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I'm with you. The BMI number is crazy. There are too many factors that go into it. My daughter's Tae Kwon Do instructor is 5'7" and 160 pounds and BMI says she's overweight. There's NO WAY! She's nothing but solid muscle. So, in my opinion, get to where you feel good. If you're happy at a size 6, then go with it. If you want more room in an 8, that's fine too. If you want to try for a size 4, try it. If you feel emaciated it's probably not the right weight for you.
Bottom line, do you feel good? It sounds like you do. So good for you! That's really all that matters.

I'm with you. The BMI number is crazy. There are too many factors that go into it. My daughter's Tae Kwon Do instructor is 5'7" and 160 pounds and BMI says she's overweight. There's NO WAY! She's nothing but solid muscle. So, in my opinion, get to where you feel good. If you're happy at a size 6, then go with it. If you want more room in an 8, that's fine too. If you want to try for a size 4, try it. If you feel emaciated it's probably not the right weight for you.
Bottom line, do you feel good? It sounds like you do. So good for you! That's really all that matters.

Perfect tips! Especially the biotene. You can't drink anything after surgery and until the next day when they do the leak test. So your mouth is horribly dry. The biotene will help. I like the eye mask and ear plugs. They put me in a room next to the nurse's station so it was bright and noisy. The morphine was the only thing that kept me sleeping, LOL!
All the suggestions about comfy clothing, etc. are true. You'll really only be wearing the clothes in the car and you'll want to get into a huge nightgown when you get home and climb into bed.
Keep in mind that what you're putting into your body the first week or two is nothing but liquid so that's pretty much all that will come out. So you'll have liquidy bowel movements for a week or two. Don't flip out, just get extra soft toilet paper - you'll be happy you did.
Congratulations on your surgery! You're going to do great!

I had them before and after surgery. No issues. But, mine are on my shoulders, left breast, right wrist and foot. So, where I got them (aside from the breast) were not areas that there would be a lot of excess skin/fat.
If you think about it, the places where you'll have "loose" skin will more likely be your stomach, breasts, thighs and upper arms. You'll lose fat on your back, but it's unlikely you'll have the loose skin on your upper back. I think you'll be okay.
BUT, ask your tattoo artist. They will look at the area and give you a good assessment of what your expectations can be.

Ok newbies, this is mainly for you guys. Being able to gather Information online is great, but it must be kept in perspective if you are to gain the most benefit. Keep in mind, most replies are based on that one person's experience. This is a serious procedure that certainly involves alot of fears and unknowns. It is comforting to be able to ask questions from others that have gone thru the process to better understand what lies ahead.
Whether it is pre-op requirements or post op recovery experiences, the answers are going to be as varied as fingerprints. And for good reason.
Everybody is different. And so is their process and experiences.
This brings up the proverbial question: "Is that normal" . Answer: ..... It might be a typical experience or maybe one surgeon's procedure, but not necessarily normal. There is no "one" normal. Don't fixate too much on a single reply. Your specific situation will be your normal. Yours might be very close to most of the replys you received or it could be vastly different. Try not to over react too much if it isn't as you thought. Everybody will make it to the finish line on their own path. If you can avoid reflecting on every detail you read or heard, you'll be more relaxed when you encounter events in your recovery that deviate from such perceptions of normal. The more relaxed and calm you are, the better equipped you'll be to handle your recovery.
Try to view online responses to specific questions as guidelines. As the many possible outcomes, not the only one. Your Surgeon or your other doctors and nurses should be the go to source for specific answers concerning your individual medical concerns.
Besides, once you get several months out and are cruising along on your "normal" routines........closing in on your goals.....all those worrisome and fearful thoughts of the surgery and recovery will be insignificant faded memories. Just relax and take it all in.....one day at a time.

Take Protein bars with you. Keep them with you at all times. If you're on deck by the pool and you're hungry, the temptation will be lower to go in to the buffet than to stay where you are and snack on a Protein Bar. Also, take fruit with you on sight seeing trips. You can pick it up at the buffet on your way off the ship. Water, Water, water.
Remember, this is vacation. So enjoy yourself. Have realistic expectations - maybe think "I won't lose weight this week, but I also won't gain". You'll be walking a lot. Maybe try to take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever you go anywhere on the ship. Most ships have tracks and/or fitness rooms so you can exercise while on board.
Eat slowly, thoughtfully, and don't overdo it. You're going to do great!

I had a band to sleeve revision and the incision where he took out the band was really sore for a couple of weeks. If you're concerned, call your doc. Trust me, there's no question he/she hasn't heard. They are there to not only do surgery, but also to support you in your journey. No question is "silly". It's your body and you have the right to ask questions.
By the way, CONGRATULATIONS!

Like my husband says, "Opinions are like a**holes - everybody has one."

Hi there.
That's a great start! I would also suggest starting to add a shake in your day - perhaps in the afternoon. I find that if I do a shake in the afternoon it curbs my appetite in the evening. Making a few little changes in your diet and activity now will help you maintain for the new few months with little issue.
The next 3-4 months are a great opportunity to start incorporating some of the necessary changes to prep for pre-op and post-op living.
Here are some of my suggestions...
Start practicing mindful eating techniques - eat at the table without distractions (no TV, radio or phone). I found that I ate less because I was feeling the "full" trigger faster than when I mindlessly east in front of the TV.
Chew your food - 20-25 times per bite and eat slower.
Exercise - if you're doing 30 minutes this week, add 5 minutes next week and 5 the week after that. Be in the best physical shape you can be in prior to surgery. It will make the recovery from surgery easier and faster.
Start trying different kinds of shakes and experiment with different textures and flavors. Don't over purchase - your tastes may change post-op. Try adding some low glycemic fruits, sugar free Torani syrups, different temps, etc. Variety will help you when you're on a lot of shakes.< /p>
Best of luck to you!

Have to be at the hospital on Monday the 21st at 6am. Not worried or nervous. Just thrilled that my time is almost here!

At any given time, I'll have the following in my purse: Quest bars, cashews or almonds, raisins, beef Jerky.
Love Quest bars.

Thank you everyone. I spoke to my doctor today he said my Iron was fine and so was thyroid. He said there is no reason why I'm losing my hair. I'm so desperate at this point. I know it could be worse, but I can't handle the stares and comments. Yesterday I was asked if I was going through chemo ????.

Claim it, own it, Celebrate it--that 2_ _ !! CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! (I'm almost about to feel the same thing, because I'm at 203 this morning and am sooo looking forward to the 1_ _'s. It's been over 20 years. But I'm not there yet. YOU have arrived!!!!!!!!!!!)
GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!! ENJOY the feeling!!!!!!!!!!!

For the first time in 15 years, the number on the scale started with a 2 today!!! Granted, it was 299.2 but I'm claiming it!!! I'm exactly one month out today and have only lost 13 lbs since surgery, but I've lost 47 total since the seminar with my surgeon and I'm happy with that. Just wanted to share

Just a word of advice - if you do give into your cravings, I guarantee your body's reaction will be so awful you won't do it again. I craved Cookies. Bad. I finally gave into temptation about 2 weeks after I went on solids. BAD mistake. I was so miserable. Spent the evening in the bathroom, if you know what I mean. I agree your stomach is trying to pull a fast one on you.
One thing I learned in this journey is that sugar is addictive. Once you start in the morning, you can't stop all day. So if you put sugar in your coffee, you will crave sugar all ..... day...... long. UGH! Also, artificial sweetener (Equal, Sweet N Low, etc.) all produce the SAME EFFECT in your brain as sugar does. Your brain can't tell the difference. So, if you put Equal in your coffee in the morning, you will crave sweets all.....day.......long. And carbs. It's vicious I tell you.....VICIOUS! LOL!!! My understanding is that Stevia doesn't do that to you. I need to try it. But, for you, this may be the key to why you're having those cravings?
Good luck. You can do it!!!!

Just a word of advice - if you do give into your cravings, I guarantee your body's reaction will be so awful you won't do it again. I craved Cookies. Bad. I finally gave into temptation about 2 weeks after I went on solids. BAD mistake. I was so miserable. Spent the evening in the bathroom, if you know what I mean. I agree your stomach is trying to pull a fast one on you.
One thing I learned in this journey is that sugar is addictive. Once you start in the morning, you can't stop all day. So if you put sugar in your coffee, you will crave sugar all ..... day...... long. UGH! Also, artificial sweetener (Equal, Sweet N Low, etc.) all produce the SAME EFFECT in your brain as sugar does. Your brain can't tell the difference. So, if you put Equal in your coffee in the morning, you will crave sweets all.....day.......long. And carbs. It's vicious I tell you.....VICIOUS! LOL!!! My understanding is that Stevia doesn't do that to you. I need to try it. But, for you, this may be the key to why you're having those cravings?
Good luck. You can do it!!!!

Just a word of advice - if you do give into your cravings, I guarantee your body's reaction will be so awful you won't do it again. I craved Cookies. Bad. I finally gave into temptation about 2 weeks after I went on solids. BAD mistake. I was so miserable. Spent the evening in the bathroom, if you know what I mean. I agree your stomach is trying to pull a fast one on you.
One thing I learned in this journey is that sugar is addictive. Once you start in the morning, you can't stop all day. So if you put sugar in your coffee, you will crave sugar all ..... day...... long. UGH! Also, artificial sweetener (Equal, Sweet N Low, etc.) all produce the SAME EFFECT in your brain as sugar does. Your brain can't tell the difference. So, if you put Equal in your coffee in the morning, you will crave sweets all.....day.......long. And carbs. It's vicious I tell you.....VICIOUS! LOL!!! My understanding is that Stevia doesn't do that to you. I need to try it. But, for you, this may be the key to why you're having those cravings?
Good luck. You can do it!!!!

Yes, Miralax is the key. You will eventually poop but it's going to be all liquid (sorry to be graphic - it is what it is). Exlax is a stimulant and not good for your digestive system. Once you start eating solids and taking Vitamins, you'll need to add a Fiber pill to your diet to keep you regular. I like the idea of the ice chips - that should help. I wouldn't do gum or anything like that.

it's common, it's your head trying to weasel it's way back into controlling your tummy... don't succomb to it...it's trying to brainwash you...lol
I found sipping some hot tea or broth helped get thru those times... I am fighting "head hunger" myself these days too...the worse I have done is raw almonds
Fried food and sweets make me nauseous just to look at, so I guess I'm lucky there... the stuff I eat is on our plan, but I have been indulging in "extras" and I have to stop NOW
PS that's why I LOVE my dvr...I hop right thru the commercials, rarely watch anything "live" anymore

each one of us are different and we lose weight at a different speed. What may work for me might not work for you. But I can tell you this. if you stay away from unrefined sugar and drink your Water. lean meats and veggies or complex carbs. Stop when you feel full which would be about 1/2 to 3/4 c right now. You WILL lose. You have to. Your geared for it now.
The honey moon period is still in your favor. You are under 18 months out. After that it is work.
My advice is stay on the program and stay off the scale. Talk to your dietitian if you are worried.
If you are eating under 900 to 1200 calories a day your body will stop dead. It will take measures to protect itself from starving as long as it can. That's the beauty of our amazing machines.....
Message me anytime okay I am here and will do my beat to help you K

I am seventeen months out and I do not count calories. Never have. I eat Protein first and then veggies followed by my carb whatever that is.
Breakfast I eat Raisin Bran with 2% milk. I find it keeps me regular. After 1/2 hour I drink a tea with 2% milk in it and take my morning pills and Vitamins.
Noon I always eat a 1/2 sandwich with real meat and cheese on it. Sometimes I eat a salad with wheat hearts or legumes. Or crackers with hummus..I make sure they are complex carbs..As they are much better for you.
I then take some more Vitamins and at three o'clock I have a second tea and take more of my vitamins with that. Meanwhile I drink 1/2 bottle of G2 Gatorade mixed 1/2 and 1/2 with Water. That is 32 oz of Water right there. I get that down before early afternoon and I fill up my 32 oz container with water again. This time with lemon water or just plain water.
I then eat dinner and have Protein of some sort. I love fish and chicken but will make lamb too..I eat a lot of Beans and seeds and wild rice...I always try to make my meals pretty and interesting so that even though I am not eating a lot I feel like it is special. dinner has always been my favorite meal. After dinner I wait and at nine or 10 I have a few nuts and seeds or fruit depending on my mood.
Sometimes I have a hot chocolate and ( diet one ) make sure I finish all the water for the day.
Before bed I take the rest of my pills with orange juice like clock work because the Iron works better with orange juice.< /p>
There are things I love to eat and others not so much. I will eat a Smart For Life bar instead of lunch if I am on the road going somewhere.
The days I work out I eat added to the list above a 1/2 larabar before workout and 1/2 after. My daughter makes them for me and they are so good.
I am very, very picky now when it comes to quality. I deserve quality. So I make sure I have it.
I hardly ever weigh myself. I think it is harmful to our minds because we become obsessed with the numbers instead of what we need to concentrate on. And that is our need to change how we feel about food. Fix the brain, we fix the body.
Working out has caused a problem for me as I now have reactive Hypoglycemia. It came on hard and fast. So now I have to change my program to accommodate that lovely problem. So added to what I said above I started today after talking to my dietitian, a snack at 11:00 and a snack at 3:30....one cheese the other yogurt or nuts protein of some sort.
I believe that we can tell how we are doing by the clothes we wear. I think once I hit maintenance then I will weigh myself more and be concerned if I gain and lose 5-10 lbs.
One thing you need to know is that if you are not eating enough your body will shut you down. It will protect itself so you have to be careful how you treat it. This is not a race this is a change of life a learning experience and one that did not happen over night and will not be repaired in a few months.
Hope this answered some things.

Well you are classier than I am.. I vowed to punch someone right in their stupid mouth if they ever accused me of taking the easy way out. First off, there's nothing easy about it. I suffered through two hernia repairs and struggled with all phases of the eating plan because I'm a picky eater. Kudos to you for keeping your cool. I had mine done in Reynosa, Mexico. Best hospital care I have ever had. Too bad there's a stigma surrounding surgery in Mexico.

. A loon is right and an uneducated about the surgery and all your hard work! Sounds like an episode from one if the real housewives shows!!!

Never got a chance to lecture her... Others jumped in before I could even open my mouth. Actually it's ironic she said my surgery was the "easy way". She is anti-surgery in general and was the reason we were talking about hysterectomies. She has uterine fibroids and has been bleeding for 6 months straight. Her doctor is adamant about her having a hysterectomy, but she won't because "it's really not that bad and surgery scares me".
In the end, we all left with warm fuzzy feelings and the only one who got pissed off was the one who couldn't have an orgasm...she didn't appreciate our vibrator recommendations and technique suggestions.

Ugh.. "the easy way out" ... Have they even done ANY research on the surgery and what post-op is like?? Yeah, ok.. Getting most of your stomach removed, plus the pain after surgery, plus eating next to nothing for a few weeks, gradually eating more but healthy foods, exercising, counting calories, drinking 60+ grams Protein a day... YEP. That's TOTALLY the easy way out.
Sorry for the rant. I give you props for not lecturing her like I would have