Hello folks,

Is it normal to lose weight and then gain a little weight back to "level off"?

I started at 265, went down to 185, and now weigh 196 (gained 11 pounds in 3 months ).

Is this supposed to be expected?

I'd say some bounce back is expected and fairly normal.

I'd say that eleven pounds in three months is probably a bit more bounce than you want, though. If you're comfortable with your weight and can maintain it there's not an issue. The concern is that you don't get complacent and slowly allow yourself to put 20, 30 or 50 pounds back on.

I'd start by tracking your intake as it is, right now, with no changes for at least three days. Log onto myfitnesspal or a similar site and record every single bite or sip you're taking.

If your numbers look like they're where they should be, I'd say you have a choice to either attempt to lose the weight and get back to your goal (which is absolutely possible and will simply take time) or you can accept this larger weight as normal and move forward.

If your caloric intake is higher than you expected or higher than you feel it should be, well, at that point you know what to do: address any bad habits that might have crept back in and keep yourself accountable.

The best part about the sleeve is that the restriction stays forever. There is no trouble dropping ten pounds at 18 months, 2 years or even 5 years down the line.

Good luck,

~Cheri