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I had Lap Band done 2 years come August. It was NOT easy. I had to FAST for 10 days before the surgery (to reduce the size of my internal organs), then I had the surgery (in and out in a day), recovery was a week of pain (suture repairs and moving around with the kiddos, not fun), and then 6 weeks after the surgery, you get your first band tightening. A real wake up experience!! During the recovery period, there are 3 days of straight clear liquids, then a heartier soup or thin oatmeal, to something like mashed potatoes. They are not concerned about weight loss during this time. After the band get's tightened, you are on a STRICT diet. Load up on the protein and protein shakes. If you screw up (I did it PLENTY of times) your body will let you know right away. It feels like food gets lodged in your throat and you can do nothing about it. It comes back in either puke or "FROTH". Neither one of them is fun. Don't expect to ge to any restaurants or out with friends for a while. Even drinking can mess you up. They say no drinking with meals (only before eating) and no drinks with calories. They really frown on that.

Over all, it sounds awful but, if I had to do it again, I would do it in a heartbeat. I lost 80 pounds in a year and was able to start an exercise program without being injured by it for the first time in more years than I can remember. And, because of the weight loss and the exercise, AND the healthier living... I got PREGNANT. After 8 m/c's this one looks like it's going to stick around!!

Sorry about the ramble but, if you have any other questions, please PM me. And no, my insurance didn't cover any of it.

Shannon