I got approved yesterday, but I had to speak to the dietician and she told me I cannot really expect to lose more than 60-70lbs (about 50% of my excess weight).. and that I probably am not meant to be a much smaller person however, my Dr told me he does a very aggressive sleeve and he is expecting me to lose about 80% of my excess weight.

It is just upsetting not to know who to believe, and I don't really understand how it works- does the surgery alone help you lose the original excess weight? OR can I easily still lose more weight if I continue to follow a diet plan and exercise plan? Is there really no hope for me to be 150lbs (currently 290)?

The only person you have to believe in is YOURSELF. How hard are you planning on working? How bad do you want to lose your weight? How committed are you to your own success?

You don't have to answer any of these questions out loud, you only have to be honest with yourself.

You can do anything you want to do with this surgery. There are far too many amazing success stories on this site alone to think that you can't succeed if you give it 110%.

Can you fail? ABSOLUTELY! But only if YOU allow it.

Ummm, I would believe your doctor, PLUS, I think it was rude of the nurse to say that to you because everyone knows that it all about the work that you put into it. The sleeve is just a tool to control input and the rest is up to you. WHAT THE WHAT!!!

Congratulation about your approval!

Well, if it helps any, the guidlines I have from my surgeon said to expect 60-80% (IIRC) of the weight to come off BUT you will need to figure a diet and excercise plan into the picture. I'm sure you'll hear this many times, but the surgery is just a tool. It will enhance YOUR work. Best of luck!

NUT? Not.

The doc is closer.

My doc thought he had me figured out. He thought the sleeve was not aggressive enough and wanted me to do the bypass like my wife.

Trouble is, NUTs and docs can't see into your soul. Inside me was a very stubborn and angry man who wanted to pound obesity into dust. I am not violent but once engaged my battles know no limits especially against that which threatens what is dear to me....like life.

Determination is in the heart of you, tap your tiger.

You can lose all the fat you want to, especially with this powerful tool. Grab your life with a steely grip and forge a future full of joy and freedom!