need support

bigreds · 06-05-2008, 08:32 PM

this is my first time on the forum and I am interested in having the procedure, however I am very scared and nervous. Is this prcedure really worth it? Will it feel like I am starving myself? I have a consultation appointment on july 1st. Can someone provide me with honest feelings regarding the procedure.

GLB1954 · 06-05-2008, 08:43 PM

Hello,

I just had my surgery on May 29 - so I'm a newbie - I'm sure you will hear from others - if not, read some of the other posts on this site - it's pretty good. I was on clear liquids for a week and have graduated to things like yogurt, pudding and cream soup. I don't feel hungry - you get full really quick - but I want to chew something - and my doctor doesn't have me on "real" foods for at least another 2 weeks. My next food group is cottage cheese, scrambled eggs - things likethat - I think this site calls them mushies. The surgery wasn't awful - but after a week, I'm still not 100% - I took about 8 work days off and plan to go back to work next Wed. Check into it and read everything you can get your hands on - my first appointment was almost a year ago so it's been a slow process.

GL

trinity2008 · 06-05-2008, 09:27 PM

I, too, was very scared about the procedure. I was banded on April 30th and had the same exact feelings as you. Infact, everything I read on this site scared me to death! So I had to address each concern with my doctor and he eased my mind. Now, don't get me wrong, I ended up crying on my way to the O.R. because I was scared. It is definately a life changing event. But I also admit that it is well worth it.

In the beginning of the post-op days you are too busy recovering and basically eating/drinking liquids - ranging from jello, water, liquidify cream of wheat, etc. Then you move on to mushies for 3-4 weeks. So you shouldn't have the "starving feeling", but then again, everyone is different. But at this this point you are learning what you can and cannot eat. I admit I am now starting to feel hungry more often, in addition to extreme fatigue and some hair loss. I met with my doctor yesterday and he said that I needed to keep up with my protein shakes - Whey Isolate from GNC or Vitamin shoppe- but that this should eventually pass. I do have my first fill scheduled July 3rd, and I am a bit scared about that. Its like once you get comfortable then you have to start all over again. But I have dropped over 20 pounds within the month. Again, ITS ALL WORTH IT!

Right now I eat tuna and chicken from a can with lots of mayo on my 4 crackers. I also eat egg beater omelets with sharp cheddar cheese. I haven't pureed any of my food, but I do chew it up very well and I have yet to experience the Sliming or the PB's. But I am sure I will when I have my first fill.

So, don't be scared; everything will be ok! Just be sure your have confidence in your doctor. I interviewed both of my doctor before surgery (HR- Recruiting is my specialty) and am very pleased with the results.

Keep your head up and I wish you the best of luck! Feel free to contact me should you need a buddy.

Regards!

juliegeraci · 06-05-2008, 09:27 PM

LAP-BAND® is great. I've been banded years and have lost 70 lbs. I am 15 lbs from goal. You will enjoy food more. You will not be as hungry and food will satisify you more while you lose! Its the best thing I've ever done.