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Since surgery I've only lost 5 pds. (15 total including pre op diet loss) It's been a large bump from day one, but I've been hopeing it would go down.. it hasn't. I started out at a BMI of 35 and am told that's less than average..maybe that's why?

My hair loss also became noticeable at four months. I am at six months now, and still have some hair loss, but I am thinking positive that it will subside at some point. The above replies give me hope.

Greetings All! So the good news is I am seeing a very good bariatric surgeon on Friday. My primary made the referral and Tricare Prime approved my visit to the surgeon. On Friday, I will do the psych eval and see a nutritionist. To my surprise when studying the doctor's site I saw there is a $3,500 fee NOT covered by insurance. Is this new??? The whole idea of having insurance covered surgery is to have little out of pocket. I run my own small company and I have no clue where I will get that money from. Is it me or does this seem like double dipping (from the insurance company AND the patient)? My credit isn't great due to tough business conditions and the loss of a home in NV. Now I wonder if I will ever be able to get my surgery. HELP! APR

I just have to vent! I went and saw a GI Dr because I have some liver damage from all the fat that got into my liver. Thank goodness I had a liver biopsy when I had the sleeve done and found this out. So I'm meeting GI Dr for first time he sees I've lost 61 lbs since Sept last year. Tells me loosing weight is the best thing to help my liver, he's pleased with the weight loss my liver enzymes have come back to normal, things are looking better. Then he asks me how I lost so much weight. Proudly I say I had the gastric sleeve done in March this year. He looks at me frowns and grimaces and says oh well that's too bad because there is a high rate of going back to being overweight. That's a shame. I was stunned! I just sat there and really didn't hear anything else he said. He seemed to rush to get things done and that was it. The more I think of it the more mad I get. I would think he would have been a little more supportive. I'm not even 4 months post op yet!! Sorry to vent but he made me so mad!

Be very careful about eating solid foods this soon unless your surgeon says it's okay. Part of the first six weeks or so after surgery is to allow your body time to heal up. Your band was stitched in place on your stomach wall. Those stitches need time to heal up. If you eat solids before you should, you run the risk of affecting the healing of those stitches. Just because you didn't feel anything doesn't mean it's okay to eat improperly. As to your two pounds loss, that's good to have (as is any weight loss), but it's normal to lose a fair amount in the few weeks right after surgery. Your body is getting rid of fluids taken in during the surgery, and your system is adjusting to how you're eating now. So a certain amount is weight lost is normal, and you should see even more weight coming off over the next few weeks. But again, the focus should be on healing up. Take things slow and take it easy on yourself. The weight WILL come off, but you need to adapt to the stages of recovery. Developing patience is the hardest part of this. Good luck with things. Dave

Not all BCBS PPOs require the 6 month supervised diet. I have BCBS PPO and did not have to do the 6 month diet. You need to call the customer service number on your card and ask for them to send you in writing a copy of their policy on weight loss surgery, specifically gastric banding. That way, you'll know for sure. Each insurance policy is different, despite being the same insurance company. The coverage and specifics depend on what your employer bought into. Good luck!:crying:

I also have really bad pcos and suffered and still suffer from some bad stalls but that seems to happen with non pcos-ers too. my stalls were 3 weeks out, 3 months out, 6 months out and a year out. all varied in length but i was so frustrated. the biggest thing for me was thinking i was never going to lose again but you will. your body has to take a break and digest the weight loss and it will start to come back off again. right now just stick with what your surgeon suggested and try mixing up your workout routine that always helped me. im a little over a year out and lost 120 pounds and i still am working on losing in my gut that seems to be my biggest problem area, but it does come off and it will come off for you too!

Merry Christmas to all who see's this page-!! Today I got a rude awakening of my old life. Me and my kids got invited by a family where we live at. I got to the party and "oh Lord"--not a skiiny or small Woman in sight. The only small people were the girls who were 11 to 15--except one. You would think this young "woman" was all of 25--she was just 14 and maybe somewhere about a size 22. I've seen her before--but never all of her relatives. I am so thankful for the "Lapband" surgery. I am now 50 and no one thought so. I just hit my 54 pounds loss plateau. I am not struggling at all--but I know I will miss a few of my Gym days--due to the kids being home and the Gym not having a full schedule. But I saw so many Women today who was so large. I mean--ladies who was no less than 16 and close to a size 30. Yes--I know ladies sizes from being married quite a few years. I had to just look and say "Wow"--to myself-! People asked me--why was I so quiet. I said--I don't drink or smoke. I don't play dominos with the guys--I find it boring. So I found myself in the living room watching TV with all of the larger ladies. Now I used to have a beer or 2 sometimes--but since the 6th month of my lap band post op--I had to re-think my theory on that "every now and then beer". I have just gotten to a point of true dedication but it still needs lots of work--trust me. I have one area that needs a boost. That area is me giving 5 days for the work out instead of 4 or 3. I have now made my schedule to move into weight lifting--light weights--trust me--but there will be some weights in my gym program as of Jan-3rd-2008.I am hoping to keep it at no more than 160 lbs. I don'twant to bulk up--I want to refine the muscles and keep the weight loss going as much as I can. As I close this little letter here. I was thinking--"Oh My God"--"Was this me back in the day? (10 months ago and before the surgery) I saw people piling the plates up-then asking me--"where is your food? I simply said--"Where can I put my food? I had the weight loss surgery--a few months ago". I heard--"oh--ok... But I saw the plates eaten that were piled up and then saw the same folks--warm up pie and cake. Then second plates and for some--3rd plates with the same consistancy. I almost dropped to my knees and said--"Thank You Lord--! I feel sooo much better now that I am lighter in weight. Now looking at the ladies & men who were 80% much younger than me--I know--my woirk has to get done and my new life will need lots of motivation to keep it going...Lee:scared::notagree

Thanks so much margomarie. I was able to get rid of the cpap but it took a little time. Partly because I had to schedule another sleep study to confirm that the sleep apnea was resolved. Keep positive thoughts and be patient. The hormone changes following major surgery are very common. The first few weeks post-op can be something of an emotional roller coaster ride but they usually subside before you know it. Hang in there! No energy, tired and weak are all very common and when you think about it, probably no surprise. Your body is concentrating all of its resources toward the healing process. That's a good thing! But it takes a lot of energy. Perhaps the best thing you can do is get plenty of rest and let your body do its thing. Keep in mind also that it is important to get as much of your doctor's recommended daily Protein as soon as you can. For the ladies that's usually 60g to 80g a day. That can be challenging the first few weeks but it's important to keep working on it. On a low carb diet your body will turn to protein for energy. Getting as much as you can as soon as you can should help with the energy loss. The yogurt and cottage cheese - great ideas!! Most folks find that protein supplements (shakes, powders, etc) are a big help as well. Congratulations on your surgery! It is an amazing, life-changing journey. Are you in the L.A. area? You're gonna love the new you!!

Go back to the pre-op diet for a while. Also, increase your exercise. Make sure to cut out the carbs because they will sabotage your weight loss.

There was a site-wide poll conducted on this pretty recently. You can see the thread here: http://www.bariatricpal.com/topic/330927-did-you-have-complications-after-weight-loss-surgery/

I lost most of my excess weight within the first six months. Like you, my weight loss was very inconsistent during the first two months. I decided early on to abandon my bathroom scale. In fact, I haven't been on it since my pre-op days. I usually get weighed at doctors appointment (PCP, psychiatrist, nurse), which usually averages 1-2 times a month. Getting weighed less sets me up for less disappointment and sweet surprises. I can understand why daily weighing works for some because it helps them stay on track. I'm just one of those people that let little things get to me, like gaining a pound or two for no apparent reason. As long as I'm sticking to my program, then there is no need to know what I weigh everyday.

Absolutely! I’ve lost over 100lbs now and my brain can’t figure it out. I swear I don’t *feel* like I look any different than I did 50 lbs ago. But I know that’s not true. One of my friends saw me last weekend, squealed, and used the word “skinny”. And today I noticed that my leggings were getting saggy in the butt, and I know they fit perfectly well just a week ago. Judging by the scale and my baggy clothes my weight loss is completely on schedule. It’s like my brain is glitching. I’m pleased and happy with my weight loss. Now my brain needs to stop being an a**hole and catch up! 🤣🤣🤣

Hi guys, I'm in the beginning stages of looking into the lap band surgery. I've struggled with weight loss for the past 11 years, typical yo yo dieting. nothing has worked for the long haul. I was wondering what are the beginning stages of this surgery? how do you go about finding a reputable surgeon? I just moved to Florida and still don't even have a regular physician. has anyone had it done with a BMI of 38? I'm getting 2 different numbers, one website says it's 38 the other says 36.3 thank you so much guys!

Snacking/grazing? Unsure of your daily calorie intake? Use an app like MyFitnessPal or LoseIt...without knowing, it's just speculation which will add to your anxiety level. Your male friend has lost more? You are comparing apples with oranges. Men typically lose at a faster rate than women. Also, why are you comparing your weight loss with anyone? Kind of setting yourself up for disappointment because there will always be someone who has lost more or less than you. As I tell my kids & students...worry about you and your own journey. It really is the only one that matters. Your comment about doing this to be thin...did you reallyjust get WLS to be thin? Or were there other reasons, such as, a better quality of life or because of comorbidities or other health reasons? Let's put this into perspective...although being thin is nice...it is just so much more than that isn't it. And if it is so much more than that doesn't that make what you see on the scale just a part of the journey...not the end all be all.

I Have PCOS. Sleeved 7/1. My only real issues weight gain and irregular periods. Still no period but I'm not looking forward to it either. I didn't take Metformin consistently therefore i didn't take it. I've lost about 13lbs most of which happened 5-6 days post op. I've stalled since then. I fear that PCOS makes my body recognize weight loss sooner and then my body panics and holds on. Other than that I'm just continuing to do what I'm supposed to and I'm certain things will keep moving right along.

Hey everyone, I just wanted to take a moment to share my experience and vent a bit about the difficulties I've been facing after my gastric bypass surgery. It's been tough, and I could really use some support and understanding right now. Firstly, one of the biggest challenges I've encountered is the loss of taste. It's incredibly disheartening to try different food and drink options, only to find that nothing tastes good anymore. I've experimented with various yogurts, protein powders, shakes, and even crystal light flavors, but unfortunately, the enjoyment I used to get from eating has vanished. Even something as simple as finishing a bottle of water has become a struggle for me. To add to this frustrating situation, I've been dealing with a persistent metallic taste in my mouth. This unpleasant sensation affects how everything tastes, making it even more difficult to find pleasure in eating or drinking. Despite my efforts to maintain good oral hygiene by brushing my teeth four times a day, the taste persists, and it's incredibly discouraging. On top of these physical challenges, my energy levels have plummeted, leaving me feeling depleted and drained. It's hard to stay positive and motivated when you're constantly battling fatigue. Unfortunately, this has taken a toll on my mental health as well, and I find myself struggling with depression. It's a heavy emotional burden to carry, and I often find myself crying myself to sleep at night. I apologize if this post sounds like a downer, but I really needed to vent and share my experience with people who might understand. If any of you have gone through a similar situation, I would greatly appreciate any advice or encouragement you can offer. And to those who are willing, please keep me in your prayers. The support means the world to me during this challenging time. Thank you for taking the time to read my post and for being there for me when I needed to let it all out. Together, we can get through the tough times and find strength in each other.

I had surgery on 1/14/13 and this happened to me too. The last two weeks, no weight loss at all and this morning I weighed myself and had lost 4 lbs. Total lost since surgery is now 22 lbs.

I had my surgery 12/12 and have lost 55 lbs as of today, 5/8! yea, me! but does anyone know where I can get statistics on this surgery in terms of effectiveness, weight loss, weight gained back, anything like that?

So, for those banded on 12/4 how's it going? I'm sitting outside my surgeon's office waiting for my 1st post op visit. I'm hoping there aren't any issues since I am looking forward to moving on to mushies. I'll report back with my first weight loss totals soon after. Exciting! I've been wearing clothes that are 6-7 years old from before I was married that are 2-4 inches smaller along my waistline and have had to put two more notches in my belt already. I can't wait till I can properly exercise again. I hope everyone else is having a similar experience or better.

You sliped up, it happens to the best of us. shake it off, forgive yourself and start new. Pull out your old pics (pre 115 weight loss) and put it right on the fridge. Keep that reminder there, going back is not a option. Keep a wallet size in your purse if you need that motivation away from home. You have a sweet hubby, that support is priceless. Lean on him when your weak. YOU CAN DO THIS!!!!!!! Hang in there! (HUGS)

Thanks really trying to stay motivated to keep moving. I have been really tired as of late. I just made an appt with my PCP to see if my blood pressure meds are maybe too high for me now and making me super sleepy. It's also been very hot here on Long Island, but I have been OK with the heat and humidity, just really really tired. I pushed through and went to the gym today. Walked for 45 minutes. I wonder if there is anyone out there who might be able to advise a good fitness routine for someone just starting out that doesn't have a whole lot of time to spend in the gym throughout the day. At first I was walking way too fast at 3.0 for my target heart rate, so I have slowed down and walk in the range for weight loss and monitor it at intervals and I have increased the amount of time I am walking by 15 minutes. I try to use the bike a couple of times a week, for 20 minutes to shift things up. I am not really seeing the scale move, though I am feeling good and I can tell the inches are shifting in the way things fit. I'd love to hear any advice you all have. I'm trying to stay motivated to get fit and keep losing the weight.

Hello I just want to see if anyone have went from the Lap band to the bypass . I was banded in 2008 weighed 340 had my son in 2010 and my band silped . I'm having my bypass on sep 11 . I was wondering how it went and what was the weight loss .

As a newbie to your group, I am enjoying getting to know all of you wonderful people! What a gold-mine of information this forum is! I am getting close to the end of my pre-surgery requirements and am getting more anxious every day...as I see many of you are. We are truly a group united by our past, present and futures. Not knowing you well, yet, I would REALLY appreciate it if everyone would expand their signature area with: date of surgery, or if not yet done, add that info, any other surgeries, any other interesting statistic you'd like to share as part of the "YOU" package. Some of you show beautiful weight loss per your ticker, but you don't say how long you've been banded...or even IF you've been banded. I am SO curious to know your whole story! Thanks, and hugs to all!

hi its been almost 7 weeks since my op, i attended a n e two weeks ago as my incision was bleedin alot, it had an haematoma behind it im glad to say it has now completely healed finally,. the other day i saw what looked like a hair but i thought maybe a stitch and i just cut it off hope i did the right thing..xxx denise