Hi there,
I just joined this site looking for support and suggestions on my 1st major weight gain 16 years post a very successful gastric bypass surgery. I am 52, had the surgery at 36, and lost 198 lbs, and maintained a goal weight of 170 lbs, with a yearly fluctuation of 10 lbs, or so, post operatively. I also maintain yearly blood work that drives my nutrition and supplemental needs with my primary doctor. I gained about 20 lbs about 4 years ago after back surgery, but brought it down again within the year. Here is my problem, last January I started menopause, stopped oral contraceptive, and have experienced heavy insomnia, hot flashes, hormone shifts, and large weight gain of 50 lbs for the year. I have to add that this total change in my physical, and emotional health, has led to some depression, which of course does not help. I am still going through Menopause but I feel more emotionally stable and ready to address the weight gain. My question is, where do I start? My surgeon had always said "you have a permanent tool at your disposal, so if you feel yourself slipping from your program, then go back to the beginning" which I have always assumed he meant to start at only fluids and gradually increase intake from there, but I've never truly slipped with a significant weight gain in 15 years, so never had to go back. I would appreciate surgeon and fellow post operative patients advice and suggestions please.