Just hd Lap Band Surgery 4-18-12.....question??

 Hello all....this is my first post since my surgery 3 days ago.  Each day I feel I am getting stronger and can move a little better.  I had the band put in place but do not get a fill until May 1st.  I can tell you this is the first day that I really am feeling hungry.  I am on liquids until Monday and then can start with some greek yogurt in my protein drinks.  I wanted to see if there was anyone else out there who has gone through the same. My stomach s still the same size so I can see why I am hungry.  I am hoping it starts to feel a little better.  The good news is I have lost 10 pounds in 3 days (all water) but its such a great motivator.  I would love to hear if anyone has any tips or advise to share with me.  

Hi, welcome to banded life.

I started to notice hunger again about3 days post op.

Here are some things that helped me cope.

I visualized the band around my tummy ... Like a belt. Even ough it did not have a fill, it was better than nothing. I convinced that I could survive those phase.

I scheduled my meals ..even though they were liquid.

I would hav 1/2. Protein shake I the morning ..... Then wait 30 minutes and sip water .. About 3 hours later, I had more protein shake or some chicken broth.

Basically I "ate" every 3 to 4 hours ... Training myself to expect something warm at lunch and dinner with water or protein I between.

Than, as I progressed to more solid food, I continued to eat every 3 -4 hours.

With each fill, I visualize that band/belt getting tighter and ieat small meals of protein first .... Then wait a few minutes to let my brain recognize that I have eaten.

 What your feeling is completely normal. I just remember watching tv te first couple weeks and seeing everyone eating. I would rewind the pizza and olive garden commercials. I wanted food so badly. All I wanted to do was lick a peice of pizza. I know, sounds weird. But at first you are using complete will power. You will be hungry. It gets better once your at the mushy stage, but it is still will power. I think what gave me good results at first was I was scared to mess my band up. I just did this big surgery and I didn't want to compromise my band or my results. Once you get your band filled to a good level(it will probably take several fills) you will feel satisfied after eating smaller amounts. But until then you will have success by just following the rules. Congrats and you can do it. 

Jennifer

 Thank you for the great tips.  I am also in the mind set that I just went through this surgery and pain and I don't want to do anything to compromise my band.  I have kind of started on a schedule, but I know that in time I will get it down.  Thank you again for your comments it is very much appreciated...and congrats to you both as well!!

Keep busy, at least that is what I did, every dang food commercial may "get" to you. The smell of cooking food, etc. It will be hard, you just have to find something to keep your mind off of food. Take a walk, read a book, email a friend, etc. Have a list handy for just such occasions. We all went though this "band hell" so you are not alone, we know how you feel. Feel free to ask anything and welcome to the losers bench!!! Congrats on the 10 lb loss!!

I am with Kath, I envision the band around my stomach and that I will not do anything to compromise it. I drink constantly.

My stomach felt bloated for a little over a month so don't let that discourage you.

When you get to the mushies, you will be really happy! Be creative and continue drinking all the time!

Welcome!