deedee

Great job on the weight loss! I wish you a speedy recovery.

That is EXCELLENT news Cajun! Congratulations!!!

From what I remember...our new stomachs are formed from the muscular part of the stomach and while they will stretch SOME over time as we heal, it's much harder to do, BUT not impossible. With consistent overeating, I believe I read somewhere, it is very likely. Below is a quote and link to something I read when I was having these same fears, but if you google this issue there are a variety of opinions on this matter. The best advice I can give to you is to measure your food this early out. I weighed and measured a lot in the beginning not quite relying on my ability to determine when I'd had enough. It put my mind at ease because I was following my surgeon's program of how much food to get in at one time. Maybe someone with a little more knowledge can shed more light on this issue. Good luck, and this does seem "too good to be true," but trust me, it's really true and it works! "The tube portion of the stomach that remains after a sleeve gastrectomy is more resistant to stretching because it is formed from a very muscular portion of the stomach. This makes it less likely that chronic overeating will increase your stomach's capacity over time." Dr. Daryl Stewart | Sleeve Gastrectomy Weight Loss Surgery in Dallas and Ft. Worth, Texas

Kai, welcome to VST! Your husband is correct, this site is wonderful and I'm glad you have joined. Good luck on the rest of your pre-op journey!!!

It is completely different, at least it is for me. Good luck, we're all here to support you!

I'm a middle school teacher a well and think I could have gone back to work after 2 weeks. From weeks 2-4, I was very exhausted, but feeling much better than the first two weeks, so I'd suggest planning appropriate units if possible. Not sure what you teach, but you probably won't be up to grading any major projects after school or at night that first month post-op, you'll just want to be home and resting. Just something to keep in mind.

Congratulations to you Laura! You are really rocking your sleeve!!!

I too had a lot of trouble tolerating liquids at first. My experience with the contrast was horrible BECAUSE I gulped it. My advice, take tiny sips. After that test was the only time I puked in all of my recovery...I don't know what I was thinking???

See, when you say it like that (top & bra=$100) it doesn't sound too bad, until you let out that the top was only $15 Oh well. If the snow they're predicting tomorrow is light, then I'll be headed to the mall in the morning and will see what kind of deals I can find:-) By the way, make sure to get some pictures in that cute top so we can all see!!!

You may want to try the Chike sample packs. I could tolerate their orange cream and strawberry ones...my husband drank the chocolate and banana samples because I don't like those flavors. Here's the link Chike Nutrition - Best Tasting Meal Replacement shake. Guaranteed. Pour, Shake, Drink & Go! If you are looking for something more clear, I like the Inspire Sangria mix found at Bariatriceating.com. I think she sells a sample pack. Good luck!

Linda, I think you have me convinced to go and get fitted. When I think of the money I've been shelling out for clothing before I get to goal, I might as well get a couple really good bras to make those clothes look good.

Welcome to VST Sammie! I have no experience with the band, but can tell you I've been super happy with the sleeve. I turned 30 a couple of months ago and I can tell you this decade is already rocking thanks to my new sleeve tool. Congratulations on your decision!

Woohoo Judy! So glad to read about your great successes. Keep it up and like you said you'll be in onederland and then on to your next goals! If you're really getting the urge to shop, you can always buy a goal (not necessarily your end goal, maybe the next size down) dress, skirt, or pair of pants. I wish you luck with the next 12 lbs and can't wait to celebrate with you!

What size are you currently? When I lost my first bit of weight and needed new bras I found the Soma line at Chico's and LOVED what these bras did for me. I got them from the outlet and they were on sale for $10 each. They are now too big and I really wanted to order more, but refuse to pay the full price...might have to mosey over to the outlets again. Two weeks ago I went to Khols and found a Maidenform bra that gives a little push-up and it's okay. My ladies look good and lifted, it's pretty comfortable, but the straps don't always stay up (and they are on the furthest setting). I tried on so many types and sizes and this was the best I could find there. I also tried Macys and had a lady fit me and recommend a good bra, but it was nothing like the great experiences I've had at Nordstroms (with knowledgeable sales people)...I didn't feel like walking down to that end though. Good luck and if you find one you like please share!

That is great Steph! A good reminder to all of us as well.

I'm so happy to read this post and hear things went well! I'm sorry about the pain, but your positive attitude sounds great, you know it will pass. Congratulations to being on the loser's bench...Welcome!

I agree with Tracy, your surgeon will let you know if you need to be on a pre-op diet. But if you'd like to get the ball rolling, you can always start a high protein/low carb diet like Atkins. I did a modified version of Atkins for 4 weeks before surgery and was able to drop 16 pounds.

That is EXCELLENT!

Carolyn, If you feel up to it and get in enough liquids, I'd say GO FOR IT! Just don't expect to have as much energy or do as much as you were doing right from the start. I too am missing my normal workouts. Today is the only day this week I will have a normal workout...haven't had one since last Wednesday. I did walk two days while out of state and did an exercise DVD (lower body only) one night, but I know I will not be able to do my routines full out tonight in Jazzercise. Good luck, just don't push it.

Lucygoose, I'm sorry to hear you went through this. I'm glad your tummy is fine and you're on the mend.

Welcome Tysmommy! There are a lot of great, supportive people on this board. It's a great place to ask questions, give support, and vent away. Good luck through your pre-op journey (that's terrific you got approved so quickly) and I look forward to your updates.

Yay Marci! I'm so happy for you!