MINI-Me

I got the distinct impression that he doesn't expect any stretching, but didn't want to give a 100% guarantee. Know what I mean?

I think this is very true. If you snack all day or graze, you can fit in a lot of food and calories. Likewise, if you choose slider foods for your meals, those calories will just slide right in. There may be some slight stretching ... only time will tell. But, my doctor guaranteed me that I will never be able to eat a Red Robin Hamburger again at one sitting. And, that sounds good to me because pre-op, I LOVED the Whiskey River BBQ Burger! :001_tongue:

Thanks Anna. I'm feeling pretty awesome. Now that I am getting closer, I think I may drop my final goal to somewhere between 125 and 135. Not exactly sure where I will stop, but I'm sure my body will let me know. Hard to believe I am really here. Still trying to wrap my head around my new size. I truly think I would have flattened that hairdresser. Good for you for restraining yourself!

I think it's hard for people who are obese themselves to come to terms with the surgery - if you aren't ready, you aren't ready. Seeing someone else take charge of their life and make positive decisions is difficult for them. Most likely, they aren't even aware of these feeling. And, they are probably VERY worried about you - especially if you start talking travel to Mexico. Are there any surgeons in your area that you can visit for a free seminar? If so, even if you aren't interested in using their services, go. It will help with your research. Ask if your mother or brother would like to go along to hear and/or ask questions. You may just find that you have a new travel companion. If not, at least you've learned more and can be more sure of your decision. You may not have their support, but it sounds like you have others in your life. Good for you. We can also be a sounding board for you. Best of luck in your decision making process. Just another thought ... does your insurance not cover any WLS? I find it hard to believe you were denied WLS with your BMI level. If they do cover WLS, it might be worth another try if your BMI has significantly increased since the last time. You were also quite young back then, your new age might assist an approval as well.

I am 6 months out, but occaisionally have an MGD64. It does leave you feeling very full. Just be careful not to pick up habits of eating and drinking at the same time - very easy to do with beer.

Congratulations on the pregnancy! I know there are a lot of women on here that will be following your progress and story. Please keep us posted.

Anna - that's about the most "unkind" post I have ever read from you. You go girl!!!! You are human like the rest of us.

I know that temptation must have been hard to ignore. Don't let it get you down ... you were probably fully clothed, already had liquids and/or food, etc. When's the official weigh-in for the week?

I am 41 ... Somewhere between 8 - 18 pounds from goal (still deciding to be somewhere between 125 and 135). Life is good today. Went to a car show with my little MINI and took Best in Class. My youngest son (8) came with me & we had a nice day together. My husband was able to meet up with us right before the awards were given so he was able to share in that with us. Tonight we are planning on pizza (one slice for me!) and a movie. Can life get any better???

I think there are as many opinions on stretching as there are surgeons doing VSG. Mine said stretching is somewhere between non-existant and a minimal amount. I believe the main reason people can eat more later is attributed to healing and reduced swelling. I can eat more at 6 months than the few weeks after surgery. I also know that volume relies a lot on what I eat - 2.5 ounces of chicken vs 1/2 bag of small popcorn at the movies. Would love to hear other peoples experience and surgeon results.

Awesome news!

I have not seen this product. However, I didn't start meats (unless they were pureed) until I was on regular foods. Could be a good choice then.

Definitely see your doctor. Do you have low blood pressure by chance? When mine is low, I have very similiar episodes. I was told to up the salt a bit - not great for Water weight, but it does help with the dizziness and light-headedness. Best of luck. Let us know what your doctor says about this.

If you search on here, you will find other plans, but this may help. I would imagine you will need to adjust portions based on your hunger level and goals: http://www.hopkinsbayview.org/bin/c/a/nutrition_sleeve.pdf

I apologize if we don't seem supportive. We are concerned about you and your health. I think we are all in shock to be honest with you. This surgery is shown to be effective due to the removal of 85% of the stomach and the limits it has on food intake. By only removing 50%, you still have a lot of stomach left that can and most likely, will stretch. Also, I doubt enough stomach was removed to eliminate the grehlin. (Of course, I am not a medical professional - I am basing this on my personal experience and research.) Having said that, have you talked to the surgeon to confirm your stomach size? Are you sure about what he removed vs left? What recommendations did he have for your nutrition and eating guidelines? We don't mean to sound cold - we really are a supportive group. I just don't know how to support you without more information or understanding of your particular procedure. I really do wish you the best of luck. I'm sure this was a difficult decision for you - like many of us, we did not enter into this lightly. We all had our reasons. I was considered a "lightweight" at BMI of 32.8, but my surgeon agreed that it was just a matter of time before my situation got worse.

Anyone seen or heard from Loser? Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy Surgery (VSG) Forum - View Profile: loser I was thinking of him the other day and see that he has not posted since April when he said he was getting out of the hospital and coming back on here soon. :001_tt2: :frown1: :frown1: :frown1: :frown1:

I am so sorry. But, glad to know that you are feeling better now. If it happens again, try some immodium (if allowed by your doctor) and see if that helps. What a horrible experience for you. :thumbdown:

I had to see a psych for the first time when I was prepping for this surgery. She told me that 75% of WLS patients have depression/anxiety disorder that are either being actively treated or should be. So, it sounds like you are right in the middle of the stats & it should not be an issue. I was also warned that I might experience anxiety or depression as a result of the surgery. When I asked why - she said that many people have hidden behind their fat for years & when the weight comes off, they do not know how to cope or deal with the emotions. That is why they want to see us prior surgery so they can either (1) Determine if we are mentally ready for such a big change or (2) Prepare a plan if we do start having issues. I think the idea of your therapist writing a letter is a great idea. Good luck! If all else fails, it may be worth a $350.00 investment to pay your current Pysch. Insurance might even cover it.

I know you are curious and that's normal. However, you are way too early to be testing your tummy. It's healing and you don't want to do anything to disrupt that process. Also - it's very hard to tell "full" with mushies. You may be "feeling" it lower, but it could be head hunger or even acid causing issues. Just follow your plan and take it one day at a time.

I have experienced irregular periods with prior weightloss ... this time I have weightloss and surgery so things are VERY messed up for cycles. Although, as I say that, I am not on pills so I would think that would help some. I say, expect irregular as the "norm", but take a test just to ease your mind. You have enough going on without worrying about Am I? or Aren't I? Let us know the result ... hope we can say "Congratulations on NOT being Pregnant"!

Definitely better to be safe than sorry or sitting at home worrying. Are you feeling better? I haven't been able to figure out what triggers it, but sometimes I get "urgent" diarrhea with some cramping.

Interesting ... What is that based on? Why should year 3 be so different than year 2?

Don't worry about feeling full when you are on liquids and most mushies - it's hard to tell. I didn't have a lot of trouble getting liquids in either. Sounds like you are ok with the Protein shakes. That is good. I hated mine & really stressed over it. The GasX strips should help A LOT! Each day is going to get easier and easier. Your weightloss looks great so far. Keep working it & keep in touch!

WOW! I know that's the next size down, but I can't even imagine a 6. If I cried at an 8, I will probably need hospitalization at a 6. :thumbup1:

Bump ... anyone heard from him?