G'Day Kitty,
I'm an Aussie (best country in the world - but I'm biased:)), and I've had my band in for 7 years. The gastroenterologist who put in my band now is the head of the New York University Obesity Clinic (can't quite think of his title) and his name is George Fielding.
Ignore the person who said that you may not be ready for banding just because you've got concerns about living a normal life. I was terrified when I got mine done because the procedure was brand new and VERY costly.
That said, I'm fit, healthy, have been pregnant and given birth all with the band in place and eat whatever I wish. I losen the band at Christmas (I know you guys have more celebrations than us...thanksgiving being one of them) and then get it tightened again in the new year.
This is not a cop out - I'm just living my life. I've managed to keep my banding a secret from all those I don't feel need to know and am down to 60kg (we don't do pounds here - I think it's about 100? pounds). I was 100 kg and chose to take the weight off slowly - two years.
Funnily enough, I just had my band tightened today, so I'm glad that I can let you know that...
1. You'll be FINE.
2. Recovery hurts like ... for two weeks but is soooo worth it.
3. You can eat whatever you like - just less of it.
4. This is a new day.
Best of luck to you Kitty - keep us posted, we're all with you.
Cheers
Cath :whoo: