I'm 8 weeks post op RNY bypass. I'm losing phenomenal weight. I've lost 2 pants sizes, down to a size 16 and they are not tight. My shirts hang. I know I'm smaller, but in the mirror I still see the same person. I feel like I look the same and I know I can't possibly. I don't have hanging skin that's swaying my eyes. I just don't know what up. I'm also disheartened because not one person has said anything and I'm sure that is contributing to my self view. I'm taking progress photos and I'm still just not able to see it in the photos. But I know it's drastic because my clothes hang on me. Is this normal?

It takes time for your head to catch up with the reality of how you look as you’re losing and when you’ve stabilised. Many of us could share stories of not recognising ourselves or misjudging sizing even well into maintenance. I saw a woman wearying the same outfit as me & thought oh she’s so slim & looks better in it than me then realised it was me in a reflection.

You’ll find too that others have the same issue: they see you as you were not as you are & will continue to do so for some time. The other thing is that some notice your weight loss but are reluctant/scared to say anything in case there is an upsetting reason behind it like a serious illness. Wait until the other extreme though & you get those ‘well meaning’ but judgemental comments from people like telling you you’ve lost too much weight.

Keep taking the pxts of yourself (measuring yourself can also be helpful) & eventually you’ll start to see the reality of your weight loss & others will too.

Congratulations on what you’ve achieved so far. Excited to hear more about your continued success.

Indeed, it is entirely typical. Body image lag is the term for the tendency for your mind to take longer to adjust after significant weight loss. Your brain still perceives the previous version of yourself, even if your clothing fits differently. You'll eventually be able to observe the change more clearly if you continue to take progress shots. Additionally, it's normal for people to remain silent to avoid saying the wrong thing, so don't worry if no one has commented. Keep being patient and happy with your accomplishments; you're doing fantastic!

Once you wear tighter clothes people will notice

Body dysmorphia is common I feel.. I have lost 133#s and I still looked in the mirror and see my 277# self. Others tell me wow you look great or comment on how small I am getting,, but it doesn't feel that way.. The only times I myself see a change is after i shower , when I wrap my towel around me. Then I feel that I lost inches, but it don't last long, soon as I get dressed, and look in the mirror is a fun house all over again. So I just try and tell myself, you look great, your are doing a great job and continue on this journey. So try not to let it get to you or discourage you from anything,, It will all work out.. Good luck on your new life.