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POST-Operation Weight Loss Surgery Q&A

Life after weight loss surgery. Recovery, diet stages, nutrition, labs, complications, and weight regain, whether you are weeks or years out.

  1. I wanted to post this ongoing photo grouping that I've been working on with my sons. It started as a great way to show their aging, but it's also showcasing my weight loss. 2010, pre-band. I was around 370 in this photo. 2014, post-band. I was around 310 in this photo. 2018, post-bypass. I was 237 in this photo. Just wanted to show everyone that, even just 4 years can change things so drastically, 8 years is even more amazing. Looking forward to going back and taking another update in 4 years, I can't wait to see what 12 years of changes looks like. So when you are just a handful of days out of surgery and are feeling like nothing is changing. Or w…

  2. Started by M2G,

    I am getting "fuzzy" teeth all the time. It is annoying. I am sure that it is because of the Protein shakes, but eeeeew! It will go away for a little bit (if I chew gum, more so if I brush) but it keeps coming back and it is driving me crazy! Anyone else?

  3. Started by LynnV1964,

    I’m 3 days post op and doing fairly well with liquid intake ....about 35-42 oz a day. Broth is disgusting to my taste buds now. I’ve done regular Swanson’s low sodium chicken, better than bullion and bone broth. Not sure why but I hate that taste now. I would love to have something besides sweet liquids but not sure there is anything else out there. Any ideas?

  4. Started by BRYCE86,

    I am scared to stretch my pouch. I am on phase two and thought it included soft foods because I mis understood. I’ve held down hummus. Mashed cauliflower. And unsweet applesauce. Cucumber that was whole that I chewed well. And pudding. Jello. Popsicles. And Gatorade. Water. Sugar free kool aid. Scrambled egg with cheese. Are these acceptable- or do I need to go back to full liquids. I’m confused. As of now I am doing liquids till I see doctor. Unless it’s okay to move on faster.

  5. I had my sleeve performed on October 17 (yay sleeve! Down 24 pounds officially from the start of the pre-op liquid diet to today). From waking up from anesthesia to the next morning was VERY rough. I kept gagging up bloody saliva and dry heaving, if I had anything in my stomach I would have been vomiting. I couldn’t keep ice chips or sips of water down- within thirty minutes more gagging blood. I was in and out of consciousness between the blood, and since my mom was out of state I’m grateful my surgeon called her when he was done because it wasn’t until about 11 pm I felt okay enough to text people (I woke up around 4 pm, surgery was at 1) and she would have been freakin…

  6. Started by zaid,

    I'm almost 4 months in since surgery and I kind of freaked myself out today. While in Soft food stage, I was in encourage (by doctors) to eat 2 eggs....I was never able to..not even after solid food...I would feel stuff after just eating ...but this morning, without realizing I ate both eggs....is my stomach getting bigger??

  7. Started by Chris chandler,

    Does anyone know what all the surgery to expand my opening to my stomach entails. I'm 6 weeks out and miserable. I can't drink anything. Everything taste horrible. I'm nauseous 24/7. I can only eat liquids. My dr says she may have to expand my stomach opening. Is that a day surgery? Does anyone know the recovery time?

    • 6 replies
    • 888 views
  8. Started by chuckwalsh,

    So I had my sleeve gastrectomy on Monday at around 2 pm EDT.. it's now 107 am on Thursday early morning.. and I just got out of the hospital earlier today.. so far all I've had is half orange juice/half water.. about 45 ounces or so and now I have a big container of room temp water.. that I've sort of been sipping on the last hour.. ok only one sip so far.. but ya.. I'm trying my best to deal with all the pain and stuff.. it's not super easy but I'm ok. Just wanted to share where I was at.. this has been a long process getting to this point and it's almost surprising to me that I really full on went through with the surgery.. no regrets.. I'm happy I did it.. I just want…

  9. Started by E.S,

    Hey yall I’m 4 days post op and I still didn’t do the number 2, is this normal?? Should I be worried ?

  10. Started by B Garcia,

    I had my sleeve done last Friday 10/19. When I got out of the hospital it felt like my pain just keeps getting worse and worse. I found out that they did one of those stitches through my abdominal wall, and I can barely move around because of how much it hurts when pulled. Nobody ever told me I was getting one of those. Whenever my stomach gurgles (kind of like hunger pangs) it lights my entire belly on fire for a few seconds. Meaning I can’t smell food cause I’ll get hungry and the pain will start. Also, TMI, I have this pain from the bottom of my incisions, to the upper pubic area, kind of like my guts, that happens every few hours or so. Most of the time, it u…

  11. Started by sdgaby 619,

    Hello everyone I'm new here but 6 years post-op my highest in 9/2012 I was at 345 went down to 220 in 3 years. Got pregnant in 2015 and i have gained 45lbs and its been hard to get back to loosing weight. Anyone done the pouch test diet?

  12. So I have been extremely weak probably because I don’t eat and I haven’t taken in a full protein shake since surgery 3 weeks ago any ideas to make them tolerable. They are just to thick for me

  13. Started by Lovingmyselfforever,

    I noticed this when Bandages were removed at home. I called dr office and sent picture. I was advised to pop so fluid can drained, clean with antibacterial soap and pat dry. Anyone else get this?

  14. Started by Beachndreamz,

    Good evening- Has anyone exprienced being diagnosed with Thrush after surgery?

  15. 1 week out of surgery. Approved to start soft meat protein. Went to Qdoba got a kids chicken bowl with blk beans, and cooked peppers and just a lil queso. Got home chop 3-4 table spoons of it to fit in 2 of the 1 oz medicine cup. Ate each cup in 15mins, a total of 30 and was confused that I didnt feel EXTREMELY FULL ppls have been telling me i would fell. I didnt feel full but I didnt feel hungry either, this scared me because since my stomach is smaller I feel like I should be full but I'm not. I'm scared I don't not what to fail and fall I the mind games because I dont feel full that I should eat more. Has anyone experience this?

  16. Started by NewStart95987,

    Good morning friends. I had the lapband done in 2011 and always had issues with my band. Vomiting became a daily part of my life for years. I tried the revision process before but had obstacle after obstacle. I am now ready for revision and will have surgery on Nov 20th. We hope to remove the band and perform bypass all in one shot. I remember band surgery was not fun. What advice do you have for this soon to be bypass newbie? Advice before, day of surgery, days after surgery and etc? I read somewhere even a pillow for the ride home can be extremely helpful (my ride home will be an almost 2 hour drive if there is no traffic). So that is added to the list. Thank you…

  17. Started by nitz,

    Hello! I'm happy for having this surgery, been struggling with my weight for years on and off several medications, crazy diets and exercising at times. Everything went well, except I was told by my Doctor and nutritionist to eat more! Especially red meat and proteins and I haven't been able to eat bigger amounts of food. About 5 to 6 ounces of food for lunch is the best I can do. I can barely get through a full glass of water without feeling my stomach. I have absolutely no energy, I used to walk about 6 miles pre-op just fine, now I can't do about 2 and that leaves me extremely tired, I also have to take a nap during afternoon to stay awake…

  18. Started by BRYCE86,

    In 4 weeks when I’m able to eat real food again. Where do people like to eat out with friends? On the run? What do you get? What keeps within the required dieting? Best places with sugar free options? Best dinners? Lunches? Apps? Best places for small portions? And go....

  19. Started by Emersyn,

    Are you guys sick of me yet? Haha. So I noticed today that my throat is getting these very sharp tingling pains. Almost lile a fizzy feeling or like your stomach growled and it echoed in your throat. But it comes with a ton of pressure and feels like a bunch of little needles vibrating in your throat. Tried drinking, didn't help. Tried eating, didn't help. Got some activity in, nope. Has anyone had this? What is it? Does it go away or come in waves? Am I doing something wrong/should I be concerned? I am 6 weeks post-op. Thank you! ♡

    • 2 replies
    • 649 views
  20. Started by doublesuffcones,

    I did look in the topic list and didnt see anything that would come close to this topic if I did miss it I am sorry... I just had my surgery on the 16 of oct and have been having weird pains in random places such as hip, rump, back of the upper arm. It feels as if I am pulling a small section of the muscle off the bone or tearing of the muscle. Any one else having this type of issues and have you figured out how to fix it?

  21. Started by Sabrina Tanner Edmundson,

    I'm 16 days post op & my left side hurts so bad I can't stand up for more than a few minutes before I need to sit, let alone go for a walk! I was walking more my first few days then I am now... I'm usually a tough cookie (delivered 4 babies all natural), but I'm feeling like a complete wimp right now... Anyone else have this much pain after surgery or is it just me?

  22. Started by nlmguerrero,

    Sorry that this is graphic but I want to know if anyone else is having horrible diarrhea. I had surgery yesterday. Today, I have horrible bloody diarrhea. I was told I would have blood in my stool because of the surgery but this is insane. Anyone else have this problem? Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

    • 36 replies
    • 4.2k views
  23. Started by Khloe617,

    I’m currently 2 months post op, at 5 1/2 weeks I had lost 31 lbs. but now at 8 1/2 weeks I have only lost 3 lbs. That’s 3 weeks and only 3lbs lost, a pound a week. Whyyyy ? Does anyone know how long this will last, is not getting enough protein a reason to stall ? How do you jump start the weight lost again. I’m on regular foods. I don’t eat but maybe 3 tiny meals a day

  24. Started by NaturallySheIsFly-DS,

    Everything I eat or drink gives me the runs. I feel like I'm not getting enough nutrition or protein because I don't retain the food long enough. What questions should I be asking my surgeon during my follow up appointment on Friday?

  25. Started by katiemarie22,

    Hey everyone! I’m a self paid patient that is about a week post op. I’m from Canada and paid for the surgery in Mexico. I’m home now and doing great. I have not told my primary physician or family, friends or anyone about the surgery. I know post op medical support is important, so I’m considering my different options now. If I have any complications or anything comes up in the short term, of course I’ll seek the appropriate care, but I’m hoping to hear from others about their post op care plan. - Monthly or routine check ups? - Blood work how often? - Nutritionist? (How often?) - Psychological support? Thanks to everyone for their input!

  26. Started by susharajith,

    Hi everyone. I had my op on oct 06. I'm on liquid diet period. I wanna ask why only liquid?

  27. Started by haleyj134,

    11 days post op and I couldn't stand it. Made my kids a frozen pizza for dinner plucked a pepperoni off stuck it in my mouth and chewed chewed chewed then spit it out. That was the best pepperoni I've ever had. Am I the only one that has had a moment of weakness?

    • 23 replies
    • 11.4k views
  28. Started by camille88,

    Hello! I was sleeved on Monday, Oct 15th. Surgery went well but was very sick from the anesthesia. Stayed one night in the hospital. During 1-4 days post op, I have been drinking partial protein shakes and puréed soups. My calorie count is maybe 500-800 max. Today, on day 5 post op, I decided to try turkey chili and it's been fine! Overall, this surgery has been pretty manageable. I can eat 6-8 ounces of food with no problem. I wait to drink water after 30 mins and it's been fine. I feel hungry a lot! I am worried I got the placebo sleeve! It seems like the majority of people have a really rough road and I am having the opposite experience which I am thankful for but make…

  29. Started by FitzandGiggles,

    Hey I haven’t found a chewable bariatric vitamin that I have liked the taste of and was wondering if any of you guys has had better luck. Currently I take NU life advanced bariatric chewable tablets and I found them bitter. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

  30. Now that I’m back to work, I’m struggling to get my fluid in. I get sidetracked or busy... Any tips on keeping myself on track?

  31. Started by xoxococojay,

    Did anyone’s dr tell them to drink juice post op? Sounds crazy to me. Long story short my revision is tomorrow (not wl related but for reflux) and my new dr said for the first week post op just drink juice mixed with water. But in my head i’m like why on earth would you want me to drink sugar? Like it sounds so backwards to me but idk. I’m also not allowed to have food until january, has anyone else had to wait that long? My first time around, i started slowly eating soft foods after about a week or 2 and i was fine, the weight came right off and hasn’t come back.

  32. Started by COL120,

    Hello everyone! So I’m on my puréed stage and all I have is puréed fruit, yogurt, egg beaters and cream soups... please give me some more ideas because I’m so bored of the same food. oh and considering not all of what I eat is glorious some days are good and others I spend in the bathroom... like if my stomach didn’t like it then out! tell me everything, everything o can try please

  33. Started by Manoja_Madhumanthi,

    Hey everyone. I had my gastric bypass on oct 08. Now i am in so much thirsty and i drink too much water all the time. Sometimes i feel pain in my stomach. It's okay to drink that much water? What should i do?

  34. Started by AshMarie794,

    How far out post op were you before you did your first set of labs? Any one get totally shocked by the results?

  35. Started by shsd87,

    Hello all. I was wondering if there were individuals that haven't taken the omeprazole? I haven't even taken not one after surgery. Will that do anything later on to me? Sent from my SM-G955U using BariatricPal mobile app

    • 12 replies
    • 1.4k views
  36. Almost all my dates with my husband for the past 13 years have centered around food. I had surgery 11 days ago and obviously can’t go to a restaurant so we have just been sitting home. Does anyone have any date ideas that don’t include food??

  37. Started by bubles089,

    I am just over 5 weeks post op and have had horrible hot flashes!! I'm only 26 yrs old! It's normally in the morning getting ready. Yesterday it was during my first rounds at work. They get so bad I end up soaked in sweat! I had to change scrub tops because it was soaked! My hair ends up looking like I just got out of the shower! I have never had this bad of hot flashes before surgery! I use to get hot and sweat but they didn't last this long or were this bad! ( yesterday it was an hour and a half till I finally cooled off!). Has anyone else experienced this? It's increadbly embarrassing and makes it hard to get ready .

    • 16 replies
    • 25.6k views
  38. Started by redlirpa,

    So I have the sagging skin making jeans and pants so hard to wear. Anyone have any compression garments they would recommend? 5 months post op (150# in 12 mo’s) Thank you

  39. Started by Lizaboo,

    So today was my first day on soft food. I had oatmeal earlier, no problem. Tonight I tried rotisserie chicken. Chewed for at least 30 bites, very fine, took at least half an hour. It feels a little stuck in the chest area. About a half an hour later, drank some water, and then a few moments later vomited some up. I still feel like some is a bit stuck. Should I be really freaked out? Our menu plan says just eat the chicken plain, but then they also say to eat bread, toast and english muffins at this stage, and to avoid protein shakes at all costs in any stage. We think they're a bit crazy. Should I have put some sort of sauce or something on the chicken to help moiste…

  40. Started by Danny06,

    So I had surgery last week Thursday, I’m not even a week yet and I feel hungry, or is it a mental thing? I hear so many stories how people didn’t want to eat or drink . Or the didn’t even think of food . Yet I’m hungry, I’m doing okay with liquids expect water hurts? How is it that I can drink apple juice or a protein drink and be okay but as soon as I drink some water my chests hurts. Also this gas is killing me , any suggestions? Did anyone go home with their JP drain? I did and it hurts !

  41. Started by aln1218,

    Can anyone tell me how much sugar your getting a day? I’m 1 year post op today and I feel like I’m getting too much sugar but not sure what the intake amount should be. Also protein intake and carbs? Thanks

  42. Started by vuranga6153,

    I have two questions. How long does it take for the surgery cuts to go away? I’ve been coughing for 2 weeks straight and one of my cuts is red now and honestly it kind of hurts when I cough in that location. Is that bad? Had my surgery on Aug 16th 2018

  43. Started by kpt2120,

    Hey there guys! This is my first post ever on here. I am 22 and I am still in my pre-op phase but about to get my surgery date for the sleeve any day now! My question is for those post op. I live in Oklahoma City, by the way. So i'd like to keep close-ish to home. My starting weight was 461 and I'm now down to 427. (YAY!) I have been so insanely overweight my entire life, I have never went on a roller coaster before, especially after I got kicked off of a thrill ride when I was 18 on my senior trip... My pant size right now is a 28 in women's which makes my waist size like a 60ish. I am REALLY wanting to go out and ride all of the roller coasters that will let me …

  44. Started by Losebig,

    Wondering what other folks maintenance diets are like? How many calories, what types of foods, number of meals / snacks etc? I'm meeting with my nutritionist to tweak mine, I think I probably need to vary my diet a little bit and figure out how to maintain for the long term. Right now my diet consists of protein centered meals (eggs and sausage for breakfast, ground turkey with sour cream and taco shells for lunch, some kind of lean meat for dinner (4-5 oz) and usually 3 or so snacks throughout the day, which range from pure carbs (pretzels and hummus or chips) to more protein heavy (Greek yogurt). There's certain things I'd like to eat that I really still struggle with d…

  45. Started by ummyasmin,

    I did it! I'm out the other side of surgery, this is my second full day post-op. After surgery I felt like a donkey had kicked me, yesterday I felt like it was just a large dog. Today, a small terrier, maybe. So you just have to get through the first 24—48 sucky hours and then it will be OK! Also my suggestion is ask for all the pain relief drugs they are willing to give you. Does make a difference! I'm on liquids now but in the hospital they gave me Dutch Rusks to actually eat which was beyond weird. I never thought I'd be eating anything for a month. But I'd brought over enough protein shake powders to keep a small army travelling so that's what I'm having for brekkie, …

  46. Started by MassMom,

    Hi, Pals. I want to share something so that hopefully it does not happen to anyone else. I am 2 week’s post op- gastric bypass. Everything was going very well. I wasn’t losing yet, but the surgery had gone well and I wasn’t in any pain. I did the post-surgery diet for a week and a few days. My nutritionist cleared me for puréed food. I was happy to be off just protein shakes. I thought that as long as I was not throwing the food back up- everything was ok. I had experienced a couple bad reactions to food- eggs mainly- where as soon as I ate it- they came back up within 15 minutes. Since things were moving along ok, I added some soft food- mostly when I had t…

  47. Started by Msmom01,

    I’m a little over 1 week post op. I lost 20 pounds on my pre-op liquid diet. Since returning home from surgery I haven’t lost ANY weight. I have gotten all 64 oz fluid and 60 grams protein in every single day and I’m walking atleast 1 mile daily. What am I doing wrong?

  48. Started by BelleOfBatonRouge,

    About a year ago I realized I was ready to take control of my life and have weight loss surgery! I had my gastric sleeve yesterday, and even though I lost 15 pounds on the preop diet my doctor said my liver was still fatty. Surgery was a success, the first 18 hours of post op recovery were awful and I did not expect it. My body kept trying to throw up but there was nothing except bloody saliva. I couldn’t keep any liquids down, and ended up having a panic attack at 4 am. That was fun. BUT I am finally starting to feel better. Rather then horrible pain I am a very uncomfortable bloated beach ball. I can keep fluids down, which is currently in the form of tiny baby bi…

  49. Started by gganel,

    Hello friends , I can start eating puréed food . I tried tuna salad with light mayo , no success , boiled egg with Greek yogurt , Ran to the restroom a second later . Am I rushing things ? Should I start with more basic stuff ? Any recommendations ? Thanks G

  50. Started by Granmasleeve,

    Its been 1 week since yesterday and I just started having BM's. Why does it smell so bad when I only drink the same thing day after day? And when will it go away? It's a good thing I live alone...this is embarrassing!

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