ButterflyBandita??

I've lost 55 lbs in 7 months, but most of it came off in the first 4. I'm still getting smaller each month even though I'm not really losing weight. it's odd how that works, but I'm not complaining.

55 lbs, but I lost most of it in the first 4 months. These last few months, I've probably only lost 10 lbs, but have gone down several sizes.

LOL! I didn't have the money. I begged and borrowed and am still paying it all back.

It was a tough decision - especially since I revised only 9 months after having my band installed. But once I got it in, and wasn't losing weight (and having such difficulty with fills and restriciton), I started researching other options. When I found the success that everyone had with the sleeve, I was blown away. I went to MX for both surgeries, but with different doctors. I thought I was crazy paying so much money for surgery in one year, but guess what? I'm SO happy I did it. If I hadn't, I'd still be exactly like I was in my before picture .

The "dumping" always seemed to come when I would have something sugary. Anything from a high carb Protein shake to oranje juice to ice cream. That seems to have totally settled down. Now my stomach issues are a result of having my gall bladder removed. I'm exactly 6 weeks from that surgery and have trouble with anything fatty, but it isn't all the time. For instance, I can eat a few nachos one day, but then the next day, if I eat them they might go right through me. The doctor said that that usually resolves for most people after a while, as the body adjusts. But he also said that for some, they always have the issue. K

Thank you! Thank you! It feels amazing! Did I ever, in my adult life think that someone would refer to me as "teeny tiny"? NO WAY! And I love it. I've had men comment on how small I am, and even pick me up out of the blue and I'm always still in shock. I still feel like the chubby girl and notice all the fat I still have to lose. It really does take your brain time to catch up to the old bod! I really appreciate the positive comments though! I never thought I would get to this place (figured I'd be the ONE it wouldn't work for) and its finally here! My advice to everyone? Just do it and Protein first! xoxoxoxox

Thank you, thank you. You'll notice I have the same big, goofy, (drunken) smile in both pics - it is a party bus trip after all. But I guarantee, I'm MUCH happier in the second photo!

I know for me, the beginning was the most difficult. I was hungry and wanted to EAT! If you are "cheating" just really make sure you are being safe. I'd say egg salad is a pretty safe "cheat". It does get easier once you start with your Protein. Just remember, your stomach is all freaked out right now and your brain is used to eating massive meals, frequently (at least that was the case with me). Once you're all healed, you won't be able to eat much. Good luck!

I would only use those as a back up. Find a canned / bottled Protein shake you like, some yogurts, cheese sticks, almonds or pistachios and those rotisserie chickens. Throw a bunch of those items in your lunch box and eat what you are in the mood for throughout the day. Real food is way better than the frozen ones, but in a pinch, they totally work. Good luck!

I had my surgery in Mexico on a Tuesday and went back to my office (and my 3 kids, and my one hour commute) on Monday. And it was difficult. I was exhausted! And I made stupid mistakes at work. But, we do what we have to do and I don't regret a thing. Now, 7 months later, I'm hovering near my goal and I still have my job - even after all those mistakes I made. I'd say skip the exercise for now. Rest when you can and baby your new stomach. It is sensitive right now.

You look great girl! I'm still amazed as I often go into my closet to put on a shirt (which I haven't been as good about replacing as my bottoms) and it will be so baggy on my. I don't feel like I've lost much weight or that there's a big difference, until I try on old clothes. Good for YOU!

Thank you both. I feel great! I remember when I was deciding on the surgery (and during those tough first few weeks), the before and after photos and success stories really kept me focused and motivated.

Hi Everyone, I wanted to provide an update on my progress. I've been 100% happy with my sleeve. I converted from the band back in October 2010. I was banded in Jan 2010 at 200 lbs and only lost 15 lbs from that time untill October when I revised. I hated the band! Weightloss with the sleeve has been effortless. Yes, I struggled with dumping and other weird side effects. I even had to have my gallbadder removed 6 weeks ago and now have diarhea, but you know what? I'd do it all again in a heart beat. I went to Mexico and saw Dr. Rodriguez through BeLightWeight (or however they spell it). The first few months I really focused on Protein first, etc, etc. but the past few months, I really just eat (AND DRINK) whatever I want. My weight loss has slowed down the last 2 months, but I still lose. I also haven't exercised much at all either. Just eating small portions. VERY small portions. I'm now down to 128 and am fine with that. I'll maybe lose 10 more, as I'm only 5'3", but I'm in the normal range now, wearing sizes 1 - 4 and feeling generally pretty great. I did lose some hair and it seems to hav stopped now, but again. Totally worth it. I"m inlcuding some pictures of a yearly bus trip that I take with friends each year at the end of April. The first one is from last year, and the second one is a side view of me at this year's trip. I still couldn't beleive that was me when I saw the picture. I'd be happy to answer any questions. YOU CAN DO THIS!

I'm just a few days away from my 4 month surgiversary and thought I'd share the good and the bad. The Good: I started at 185 and am now down to 144 I'm in a size 8 and headed to a size 6 on my next shopping trip Lots of compliments and people calling me thin are fantastic (who me? thin?) My thighs no longer rub together and in fact, I have a camel toe when i put on leggings . . . and I'm wearing leggings! Things are toning up nicely. I'll loose like 4 lbs, then stall for a week or two and then things will reshape and tighten up. The Bad: I think my gallbladder needs to come out. I've had several strong attacks that have knocked me to the ground. Getting official tests soon I'm spending too much money on clothes and bras that I've outgrown. I love buying new clothes, but hate to see them go so quickly My fiance moved out two months ago . . . maybe I'm just too sassy for him now I have major stomach issues like diarrhea, gas, gurgling, etc Still trying to figure out meals Would I do it again? Absolutely. Good luck to all and here's to hoping you all gain a camel toe in the near future.

I'd love the chance to meet everyone! Vegas is definitely closer and probably easier for planning, but I'm open. Maybe someone could put together a few possible itineraries and associated costs for each and then we can do a vote and go from there.