I have had my band for 3 weeks now, and I am very hungry. I may have a little restriction, but not much. I will get my first fill on the 27th. Does anyone have any words of wisdom for me?

Are you still on liquids, or are you on mushies?

I have just started on things like tuna, and veggie soups. I tried baked fish, but it didn't work out very well. Also, can you feel your port if you push on the spot where it is supposed to be with your finger?

Hi teach. Yikes! you are at the hardest part of our pre-fill phase... weeks 4-6. This is when it gets really tough to stick to the recommened food list. But stay strong! Sometimes doc's prescribe diet pills to help the patient "get through" this part.
Just try maintaining your current weightloss untill you get that fill! Remember: high protien foods help the hunger.

And yes, I can feel my port in the area where the biggest scar is.

By the way... Welcome to LBT!!! :D

What about fills, are they painful? Is it usually an easy process? Is there certain things to od and not to do before and after a fill?

Everyone's experience in getting a fill is different. For me, Ive had 2 and didnt feel a thing.
As for as post fill instructions, each surgeon is a little different. Most require us to have liquids for at least 24 hours, then 24 hours of mushy, back to regular eating on day 3... something like this.

can anyone tell me how much this banding procedure costs if you do not have insurance. I am new to this and have not seen any quotes of prices for the surgery.
Thanks a bunch

Hey there again, I replied on the other thread...go see it there! :)

Hey teach, I get my first fill in a few weeks, so I don't have any words of wisdom except what the others have said. Do lots of reading here and the picture will become clear. Your doc should be filling you in on your pre- and post-fill menu. Be sure to call. Some docs want you to not eat for several hours before a fill. But always do liquids for a day, then mushies, then slowly back to regular food.

Some docs numb the area with a spray or injection of some sort. Some docs are very skilled and hit the port right on, no probs. If your port is wacky for some reason, it may be a bit more difficult. Most times, though, it's quick and painless and you come home with restriction!

Depends on where you get it done. I had mine done in Mexicali, MX for 7900.00. This was 5/27/2008 & I had a great experience. They have you fly into San Diego & they pick you up at the airport & drive you back. So easy.

I had three friends do it there & I was really hesitant to do it in Mexico, but my husband is a Professor & researcher & we really made sure it was safe.

You'll get less hungry after the first fill. After the 2nd fill, you will lose a whole lot of weight. Actually this will happen after the 1st fill. Relax.