Hello Maria Louise, My sleeve still reminds me to eat small and slow. I am able to eat most foods, always get my protein first and eat around that with fruit and veg. My weight fluctuates up and down 5 lbs.

I had a banded in 2009 too and lost about 50 lbs but I was not comfy with it, and it had to be removed 2011. The sleeve has been a totally different experience for me. So much better. I reached goal at one year and then lost 15 more, now I maintain. If I have a craving for a food that is not great to eat or drink I have a little, enjoy it and let it go.

I hope you have a good experience with the sleeve. Follow the program and it will happen. Cheers Joanne

Hello, I'm sorry I am just responding - I never log on here anymore. I was miserable with the band - my food was always getting stuck, throwing up, etc. The sleeve will definitely make a difference. I was worried about the same thing, but it worked out great for me. I am now a year and a half out, and I have lost 100 pounds. I stay around 144-148 pounds. I had complications in the beginning but I would still do it again a million times!! Good luck.

Hi Dec I am doing well after my VSG and am almost 6 weeks out. I seem to have a more sensitive stomach than most and that has been my only issue. I can't take my chewable vitamins by mouth (gels are fine) but instead I have to mix them with my protein smoothies so that I can keep them down. My restriction starting working very well at about 5 weeks in. Which is why they have us eat the mushie foods for so long because we are healing. I have lost 27 lbs since surgery and 53 lbs total and am very happy with that. Congratulations on your possible surgery in December! My only regret is that I didn't have my surgery sooner. Keep in touch!