Question:
I need to know as much as possible about lap band on a personal note any info great

Are you in pain afterwards or constantly, what should I expect?    — justspeak (posted on May 27, 2007)

May 27, 2007
Jackie, I had lapband surgery on August 16 last year and went back to work 5 days later. My incisions hurt some, particularly the largest one where the port is, and I had pain from surgical gas. But other than that, I felt pretty good. I took liquid Tylenol for the first few days (rather than the prescription pain meds my doctor gave me) and then E-Z swallow Tylenol (with hot tea to help it go down). I was able to get out and walk the evening of my surgery and every day afterwards. In fact, I went to Wal-Mart the next day just to wlak around. I would have gone back to work 2 days later but was uncomfortable from the gas. Chewing Gas-X and using a heating pad on the painful spots helped, in addition to WALKING as much as possible. You can read my story at my profile for more information.
   — Kathy S.

May 27, 2007
I just had my lap band surgury on May 3rd. I found it to be one of the least painful surguries I've had (I've had gall bladder, total knee replacement, and hernia, and the removal of a syst on my hand). You will read in this forum that other's have had more pain, but for me it was not bad. As soon as I got into my room after surgury I asked to walk some and I think that helps. The eating is challenging but not difficult. I do find that I get tired before bedtime and most days I end up taking a nap when I get home from work. Just follow your doctor's instructions, take your vitamins, and don't over do, or over eat, or eat the wrong things. Good luck
   — damn-ma

May 27, 2007
One of the easiest. least painful surgeries I've had (and I've had several). No pain meds after day 8. Went back to work day 4. For lots of answers take a look at the lap band forum. Wendell has a great 101 & 102 lap band info he usually posts daily. Donna
   — Donna O.

May 28, 2007
I had lap band last year in April. Right afterwards I was very sore and stayed on the pain meds for about 3 days. I made sure I had 2 weeks off of work just to make sure I'd be able to be on my feet all day (teacher). I never once regretted my decision to have it done. I hardly know it's there now, I feel great, I feel 10 years younger, I've lost 70 pounds. What I love the most about it, is that I don't feel deprived of anything foodwise. I just eat so much less! I feel like a normal eater now. Actually, I eat much less than most "normal" eaters, but for me this proceedure seems to be the perfect fit. No dumping, no hair loss, no vitamin deficiency, no other problems usually associated with RNY. Weight loss was slower, but consistent for me, and I feel really healthy. I'm really glad I had mine done. Now my sis is considering the same and I'm jealous because her insurance WILL cover it, I had to pay for mine. But you can't put a pricetag on being able to live life to it's fullest. Good luck to you.
   — Debra R.

May 29, 2007
I was banded March 6, 2007. I had very little pain - it felt like I overworked my abs. I was in the hospital overnight and did use their pain medicine while I was there. When I got home I took the prescription pain medicine one day and then the next two days I used regular Tylenol. After that I've been fine. My experience with the band has been great so far. I've lost 37 pounds at a very steady 2+ pounds per week and have never felt deprived. I'm able to eat anything I want without getting sick, I just have to make sure I chew carefully and eat slowly. I do eat better foods now though - since I don't eat that much anymore I make sure what I do eat is relatively good for me. Whatever path you decide good luck to you.
   — Hilarious

May 29, 2007
The worst bit for me was getting up and down from bed/chairs immediately after surgery. If you have a recliner, you may find it easier to sleep in it instead of the regular bed at first. Also, if you have a lengthy drive after surgery, make sure someone gets your pain prescription filled so that you can take some before leaving the hospital. (Our surgeon suggested that for DH after his surgery; wish he'd thought to tell ME!) I have no other surgical experience to compare it to, but it wasn't bad at all. I was sore for about 3-4 days, and wiped-out tired for about 2 weeks. Try to start walking as soon as possible .. it will help. Best of luck to you, and feel free to email me if you like. July 16 will be my 4 year Bandiversary, so I've been there! :)
   — Jeanie