aelovelady

I was 238 lbs and a size 18-20 or 2 xl. I am now a size 8 or medium. I have lost 86 lbs in 5.5 months.

Yes, you will get so used to it you won't even think twice.

If you are talking about the breaded, fried cheese sticks I would say the calories would far outweigh the protein benefit.

I was quoted a cost of 16,500 without insurance, if that helps! Also, if you call the surgeon they can give you the code for the procedure, which should allow bcbs to assist you. Good luck. Worth every penny insurance or not

I was basic federal bcbs, I think 500 was my total out of pocket. The plan brochure is online and pretty much explains everything. Also, I called them at the 1-800 number and they were very helpful.

Great! Keep to the plan and it will work for you, I promise!

Yes, but if you rupture your pouch by eating things you shouldn't thry will have to cut you open, from breastbone to belly button to clean you out and repair the damage.

I didn't use any protein pre-op, or vitamins. Just a 3 day liquid diet (no protein).

I never had a drainage tube (after surgery), feeding tube or catheter. I am not sure where you are getting your info, but I would ask your surgeon. I also didn't have a pain pump, just liquid morphine (I think) while I was in the hospital and nothing at all once I was discharged (my surgeon's philosophy is that if you need pain meds you need to be in the hospital). I didn't even need to take a Tylenol once I got home. Good luck!

I was only on protein for the first two weeks, it was expensive ($55) my son used what was left over. My surgeon doesn't want his patients drinking calories and says you get better protein from solid food. You will have to see what your doctor says. I get my vitamins from Batiatric advantage, but you don't have to. They are about $36 a month and I also get calcium chews from them, they cost about $32 for 45 days. There are less expensive alternatives out there, but these worked for me. My nutritionist actually recommended Flintstones vitamins, which are fairly inexpensive. And don't forget about the money you will be saving on food, the volume you eat will be at least 1/3 to 1/2 of what you are before. Good luck!

Don't do it! The process the surgeons have to use to fix a ruptured pouch is disgusting. Mine went into great detail with me prior to releasing me from the hospital. It is a full open surgery, nothing laparoscopic and it takes months to heal from. Stick with the program, you will be glad you did!

I eat popcorn! 5 months post-op!

Don't weigh every day. There are so many variables that can effect your weight, give yourself a few days without worrying about the number!

I eat absolutely everything (5 1/2 months post op). I have never had dumping or vomiting ever. Small bites, chewed well eaten slowly is the way to go!

I was sensitive to cold for a while, but it did go away!

I buy it at the grocery store pharmacy!

My PA scared the crap out of me when I was in the hospital, she was describing in graphic detail what they would have to do if I overfilled my pouch. Fear is good in this case, just be careful and you will be fine.

My suggestions are to exercise every day. Walk, then walk faster and longer. Also, log your food, I do this every day, even when I am not doing so great. It helps me realize the cause for my successes and failures. It really makes a difference! Please don't give up, it's a marathon not a sprint!

That is good advice! I have to say though, I am always baffled by the differences among surgeons. I was only on liquid 3 days prior and soft food after. I never had to purée anything at all, just soft food then increasing in texture until week 7, when I could eat anything. Good luck, whatever the sacrifice, it is worth it!

I was in my bed on day 1, I usually sleep half on my side, half on my stomach. I think it was about a week before I could sleep normally. I was in my bed on day 1, I usually sleep half on my side, half on my stomach. I think it was about a week before I could sleep normally.

The best is yet to come!

You don't need much, I bought new pjs, a bathrobe, slippers a stack of magazines etc and didn't use any of them. Now 5 months later I have given away all but the slippers. I didn't even get to read the magazines. I did use protein powder, a new water bottle, baby spoons and small plates and made sure my fridge was stocked with no calorie Popsicles and jello etc as prescribed by my nutritionist. I was back to work in a week. Good luck and keep us informed!

I am still losing hair and still taking Biotin, I don't know of anything else. I do know, though, that new hair is growing in as I have these little awkward baby hairs coming in. I am 5 months post-op, I didnt start noticing until month 4.

You CAN do this, I KNOW if I can, you can! You go!

I have been eating normal food since week 7, I am 5 months post op and have lost 72% of the excess weight (80 lbs). I have 30 lbs to go!