My surgery (gastric sleeve) date was 2/2/15, and I have had a relatively easy recovery. I was back at work by 2/6/15 and I have felt really good. I haven't experienced any problems. I have strictly followed my liquid diet and I never exceed the 500 calories/day that my doctor advises. I have avoided caffeine and make sure that I drink at least 64 oz of Water a day and I get between 68 - 74 grams of the recommended type of Protein a day, and I never miss my Vitamins. I have also tried to be careful about my sodium intake, since I do drink about 2 - 3 cups of broth a day. I make sure I choose a lower sodium or no-salt added broth or stock.

However, after 4 weeks, I have only lost 15 lbs from my pre-surgery weight. This is about 12% of my excess body weight. I don't get it - I've lost 15 pounds a month on Weight Watchers in the past, and I didn't have a large portion of my stomach surgically removed to achieve it. My surgeon's expectations were that I should lose 20 - 25% of my excess body weight in the first 4 - 6 weeks. I haven't exercised as much as I'd planned - the weather has been terrible this month, but I know that is not a good excuse. I do get exercise in at least 3 times a week.

To say that I am frustrated is an understatement. My biggest fear pre-surgery (aside from not making it through!) was that I'd have the surgery and I'd still not be able to lose weight. I am grateful that I am not hungry, but I was really looking forward to this amazing quick weight loss at the start that everyone talked about. I was also hoping to move to the next stage in my diet and be able to eat blended food. I am afraid that the surgeon will keep me on liquids because I have only lost 6 pounds since my last office visit, 10 days post-surgery.

I feel like crying, but feeling sorry for myself isn't going to help me meet my goal. Has anyone else experienced a slower than anticipated weight loss at the beginning of their journey?

WL Warrior - Thanks so much for your message. It was really helpful, and encouraging. It is inspiring to know that you have continued to lose steadily.That is my biggest concern. Because I had a thyroidectomy, I am worried that this will impede my success. I go to the surgeon again on Thursday and I am worried that they will chastise me for not losing enough when I have been working so hard and haven't deviated from the surgeon's/dietician's recommendations at all. And after 6 weeks on a liquid diet, I am so ready to start moving to regular food and actually chew something besides my vitamins. Thank you again!

I had a total thyroidectectomy 4 years ago due to cancer & so far I've lost 90 pounds...60 of which was PreOp. As long as you are taking your meds properly, your bloodwork is where it should be and you are following your surgeons plan, you will lose weight