New kid on the block

Hello I'm not sure if this is where I need to ask questions, but I need all the help I can get.  Looks like I am very close to a surgery date for the lap band and I was wanting to get all the advice that was available.  I know that not everyone will have the same experience, but I was hoping to find out what it was like for those who have had the surgery.  Thanks.... Amanda

It is the best thing I have ever done for myself

You came to the right place for experiences. You are right though...everyone is different so you can never predict what yours will be like. Some people have little or no issues and some (like myself) have alot of issues. I didn't have the Lap-Band and I know that it is very different than RNY so hopefully some of the Lap-Banders can answer your questions about that. I think the biggest thing that I would tell anyone getting the surgery is that it doesn't change the desire to eat and have food...it is a head game. I have literally sat in restaurants and cried because I couldn't eat. I LOVE food...that's how I got to 336 pounds. I love the taste, the feel, the comfort..everything about it. That doesn't change and you have to be prepared for that. To me that was the hardest (still is) thing. I just figured that I would still get to eat all of the foods I love just in smaller portions and I didn't really realize that there would be alot of things (for me, MOST things) that I would never be able to eat again. Is it worth it? That is up to YOU to decide...for me, it saved my life. Advice: Listen to your body, listen to your doctor, drink the DAMN protein shakes (even though they SUCK), take your vitamins and go into it with the right attitude. This surgery IS NOT the easy way out...it is hard, it is work and it still takes a crap load of discipline!! Expect the unexpected!! Good luck on your surgery and Journey....if you need anything don't be afraid to ASK!! Shree :O)