This will be my 11th month post surgery. So happy I had the procedure. I have two non-important questions, but they have been on my mind, nonetheless. Will there come a point where we can use a straw, and secondly, will we ever be able to eat popcorn? I know the reasons for not using or having either one in the beginning, but what about a year later? I will ask my surgeon the next time I see him, too.

I have been using a straw since I was 3 month post op with my surgeons permission. No problems at all! At 11 months post op you should be able to eat popcorn now. Just beware that it is empty carbs but an occasional treat is not a problem.

I have used a Water bottle with a bite valve from the day I got home from the hospital. It's not exactly the same as a straw, but it's similar. I've used a drinking straw in restaurants several times with no ill effects...and my surgeon doesn't forbid their use after about 3 months. I'm 5.5 months out & just had a little popcorn last weekend at the movies. I ate maybe half a cup, with no problems....except that it was yummy & I wanted more.

I drink from a straw with no problems and I'm able to drink a lot of water. I feel normal, but eat less and focus on getting 100g's of protein a day so I don't lose my hair. I'm 2 1/2 months out and won't eat popcorn. I do my best to not eat carbs like popcorn or crackers as they were the main reason I was unable to control my eating.

Thank you all for your responses. They were very helpful.

I can identify with the hair loss, as I went through that myself. After several months, getting more Protein, and using Biotin, my hair seemed to grow in thicker and wavier. I am not complaining, though.

Looks like you got some good answers. I've moved this to the post-op forum so you can get even more!