When can I stop sipping and drink like a normal person? I've been so thirsty for water and it drives me nuts that I can only sip at it. Btw I'm 3 weeks post-op.

You may be able to take a little bigger sips, but you stomach is still quite swollen at this point. I would highly recommend that you call your surgeons office first so that your not jeopardizing your stapleline or anything like that. Just keep sipping. It's frustrating but well worth the pain in the arse.....

Agree with Ms skinnines, you might be able to take larger sips, but you won't know til you try. I am 5 weeks post op and only "sipped" at the very beginning (first week?) I now take "sips" about half the size of what I did pre-op and it feels normal to me. Sometimes when I am thirsty I might take a drink that is too big and I can tell right away cause my sternum will hurt for a minute.

I think the time varies with everyone but it was a good 8 months before I realized I didn't have to think about my sip size. I was able to gulp a little then too.