azband4life

I agree with everyone here. Also, take some time to have a meal and test the band before you get on the plane back home. If there are any complications, Dr. So can adjust.

Paul

Yes, I was one flight where the guy put me in a seat that had no room to extend. The metal sides went all the way down. so I was pretty contained. The male skywaitress appologized for the gate attendant's insensitivity. I am looking forward to flying home in December. I should have some extra breathing room.

Paul

I can relate. I felt restriction in the office after the first fill but when I went home I didn't feel restriction. I have no aversions to any food, however, now that I have had my 2nd fill I do have restriction. Drinking coffee in the morning is enough for me. I have a small breakfast and i am good til late in the afternoon. Truly blessed now.

Paul

Mechanical failures and people that don't follow the simple guidelines would be my first guess. There are also people that were the pioneers in bariatric surgery that were told "Congratulations on your new life" with no follow up. They eventually stretch the stomach back presurgery size. A friend of mine was given a full plate in the hospital and told to eat until she was satiated. Her staples had burst and had to go back into surgery. Many things have changed since then. There were no pre-surgery psychological evaluations or post therapy/behavioral modication .Documented research throughout the years has provided us with the best tools available. We just have to be willing to do the work and keep open communications with the doctor.

Hope I was helpful

Paul

Thank you for reminding us that the band is not a panecea. We need to use the tool to reach our goal. I too have had some problems keeping on track. I had a mental adjustment when I returned for my 2nd fill and realized I need be active on this site.

Paul

I would suggest contacting legal counsel. Your lawyer would be able to find a subject matter expert to review your case and provide an expert opinion. Most of us do not have the expertise.

Paul

I think we forget how addiction affects the family. We look at the disease concept model for the individual and forget how it affects others around us. They may think, 'just get over it", or "have a strong will". Many people that go into recovery for drug and alcohol are required to have the family involved. The family still treats the individual the same as it was before and then they wonder why one slips back into old familiar behaviors. My "normies" think I should be able to go out to eat with them right after the surgery. I say, "ARE YOU CRAZY?" That's like asking an alcoholic to tend bar.

Give them some time to adjust but also maybe some literature on eating disorders/support groups. Remind them that you do need all of their support.

Hope that makes sense.

Paul

Thanks for the boast of confidence. The tummy grumbles I referred to were before the surgery. I don't think I allowed myself to feel the hunger pangs. Now, it's sort of a blessing. During the 21 day liquid phase, you betcha I was feeling it.

Paul

Thanks for the advice. I have been doing yogurt at night. It is usually 100 calories. It is so weird to be choosing healtier choices than I have in the past. Tastier, by far.

Paul

Does anyone work extended hours and finds that the 3 meals a day is not working? I work from 8am to 10pm. While I eat my 3 meals a day, by the time I get home, my stomach is growling again. I drink water and go to bed.

Any suggestions?

Paul

I haven't tried bread yet, however, I have had soft tacos without an issue. I haven't found any problems with specific foods. However, if I do go for another fill, all bets may be off. The key is to listen to your body. This is the first time that I have had stomach growls meaning it is time to eat. I never really experienced this before. Now, I do. I find myself a little cranky and have to adjust my attitude and consider it a gift. I am now in control where before I wasn't.

Paul

I am actually driving. I thought I would enjoy a day out of the desert heat. Email me and let me know if you want to have liquids LOL I believe I will be back on them for a couple of days.

Paul

Going to OCC on 8/7/2010 for my first fill !! Let's hit the sweet spot

Paul

I totally understand. Instead of stress eating this morning, I went to the gym and got on the treadmill for 40 minutes and then onto the elliptical machine. I know I will be there tomorrow morning. Love it. And a great way to get rid of some stress.

Paul

If you are interested in Bellydance, I have a friend that has taught it for over 20 years and has an online shop you can purchase DVDs for home use. All DVDs are professionally done. Sorry, I don't want to sound like an infomercial but the women that go do see results.

www.bellydanceshoppe.com

Paul

This question is probably best answered by Dr. Ortiz and your mental health provider. I have a friend that is bipolar and she had it done in the states. Have a candid conversation with both to ensure the best route for you.

Paul

Just made hamburgers on the grill. 1/3 of a burger did me well. Don't feel the insanity anymore. YAY.

Just remember feelings are not facts. Most of us were always looking for the easier softer way. If not we ate our emotions and that is what got me to table. Getting the band was the best thing for me.

Paul

Now that I have reached the end of the liquid phase, I am ready for solid foods. As I recall you are not supposed to drink when you eat. How does this affect eating hot spicy foods? Some may use dairy to cut the hotness but that would add calories as well.

Suggestions ?

Paul

I have been sitting at the same weight for a week, however, I also have been working out daily with a 2 mile walk. I feel the changes in my body and so I am not worried. Keep doing what you are doing along with exercise and you should be good.

Paul

Thanks Lisa.

You know it didn't take 3 months to get into my current shape so I should be able to wait it out. The treadmill is fine for now. Had a great sweat today. It's amazing the personality changes one goes through when incorporating exercise into the daily regime. All positive.

Paul

I have been walking 2 miles every other day. Does anyone know when you can start the elliptical machines post surgery?

Paul

Sounds delicous. I have to go put my attendence in for my class and work out today. I will pick some of the soup up today Will be a great change from what I have been eating.

Thanks.

Paul

Thank you for your support. I, unfortunately, was a great cook/baker in the past. My dark choc rasp cheesecake has curled many women's toes. I just haven't had the mood to get out and do any cooking. I will take your advice. Today, I picked up a chocolate milk and feel satiated now. However, there were many nights I went to bed and my stomach was growling. I need to take better care. We have several Trader Joes' here in Phoenix. I will take a trip over there tomorrow.

BTW: just dropped 2 sizes. I am down to a 50. Looking forward to the 40s.

Paul

I was banded on June 25, 2010 as well. All I can say is, "DAMN, I am hungry!" Ten more days and I will have real food. I think I am getting about 500 calories a day. I just am not interested in the broth. I drink juices, broth, and low calorie drinks.

Any suggestions?

Paul