinking though I won't hurt this new tool I have for the world.. I think a lot of mine is head hunger and just getting used to not having food as my best friend anymore .

I used to live in Weaver not far from you .

Hope you do great after your first fill . I have my first fill the 2nd of July .. A wee bit nervous about it but also looking forward to it .. LIke graduation we get to go to the next step ...

Take care and keep posting .

crazycatlady · June 12, 2008

Sunshine,
Just another bandster, adding to the mix that it is normal. I was banded in December and from December to April I lost 20lbs. most of that was from the pre-diet and the liquid phase immediately after surgery. then nothing lost until last month. I am up to 6ccs w/3 fills and I losts 19lbs last month. It will happen beleive me. I was very doubtful and thought I made a huge mistake. But now, I am loving it.

Hang in there and stick to what the doctor and dieticians tell you. Good Luck and welcome aboard.

So glad to read your response. I thought I'd flushed 14K down the drain. I was banded May 8th, 1 fill & absolutely no restriction. I have lost 7 lbs since surgery but will be gaining if I don't get restriction soon! Thanks for the encouragement.