Gastric Band...I am going for it in July 2016!!!! I have some questions...

Hi there,

I was banded some 5 years ago went through 2 pregnancies with the band in and recently had it removed through emergency surgery following a serious slip. I would say take 1 week off to be safe after op, b well and i mean well prepared for going bk to work and all that means around eating. I was given a small band and to be honest it never ever worked for me..it just make me sick a lot. I was so aware to chew my food and aĺl the recommendations but when ur being sick for 1 full day after eating a pea or small piece of cucumber you get my drift. So its liquids for ya anyway after op but still be prepared that you do not go for long even without liquids as this will tighted band and start off a while stream of nasty stuff for you.You will Loose weight but its in a crazy way...depending on your band and how your body tolerates it. Everyone thinks once they have the band in thats it...but its only the start. You have to see if you can actually tolerate it and the port site as well dont forget that is very strange and an odd feeling. Then you have to see how you are with a fill...i never had more than 1 ml in my band as i couldnt tolerate it and required to have the 1 ml taken out urgently. Please please consider your life post op with a band and getting fills etc each time is different and a differnt restriction can be felt. I was so so sensitive to it that it never really worked. Yes i lost weight but looked horrendous as i was so sick, i had to sleep sitting up for 1 year as the relux nearly choked me to death on numerous occasions. Im sure youve considered/tried everything..orlistat etc but make sure you have b 4 going ahead. Also please make sure that your provider offers free follow up and will remove band if its slipped etc. Not so easy to get it out again..i know only too well. Good luck👍

I had mine done 4 months ago and have lost 7 stone so far . But it varies with each individual and how focused you are

Hi Nicky,

I hope the consultation goes well. I'm 24 in 2 weeks and 18 stone, and have my consultation next Wednesday!

Fingers crossed for you ☺️

I had my band fitted 2 weeks ago and have lost 2 and a bit stone in that period of time, 11lb was from the pre op diet. I am a similar weight to yourself.

2 weeks after surgery I am just returning to normal activities and have now had the staples removed. I have my first band fill in 4 weeks.

I have a very supportive partner and friends and family who have been great about my decision as at 34 I have dealt with my weight long enough and tried everything. I'm still on liquids only for a few more days then I'm moving onto mashed/soft food to see how I get on.

The time you take off all depends on how you feel in yourself. I have just stopped feeling sore but my surgeon managed to nick my liver during surgery and I lost alot of blood so my body is still repairing itself in a way. I do feel strain on my abdominal muscles if I try to lift light things so I know I'm not ready. I was advised about 4 weeks till back to normal.

Would be intrested to hear what other people have experienced.

Hi Nicky

I had my gastric band op 5 weeks ago , I was 17st and 5ft 1in . Up to now I have lost 2 stone I am going today for a refil and see my consultant/surgeon . I will let you know how it goes.

I feel absolutely brilliant ,healthier and more confidence.

I have been off of work for 4 1/2 weeks maybe going back tomorrow depending on today's outcome .

It's worked well with me and I wouldn't look back , all the care and support I have had is amazing .

I have struggled all my life with my weight so from now on its positive all the way.

Good luck with your operation .

Hi I had a band fitted about 4 years ago some times I think it's the worst thing I ever did I can't go out for meals I be sick a lot of the time just make sure it's the right choice for you x

Good luck Nickynowles - I'm 53 was 19 stone 9 months ago and am 15 stone now. Need to lose another 2 stone or so

Best decision I ever made. Wife very supportive. Not told many others.

It can be tough. I start each meal withe trepidation - too much food or eating it too quickly or forgetting not to drink a glad of water half way through dinner and I'm in trouble. After a fill in can't eat solids until evening sometimes.

But I'm much more active in every way. Everyone tells me I look amazing (comparatively speaking??). I walk more I cycle most every day and lots more besides. And that beats food.

My weight loss started immediately. So will yours. The road will be rocky, but the results worth it

Mark