I was wondering, how long do you have to be on the protein supplements? Is it for the rest of your life?

It's an indivdual doctors preference, but I haven't used protein powder since 2 weeks post-op.

After surgery I was taking 3 Protein shakes per day, after a few months I dropped down to 2, then 1, and finally none. The protein requirements is a combination of the protein you gain from meals combined with the protein you consume from protein supplements such as Protein Shakes and Protein Bars. For my meals I concentrated on consuming high protein home made chili and Soups. That way when I reached the 1 cup per meal allocation, I was consuming about 65 grams of protein from my meals alone. In the following article I have included some recipes. http://www.breadandbutterscience.com/Surgery.pdf

Oh good, they're so expensive! I can just barely afford them, my doctor gave me guidelines but I wasn't sure if you still had to take the protein shakes once you were able to eat other sources of protein.

I haven't used the shakes/drinks since very early out, at my surgeon's request. That was a very good thing, because I couldn't stomach most of them. I do, however, have a Click Mocha Protein espresso from time to time because it's delicious!

My experience has been similar to the above posts. My Dr. prefers we wean ourselves off of the Protein shakes by the third month and get our protein from food (versus shakes). However, he doesn't have a problem if we add then to our diet on occasion for convenience. In the early stages, I think they are critical to get enough protein in each day. I credit my success to them. My favorite RTD (ready to drink) shake has been the Premier Protein. However, if you want to save money you can always get the powder and mix your own. I have also started using them in sugar free dessert recipes. Good luck!

My doc wants us off them at 6 weeks

As long as you are getting your required amount of protein in, you don't need the shakes. They are a good topper but the best way to get your protein is through your food choices.