coops

Hey! Yes, I have! My surgery was July 2010 and in the early part of 2011 my blood tests showed that I was peri menopausal, I was 39 then (I've had the symptoms for a long time, but my weight was always blamed) ... I went through a series of trying HRT and none of it agreed with me, and I too put on weight - only 6lbs though. Since then I have struggled on and although managed to lose weight, it was incredibly slow and highly frustrating as I was ticking all the right 'boxes'. Nearly 5 years from my sleeve surgery, I am still not at goal and over xmas I had a small regain, which I am slowly getting rid of but it is very slow. I also do the 5:2 and when I am strict it does work for me, but I don't see any weight 'flying' off... It is sooo frustrating isn't it! Good luck with the 5:, sounds like you've made good progress so far.

Hiya, Im 2 yrs and 2mths out. Although not at goal weight I am at my original goal size - from a UK24-22 to UK 14 - and I am thinking of revising this to a UK 12. I, like Minime, am happy and healthy. There is nothing I cannot eat if I wanted to. I had a perfect recovery with no complications (although that is something that you have to keep in mind). I have NEVER lost 7lbs on any given 'diet' never mind 75lbs, so this for me, was a life saver. There is no expiry date with the sleeve and I refuse to give up until I meet my surgeon's goal, even if that takes me another 6mths. I opted into this with relatively good health for someone who was morbidly obese and I paid for the op out of my own money (I am in the UK and the NHS wouldn't cover me as I was 'healthy' - but how long that would of lasted is anyone's guess). I can also eat more now than I could at 6 mths... but this leveled out at around 10 mths. I can eat between 6-9oz of food (weight not volume) in any sitting depending on the density of the meal. I also eat my Protein first and I eat 3 times a day and no snacking 95% of the time. I am starting to feel 'normal' now and it is a great relief not to use food as a comfort and a friend because it would eventually lead me to ill health. I started exercising slowly at around 6-8 weeks post op and up until my back went I had built my stamina and strength; my exercise consisted of the gym in work, - runner, static bike, rowing machine, kettle bells, free weights etc to walking the dog for 2+ miles to going to my son's boxing gym. And I loved it. As I haven't exercised since March, I have to build myself back up - I have been released from physio so I intended to get on that tread mill really soon.! You have to make a decision by what is right for you... good luck for your upcoming surgery. Keep us posted on your progres.

Yep! They're great in yogurt... I put flax seed in too, also helps with the number 2s!

thanks for your quick replies... I will defo look at the teardrop implant O.T.R.sleever... thanks for that! The reason I am not bothered about size is that I don't want them to look false... I am 41 and as I work in a school a big bust line would just be soooo embarrasing! Especially as I am so small now! thedogsmommy, you might have a point there... not sure if my tummy skin is 9lbs, but if it was gone, the overall shape would look a lot smaller than the number on the scales! That is why i want it gone - to look good but more importantly 'feel' good!

Helloah! Just wanted to pick your brains... A little background on me - for those of you who don't know - I am now over two years out and not at my surgeon's goal yet... I ma just 9lbs off. I have been this weight since October and I am starting to think that 'this is me'... I will continue the Quest of weight loss, but part of me has started to accept that this might not happen now. I've gone from a UK 22-24 to a UK 14, with a total of 75lbs gone. Most of the fat that is left on me is around my middle!! My legs are ok... I have got a lot of muscle there, ss I am not too worried about the bit of thigh fat that is left - I am too old for mini skirts now...lol So, my thoughts are now turning to finishing this job and getting rid of the excess, saggy and wobbly skin that is really bothering me. I have just returned from a beach holiday, and having to wear a swimming costume, I now realise that the skin is more of a problem than my weight... it really does effect me both physically and mentally. I want it gone... my hubby agrees... and we will have to pay for it. My sleeve surgeon does a TT at a good price so he will be my first port of call. Also the boys are in pretty poor condition now... pretty much skin - no shape left - sorry for TMI! Again, this is really effecting me mentally and I would also like this sorted... I don't want to go big... just round...lol! Now, the actual operations don't bother me at all... what worries me is the time in recovery. So, for all those that have had either one or the other, or both can you please answer: How long were you in hospital? How long was recovery? How long did you have off work? Are you happy with the results? Also, is it possible to have the two operations done at the same time? If so, how much extra recovery time is needed... or is this too much at one time. I am a teacher, and my school's sickness policy is very strict. I would tell them about the TT; and stress that is it for medical reasons, not vanity (ok, so that is partially a lie, but you gotta do what you gotta do) - however, I wouldn't tell them about the uplift!!! I would be very grateful for any replies, comments or advice that you have for me; the good, the bad and the ugly! Thanks in advance =]

Dorrie... you are, to me, already at goal!!! Seriously, if my BMI was 23 then I would cruising into maintenance now! Just remember how far you have come, how brilliant you feel and how great you look! Hugs my friend =]

Me too... I was diagnosed peri menopausal at 39 but I had the symptoms long before I went to the doc to get it checked! Believing that I was way too you...ha! I also feel that this as inhibited my weight loss... for 10 mths I have lost a pound, and that was 2 weeks ago - -during that time I tried different hormone Patches and tablets but they just didn't agree with me... at all! So, I am not on anything now and my weight is stable at 163-164. I have at least another 9lbs to my surgeon's goal weight and 23 to my personal one. I am not sure that I will ever reach my personal one, and therefore a 'normal' BMI but that is ok. I need to reach my surgeon's goal though... to feel that I haven't let him down! Oh and I am over 2 years out now! I will keep plodding along though. On the topic of exercise, I am not sure that it actually helps me with my weight loss... as since May I have been unable to train. I will get back to it though. Not to lose weight - but to get strong and continue to tone up. I have some really nice muscle definition coming and I don't want to lose it now...lol!

Lissa I agree... if you think 170 is too low, then basically it is! I am in a similar prediciment myself. I've asked my GP about at TT on the NHS (our health service here in UK) and to be eligable for even a consultation I have to have a BMI below 25 which means at least another 28lbs, which, like you is too low for me. I don't want to look too thin/skinny or old!! I can still get it done, but it will be 'private' surgery and I will have to pay for it. Is there another surgeon that you can ask advice from? I think if I was you, I would continue to do what you are doing... perhaps another 10-15lb loss - perhaps not. You're happy so that is irrelevant at the moment - but it sounds like the tummy area is your main problem. Continue with the core exercises and overall fitness training you do and perhaps a consultation with another surgeon or if that isn't possible tell the surgeon that you do not want to lose too much weight! Good luck and let me know your next step... hugs

Yep! What they said... you look incredible! I agree about the skin too... although you might see it as baggy, it look amazing, you can't hide those arms...lol... they look tight! I have to say, I think you looked beautiful on your wedding day... you radiate happiness! Congrats on an amazing transformation!

yea, I agree with the water... when I was early out, I found that when I added more fluids I would lose more... but as aroundhky said, stalls are part and parcel of the process... just take your time, continue to do what you are doing and the scale will move again - try not to get discouraged; yea easier said than done, I know! Good that you are taking measurements. I found that when I didn't lose weight on the scales, my body will lose inches instead... I quickly learnt that it was a win win situation! Try not to let your success be determined by numbers alone... there is a lot more to this weight loss-getting healthy malarky than just numbers! keep up the good work! =]

I am 2 years post op... my restriction is very similar to what it was at about 8mths. I can eat between 6-8oz for a meal, depending on the density of the protein. I have never had a problem with drinking from around 4/5 weeks post op I could drink normally. As you get further out you will be able to eat a little more, that is when you really have to be mindful of what you put in your mouth! I still, generally, stick to my original post op plan of three meals a day as even this far out I don't want to slip into the old habit of grazing.

Yep! The body is a weird and wonderful thing... I haven't lost a pound since Oct last year, yet I have gone down a full size in all clothes... more recently, people are tell me I look smaller; asking me how much 'more' weight I have lost, yet the scale is not moving - apart from my usual bounce - but never under my all time low! Oh, by the way I am just over two years out... not at goal weight, but I've reached goal size. Last time I was this size UK14 was 20 years ago and I weighed 28lbs lighter! So I completely get where you're coming from... Just go with it! Enjoy the smaller size and don't worry about it. Like someone else said, if the clothes look good, wear them regardless of what is said on the label! =]

Love it... but what I love more is that you had your photo taken in a swim suite... WOW! Double NSV!! =]

Agreed! I stopped using the words 'only' and 'just' a long time ago! Every single ounce is a bonus... celebrate all success I say!

Whoah... are you sure that is the same lady... what a transformation! Defo pretty in pink! And such a warm smile! From a woman who is now two years post op, please share your secrets - diet and skin care - your arms look amazing - as I want to get to my GOAL!! lol =]

M2G... You know I have been cheering you on for a long time now... but to see these pictures, side by side, makes me so proud to be your friend! You have done such an amazing job, and yea, if you never lose another pound you will be in a great place... but if I know you, like I think I do ... well, I just have a feeling that you will start to see the scale move at some point, when you are good and ready! Thanks for posting your pictures, reminding me why you are an inspiration to me... and thank you for your continuing support... hugs from over the pond my lovely friend x

I feel your frustration... I have been stuck at this weight; bouncing up and down but never below... for over 9mths! There is plenty left of me to lose...10lbs to my surgeon's goal and 23lbs to mine. I like you have tried everything and anything in that time space. The only difference is that I haven't been able to work out since May due to a bad back (which, is getting better now!) I will keep my eyes posted on this thread to see if someone thinks of something I haven't tried...lol Otherwise, at 2years post op, perhaps this is my 'body's' happy place even it is not mine head's! Keep up the fight ... our bodies have to respond eventually, don't they? =]

Wow... what a transformation; I lurve the white outfit...only a slim person could wear that with the confidence you do! Defo not ugly... beautiful before and after... congrats! =]

Lissa, that my friend, is a great plan. I would defo concentrate on the core muscles! Having a strong stomach area will not only help with the results but also the recovery. Here's a thought... When I was going to the boxing gym, we did a lot of core exercises, with and without weights - medicine balls and kettle bells. Now, my back has gone and I can't train for the time being. As you know, I have been going to physio for a few months and I am seeing great results - she told me that the core exercises that I was doing isn't that effective! I thought I had a strong core, but clearly that wasn't the case...the exercises she has given me aren't weight bearing and are very gentle but I am seeing results around my waist and lower ab area. Sounds completely bonkers I know... have a look for some good toning exercises for you core area, and do the ones you feel will benefit your body shape... Sounds like a TT would be the best idea, after the c-sections and incredible weight loss that you have had! Keep us update my sleeve friend...x

Lissa, I honestly think that you will 'know' when you are done... you've done such an awesome job to date and you are so aware of your health and fitness, that I feel you will re-evaluate once you reach your year marker. If you are currently happy with how you look and feel, perhaps lowering you goal is the first step? Again, I just have this feeling that you will know when the time is right to go into maintance. Regarding the skin... a year out maybe a little soon. As you know, I am now just over 2 years post op and I can honestly say that my skin is better now that it was a year ago. In saying that I would not hesitate in getting the tummy area sort; the 'boys' lifted and possible a little work on the upper arms. The only real area I don't like, no - I hate, is the tummy. This is due to the texture of the skin and the apron. My GP said that I would be a good candidate for a tummy tuck and should get good results (I just gotta find the money for it). Now, my apron isn't that big now, there is some fat left there but not that much, however, the overall shape of the apron is a nightmare in clothes. I feel that is 'mishapes' dresses and the general line of the clothes... if that makes sense. One day I will get rid of it! If I was you I would give it another 6mths or so to make your final decision re goal and as far as the tummy tuck goes, well I would definately do it. Please let us know what you decide x

Hello! I am 2yrs post op, and been in a stall since Oct - 9 mths, I am 14-24lbs away from goal; miy surgeon's is 150 and mine is 138... I don't want to sound like this is a stall competition, just want you to know that stalls are very normal, albeit frustrating! During this stall, I have lost at least one dress size all over, and I am now in between clothing sizes; in Oct I was a comfortable UK16... now UK14s are baggy on me - I've yet to attempt a 12...lol. This stall has been the bane of my life until recently, as I have come to realise there is nothing I can do to change it! I tick all the boxes re Protein, carbs, cals Water etc 95% of the time. The other 5% I am just human...oh, and I have hit many stalls (and I mean periods of no weight loss for longer that 2-3 wks during the two years. The first one was at 2 1/2 weeks and lasted about three weeks). But the weight loss resumed until this Oct - I have lost 74lbs so far. Now, there are more factors than just cals in and cals out for me... I was put on HRT Patches and then tablets and I think this messed with my body - I have stopped taking them now btw. Also since May I haven't been able to train - I was doing really well with my fitness routine until then. I am currently seeing my physio and doing exercises to gain strength in my core so that helps the pressure on my back and hips, and I think I will be ready to start back in the gym soon! Just a bit of background on me to let you know that even though it feels rough at the moment, things will change, even if the pesky scales don't say so! Try not to get stressed about a stall... firstly, have you taken measurements - for me this has kept me sane, especially in the first year. When the scale stopped moving or moved very slowly the tape measure showed a inch loss - that is a great feeling. If you haven't done so already take your measurements as another indicator of your success (I have lost over 3 foot of me with 'just' a 74lb loss - some maybe more, some maybe less). As regards food at water, keep following your plan - you are still in the early days and your body may be taking a little longer to adjust to the changes and that is just fine! I love the fact that you are walking - this really helped me in the early stages, even though I think I was later starting than you are... but it is a great exercise and I still enjoy walking. Another handy hint, is not to compare yourself to others... I did this and it took me to a very dark place. I would constantly and consistently beat myself up that I hadn't lost the same as others who were sleeved around the same time. I learnt that the only person I can compare myself to is me. I have NEVER and I mean never, lost more than 7lbs on any given 'diet' or exercise routine in my whole life - from when I was just a little over weight, to being morbidly obese. Remember, you are you. This is your journey and whatever route it takes, the final destination will be equally as beautiful! I hope this rambling has helped...

ATeam, Your timing of this post is just perfect for me... I am just over two years post op... not at goal, and I have been in a stall since Oct last year... 9 mths!! Believe you me, I have tried everything and anything to break this stall, but my body just seems to be very happy here, even though my mind is NOT! So, to read your post has sort of put this into perspective for me... I seem to be focusing on the last 14-20lbs instead of looking at the 74lbs that have gone forever... there is no way will I ever see the numbers 238 staring up at me, so I have to be happy at seeing 164... right!?! Now, this doesn't mean that I will stop trying to get rid of the last bit of weight... there is no expiry on the sleeve, but I also have to realise that me and my sleeve have done a good job, not only to lose but to maintain this weight and size for the last 9mths!

Yep! What they said... I remember reading some of your earlier posts, it is great to see you now, completely at goal; you look so healthy and happy... and defo younger! Congrats on an amazing transformation =]

Ha! The goal weight question... my surgeon set my goal weight at 11 stone or 154lbs ... I set my own goal weight at 10 stone or 140lbs as this was where I used to sit when I was in my late teens and early twenties and I liked it there! However, to get to a BMI of 25 or below I would need to be around 135lbs, so that is pretty near my own personal goal. Now at that weight, 20 years ago I was in a UK 12/14 ... so my goal 'size' was a UK14 - which I am now wearing comfortably! I have even worn a UK 12 & UK 10 top; so my goal size has been reached with an extra 20lbs difference! I am two years out now and been in a stall for 9mths - the thought of reaching my goal weight seems like a very long way off now... I hope that I will get there one day; there is no expiry date to my sleeve and my restriction is still good, but I can't tell a lie - the frustration of being 'obese' in the eyes of the medical world still haunts me! I am just pounds away from being 'overweight' and to me that is a huge difference mentally and emotionally! I hate being obese. Even though I know that I am fit and healthy now! I really thing goal weight is very subjective; it is more about how I feel and look as well as the number on a scale - I will be happy to see 154lbs and stay overweight than where I am now. Size wise, I am not sure where this will land me??? Good luck on deciding what is best for you.. 'goal' is ultimately where you are happy, healthy and confident.=]

Cheri, I've said it before and I'll say it again... WOW... you look absolutely amazing... you don't NEED shape wear my lovely friend! Congrats on the two year marker and congrats (again...lol) on your pregnancy! As a foot note, I just want to say thank you for sticking around and being a great sleeve friend! You've really helped me and cheered me on! xx