Hey guys- what is the lowest pants size I can expect to fit in post op? I am 5'11", 180 lb and can comfortably fit in a Levi 34" today (so far from 46+ pre op).

When I say 34 fits comfortably, I mean they are pulled up around my waist where they are supposed to hang, no belt. Think of how jeans are supposed to hang ala Abercrombie and Fitch ads where there is a dude in jeans without a shirt on.

With body shaping workouts, I think 32 inch is possible. Is this a good size to target or should I be thinking about 30 or 28? What size is considered attractive in today's society?

I'm 6'6". At my highest, I was a size 56. That was 1999. When I walked into my doc's for the first time in December 2011, I was a 52. Today, 42s are feeling a little loose. My own goal is to get into 38s, which is what I wore in college. I'm really hoping to not go below that.

Still waiting for a response from Mark! Lol.

I started at a tight 50 and now can wear 38s that fit good luckily I have uniforms at work and going to a 38 next lost approx 80lbs since nov 2012 starting to see definition in arms but I do definitely need to lift more good luck.

Sorry sorry, haven't checked in on this thread, haha. I keep my lifting days completely separated from my cardio days. My cardio day lasts around 30 minutes, and my lifting days last about 1.5 hours or longer. As Mike said, you have to go in to lifting with the same mentality and intensity as running. I've noticeably lost strength, unfortunately, but I honestly expected that. It's just going to happen. Not getting as many calories, and having to take 8 weeks off lifting heavy can take a toll on things. In my past, I've been able to take a month or so break and come back strong and work my way past any barriers, I'm hoping I have the same luck once I start hitting my grooves on my lifts.

Look at some of the cross fit elite guys. They look amazing, and have stamina to run marathons in above average times, it's no where near impossible to do. They're not the strongest, but for GPP (general physical preparedness) they can handle anything that comes their way. I'll give up a little strength to be quicker on my feet, and as long as I drop weight to a lower weight class I'll still be good to go.

I am just content to reach my feet, see all of Mr. Happy when naked and not having my thighs go "tworthph tworthph" when running naked through house. Screw the jean size and enjoy the simple pleasure of being the best you that you are at this moment!!