blue1961

I'm 5 months postop as of 11/1/17 & I truly hadn't compared any of my photos until lastweek, and it almost floored me... the photo on the left was on 11/4/17 & the one on the right was 3/7/17. I'm 60+ pounds down & 1 pound from my goal weight!
HW: 247 VSG:6/1/17 CW:186(11/04/17) GW:185🙄

I'm just too excited for this milestone and I know that you all would understand how major this is. Today when I got on the scale it read 198.8! This is the first time I've been in the 100s since probably high school (but I have no idea what I weighted then). I know in junior high I was 186 and I was probably shorter than I am now so this is a pretty huge success. I've never been able to lose weight like this with all of the different diets and workout plans before. I'm so thankful for the sleeve and that my doctor encouraged me to go forward with it. Since the sleeve my high blood pressure has improved, I was able to get rid of a CPAP machine and my chronic ankle pain from a childhood injury has improved a great deal. My last vacation in December I needed to use an ECV because walking was excruciating. I had another vacation last week that was three times as long and my ankle was sore some days but I was able to keep up and walk the entire time. The entire process has been so motivating and positive I couldn't possibly ask for any more.
I've now lost 112lbs since my highest weight and I'm thrilled. I definitely hope to lose some more, likely about 30-40lbs. Hopefully this will put be in a good goal range and I can focus on maintenance. I'm a little under 7 months from surgery and it feels amazing to actually have my goal weight in sight.

I got to recreate my 'before' picture and I love having the side by side comparison. I even took the same shirt and remade it into a much smaller size!

Get into counseling and see an eating disorder therapist. It’s unfair to ask yourself to go through this without the support you need.

it's not too late. There are a lot of people who've lost all their weight, then gained 50 lbs, then lost it again. You just have to go back to your program. Protein first, etc etc etc. You need to follow the rules for the rest of your life if you want to be successful. It does work...

Just by coming on here and spilling your guts, so to speak, you know you want to solve this. You took the first step, now take the second one - you know what to do.
Action precedes motivation. Do something, change something - #1 stop going to DD!!! Make your own coffee w caramel Premier Protein, #2 - track your food intake, even the bad stuff, #3 - Protein first, then veg, #4 - Vitamins, #5 - Water.
Counseling might be a good idea, or group support at least, or appt with a NUT. Come on here to vent. Go look at your before pictures, and now - pat yourself on the back - you did this! And you can revise and get back at it. Go did out your before jeans and try them on - do you want to go back to that?

It's good you have this forum to express what's really going in your life, but you're weaving a web that's going to continue downward if you can't confide in your therapist and your doctor. They are there to help you, not just pat you on the back when you're doing well. If you're lying to them, then you're going to continue to do bad. It's just the facts. If you honestly think the doctor doesn't know you're lying, you're sadly mistaken. This is what they do for a living and they know if you follow the plan, then you would get the results. Work it out. Work it out with your therapist. I'm a licensed counselor and I can tell you and hear people lie to me everyday and I just let them know, when they're ready to tell the full story and give me more facts than not, we can get further in their therapy. If not, they will always deal with the same issues and make a ton of excuses as to why they're not making the accomplishments in life that they're striving for. I hope this helps.

Thats a home run, I’m almost there 😄

I am 20 months out and feel awesome. Starting weight was 387 I never thought I would see 1?? Anything ever appear on my scale. I look at my pics now and sometimes shead tears on how much of life I missed out on because I didn't feel like doing much because of the weight. It takes work but you can do anything you put your mind to. Hope this inspires someone that is struggling right now it gets better you just have to learn how to use your tool correctly. Top left pic was my start and some pics in between bottom middle is my most current pic (pink pants) I would have never! 😂

Prior to bariatric surgery, my weight yo-yo-ed between 115 and 300. Much more time around 300 than 115.
Before approval for surgery, needed clearance from a cardiologist.
Did stress test, but due to severe labile hypertension, had to stop the treadmill and do the medication version.
Did a stress test today (5 1/2 years out, maintaining 120 lbs for over 4 1/2 years, daily workouts 7 days a week and still following the dietary guidelines I did from day one) I have a very healthy, athletic heart!!! Despite physical limitations leg braces, etc..., was able to get my heart rate into the target range, it quickly returned to normal, BP went up, then when I was done, it quickly became normal, I was only slightly out of breath during and my heart is no longer enlarged!!!
How's THAT for an NSV??!!

I'm now a few days short of six months postop. Down a total of 86lbs. (305 to 219).
First photo was day of surgery. I had already lost 16lbs on preop diet.
Second photo is today.
Third photo is my face at highest weight before preop diet.
My pants are size 14 (brand runs large). Top vest is a large. Undershirt is a tight medium.

Thanks so much. And you'll get there. Don't lose faith.

I lost 130 total. 40 of that on my own before surgery. It was very gradual for me about 2 pounds a week on average post op. A few of my early rules were. (I don't think they are original by any means)

1. Protein first!!!! If I was going to eat even a snack it had to be pure lean protein first to make sure I got my protein in. That always filled me up so I was eating very little carbs by design with little effort.

2. No eating out for a few months helped. It is so much easier to be in control in my own kitchen.

3. Get my Water in!!! No alcohol or pop. I'm permanently off pop by choice. But admit now that I'm maintaining I on occasion have a drink.

4. No deprivation. I wanted this to be a lifestyle change so I didn't treat it like a diet. It's "just how I eat now". For example I love cheese. So I eat it regularly, it's my favorite protein snack. I just don't eat a brick, I pick really strong flavored cheese so 1-2 oz is such a treat.

5. Get creative with your favorites. What food can you not live without...find a way to make it lower carb, fat etc. example. I was a Pasta junkie. Now zoodles are my friend and I enjoy them with my same Pasta Sauce. Turkey balls instead of beef meatballs.

6. I made working out a part of everyday life!!!

Like I said nothing original. Just stayed committed to myself and the plan until it stuck!!!! It's easier today but still takes making good daily choices.

I had some stalls of course. Just trust your new body, stay the course and you will succeed!!!

PS 185 is a great weight. So no beating yourself up. But if you want to loss more try going back to the basics on diet and changing up your work outs and young the water. Your body just might be in shock from the loss you've already had.

I'm happy to help with any other questions and in the mean time I'll be out here cheering you on!!!!!

I guess it's a NSV I kinda forgot my surgiversary. I'm 3 years post op and maintaining all of my 130 lb loss. (I do bounce up and down 4-5 lbs). Still tracking everything I eat, it keeps me in check. Walking 8 miles a day 6x a week. Completed a LBL earlier this year and getting ready for final skin removal on legs soon.
Just hope those starting this journey know if I can do it ANYONE can. I stuck to my Dr's diet very strictly making all the changes lifestyle changes. I don't deprive myself now, but splurges are now occasional instead of daily. And I love that my sleeve still really restricts me. It's hard to feel guilty about 1 small piece of pizza and I'm so grateful that I'm totally satisfied after that one piece.
Hopeful everyone is enjoying much success and while I don't post often, I'm always happy to help anyone in need. Feel free to reach out. I'm cheering you all on!!!!
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Hello Everyone! It's crazy that it's been 5.5 years since I was sleeved. It was the best decision I ever made. But, it's still hard! The last few months I have put back on some pounds. I'm determined to get them off and keep them off! It seemed like it was right at about the 3 year mark, that weight started to come back on really easy, and it's been a struggle since. I hadn't been on the forum here forever, so I thought I would get back on for some inspiration. Below is a before pic, and I couple of recent pics.
Starting Weight: 320
Lowest Weight since: 195
Current Weight: 213

its now been 4.5 years since I was sleeved. my high weight was 323 lbs. my goal weight was low 180's. I did reach goal weight but over the years I realized that my desired goal weight was too low for me. now for the last 2 years ive steadily maintained a weight in the mid 190's and that appears to be where im supposed to be and im happy with that weight. today 10/1/17 I weight 195 lbs. I exercise 3-4 times a week and my choice of exercise is running. I will also be running the 2018 boston marathon and im so excited about being able to run this historic race! im running it for the jimmy v foundation for cancer research and ive committed to raising $6000 which is no easy task. if any of you have ever been affected by this terrible illness feel free to click the link after this post and make a 100% tax deductible donation to the jimmy v foundation for cancer research. every dollar donated goes to research. you will be supporting my run and a cause that affects everyone as everyone knows someone that has been affected by cancer. as far as my eating, I still have to be very mindful of what I put in my mouth. I can eat much more today than I could 2 years ago but still no where near what I could eat before having the surgery. hope everyone on their journey is doing well and feel free to ask any questions. im also attaching my before pic and a few current pics taken last week. have a great day! heres my donation link for anyone willing to support this wonderful cause: http://jimmyv.convio.net/site/TR/Endurance/General?px=1409952&pg=personal&fr_id=1370

Good morning, everyone.
I am very proud to report that as of this morning, I have achieved my weight goal of 180 pounds. My one year surgery anniversary was last Thursday (September 28), and I met my goal on Monday, October 2. I have lost 217 pounds from my initial weight of 397 pounds at my first pre-op appointment on March 3, 2016. My skin has done incredibly well for a person who has lost this kind of weight. I may pursue some kind of plastics later on, but for right now, I am pretty happy. I am wearing a 30-32 waist pants/jeans/shorts, and small shirts. It is incredibly amazing to me, and I am still shocked every time I try on something new.
I still attribute so much of my success to losing 99 pounds during the six month pre-op diet program. Even this morning, my first thought was that if I hadn't done all of that work on the front end, I'd weigh 279 this morning, and not 180. For those of you that have to do the six months for your insurance company, I'd encourage you to really devote yourself during that time and get started!
For those of you that are considering WLS, this can be you, too if you commit yourself to your plan, change your relationship with food, and prioritize your health and well-being over the momentary pleasure that any food provides.
My new challenge is going to be getting the weight loss to stop. I am finding that at one year post-op, I am eating less that I was a few months ago. It is weird. The will to eat is there, but I just get incredibly full incredibly fast. I have my one-year follow-up appointment with the bariatric surgeon's staff in early November. I'll talk to them about it then.
There isn't much difference at 180 than when I weighed 185 or 186, but I am super proud to have met my goal and to "officially" be in maintenance!
Wishing everyone the very best,
Blair

I am 4 months post op. I am very happy with my weight loss, though it feels like it's going slow. I am down 53 lbs. I started back doing cardio after 6 weeks post op and I am addicted to exercise.
   Again, I feel fabulous and all my health indicators are great. I just wonder if others are experiencing slow weight loss. My doctor said all that matters is how I feel. I have to admit that it is really exciting to fit in a size 16 again!

SW - 230lbs
GW - 140lbs
CW - 160lbs
Hello everyone. I just wanted to share my story about my journey. 2 years ago I was overweight and sick. I had diabetes but required insulin 5 times a day. I have very limited activities because I get tired easily. That is why I made a decision to do this and I can tell you now without a doubt that it is the greatest decision I have made in my life! Now, I get to enjoy my life with my kids doing activities, dancing, traveling, spending time with my family and friends! I am a very busy woman as what my friends tell me... I have 5 kids (ages 25, 21, 16, 14 and 6). My two big kids have there own place already. I take care of my mother who goes to dialysis 3 times a week and I worked full time. I can tell you that I am very happy now than ever! I thank God for everything... all the blessing and the trials because HE made me a stronger and better person! I hope my story will inspire you in your journey that you will be facing! Keep positive and always fall in love with yourself!!!
      

Today is my 1 year surgiversary and I stepped on the scale to find that as of today I have lost exactly 100 lbs which was my fantasy goal!!! Proud of myself today.

On April 14, 2016 I lost my job of 14 years and I was devastated. I was already overweight and on top of that I have lymphedema. My anxiety level reached a new level. I was taking 14 medications and had 3 heart attacks within 4 years. I was only in my early 40's. Since then God has blessed me to get permanent disability payments, and Medicaid; which paid for me to have the duodenal switch surgery. I had my surgery on March 28, 2017. I started out at 467 and currently I weigh 313! I'm no longer on any medications, except Vitamins and lasix. The swelling in my legs and ankles are nearly gone. I feel and look so different. It took 6 months for me to finally see and realize how well I looked.
Sent from my LG-K550 using BariatricPal mobile app

Fitting into hubby's jeans, hiking Tahquamenon Falls, overall health and wellness! Today we celebrated our 13th anniversary with a two mile hike to an international dark sky park (in the dark)! We could see the Milky Way belt, comets and satellites! The park lit the trail with tea lights so you could find your way! It was so cool!  
Sent from my LG-TP450 using BariatricPal mobile app

Frustrating when you have a gain. I'm 3 years and I'm also here getting back on track. Not saying do as I do..This is what I've had to do to get the scale to move in my favor....
I had to detox off carbs..Once I have them I crave them. I cleared out the house. Told my husband he needs to hid his own goodies. If I find them they go in the trash. (harsh but,I too tempted right now...)
I trying to be more mindful of my choices : I'm recognizing head hunger, stress/ emotional eating, boredom eating and satisfying cravings.
Grazing . I bought a vegetable tray pack. If I feel like grazing I allow myself raw veggies. (when my head say no, I want something else..then I know it's not real hunger)
I started meal prepping on sundays. My meals are ready for the week.
I broke down and bought a food scale for more accuracy with my food app log. ( I still use myfittnesspal)
Working out is my therapy. I'm good in that area for now.
You have lost weight before you can do this again. You still have your surgery as a tool.

With a run! London marathon 2018 is my next hurdle! X

64kg gone!

Hi All,
Nice to meet you, I'm Wika, 28 y.o!
It is probably uncommon for asian, especially in my country to do VSG. I have always been heavy since I was a kid and bullied because of it (mainly from elementary to high school). My self esteem was so low that I could not even love myself. Last year I have finally decided and told my parents to get the surgery done no matter what. I hate not being able to love myself and the social pressure around me was so high. I gotta admit that the reason I did my surgery is 80% because I don't want to be called fat anymore by my peers (and family), because it hurt me. My parents allowed the surgery and paid for it (phew! glad!) and it is probably the best decision ever in my life.
I feel healthier and lighter. I no longer lose my breath when I walk down the street, I feel energetic more than ever and it definitely boosts my confidence! I feel better, happier, and healthier. I start to open myself to other people, getting to know them (and go on several dates hahaha) unlike before. I love sports more than ever and in fact I spent most of my free time at the gym now. My original weight was 97,5kg and before the surgery it was 95,5kg, now I am between 60-61kg. I am 168cm, originally size 20 for tops and bottoms, now I am size 8 (and it is still considered big in Asia).
I still want to go down a bit more, till I am 55kg, but it's a little hard to hit that weight (due to snacking hahaha). Nonetheless, I am a happier me now and I can call it a success!! Regardless the reasons for VSG, it is important for you to be a better you and remember that VSG is only a tool, not the solution.

@bogglesauce you can do anything that you put your mind to. What others achieve has nothing to do with what you can do.

Surgery is a tool only, how you use it is up to you.
Little by little you will need to change your relationship with food. Eat to live not live to eat.
Follow the program, exercise, no flour, sugar, bread, Pasta, rice or potatoes. Protein 1st, non-starchy veggies second. Non calorie liquids only, stopping 1/2 hr before & after meals. Eat when truly hungry, stop at 1st sign of full. While I treat myself occasionally, this is now my life and I never feel deprived of anything.
A helpful mindset that I heard is to tell yourself/others, "I don't eat that" rather than "I can't eat that" A simple thing, but very empowering.
Pre-surgery, I didn't weigh much less than you. Was 275 the last time I weighed myself, so was probably closer to 300. Got to 115, been maintaining 122 for almost 4 years.