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During surgery they put a tube down your throat. This is what is probably causing this feeling. I had it after my surgery and it was so annoying. I would wake up in the middle of the night from it, would lose my voice because of it during class while teaching etc. I called my doc and went to see him right away because it was freaking me out. He explained it was common and happens because of the tube. Here is my experience http://alienbanditinkorea.wordpress.com/2009/10/24/week-two-post-op/

Thank you for your kind words. People don't understand body mechanics very well and some of them work in the medical field, lol. I was Dx with IBSd many years ago. Until 18 months ago, I would still have alternating bouts of constipation and diarrhea on a 7 to 10 day rotation. I've used Probiotics, Fiber supplements to manage this. Now I have IBSc, and yesterday my gastroenterologist Dx me with gastroparesis and the gastric emptying test is to determine the severity. The palpitations I get while eating solid foods are disturbing. The abdominal distention, pain, reflux, regurgitation and vomiting are truly affecting my life in a very negative way. I'm retired...my husband and I wanted to go to AZ this winter, get out of the cold, but we can't, because of this condition and the unknowns. I've been following a band food plan all along, yesterday the doctor told me I need to eat a soft, low residue, low fiber diet. I need to eat 6 times a day, half my normal amount at each meal. I'm on another new drug :-/ with a huge copay, that may or may not work. The questioning of my decisions about my healthcare (timing, why I didn't see my band doctor, etc) were really disheartening and unsupportive. There isn't enough room in one post to list every conversation, office visit, diagnostic test, etc. I'm pretty experienced and knowledgeable (according to my care providers) and tend to seek help earlier, rather than later. I have friends who are doctors, PAs, nurses as resources, as well. I chose to see my gastroenterologist because he wasn't affiliated with my band doctor and I needed a trusted 2nd opinion about whether to remove my band. My GI doc is adamant that I have no surgery unless absolutely necessary, since additional abdominal surgery will exacerbate my motility disorder. When I posted this, I did receive many supportive comments and I appreciate that. It's really hard to see people take the position that somehow, someway, anyone who has a complication with their band must be non-compliant. That is just so judgemental. People who are suffering, need compassion. Thank you again for your kind post. I hope your husband's condition is manageable...best of luck to you both!

It sounds like you and I are built very similar. I have issues too being much smaller than the weight on the scale suggests. I threw all that out the window a long time ago! I'm 5'7 and right now my scale is 175 Lbs. Yet, I'm wearing sizes Small and smaller - and sizes 6-8. I can even fit some 4's though they are tight. I can imagine how small I'll be once my lipo's are completely healed. I'm working on size 0!!! I'm thinking my lipos will get me to 2-4 so I'll need to lose maybe another 10 Lbs. So far with the results I'm about right. Congrats on your successes!!! I think you've done super duper... and for what it's worth you are AT GOAL! Blessings to you and cheers to the new you!

We are all sooooo different. I AM at 135 and I'm still in a size 10. So even though you are not at your surgeons goal, that shouldn't mean a thing. Rock those size 4 skinnies and enjoy : )

It was a urinary tract infection due to being dehydrated. Spent 10 days on a nasty liquid antibiotic, but otherwise have had no problems since.

I've got 'em. I put some clothes on today and pants are getting saggy in the crotch. I put on a favorite shirt and now my bra shows under the arms. Time for a trip to the goodwill. Hurray! Looks like I may need medium shirts now and size 10 or 8(!) pants. La dee da.

Hi all, I had a May 23rd surgery date too. I know what you are going through. My scale is wacked out. I lost ten pounds the first week and then nothing the second week, a pound the third week and then a pound this fourth week. So 12-13 pounds in a month is really disappointing. I keep telling myself - its okay because I lost 58 pounds before surgery (10 pounds during pre-op, after I gained some back during my food funeral). I know that comparing myself to others is not good because some people didn't lose that much prior to the surgery so they are in a different place with their weight loss. But it is very frustrating. I am not eating too much, not too many carbs and am getting my Protein in. I think I may have eaten too many carbs the first two weeks because the only thing I could eat was cottage cheese and other dairy products that rose my carb levels. Now, I'm all about the protein and keeping bad fat and carbs low. The only thing that I think may be a problem is that I don't always drink enough so I will work on this now. My husband gets mad at me when I get upset with the scale and tells me that he is going to hide it. I am not obsessing with it so I only "count" the time I weigh in on Monday morning. He thinks I'm being impatient and unreasonable that I am upset on what I've lost. I guess I just expected it to come off much quicker. This is the ultimate weight loss period and I'm afraid I won't be a success. I really want to get smaller. Everyone I know knows about this surgery so it is hard to say nope, no weight loss when people ask about it. I am an open person but now when I'm not losing it is hard to say that to people who are asking. Any thoughts of this being an easy process are out the window. I thought it would be easy to lose weight the first couple of months, at minimum and expected a battle after I got below 200 pounds. My scale fluctuates like crazy, even when I do weigh myself at the same time of day. I think maybe a new scale? I could see a couple of ounces but like 3 pounds between today and yesterday? It is not period weight, because I just had that less than a week ago. I don't know, I may go back to not weighing myself because it doesn't seem to help. The surgery is done, I plan on eating healthy and exercising regardless of the scale so I have to do my best. Also, weird question below - sorry if it grosses you out! Does anyone know how often we should have a bowel movement? I never (NEVER) had problems with constipation or being backed up so I don't know how often we should be having a bowel movement at this stage. I think I may be backed up but I don't want to take laxatives or stool softeners unless I truly need to. I don't know how to tell if you are (I know weird). I used to go at least once a day but I now go at least a day or two inbetween any bowel movements. I will ask my doctor about it when I see them the middle of July but wanted to see what you all thought.

Hi Nean, I started soft food this wed.:tt1:!!!! I'm going real slow cause I'm scared I'll throwup. I lost 10 since surg and 30 total so far. I actually felt like a human this week!! We've had some cool dry refreshing air the last couple days, so I got to work in my garden!! It felt good!! We are expecting a long heat wave for the next week. Yuk, I'll have to hide in the air conditioned house. I don't do the 90's and humid. I postponed my ocean vacation until Sept. cause my original date was July 7th. I live about 40 min ride to Cape Cod so I'll do some day trips to the beach. I hope you are doing well. I'd love to hear how you're doing.

So here is an update, about 10 days ago I went back to actual bariatric vitamins and a Biotin supplement (7500mcg once a day) and my hair is already a lot less frizzy. I don't know which it is but at this point, I don't really care. I am going to just keep on doing what I am doing and see if my nails recover too! Here's hoping the hair comes back completely!!!!!

It is absolutely possible to still binge eat after surgery. Not at first. But eventually, yes. That's why it's SO important to do the hard work to deal with your binge eating disorder as the underlying root of your weight, and not ignore it. I would highly recommend finding an eating disorder therapist and working with them religiously throughout the process. I started meeting with one at 10 months post op and have been going to her weekly since then (currently 3 years post op). I know without a doubt I would have regained the weight I lost by now if I wasn't working so hard at the underlying causes. I also highly recommend the books by Geneen Roth. She deals with this a lot and her books were life-changing for me. It is a REALLY good sign that you are thinking about these things now. The more you are proactive, the better long term success you will have.

Very interesting article that I thought I'd share. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Some of the most firmly held beliefs about weight loss are unproven or downright untrue, according to an analysis comparing concepts promoted in the popular media with data from the scientific literature. The findings were published online January 31 in a special article in the New England Journal of Medicine. "False and scientifically unsupported beliefs about obesity are pervasive in both scientific literature and the popular press," write Krista Casazza, PhD, RD, from the Department of Nutrition Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, and colleagues. The authors discuss a total of 7 myths, along with refuting evidence. Here are some examples: Small changes in food intake and/or exercise will produce large, long term weight changes — This idea was based on the old idea that 3500 kcal equals 1 pound of weight. But it does not take into account the fact that energy requirements change as body mass changes over time. So, as weight is lost, it takes increasingly more exercise and reduced intake to perpetuate the loss. Realistic weight-loss goals will keep people motivated — This idea seems reasonable, but it is not supported by evidence. In fact, several studies have shown that people with very ambitious goals lose more weight (eg, TV's The Biggest Loser). Slow, gradual weight loss is best for long-term success — Actually, a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled weight-loss trials found that rapid weight loss via very-low-calorie diets resulted in significantly more weight loss (16% vs 10% of body weight) at 6 months, and differences in weight loss persisted up to 18 months (Int J Behav Med. 2010;17:161-167). A bout of sexual activity burns 100 to 300 kcal per person — With intense sexual activity, a 154-pound man burns approximately 3.5 kcal per minute. However, given that the average amount of time spent during one stimulation and orgasm session is about 6 minutes, this man might expend about 21 kcal total. But, he would burn about 7 kcal just lying on the couch, so that amount has to be subtracted, which gives a grand total of 14 kcals of energy expended. The article also explores 6 "presumptions," or widely accepted beliefs that are neither proven nor disproven. Among them: Eating Breakfast prevents obesity — Actually, 2 studies showed no effect of eating vs skipping breakfast. Adding fruits and vegetables to the diet results in weight loss — Adding more calories of any type without making any other changes is likely to cause weight gain. Eating fruits and vegetables is healthful, however. Weight cycling, aka "yoyo dieting," increases mortality — The data are from observational studies and likely confounded by health status. Finally, the authors offer 9 facts about obesity and weight loss that are supported by data, among them: Moderate environmental changes can promote as much weight loss as even the best weight-loss drugs. Diets do produce weight loss, but attempting to diet and telling someone to diet are not necessarily the same thing. Physical activity does help in promoting weight loss and has health benefits even in the absence of weight loss. For overweight children, involving the family and home environment in weight-loss efforts is ideal. Providing actual meals or Meal Replacements works better for weight loss than does general advice about food choices. Both weight-loss drugs and bariatric surgery can help achieve long-term weight loss in some individuals. According to Dr. Casazza and colleagues, "The myths and presumptions about obesity that we have discussed are just a sampling of the numerous unsupported beliefs held by many people, including academics, regulators, and journalists, as well as the general public. Yet there are facts about obesity of which we may be reasonably certain — facts that are useful today." And they conclude, "While we work to generate additional useful knowledge, we may in some cases justifiably move forward with hypothesized, but not proven, strategies. However, as a scientific community, we must always be open and honest with the public about the state of our knowledge and should rigorously evaluate unproved strategies." Original article: http://www.medscape....warticle/778600

I didn't have any changes that I've noticed. I can still tolerate my shakes, etc. I did find that beef broth was far more flavorful and satisfying than chicken broth. I've read that you can experiment with temperatures and that your sleeve may enjoy warm beverages, like decaf tea and broth, over cold ones, or room temperature. I have found that a decaf warm chai with almond milk goes down so smoothly that I can get in a whole 10-12 oz. I'm 11 days out. Wishing you WELL, and hoping you find what works for you!

Well yesterday was my one-year anniversary since bypass surgery. Like everyone, we all have a unique journey. I have lost about 159 pounds and went from a size 22 to a size 8 or 10. Here is my journey, which includes ulcers, cancer, kidney stones, malnutrition-induced neuropathy, and stenosis. Fun, huh? I'm really happy with my results, but I have a LONG way to go to get healthy. My journey and situation is NOT typical, so for those of you considering surgery, please just know this is one story out of many, but you won't face this same situation. Surgery - May 8, 2017. Successful! 10 days later - blood in stool. Had a large ulcer (not uncommon) and spent 4 more nights in hospital. All good. Never felt I could eat much as the weeks and months progressed, but didn't throw up and no pain either. Just couldn't eat more than a small amount before feeling extremely full. Also could not tolerate chicken, scrambled eggs, and other denser foods. September 22, 2017 - Diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. 2cm tumor. Started chemo in October and finished 6 rounds in February. I'm HER2+ so I am continuing with infusions every three weeks (which are not chemo) until October 2018. Chemo affected my appetite and taste. I had no nausea. I already was not eating much and had lost so much weight so fast. Having no desire to eat didn't help. I am SICK of sweet protein shakes, pudding, jello , soups, cottage cheese, etc. However, I worked fulltime and kept my sprits up and never felt sorry for myself. I am cancer free (none found in any lymph nodes or in the tissue removed), so I feel very happy that I found the lump when I did and can move on. I do have a genetic mutation that was found, so I opted for a double mastectomy, which was performed on March 13, 2018. After losing over 150 pounds, my former 44 DD breasts were very low and flat, so I needed a lift anyway. Now I have them where they should be! Ha. Surgery went well and I'm recovering still. Met with my gastric surgeon two weeks ago and they want me to continue getting B12 shots once a month to help with the neuropathy in my feet brought on by vitamin deficiency. I am also supposed to up my protein to try and reach 80 grams per day, which is very tough for me. Tomorrow I am getting my second endoscopic dilation so I can eat more. Dr said it's from inflammation and between 6-20% of patients have to get that done at least once. I had it done in February, but need one now again as I still can barely eat 1/4 of food (more of soup or softer food). SOOO looking forward to being able to eat a variety of foods soon. It gets frustrating to have such limited choices. I will start physical therapy because my muscles have atrophied a bit, but need to wait a bit until I recover from my double mastectomy. I didn't ever think I would need that after gastric bypass. My biggest fear was that I would not get to my goal weight of 170 (here I am at 150). Before and after photos attached. After shots are with a wig as I only have 1/4 inch of hair at the moment!

1. To be able to go to weddings and funerals without trying to hide from people I haven't seen in years. 2. When I hear that someone has died, to react appropriately to the situation, and not with, "Oh shit! How do I get out of going to this?" 3. To willingly have my picture taken, and to stop saying to people who've taken my picture, "Don't you dare post that on the internet!" 4. To shop for clothes in real stores, and not just online. 5. To wear clothes that aren't fat lady clothes. 6. To feel good! 7. Cute shoes. 8. It's too late for me to ever expect to wear swimsuits in public, but maybe in my own backyard swimming pool? 9. To be able to sit in a booth, comfortably. 10. To be able to be seated in any chair in the room.

Do you live in Mexico? There's really no reason to make a trip to Mexico for Botox. A good price for Botox ranges from $10-13 a unit which depending on the area I would be prepared to spend about $259/area.

I was cleared at 10 days to exercise. Talk to your team! Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

I was banded on 10/13/08. I have lost 38 pounds to date. This has all been post-op. I was not required to be on a pre-op diet. I love my band!!!

[ATTACH]47001[/ATTACH] [ATTACH]47002[/ATTACH] Hw 344 Sw 326 cw 225 10/22/13 33 yrs old

I too have PCOS and was worried about stopping my birth control for a six weeks due to surgery. i am 4 weeks post op and start my birth control tomorrow. I had my period during surgery and 3 weeks later I got it again which was right on time! I was surprised that I was regular. And I have been on birth control for 10 years. My birth control doesn’t affect my weight which is good. It never has. I hope it does not make me gain once I start it tomorrow. I did have a stall the week of my period though; the stall broke 2 days after my period ended

My doctor said he would like me to be around 170-175 by 2-3 years out. My personal goal for myself was around 190 and then go from there. I would love to be a comfortable size 10/12

I had it on 10/23 and have had a rough go of it. Seems my stomach didn't like being messed with. I had to stay in hospital for four days and am slowly improving. Some cramping but am told that is because I was drinking too fast and too much at once. Hope this bad feeling isn't permanent. Too sick to enjoy the weight loss yet....hope for a better week!

I went to Las Vegas for 10 days when I was 7 weeks post op. I was down nearly 60lbs and feeling fantastic. I was able to fit in the airplane seat with no extender, I walked for miles and miles and had more energy than my family members. The toughest thing is to stay hydrated. When you are traveling and not paying attention this can get away from you. Carry Water with you everywhere and make sure you are sipping constantly. Bring some Quest bars with you just in case you cannot find anything that will work for you in the restaurants. The reality is, you won't be hungry anyway but finding some cottage cheese or scrambled egg is not to difficult. You may be on soft foods at that time so a nice piece of fish or chicken breast might work too. Just realize that you literally will only eat a bite or two and you will be full so if you can share, you should. You will become a cheap date! LOL!

Very similar experience for me. Started getting back to normal around week 6. Now I go to sleep around 10 and wake up around 430 am. My body only needs about 6 and 1/2 hours as part of the new normal. Hang in there, you should rebound soon. Have you had your blood work done again yet?

I don't understand the point of your post. Here's the survey from this site: Knowing what you know now about weight loss surgery, would you do it again if you had the chance to make your decision again? Yes, without a doubt! The surgery has been everything I’d hoped for. (23 votes [51.11%]) Yes, probably. The journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m losing weight and feel that this was my best option. (12 votes [26.67%]) Yes, but I would have chosen a different type of weight loss surgery. (6 votes [13.33%]) No. I’ve had complications and my health has suffered and/or I haven’t been hitting my weight loss goals. (1 votes [2.22%]) I haven’t had the surgery yet, but I’m looking at the results of this poll carefully to help me make my decision! (0 votes [0.00%]) Other...read my response below! (3 votes [6.67%]) Here's the post from VST: Knowing what you know now about weight loss surgery, would you do it again if you had the chance to make your decision again? Yes, without a doubt! The surgery has been everything I’d hoped for. (80 votes [62.99%]) Yes, probably. The journey hasn’t been easy, but I’m losing weight and feel that this was my best option. (27 votes [21.26%]) Yes, but I would have chosen a different type of weight loss surgery. (4 votes [3.15%]) No. I’ve had complications and my health has suffered and/or I haven’t been hitting my weight loss goals. (4 votes [3.15%]) I haven’t had the surgery yet, but I’m looking at the results of this poll carefully to help me make my decision! (10 votes [7.87%]) Other...read my response below! (2 votes [1.57%])