SoCalEm

This was the moment I was overwhelmed by my sheer hard work and all I’ve accomplished: fitting absolutely PERFECTLY into an airplane seat. I was so excited. When I was first considering WLS, I said I just wanted to be able to do something as simple as being comfortable and able to move down the asile without bumping shoulders along the way.

I actually cried when we took off. I was a huge moment for me.

Thank you everyone! Yes, seeing the amount of hair in the mesh drain cover is disturbing. I’m heartened to hear it has grown back for you all.

I appreciate your replies!

On 7/10/2022 at 7:35 AM, fourmonthspreop said:

Hey! Glad to hear from everyone. I had my surgery Feb 14 and have lost about 66 lbs post OP and total weight loss 97 lbs in both pre and post op phases.

I am feeling very mehh mentally. I was stalled out for a long time in the 250s but I recently broke the stall which is great but physically I really don't like how I look. I'm having a very hard time embracing the weight loss because my body still looks the same as it did at 340 lbs, just a smaller version now with loose and droopy skin.

I cannot stop thinking about getting my arms done because I have huge loose upper arms with saggy droopy skin. It's 100+ degrees here and I refuse to wear short sleeve shirts never mind tank tops because I am so self-conscious about my arms. I am wearing long sleeve shirts and button-ups for now. I tried a girdle to suck me in but it just makes the loose skin on my armpit/back stick out and looks HORRIBLE.

I am honestly having a really hard time accepting myself. I look in the mirror and still see a huge person and the fact that I'm not at my weight loss goal really adds to it. I'm also losing my hair and my front hair line is so thinned out, if my hair gets oily there's a bald spot on the left front side that is almost impossible to cover up. I just feel so ugly.

I am trying to wash my hair less (because the majority of it falls out in the shower), brush it incredibly gently, and sleep on a silk pillowcase but I'm not sure there's much else to do about Hair loss, just let the thing run its course and it is supposed to come back within a year. Dying my hair dark, dark brown helps it look fuller.

Physically I feel better but still deal with crunching knee pain, I think that's just from having no cartilage in the knee and needs a medical intervention beyond weight loss. The knee pain overall has improved but there's no cartilage in my right knee and it still gets very painful. On the bright side I can run and run up stairs without getting out of breath. I don't sweat unless I'm doing something very strenuous too to the intense heat and long sleeves doesn't bother me too much because I don't really get that hot.

I am only allowing weigh-ins once a month from here on out because I was obsessive about it and the number makes me incredibly depressed. I am not concerned about my diet or my movement - I follow what I'm supposed to be doing well so there's no sense in stepping on the scale every day. And the last two times I've checked the number went down from my previous stall.

All the loose skin, lumps, nothing is flat or smooth and I'm still in my 20's, haven't had kids and am just so upset I did this to myself. I am obviously very happy about the weight loss but it's like now that a lot of weight has come off, I am now mentally dealing with the shame and regret I feel in letting myself get as heavy as I was. In the moment, I didn't think about it because I was so disconnected from my body - I always thought it's not that bad but now that I see how much my body has changed, I feel ashamed of myself.

I am really working on "owning" my body at this point. I want to have a plastics consultation to see when and how they'd be willing to operate on me but until then, I just need to realize what's changed for the better. I just wish the body dysmorphia and self-hatred would go away but as everyone says, it doesn't. You still have to put the work in and that's my main priority right now.

Anyway, sorry I am kind of venting here. Thanks if you made it this far. I'm incredibly interested to hear how everyone is doing too, physically, mentally, etc.

I’m having an awful time with Hair loss too. I posted a plea for suggestions to hear from others coping also. I already had very thin hair and loss to begin with and I didn’t expect the loss to be so profound. It might just come with the territory, like the loose skin. A kid I know calls them angel wings. That makes it sound better.

I can empathize with the lumps and saggy skin. It crept up on me overnight and now I can’t stop poking at the spare tire of flab. All I see now is the muffin top and there’s nothing I can do on my own to make it go away.

It helps to focus on the things I can do now and all the possibilities we have. There’s so much more we can do in our healthier bodies and you’re fortunate to start this weight loss journey so early in life.

Take care.

Hello! I’m just 5 months post-op and doing fantastic. Everything’s gone so well thus far except for the crazy amounts of hair I’m losing. It started a few weeks ago and hasn’t let up.

I knew this would happen and it’s an easy price to pay for how healthy and happy WLS has made me. I’m wondering if anyone knows of a way to combat or at least mitigate the loss?

My hairstylist suggested a supplement called Viviscal, and castor oil for my scalp, and Shampoo and conditioner that regrow and thicken hair. Has anything worked for you?

Thanks in advance!

Hi all! Reporting in!

I’m officially down 83lbs since surgery on 2/3/22. Previously size 2XL-3XL and 20, now size Small/Med and size 10. I’ve never felt better or been happier.

I’m stoked about what I see in the mirror but am bummed that the excess skin/fat gives me a muffin-top in fitted clothes. Better healthy and saggy though!

My hair started falling out a couple weeks ago and it’s a LOT. I knew it would happen but it’s unsettling nonetheless.

How is everyone else doing? We’re 5 months past. Can you believe how much life has changed??

I'm feeling it too, but as a result of not seeing the drastic and rapid changes I did in the first few months. I actually GAINED weight for the first time since being sleeved and while it was just 1 lb., it was disheartening. I got used to seeing the number drop by several pounds each week and the gain was sobering. I felt like it was the start of a downward spiral. Anyhow, I'm afraid of not being as pleased with how I look in the mirror, but it is what it is.

We've made huge strives and I'm trying to keep that in mind.

No lie, I was angry initially. I don't think I could've stuck to the regulations had I not lived alone. I was fortunate in that case, and didn't cohabitate until almost two months later. I was told my taste buds would reset and have they ever. Because I was eating foods with so much sugar, things like strawberries, oranges, and grapes, just didn't cut it for me. Now that I've abruptly stopped bingeing on added sugars formulated in laboratories and not found anywhere in nature, fruit is a treat to me. I never thought an orange would be so delicious!

For me, it was a last resort. I had a come-to-Jesus moment when I realized all else had failed as nothing ever stuck. I was lucky enough to have had a therapist who'd specialized in eating disorders and she was my biggest cheerleader. The absolute necessity of eating nutritious food, and just enough to meet daily goals, forced a reset in my relationship with food. I feel so much better physically and (with very close monitoring by my psychiatrist) am taking one med as opposed to two. Mood swings caused by my sugar addiction have been been eliminated and now I'm able to work on the inherent stuff. It was and continues to be a total gamechanger.

Honestly the Constipation was more painful for me than the surgery itself. I had to see a doctor because I thought I was dying (swear it) but since incorporating fruits with Fiber (especially apples) and green veggies, it hasn't been as bad as before.

I've found it to be an issue again when I slack on veggies and Water. My nurse recommended Smooth Move tea but I haven't tried it yet.

Hang in there!

I have 6-8oz of unsweetened soy milk and 1 scoop of Gold Standard whey Protein powder. That equates to 31g of protein and around 200 calories. It's a lot for my daily limit but it boosts my protein recommendation of 7-100g. The double rich chocolate flavor with a little cinnamon has yet to get old!

This brings up a question I logged on to ask! I've never had a thyroid issue until my labs came back almost 4 months later (now). They indicate a low TSH, but my T4 was normal. Doc thinks it's an anomaly so I'm going back for more bloodwork in 6 weeks.

Has hyperthyroid begin after WLS? I'm thinking it might've resulted from that...

On 5/15/2022 at 10:26 PM, SleeveDiva2022 said:

My stomach doesn't growl at ALL. I keep reading that it happens a lot, so I'm waiting for it, but nothing so far. I eat until I'm comfortable and then I stop.

I think that's the point, to eat until you're comfortable. That's what we're supposed to get used to. Since getting sleeved almost 4 months ago, I've really learned how to tune into my body and hunger signals. Chewing 30 times or until the food dissolves forced me to slow down and be aware of everything I put in my mouth. The challenging part has been what I've chosen to put in!

A tip I have I to drink as much Water, and as often, as you can. I found I'm significantly hungrier when I'm low on it. And adhere to stop drinking 30 minutes prior to eating, and waiting 30-45 minutes before drinking again.

I’ve always entered a room, store, get together, etc and felt like everyone was staring at me because I was so heavy. It was constantly in my mind. Now that I’ve dropped from 2-3XL sizes to M-L sizes, it’s never a concern. It feels like a “weight” has been lifted and I’m free from the paranoia.

It's been almost 3 months since my surgery, and I have to say that carbonation is the thing I miss the most. Even just unflavored seltzer Water. I'd like to try it again at least 6 months out, but I'm afraid it'll lead right back to soda. Good to hear that at least carbonation isn't completely off the table.

I’ve been doing lots of research into sugar and how it effects the body in every aspect. It’s funny that the CDC advises you limit added sugar intake to less than 10% of your total daily calories, while the AHA recommends a limit of 6% daily. I’ve cut out most processed foods and my sugar consumption is very minimal. I can’t tell you what a difference it’s made to my moods and energy levels. My tastebuds no longer need that hit of sweetness that only come from laboratories and whole food like tart strawberries and oranges do the trick. If I really crave chocolate, I go for dark chocolate chips.

Hello! I’m about 6 weeks post op and have been really bad about taking both my multi chewable and Calcium Vitamins. It’s honestly been close to two weeks now, and I’m feeling very off. Tired, not able to focus much, loopy. I started taking them again three days ago but I’m wondering if anyone else has experienced the same thing?

2 hours ago, D Determined said:

Hi, I am new too. Had my surgery 2-16-22 and still confused about alot. Seems all surgeons are different and tell their patients different from what I am reading. I was told to advance to soft mushy foods yesterday 2-28-22 and prior to that it was anything I could drink through a straw but not to use a straw, but that included Soup. Still though confused on what type of foods that are allowed now. We had a zoom meeting with many and I don't remember that coming up, other than the amount of Protein we needed and that we could have chicken broth and chicken and stars the first week. So going thorough all my hand outs given but don't see anything about processed food such as campbell's Soups other than no Tomato Soup. Wondering if things like canned deviled ham or deviled chicken is allowed? Does anyone know or a good resource?

Hi! My program stresses lean Proteins at the stage I'm in (pureed), so I'm eating canned chicken breast, tuna, and sometimes egg salad. They cautioned me on sodium, which is usually very high in canned and condensed Soups. I think the concern is sodium can dehydrate you. Sounds funny, but I searched on Pinterest for simple recipes I could make at home and customize to my liking. Many of the pins link to bariatric patient geared sites with people years into their journey, so there's lots of insight and tips.

On 2/26/2022 at 7:24 PM, HE_TheBrave said:

I’m 5 days post surgery and super excited to connect with you all. I’m struggling with a few things, namely getting in my fluids, pain management and low blood sugar issues. I spoke to my doctor today who recommended that I try some thinned out cream of wheat to add some carbs and try to keep my blood sugar at a more normal level. Is anyone else dealing with this? Also, what are you doing to make sure that you get enough Fluid. I’m trying, but it just seems overwhelming and even with my small 3 ounce shot glasses, I don’t feel like I’m getting even close to 40 ounces of fluids. I’m at the high 20s, low 30s.

Hello! Hydration has been my biggest challenge thus far. I was on it up until I started working again, and now sipping every 15 minutes has fallen by the wayside. Everything feels so off when I don't drink. My suggestion is to be dilligent in starting your sips upon waking up, and carrying on until bedtime. I have the Bariastic app to keep track of ounces and the alarm sounds every 15 min. Just be careful not to let too much time pass between "doses", otherwise it's almost impossible to catch up. Good luck!!

On 2/19/2022 at 1:36 PM, MimmyMim said:

I really like the Ricotta Bake and got a great sugar free marinara from Amazon. I have not been very adventurous with pureed food at all. I have had a scrambled egg, chicken with a little mayo, and the Ricotta Bake. The very first thing I made was a Buffalo chicken puree. What a mistake! I was miserable for an entire day. Right now I am doing two Protein Shakes and one pureed meal a day. I know need to get over the fear and try to get some more pureed food in.

I've been sticking to the same old, too. Chicken and mayo, tuna, egg salad. No sugar added applesauce is my go-to side. I bought a sugar free BBQ Sauce called G Hughes, so yesterday I heated up a tiny bowl of pureed chicken and mixed in a dab of sauce. Can't recommend it enough!

On 2/16/2022 at 11:48 AM, mikala360 said:

Hi all! I was sleeved on 2/1/22. Just found this app/group. I am in NC. Just trying to figure out this new stomach thing...

Sent from my SM-G781U using BariatricPal mobile app

Hello! I was sleeved 2/3. The new stomach thing is weird, right? It was odd at first to feel the full sensation in my chest as opposed to under my ribcage. Our pouches tell us when we're finished eating now! It feels like I've got floaties on to help keep me from sinking to the bottom of the pool. 🤣

Have you had any changes to your taste buds? Apparently I no longer love intense artificial sugar flavor. I am in no way sorry about that.

21 hours ago, MeganMyers said:

Wow! Lots of activity as we are all getting our procedures done! I wanted to update everyone.

I had the VSG done in Mexico on 2/3/22. This was the 1st time doing Medical Tourism like this and I felt safe.

I was picked up from the San Diego airport at 7:15am and took a short ride across the boarder. My blood work was done, spoke to cardiologist, EKG, X-rays, and surgery team. I had my VSG same day (around 1ish). Protocol for this hospital is 2 nights at the hospital and 1 at a nearby hotel. While most of my surgery siblings (5 of us total per day) were up and walking hours after, I was not. I struggled a bit more. In fact, I nearly slept the entire 2 nights I was in the hospital. We were then taken to the hotel for the last night. I ordered the liquids “Bariatric tray” from room service but didn’t really touch them. The one this I made 100% sure I did was drink Water. Again, while some of my surgery siblings explored Tijuana, I slept.

I was taken back to the San Diego airport for my flight home on Sunday. I asked the airport for a wheelchair (this was a must for me!!!) hubby picked me up after my short flight back to Az.

My plan was to take Mon and Tuesday off, returning to work Wednesday. I spent Monday sleeping and Tuesday becoming more and more dehydrated all day long. Wednesday I located an IV hydration office and felt like a new woman.

A few things I have learned about my body in this process:
When I need to rest, my body will force it.
Dehydration is NO joking matter.
My pouch does not like cold liquids (took me a bit to figure this out, I am stubborn)
Pain is a sign, listen to it.

I am starting to get my full amount of liquids in now 😁 and am moving on to adding Protein. . . Slowly.

So true. For the first time of perhaps my life, I had to listen to my boy and give it what it needed. The hardest part for me was recognizing the warning signs and responding before it got out of hand. I was upset that I was so physically weak and thought I was just exaggerating. I was suspicious and couldn’t trust my physical limitations yet. That changed only after I stopped fighting it and realized how exhausted I was.

Glad you’re doing better! To anyone pre or barely just post, don’t ignore your signals. Healing takes its own time and we’ll all different.

19 hours ago, MeganMyers said:

A few things I have learned about my body in this process:
When I need to rest, my body will force it.
Dehydration is NO joking matter.
My pouch does not like cold liquids (took me a bit to figure this out, I am stubborn)
Pain is a sign, listen to it.

So true. For the first time of perhaps my life, I had to listen to my boy and give it what it needed. The hardest part for me was recognizing the warning signs and responding before it got out of hand. I was upset that I was so physically weak and thought I was just exaggerating. I was suspicious and couldn’t trust my physical limitations yet. That changed only after I stopped fighting it and realized how exhausted I was.

Glad you’re doing better! To anyone pre or barely just post, don’t ignore your signals. Healing takes its own time and we’ll all different.

On 1/26/2022 at 4:30 PM, ClareLynn said:

This is why they want you on a backup method of birth control (like condoms or an iud) since your contraceptive pill may not work as well for the first year.

I was told the pill was much less effective (not always absorbed fully after surgery) and coupled with the flood of estrogen, fertility is amped up. OB/GYN recommend condoms or IUD.

I just had VSG last week so I’m still learning the ropes. I hope that’s helpful!

2 hours ago, freckledmegan said:

When do we start taking our Vitamins? In all the classes I took, I didn't get any instructions for that.

Sent from my SM-G970U using BariatricPal mobile app

Hi @freckledmegan! I started chewable multi on day 1. I got the Bariatric Advantage brand and they are tolerable enough. I start the calcium chews 1 month after. The same brand and the variety flavored pack. Those are actually tasty.

This was the surgeon’s suggestion following the VSG.

On 2/6/2022 at 3:27 PM, ShoppGirl said:

A very small number of people do have actual hunger pains immediately post surgery but it is more likely to be head hunger. One way to distinguish is that head hunger you usually crave something specific- usually something that’s not the best choice for you while actual

hunger even the healthiest (not favorite) choices sound good.

Thanks, @ShoppGirl. Today is my first day of full liquids and it’s been SO much easier getting my Protein count up. Hunger pains are only when I’ve gone too long between shakes so I’m feeling much more optimistic and encouraged.