BestYet2Come

It was a LOT easier than I anticipated. I did not feel dizzy or lack of energy. I actually felt great. Mentally I would tell myself a couple of things: 1) my body is getting all the nutrition it needs, so no need to be nervous, 2) a successful pre-op diet equals a safer surgery and quicker recuperation. Remind yourself of that if you feel like cheating. But honestly, you will be fine. (in the interest of full disclosure, the toughest part for me was the first week post op - having Clear Liquids only).

I am the same way. Two days post op I was about to have a panic attack over the fear of a leak (which never happened, btw). A very good friend who is a OBGYN and who went through the surgery helped me get over it. The chances of a leak are less than 5 percent (2 percent if your surgeon is very experienced). Chances of something going wrong during a C-Section, for example, are much higher. Need I remind you how many safe deliveries happen everyday? Breathe. Really. Stay in tune with your body in order to be safe, but please do not over worry. You can make yourself physically sick with worry, and that is one problem you can control and avoid. Also, DO NOT read about sleeve complications on the internet for the next two weeks. Focus on the success stories only. If you are still feeling anxious, talk to your doctor about taking Xanax or another medication to help you relax. Stay strong, we are here for you. ((hugs))

About 850/day.

Is the pain on your back or abdomen? Doesn't sound dangerous, but I would call the doctor/nurse, just to be safe. Feel better!

Labneh (sour cheese, middle eastern cheese) is only 30 calories for 2 tbps and it tastes delish. Great as spread, for dipping (add a little olive oil and salt), or i/o sour cream. Also, if you like Tzaziki (Greek dip), costco is now selling Hannah's brand of it and it is to die for. Great way to add moisture to Protein. xo

The first week post op was the most difficult for me. I just wanted to say that it too shall pass, so don't panic. Seize this time of low caloric intake with the certainty that you will eventually eat again, regardless of your post op menu. Best of luck!

Surgery date: Dec 16 2013 HW: 255 SW: 241 CW: 217 38lbs lost!

--Where on FB? Thanks! I'm here but been mostly on Facebook and mfp I weighed in yesterday at 200.2 from my highest last october at 260 and surgery day (12.12) was about 235-6. Slow losing but getting so many compliments and clothes are becoming incredibly loose. Today marks my 2 month surgiversary!!!! or 9 weeks out tomorrow. Good luck everyone And congrats!

After the crossed legs joy, another big victory...NOT USING A BELT EXTENSION ON A FLIGHT. Yeap! I still brought my own extension, as I always do, but I didn't have to use it! It felt great. Liberating!

It depends on so many factors (starting weight, height, gender, metabolism, etc.) I lost 14lbs in 2 weeks (12 days of liquid Protein shakes and 2 days of clear liquids.)

There is a "Band to Sleeve" revision section on this forum. I would encourage you to visit, ask the same question there, as I am sure you will receive great feedback of very experienced patients. I did consider the band at some point, but the feedback I received from patients, surgeons and other professionals in the bariatric industry was that the band proved to be very problematic, while the sleeve was gaining popularity because of its risk/result profile. Best of luck!

You are NOT alone. I got scared the week prior and then 1-2 days before the surgery I started getting really excited about it. If you read enough posts on this board, you will find that is not an unusual pattern. Just like you, I was in a panic about not being able to get enough fluids, get dehydrated, end up in the hospital after the surgery, etc. RELAX. It won't be as difficult as you think. As long as you sip water throughout the day, you will be fine, at the hospital and at home. Be mentally prepared for the first two weeks after surgery. Those were the hardest for me. The thought of having another sip of anything broth drove me to tears. But it too shall pass and soon you will be able to eat nearly everything again. As a matter of fact, I am 8 weeks post surgery and I can eat everything basically. I have had zero rejection. I can eat nuts, salads, chicken, beef, pork, all fruits, all veggies, dairy...everything (well, haven't really had any sweets - and don't want to). The trick is to eat slowly. This forum is an amazing support tool. Focus on the reward and don't get scared. You can do this! Best of luck,

HW: 255 SW: 241 (Dec 16, 2013) CW: 218 37 lost.

My dear friends, this morning I kept my legs crossed for the longest time while sitting at work...JUST BECAUSE I CAN. Hahaha. (grin). Where else could I say this but this great forum? I know you all get it. ((hugs))

Are you exercising? Have you pulled any muscles? I had the same smooth surgery experience as you (sleeved on Dec 16th). Pretty late in the game I felt some abdominal discomfort (no nausea though) and my doctor said it could be a pulled muscle or nerve because of the many ports used during surgery. It went away and I don't feel anything now. Make sure to stay in touch with your doctor, but remember to breathe and stay calm. I personally can make myself physically sick out of worrying. Best of luck,

I have to try it! For the past year I have gotten addicted to Chobani's Coconut/Almond Greek Yogurt, but it is loaded with calories (230) - it is more like a meal. Yours sounds like a healthier alternative, thanks for sharing!

What a great idea!

I havent eaten raw spinach since the surgery, but I have had a ton of spinach on my morning omelet and had no issues!

Thanks for sharing your story, I am sure it will help others prepare for the surgery. You clearly did your homework and your commitment to a healthier lifestyle obviously saved your life. Congratulations on your perseverance and success!

Hi friends! I thought we could start a thread of great low-calorie, high Protein, or just plain delicious food products as we re-learn our diets. I recently found this DELICIOUS blue cheese salad dressing that is yogurt based and has just 35 calories for 2 tablespoons. There are different kinds also (Ranch, Honey Mustard, etc.). I have used it on salads (yes, I can tolerate lettuce!) but also to moisten my Proteins (steak, chicken, etc.). I will post more as I remember other products. I hope this is helpful to someone! What is your favorite food item these days? xoxo http://www.bolthouse.com/products/dressings/creamyyogurts

Amazing!! Congratulations - you will be in the 190s before you know it!! So proud of you!

The treatment is not fun, but it provides life changing results. Good luck!

Walk, walk, walk as much and as often as you can after the surgery. It will help with gas, your digestive system, your breathing and your overall healing process. I am sorry for the bad news, but I wish someone had warned me about it...the clear diet now is nothing compared to having to stay on it for another 7 days post surgery. That was the hardest part. BUT, it it gets easier everyday from that point. Hang in there, and congratulations!!!

Same story here as Comfy_Blue. I got my period on the day of the surgery. I had to wear disposable underwear given by the hospital along with a huge pad (similar to when you give birth, not sure if you have children). I was fine taking care of myself after surgery, no issues. BUT, you must get up and walk as soon as you can and as much as you can. You will feel bloated from surgery and your period might just make it a bit worse. Good luck, you will be fine!

I agree with BladeFox. I think you should contact your primary care physician and discuss the results of the ultrasound. Have you done any blood work for the surgery yet? I am sure it will be very telling if there is anything wrong, which hopefully is not the case! Best of luck,