Gastric Sleeve Surgery Forums

Hello everyone, I am located in the Netherlands and will be having my Gastric Sleeve surgery on October 17th in Turkey at Grand Medical. I'm choosing to go to Turkey because I am below the 40 BMI required for insurance coverage in the Netherlands. Due to this reason, I must pay out of pocket and the medical tourism world is quite high quality in Turkey- same procedures- a quarter of the cost. My costs are below 3000 euros including my 5 days stay at the hospital and my transport to and from the airport- flights are not included- but are fairly affordable if flying from Europe. Their track record is phenomenal for the sleeve and their patient experience passes with fl…

Hey guys, First post here. I feel like such a failure. I had the sleeve back in 2019. Got pregnant, then needed back surgery all before I hit the year mark. Let's just say I gained most of my weight back. I'm thinking about a revision because I'm having issues with gerd and my hernia. I went to a support meeting last night and the instructor suggested I try and go on pre surgery liquid diet again and see if I get the restriction back. Can anyone refresh my memory on what that looks like besides protien drinks?

Actually maybe the correct question is - how did you know when you were done? I am within a couple of pounds of my original (completely arbitrarily chosen) goal weight. Which by the way I never really believed I could reach. I was sleeved 10 months ago and am still losing around half a pound a week on 1200 calories (ish) a day - a bit more at weekends because I drink some alcohol then. I am hungry at times but I can keep that at bay by eating lots of protein snacks alongside my 3 meals a day, which are protein and veg for the main - still not much in the way of carbs. My question is - did you just select a goal weight and stick to that? Did you achieve/maintain …

Hi! First time poster here. It's a bit long but I really need help. I had gastric sleeve on 6/22 in Mexico. It went well, passed my leak tests and left feeling good. A week after I got home, I had severe pain and went to the ED where they discovered a leak. They did surgery that night but were unable to reach the leak as it was "too high on my esophagus. " they also discovered 2 abscesses that were between my stomach and spleen. They were unable to remove the abscesses due their location. I spent 28 days on a feeding tube in the hospital. The plan was to wait for the leak to encapsulate/close which it eventually did. I came home on long term antibiotics and …

So i am about 5 and a half months post op. My hair is starting to thin out. Knew it was coming, Oh well lol. It will grow back eventually. Lost almost no weight so far this month. guessing i am in a stall again... gotta hate it lol. anyways prepping for a hurricane here in Florida. Should be here by the end of the week.

Hey Guys! I'm at the mid point in my weight loss journey. My starting weight was 241 and now I'm 181 (4.5 months out). I went from a size 22/24 to size 18. My old size 18 pants are slightly lose but nowhere near enough to go down a size. I figured at 65 lbs. down I'd be a smaller size. I've kept up on my protein but really skimmed on exercise, so maybe I should have lost more body fat by now. Can anyone with similar specs share about where they were halfway through the journey? Current Measurements: 5'2" As of 9/14 Waist 38.5 in Thighs 23 in Hips 46.25 in Arms 16 in Neck 15.75 in Size: XL; 18

Good evening everyone, It has been three months since my sleeve surgery and things have been going very well. I had a question for everyone in regards to diet: did you ever re-incorporate carbs back into your diet? If so, how long after surgery? If not, what substitutes do you use? In the past three months I have not had any bread, rice, tortillas, or anything starchy...not even a cracker. And I will say, that is the one food change that makes me feel awkward or like I am missing out on deliciousness.

Did you guys waited your doctors appointment to start trying food?

I had my surgery, sleeve, 7 days ago and now on full liquids. Lost 12 lbs so far. Weighing on fri or sats only, so far self control is ok, I’m not a scale person. Getting annoyed w liquids to “eat”, lose confidence and have regrets each day but it usually only happens at night when my house goes to sleep. I’m a mom of 4 and just need some hand holding or someone to vent with. I have tried a purée or two but it hurts to go down. I was told I can take a tsp once a day but I feel like the opening to my stomach is swollen or something. Even liquids hurt a lil and I’m surly siping. Still have gas pains too. Any one who’s made it to the end of the tunnel, any advice would be ok…

Guys is it normal to be terrified of my surgery tomorrow? I am getting the gastric sleeve and this has been a two year process. I’ve been on the liquid diet for 2 weeks and now that my surgery day is here I am extremely nervous. I suffer from anxiety so I know that plays a part. Anyone have this un easy feeling ?

Hi everyone I have just joined this group and hope to get some advice! I am booking my VSG for April 2023 (very excited) but just wanted general advice and tips on how to prepare mentally/physically before and how people felt after the surgery. I am currently a student at university and have planned to have this done during a 3 week break... i am hoping this is enough time to recover enough to start classes again. Any advice or tips would be appreciated! Excited to start my journey

Hi, Does anyone have a list or a site to recommend that has high fiber foods you can eat on a bariatric diet? I rather the "old fashion" why of softening my stool then using a bunch of pills. Thanks in advance!

I’ve developed a lot of gas and excessive burping the last 2 months. I had my sleeve 5yrs ago. I haven’t changed any of my habits. I get excruciating gas pains sometimes and become constipated. When I’m finally able to go it’s diarrhea. Then the pain goes away. I haven’t had a normal bm in 2 months. It’s just such a long time after surgery I wouldn’t think don’t know if it’s related or should I go to doctor and look for any underlying reasons. Thank you for your thoughts fellow sleever’s.

Hi, I am 6 weeks in and still hard to eat and drink. I just returned to work and need some ideas on what to eat feel like I'm not getting enough protein and it's really hard to drink the shakes now. I really miss using a straw. Does anyone have any meal replacement bar suggestions that are high in protein and low in sugar? Thank you.

Hi all, so I’m having a bit of a dilemma and I was just curious to know what others would do in my position. My wife and I currently have Kaiser insurance here in California. Based on their program, it would be 10 classes (2.5 months) and then I would have to wait to get on the books for surgery, the person I spoke to said it could be up to a year wait. BUT, I have zero copay and the surgery would essentially be free. On the other hand, there’s the possibility of taking out a Care Credit loan at for $18.5k 0% APR and I could get the sleeve at Blossom Bariatrics by next month if I wanted to. I know it seems like a no brainer to just be patien…

So before surgery i was 317lb and i am 5'4 so i am a short guy and so i was very wide. My old pants size 54 which i could never find anywhere. No store carried them unless i went to a special big and tall store. So i normally wore elastic shorts. It was very frustrating when i needed to buy dressy clothes or even anything to go out in. Now i am at 230lb and my pants size is now 42. Which i can easily find everywhere. I went shopping today and bought some new stuff and was excited when i went to the fitting room and the size 42 fit perfect and my shirt size which was almost 4XL. I was 3XL but stretching it because no one sold 4XL. and now XL shirts fit me. Today i am…

Is a distinct, unpleasant body odor common from Gastric Sleeve surgery? And if it is, how long does it last? If it is just me... well that's embarrassing ?

Did anyone take Latuda pre-surgery and then were able to keep taking in post-surgery? Latuda has an instruction on it to "take with a meal of at least 350 calories". I've been taking 40g of Latuda, but I never get 350 calories in one sitting, I can't eat that much food! I'm also in the last phase before "normal" foods now - my clinic calls it "Easy to chew foods". I wondered if anyone changed from Latuda to something else or was able to take smaller doses of Latuda with smaller amounts of food for it to be just as effective. I don't feel like its not working, but maybe I just can't tell.

Hello to all. I had a Gastric Sleeve in 2019. Yes I’m old to this but here’s my problem and please to the newbies or to those who are thinking of having a Gastric sleeve, make sure the surgeon completely remove your fundus. The Gastric fundus prohibits inferior weights loss. I loss approximately 85 pounds within a 3 years time because of this and went into complete stalling. The surgeons kept over telling me I’m overeating which I told them I’m not. I just now found out my fundus is intake and wasn’t removed. I’ve been so sick from 2019 til present (2022) with stomach issues but CT scans during my emergency room visits shortly after surgery all come back normal. N…

I'm a little more than two weeks post-op, and my hunger is close to non-existent. I jokingly believe they removed my entire stomach instead of 80% of it! Anyways, this may sound sacrilegious, but I'm not sure I want to go my entire life without experiencing hunger. Any of you seasoned veterans have any insight if my hunger will return whether it be a few months or a year or longer. Also the few times I've nibbled on foods ( admittedly I probably shouldn't have because I'm not at that stage of my recovery) they taste so drastically different basically a lot more bland and less tasteful. I've read a few times how people are so hungry after gastric sleeve and I'm having…

I've been sleeved since 7/2015. I've put on about some weight this past year. I went back to my doctor and he suggested I do an EGD scope to see if there is anything going on especially since I've been having acid reflux. He found I have a retained fundus - which is a poooch out at the top of my sleeve. He said this is the cause of the weight gain and reflux. Since I'm a candidate for the revision to do the DS switch I have started the process for that next step. He will fix the retained fundus at the time of the next surgery. Has anyone dealt with this?

Hi everyone, I'm kinda new in here, don't know how it works but I need to share my experience because I don't know where I stand I've done the gastric sleeve at the begining of January with a starting weight of 219 lbs (99,5 kg). I'ts been 8 months since, and I'm now at 187 lbs (85kg). Am I paranoid or is it very very slow ? Only lost 33 lbs (15kg) I've got PCOS and I'm aware that having hormonal imbalances may affect my weight loss and my starting weight was maybe low compared to someone else but I am starting to feel worried about the surgery. Maybe it did not work out well for me ? Is it normal ? My doctor said I should be at 149 at the end. Is an…

I am 5 months post op gastric sleeve and I don't want to eat I don't get hungry I find myself forcing myself to eat. I don't even like food only smoothies or protein shakes. I'm so afraid of not getting enough protein. I can only eat 3 spoon fulls and I'm done I feel like I'm going to throw up after the fourth spoon full. I had surgery March 22 and I lost 55 pounds I'm happy with that but I'm losing muscle do anyone experience this what should I do?

Almost through my 4th week post op…. 3 weeks with no real weight movement. I know I’m a bit dehydrated - I’m assuming that’s why I have crushing fatigue. But not enough so that fluids are warranted apparently I’ve worked on increasing my calories and protein. It’s hit or miss but I am getting a decent amount, but my weight isn’t moving at all. When I say the fatigue is crushing - I mean any exertion of effort wipes me out. I see my pcp tomorrow - but I’m not sure he will have any suggestions the surgeon and nutritionist haven’t already offered. I am measuring and weighing every bite and I am only eating what I’m suppose to. I don’t feel well enough to exercise…

Post op question here: I am sampling some of the Meal Replacement shakes that my doctor provided for after surgery, but they produce a lot of bubbles and foam when I mix them in a shaker cup. i know we're advised against carbonated drinks, but are these bubbles and foam okay for after surgery? It's enough to produce burping for me. Should I shake it and let it sit in the refrigerator until the bubbles dissipate before consuming?

Has anyone experienced any Gall Bladder problems post op? I was told some people have problems and need to get their Gall bladder removed, just wondering if anyone has had problem or had to get theirs removed?

Hello all, did anyone recently have surgery and is kind of having anxiety about it all?! Or just me?!

My VSG was August 3rd. I started taking my vitamin chewables that were recommended by my dietitian (Bariatric Fusion) when I started the pureed food stage. I am unable to tolerate them even slightly. I experienced the worst nausea I had experienced since surgery. I waited a day and tried again, and the nausea returned, almost immediately. Has anyone else had similar experiences? What else did you try that worked?

I was curious if any of my fellow sleevers had been diagnosed with depression prior to or after surgery. Since about August 2021, (was sleeved on 7/27/22) I've been experiencing on and off symptoms of depression. It comes and goes on a daily/weekly basis. One day I'm fine, then the next week I'm just down in the dumps with seemingly no way out, then I'm fine for the next week or two. I've spoke with a psychologist in the previous months and obviously spoke with a psych to do my pre-surgery evaluation. If you are taking any anti-depressants, what are they and what kind of side effects have you had?

Five weeks after surgery today, and after more than a two week stall, I finally started losing weight again this week. Today, for the first time in more than a decade, I weighed less than 100 kilos (220 pounds). I'm 99.5 kilos or 219 pounds. I know it's just a number on a scale, but it made me so happy. I've lost 13.5 kilos (28.6 pounds) pre and post surgery, and I've already completed more than 1/3 of my final goal. What, if anything, have you done to celebrate a mini goal or the end of a stall? I feel like doing something, but I don't know what. In the past I would probably have bought myself something good to eat, but that's not an option anymore.

Hi All, I am a newbie here had surgery on Aug 4, 2022. Lost a total of 55 lbs. So I have this weird question ( or maybe not). I am working back up to a mile a day walking, but what I noticed when out walking is I seem to be off balance. I was told this is common because your stride is adjusting to the weight deferential along with muscle loss. I do not have an ear infection or anything like that. So all seems weird, had blood test done all is good. Seen my doctor all fine there as well. Has anyone else experienced this?

I’m 4 days out from gastric sleeve and hiatal hernia repair as of today. Woke up a little dehydrated this morning and not feeling great. Yesterday was the first day I missed my water goal. (yes I had other things that contribute to my water, but I’ve been pretty good about getting 64 oz plus those other liquids) I have had super low energy today - sleeping way more than normal. I’m working hard to get my water in but no matter how much I drink my mouth seems dry - and this stubborn headache won’t go away. Today has thrown me for quite a loop because I expected to feel better day 4 than I did day 2 and that is not the case. The day after surgery I was walking a…

Hi All, I am new to this forum and glad I found it. I just had surgery in August. Since I started 1 1/2 years ago I have lost a total of 55 lbs. 36 lb was right after surgery.

I'm 2 weeks post op, just started puree/soft food stage, I tried eating pureed chicken and very soft scrambled eggs (2 separate times), they both sat very bad, I could only eat like 2 bites of them and felt super full, like they were rising back up and like they were stuck. Is this normal? Did I start those 2 too early on? Will the sensation go away? My nutri and doctor tend to not follow up and don't reply to my messages.

I’m trying, I really am… but in the last 24 days I have had my period or pre-period symptoms (major cramping - nausea - fatigue) for 12 days and I have no idea how long this round will last. It started the day before my surgery & lasted 7 days and this week it came raging back. Between the surgery recovery, the pms and the heavy cycle I’ve been drained. I’ve been as active as I can, staying close to the house. I’m trying to drink as much as I can… I get close, but don’t always hit the goal and I never exceed it. Most food turns my stomach… so I’m doing my best but the last few days (when my period has been super heavy) I’m lucky to get 1/2 my Protein in. I’m w…

I am just two weeks post-op and have weighed the exact same for 4 days. I am following my program, and feel extremely discouraged at this point. Has anyone else experienced this? I'm feeling like it was all for nothing.

What time frame did y'all hit the dreaded stalls? My first was at 3 weeks. I'm at 15 weeks now and trying to see if I'm in a stall or doing something wrong. Sleeved 4/26. SW 216 CW 188

Hi all, a WLS coach mentioned there are some timer apps that help slow down eating and time between bites of food. I’m looking at several in the Apple App Store. Do any folks have an app they use and recommend? Thanks!

I am SOOOO happy! It has been a long journey, since March, & I got the call this morning...APPROVED! I am set for NOV 5th for gastric sleeve surgery. My PREOP is Oct 14th, so I'm assuming that is when I start liquid diet. I had heard stories with my insurance, since it is medicaid, on how long & tough it is to get approved. I was right on the borde,r 40 bmi, but I also was diagnosed with sleep apnea & diabetic, now in prediabetes. So what should I do now? Take pictures of before for after? FOr the people that have already had surgery, do you have any tips or "I wish I would have done this before surgery" type of suggestions?

I’ll be having surgery the end of this month and I’m just so scared and nervous. Like I feel like I will back out! Please tell me it is so worth it!

My surgery is next Tuesday, I started my liquid diet this past Tuesday. On Wednesday, while walking around Walmart, I suddenly felt VERY faint -- I thought I was going to pass out right on the floor - my heart was racing too. My friend was with me and we sat on a bench. I drank a Protein shake off the shelf, a bottle of Water and 1/2 a gatorade and it took me an hour before I felt good enough to walk to the car. Yesterday I felt fine, then today I had a shake for Breakfast and started feeling faint as soon as I got to work. I drank another shake, some gatorade and OJ (per my docs office) before I was able to have my vitals tested: BP was elevated 170/74, but came …

I'm on my 10th day of Pre-Op diet..alittle hard but getting threw with it. Surgery day is Sep 6th and Ive already have all my waters protein drinks and protein drink and powders and broths ready. I'm just alittle scared of the pain after and I come out of this fine. I have had family members not come home from simply hospital procedures but I have friends and family cheering me on.

Its the 4th of the month. Which means its time to do my monthly weigh in and measurements. High weight of 317lb. Surgery date April 18th 2022 I have to go buy new clothes again. The clothes i bought last month for work no longer fit and the belt i have put in roughly 7 extra holes in it. Time to replace it lol.

Hi me again, I had my gastric sleeve 21 days ago I had a follow up with my doctor on my 15 day and was Dehydrated, they sent me to the emergency to get some ivy's after that I had to go to my primary doctor due to my pancreatitis level were to high they weighed me and I had noticed I gain 3 pounds I figured it water weight now I am on my 21 days and just weight myself and notice that I have gained additional 2 pounds now I'm worried I am also still on my liquid diet. Thank you

Hi everyone, I’m 4 weeks post op from a sleeve, how is everyone dealing with mood swings? I’ve lost my patience and can get snappy. Thanks Stuart

Hello! Long time lurker, first time writer. My question is as the title suggest, what am I feeling? I keep getting this almost rumbling feeling in my belly that kinda feels like a painful version of stomach growls when super hungry. It makes my stomach feel heaving and tight and comes a goes randomly. I'm trying to tell myself it's gas pains and it will go away soon but it takes my breath away when it happens. Just want to make sure I havent signed myself up to living with this feeling forever. Thanks bunches! 1day po Starting 290 Surgery weight 238 Cw 241 Goal 175

Hello everybody, Just about 3 weeks ago I had a vsg in Turkey (originally from the UK) everything went well for the first couple of weeks, I had a visit to the doctor when I got back and it seemed to be getting all on track. Then, a few days ago, I am burning with a fever. Naturally, I panic and assume the worst sort of diagnosis, but in actual fact, it turned out to be COVID. Which isn't great, tbh, but I suppose it was better than a leak or some such. Anyways, yesterday, I am starting to feel better from the covid, when my stomach starts to hurt, particularly at night, stopping me sleeping. The pain is intense and the stomach area feels warm but my temper…

I'm three weeks post op, and I never really feel comfortable. I use myfitnesspal and measure my food in order to eat appropriate amounts. I do feel better now that I can eat actual food and not just soups or protein drinks, which I frankly found revolting. Now, I mostly eat white fish and chicken, hummus, refried beans, mashed baked beans, eggs etc. But even though I eat small amounts and try to eat slow, I usually feel nauseous after I eat, and also between meals. So many things disgust me now. I bought sugar free juice drinks, in order to drink something other than water, but they make me nauseous. Is this normal? Does everyone feel like this? Does it get bet…

Anyone having VSG around 9/24? Super excited looking for a buddy! A little nervous!! Miami Florida!

Does anyone have issues with pureed foods? I literally only eating beans, protein shakes, different allowed cheeses and yogurt. I am two weeks since surgery and seen no weight loss in a whole week. Anyone having a hard time going to the bathroom too?